Description

▌PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

>> MORE SIGNAL. MORE REACH. MORE POWER TO THE ANTENNA. <<

Your SDR can hear the spectrum. But can it talk back?

Stock transmit power on most software-defined radios is measured in milliwatts. Fine for bench testing. Useless for fieldwork. If you’re trying to push a signal past the bench and into the real world, you need gain. Real gain. The kind that turns a whisper into a shout.

This Wideband RF Power Amplifier is a compact, broadband PA module that takes your transmit signal and kicks it up by 32 dB of gain across a massive 5 MHz to 1300 MHz operating range. That’s a power multiplication factor of over 1,500x. Feed it milliwatts, get watts. Feed it a signal, get a statement.

This module covers the bands that matter: HF, VHF, UHF, 70 cm, 33 cm, 23 cm, ISM 433, ISM 915, and everything in between. One amplifier. One broadband signal path. No band-switching. No swapping modules. Plug it inline between your radio and your antenna, supply 12V DC, and let physics do the rest.

Key Specs:

• Frequency Range: 5 MHz – 1300 MHz continuous coverage
• Gain: 32 dB typical
• Maximum Output Power: +33 dBm (~2W)
• Input/Output Impedance: 50 Ohm
• Connectors: SMA Female (input and output)
• Supply Voltage: 12V DC
• Working Current: 300-400 mA typical
• Form Factor: Compact shielded module with SMA ports

Built around a multi-stage amplifier architecture with onboard bias regulation, the module delivers flat, predictable gain across its entire operating range. The shielded enclosure keeps stray RF where it belongs: nowhere near your signal chain.

Who is this for? Licensed amateur radio operators running QRP rigs that need a power bump. RF engineers and researchers doing range testing. Security professionals conducting authorized wireless assessments. Anyone with a legitimate need to amplify a transmit signal and the legal authorization to do so.

Who is this NOT for? Anyone who doesn’t hold the appropriate license or authorization for their intended frequency and power level. Read the warnings below. We’re serious.

▌README.TXT – INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Compatibility: This is a general-purpose RF power amplifier module. It is compatible with any 50-Ohm RF source within its operating frequency range, including HackRF, SDR platforms, amateur radio transceivers, signal generators, and other RF test equipment.

Step 1: Inspect Remove the module from its packaging and inspect the SMA connectors for damage. Verify no debris is present in the connector interfaces. A damaged connector can cause impedance mismatch, signal reflection, and potential damage to your source radio.

Step 2: Connect RF Path Connect your RF source (transmitter output) to the module’s INPUT SMA port using a quality 50-Ohm coaxial cable or adapter. Connect your antenna or load to the module’s OUTPUT SMA port. Do not reverse input and output. Do not operate the output into an open circuit (no antenna/load connected).

Step 3: Connect Power Supply 12V DC to the module’s power input. Ensure your power supply can deliver at least 500 mA sustained. Observe correct polarity. Reverse polarity may permanently damage the module.

Step 4: Transmit Key your transmitter. The amplifier is always active when powered. Monitor your output power and ensure you are operating within legal limits for your license class, frequency, and jurisdiction.

Step 5: Power Down When finished, power down your transmitter first, then disconnect DC power from the amplifier. This prevents any transient RF from hitting the amplifier during power-on/off cycling.

PRO TIP: Always use a bandpass or low-pass filter between the amplifier output and your antenna. Broadband amplifiers amplify everything in the signal path, including harmonics. A clean signal in means a clean signal out. A dirty signal in means an amplified dirty signal out, and the FCC does not appreciate amplified harmonics landing on someone else’s frequency.

▌DEBUG LOG – TROUBLESHOOTING

ISSUE: No output power / signal not amplified. FIX: Verify DC power is connected and the supply is delivering 12V. Check that your RF source is actually transmitting (verify with a known-good connection first). Confirm the input and output ports are not reversed. Measure current draw: if the module draws zero current, the power connection may be faulty.

ISSUE: Output power lower than expected. FIX: Broadband gain varies slightly across the frequency range. Gain is typically highest in the mid-range (100-800 MHz) and may roll off slightly at the frequency extremes. Also verify your input signal level is sufficient – the amplifier needs a signal to amplify. Check cables and connectors for damage or poor contact. Lossy cables eat gain before it reaches the antenna.

ISSUE: Output signal is distorted or spurious emissions detected. FIX: You may be overdriving the input. Reduce your source transmit power. Amplifiers have a linear operating range; exceeding it causes compression, harmonic generation, and intermodulation products. Additionally, ensure you are using appropriate filtering on the output. This is a broadband amplifier and will amplify harmonics present in the input signal.

ISSUE: Module runs hot during operation. FIX: Thermal output is normal during sustained transmission, especially at higher output power levels. Ensure adequate ventilation around the module. For sustained high-duty-cycle operation, consider adding a small heatsink or active cooling. Do not enclose the module in an airtight space during prolonged use.

ISSUE: Interference with nearby electronics. FIX: You are transmitting RF energy. That is literally what this device does. Ensure your antenna is positioned appropriately, your output power does not exceed what is necessary, and you are using proper filtering. If you are causing interference to consumer devices, reduce power, improve filtering, or relocate your antenna. Under FCC Part 97, you are responsible for resolving harmful interference.

ISSUE: SMA connector feels loose or won’t tighten. FIX: SMA connectors should be tightened to approximately 5 in-lbs of torque. Use a proper SMA wrench, not pliers. Over-tightening damages the connector and can crack the PCB trace at the connector pad. Finger-tight plus a quarter turn with a wrench is the standard practice.

▌SYS.WARN – WARNINGS, HAZARDS & DISCLAIMERS

FEDERAL LAW WARNING – READ THIS ENTIRE SECTION BEFORE USE.

Transmission of radio frequency energy on any frequency is regulated by federal law. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) governs all intentional RF transmission under Title 47 of the U.S. Code and the Code of Federal Regulations (47 CFR).

Unlicensed transmission is illegal. Under 47 U.S.C. Section 301, no person shall use or operate any apparatus for the transmission of energy or communications by radio except under and in accordance with a license granted by the FCC. Violations may result in equipment seizure, fines of up to $100,000 per violation, and/or imprisonment.

Intentional interference is a federal crime. Under 47 U.S.C. Section 333, willful or malicious interference with any radio communication is prohibited. This includes jamming, blocking, or disrupting any licensed or authorized radio service.

Licensed Amateur Radio Operators (FCC Part 97): This amplifier may be used by holders of a valid FCC Amateur Radio license (Technician class or higher) on authorized amateur frequencies within the module’s operating range. Operators must comply with all Part 97 rules, including but not limited to: maximum power limits for their license class, station identification requirements, prohibited transmissions, and the obligation to use the minimum power necessary to maintain communications (47 CFR Section 97.313).

Amplification of Cellular Signals is Prohibited. This device is NOT a consumer cell phone signal booster and must NOT be used to amplify, retransmit, or repeat any cellular/mobile telephone signal on any frequency. The use of unauthorized signal boosters on cellular frequencies violates FCC rules and federal law. This module has no FCC equipment authorization for cellular amplification and must not be used for that purpose under any circumstances.

Filtering Requirement: This is a broadband amplifier. It will amplify any signal present at its input, including harmonics and spurious emissions. The user is solely responsible for ensuring that all transmissions comply with applicable spectral purity and spurious emission requirements. Use of appropriate bandpass or low-pass filtering on the output is strongly recommended and may be legally required depending on the application and frequency.

No FCC Equipment Authorization. This module is sold as a component for integration into licensed radio systems. It does not carry standalone FCC equipment authorization. The end user is responsible for ensuring that their complete station configuration (source radio + amplifier + filtering + antenna) complies with all applicable FCC rules and any other relevant regulatory requirements.

International Users: RF transmission regulations vary by country. Users outside the United States are solely responsible for understanding and complying with the radio regulations of their jurisdiction. Rabbit-Labs LLC makes no representations regarding the legality of this device’s use in any jurisdiction outside the United States.

Intended Use. This product is intended exclusively for use by licensed radio operators, RF engineers, researchers, and authorized professionals in lawful radio communication, testing, and experimentation. Rabbit-Labs LLC does not condone, support, or encourage any illegal use of this product.

RF Exposure Warning. This device produces radio frequency energy when connected to a transmitter. Maintain safe distance from the antenna during transmission. Prolonged close-range exposure to RF energy may exceed FCC Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) limits. Refer to OET Bulletin 65 for RF exposure guidelines.

Electrical Safety. This module operates on 12V DC. Observe correct polarity at all times. Do not exceed the rated supply voltage. Do not operate with wet hands or in wet conditions. Disconnect power before making any changes to the RF signal path.

No Liability for Misuse. Rabbit-Labs LLC sells this product as a radio frequency amplification component for lawful use. The purchaser assumes all responsibility for compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Rabbit-Labs LLC is not responsible for any illegal, unauthorized, or improper use of this product, nor for any fines, penalties, equipment seizure, legal action, interference, or damages resulting from such use.

Disclaimer. This product is sold “as-is” for use by qualified, licensed individuals. Rabbit-Labs LLC makes no warranty, express or implied, regarding fitness for a particular purpose. Maximum liability shall not exceed the purchase price of the product.

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