Open Hardware Prototyping
SDR-based over-the-air experimentation and rapid waveguide fabrication.
Simulation tells us what should work; hardware tells us what does work. Our prototyping setup pairs software-defined radio (SDR) platforms with rapid waveguide and antenna fabrication, enabling end-to-end over-the-air validation of designs within days rather than months. This is the bridge between research and engineering.
SDR Platforms
We operate a fleet of software-defined radios—including USRP X410, USRP B210, and BladeRF—covering frequency ranges from HF through mmWave (via upconverter modules). SDR-based testbeds give us flexibility that fixed-function instruments cannot: the same hardware can implement 5G NR, Wi-Fi 6, custom waveforms, and ISAC dual-function signals.
Rapid Fabrication
Antenna prototypes need to be built quickly to keep iteration cycles short. We use precision 3D printing for dielectric waveguides and substrate elements, CNC milling for ground planes and structural parts, and PCB fabrication services for matching networks and RF front-ends. Most prototypes go from design to first measurement within a week.
Measurement & Characterization
Our measurement workflow combines portable vector network analyzers, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers with a flexible over-the-air setup. For characterization that requires controlled environments, we collaborate with university partners with dedicated anechoic chambers.
- [1]Ettus Research. (2024). USRP X410 Software Defined Radio Technical Specifications.
- [2]Pozar, D. M. (2011). Microwave Engineering. 4th Edition, Wiley.
- [3]Stutzman, W. L., & Thiele, G. A. (2012). Antenna Theory and Design. 3rd Edition, Wiley.
- [4]Hueber, G., & Staszewski, R. B. (Eds.) (2015). Multi-Mode/Multi-Band RF Transceivers for Wireless Communications. Wiley.