Software defined radio USRP B205mini-i case

In the research world, instead of prototyping dedicated radios for specific applications, it is now common to create prototypes by combining general-purpose radios and software. This type of equipment is called software defined radio (SDR).

USRP is a software defined radio from Ettus Research. The N series with Ethernet connectivity is widely used among wireless researchers, but I have one of the B series board types, the B205mini-i.

Until now, I had kept the B205mini-i in a case bought on AliExpress.

This time, I purchased a new dedicated case for B205mini-i. Cases for other USRPs are also available, so please check the part number when purchasing. The part number for the case that fits the B205mini-i is 6002-240-011.

The reason I bought this special case is the temperature expansion it can achieve. While the normal B205mini-i’s operating temperature range is from 0 degrees Celsius to 45 degrees Celsius, its operating temperature range in this case is extended from -40 degrees Celsius to 75 degrees Celsius! This temperature expansion is attractive for outdoor observation applications. In addition, the B205mini-i in this case is very compact and can be easily carried around without worrying about damage.

This case kit consists of a top lid, a bottom lid, and a heatsink with a dissipation pad. The heat dissipation pad covers the AD converter and FPGA, and uses the entire case to dissipate the heat. The screws are hexagonal star-shaped TORX screws.

It also came with very detailed instructions. I didn’t have any trouble while assembling.

I previously purchased the USRP B205mini-i board from Akizuki Denshi for just under 100,000 yen. Currently, it is sold for around 180,000 yen.

A board microcontroller ASUS Tinker Board is placed in a case with a fan for Raspberry Pi 3B, and this and B205mini-i are installed on the university rooftop. I will try to observe various radiowaves remotely.