The HackRF Pro is a versatile software-defined radio (SDR) transceiver for wireless signal transmission and reception in the frequency range from 100 kHz to 6 GHz. It was designed for testing and developing modern and future radio technologies and can be used as a USB peripheral device or in standalone mode.
The transceiver operates in half-duplex mode and supports a sampling rate of up to 20 MS/s with 8-bit I/Q samples. Thanks to extensive software compatibility (e.g., GNU Radio, SDR#), the device can be flexibly integrated into existing SDR environments. With software-controlled RX/TX gain and filter settings as well as trigger and synchronization options via SMA clock connections, the HackRF Pro offers many options for adaptation to individual applications.
Typical areas of application
The HackRF Pro is suitable for a wide range of applications in research, education, and development. Typical areas of application include:
- Analysis of radio spectrums (e.g., in the ISM band, aviation radio, amateur radio)
- Development and testing of wireless protocols
- Reception and transmission of digital modulation types
- Signal recording and playback
- Reverse engineering of radio protocols
- Experimental applications in the field of IoT, GNSS, or mobile communications
- Advanced RF lab testing and educational institutions
Thanks to its open architecture and comprehensive documentation, the device is particularly interesting for developers, universities, radio amateurs, and security researchers who want to work with variable and non-proprietary platforms.
Improvements over the HackRF One
The HackRF Pro was developed as a further development of the well-known HackRF One and is backward compatible, but offers a variety of technical improvements:
- Extended frequency range (tuneable up to 7.1 GHz)
- Flatter frequency response and improved RF performance
- USB-C instead of Micro-USB
- TCXO for improved clock stability
- Conversion from CPLD to FPGA
- Support for 16-bit and 4-bit modes for special applications
- More RAM and flash for custom firmware
- Improved power supply and RF port protection
- Option to disable transmit operation via hardware
Additional features
- SMA RF connector for antennas
- Internal connectors for expansion
- Plastic housing (injection molded)
- USB-powered (high-speed USB 2.0, type C)
- Compact design with robust construction
- Programming buttons for stand-alone operation
What the HackRF Pro is not:
We occasionally receive returns from disappointed customers who expected something completely different. To prevent misunderstandings, here are a few clear points:
- The HackRF Pro is not an amateur radio transceiver! It is an SDR capable of transmitting and receiving, designed for experimental use. It helps thousands of students, hackers, tinkerers, experienced radio amateurs, and researchers test new radio transmission paths. But it is certainly not intended to replace an amateur radio transceiver.
- The sensitivity of the HackRF Pro is lower than that of even the simplest handheld amateur radio. This is due to its 8-bit ADC design, the lack of preamplification, filtering, and limited processing power. It’s not designed for high sensitivity – it’s enough if the signal can be received across a lab bench. Of course, with an outdoor antenna, external preamps and filters, you can hear more – but the effort is greater than just using a conventional radio.
- The transmit power is intentionally limited to a very low level. It is sufficient to transmit a signal across the lab bench to a receiver, and that’s all it’s meant for. Anyone thinking of connecting a power amplifier should be aware that the signal is unfiltered and likely not spectrally clean.
- The HackRF Pro has no features for regular amateur radio use. No mic input, no S-meter, no speaker, and no user interface beyond the software on a PC. To unlock its full potential, you need a solid understanding of digital signal processing theory – which means knowledge of English, math, some physics, and software. It’s all doable and rewarding, but requires time and commitment. Without that, the HackRF Pro is likely the wrong choice.
- The HackRF Pro is one of the most versatile tools to learn how SDRs work. But if you're looking for a quick and universal entry into amateur radio, a conventional transceiver is the better starting point.
| Product Name |
HackRF Pro |
| Brand |
Great Scott Gadgets |
| Supply Voltage [V] |
5 V (USB) |
| Weight |
100 g |
| Antenna Connector |
SMA socket |
| Frequency Range |
0.1 - 6000 MHz |
