
( Brand: Ettus Research ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 785067-01 ), ( Model: USRP-N310 ), ( Type: Networked Software Defined Radio ), ( Country Of Origin: Malaysia )
The **Ettus Research USRP N310 (Model 785067-01) with 20 dBm Output Power** is a high-performance, networked software-defined radio (SDR) platform designed for advanced wireless research, prototyping, and field deployments requiring exceptional flexibility and signal integrity. Built upon the robust architecture of the USRP line, this device integrates a **dual-channel, 100 MHz bandwidth transceiver** with a **20 dBm output power capability**, making it ideal for applications demanding strong transmit performance while maintaining low noise figure and high dynamic range. The N310 leverages the **X310 daughterboard**, which features a **high-speed FPGA (Xilinx Zynq UltraScale )** for real-time signal processing, paired with **AD9483 14-bit ADCs and DACs** that deliver up to **100 MSPS** of conversion rate, ensuring minimal latency and superior spectral purity. Its **Ethernet-based connectivity** enables seamless integration into distributed systems, allowing for remote control, data streaming, and synchronization across multiple USRPs via **GNU Radio, MATLAB, or custom applications** through the **UHD (USRP Hardware Driver)** framework. The N310 s **compact, ruggedized form factor** and **low power consumption** make it well-suited for both laboratory and field deployments, while its **software-defined architecture** eliminates the need for hardware reconfiguration, enabling rapid prototyping of modulation schemes, digital signal processing algorithms, and wireless communication protocols. Whether used for **5G research, cognitive radio experiments, radar systems, or secure military communications**, the USRP N310 provides the precision, scalability, and programmability required to push the boundaries of modern wireless innovation. Its **20 dBm transmit power** further enhances its utility in scenarios where signal propagation must overcome significant attenuation or interference, making it a versatile tool for engineers, researchers, and developers seeking a balance between performance and adaptability in their SDR applications.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Ettus Research USRP N310 (Model 785067-01) with 20 dBm Output**
#### **Pros**
1. **High Performance and Flexibility** The USRP N310 is a powerful software-defined radio (SDR) platform designed for advanced signal processing applications. It supports a wide range of frequencies (up to 6 GHz) and offers high-resolution analog-to-digital conversion (12-bit ADC/DAC), making it suitable for research, development, and testing in communications, radar, and wireless systems.
2. **Networked Capability** The "networked" designation means it can be controlled remotely via Ethernet, allowing for distributed SDR setups. This is particularly useful in multi-node systems, such as MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) configurations or networked sensor arrays.
3. **Strong Software Ecosystem** Ettus Research s USRP devices are fully compatible with GNU Radio, a popular open-source signal processing framework. This integration provides access to a vast library of tools, modules, and community-driven projects, simplifying development workflows.
4. **High Output Power (20 dBm)** The 20 dBm (100 mW) transmit power is sufficient for many experimental and testing applications, including short-range wireless communications, prototype testing, and educational demonstrations. This is stronger than many consumer-grade SDRs but still within regulatory limits for unlicensed bands.
5. **Precision Timing and Synchronization** The N310 supports GPS-disciplined timing and PPS (Pulse Per Second) synchronization, which is critical for time-sensitive applications like radar, 5G prototyping, and networked sensor systems.
6. **Modular and Upgradable** Ettus Research offers various daughterboards (e.g., WBX, LFX, N-Series) that can be attached to the N310 to extend frequency range or improve performance. This modularity allows users to adapt the device to specific needs over time.
7. **Reliability and Durability** Ettus Research devices are known for their robustness in laboratory and field environments. The N310 is built for continuous operation, making it suitable for long-term research or testing projects.
8. **Support for Advanced Protocols** The device can be used to develop and test modern wireless protocols, including LTE, 5G NR, Wi-Fi, and custom modulation schemes, due to its high-speed data conversion and flexible FPGA architecture.
9. **Educational and Research Value** For academic or research institutions, the N310 provides a professional-grade tool for teaching signal processing, communications theory, and SDR development without the cost of commercial hardware.
10. **Community and Documentation** Ettus Research has strong community support, extensive documentation, and tutorials, which help users get started quickly and troubleshoot issues effectively.
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#### **Cons**
1. **High Cost** The USRP N310 is an expensive piece of equipment, especially when compared to lower-cost SDRs like the RTL-SDR or HackRF. The price may be prohibitive for hobbyists or small-scale projects with limited budgets.
2. **Complexity for Beginners** The N310 is not a plug-and-play device. It requires familiarity with GNU Radio, signal processing concepts, and sometimes FPGA programming. New users may face a steep learning curve before they can fully utilize its capabilities.
3. **Power Consumption** The device draws significant power (typically around 20-30W), which may require careful consideration in portable or battery-powered setups. This can limit its use in field deployments where power is constrained.
4. **Limited Frequency Range Without Daughterboards** The base N310 operates in the 250 kHz to 6 GHz range, but achieving full performance across this spectrum may require additional daughterboards, increasing cost and complexity.
5. **Regulatory Compliance Challenges** The 20 dBm output power means the user must ensure compliance with local regulations (e.g., FCC, ETSI) when transmitting in unlicensed bands. Improper use could result in interference or legal issues.
6. **Dependence on GNU Radio** While GNU Radio is powerful, it is not the only software option, and some users may prefer proprietary tools or custom solutions. This can create vendor lock-in or require additional development effort.
7. **Physical Size and Form Factor** The N310 is a larger and heavier device compared to handheld SDRs. This may limit its portability for field testing or mobile applications.
8. **Maintenance and Longevity** Like any high-end hardware, the N310 may require occasional firmware updates or hardware maintenance. Ensuring long-term availability of support and spare parts could be a concern, especially if Ettus Research discontinues the product.
9. **Overkill for Simple Applications** For basic tasks such as SDR radio listening, digital mode decoding, or simple modulation experiments, the N310 is significantly more capable (and expensive) than necessary. A cheaper SDR (e.g., USRP B200, HackRF, or RTL-SDR) would suffice.
10. **Learning Curve for Advanced Features** Features like FPGA programming, precise timing synchronization, or multi-node networking require advanced knowledge. Users without a strong background in RF engineering or software development may struggle to extract full value from the device.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Ettus Research USRP N310 (785067-01) with 20 dBm output** is a high-performance, flexible, and professional-grade SDR platform ideal for researchers, engineers, and developers working on advanced wireless systems, communications prototyping, or signal processing applications. Its strengths lie in its precision, networkability, software ecosystem, and ability to handle complex tasks. However, its high cost, complexity, and steep learning curve make it less suitable for hobbyists, beginners, or those working on simple projects.
### **Recommendation**
- **Buy the USRP N310 if:**- You are a researcher, academic, or professional working on **advanced wireless communications, radar, 5G prototyping, or networked SDR systems**.
- You require **high-resolution analog conversion, precise timing, and remote control** for your experiments.
- You are already familiar with **GNU Radio, signal processing, or FPGA development** and need a reliable, high-performance SDR platform.
- Your budget allows for a **significant investment** in SDR hardware, and you expect long-term use and return on investment.
- **Avoid the USRP N310 if:**- You are a **hobbyist or beginner** looking for an affordable, easy-to-use SDR for basic tasks like radio listening or digital mode decoding.
- Your project requires **portability or low power consumption**, as the N310 is bulky and power-hungry.
- You are working on **simple modulation/demodulation experiments** where a cheaper SDR (e.g., USRP B200, HackRF, or RTL-SDR) would suffice.
- You lack experience with **GNU Radio, RF engineering, or software-defined radio concepts**, as the learning curve may be overwhelming.
- **Alternative Considerations:**- For **lower-cost but still capable SDRs**, consider the **USRP B200** (simpler, lower power) or **HackRF One** (cheaper but less precise).
- For **educational or entry-level use**, the **USRP N-Series (e.g., N-Series with WBX)** may offer a better balance of performance and affordability.
- If you need **portability**, explore **handheld SDRs like the RTL-SDR or SDRplay RSP series**, though they lack the N310 s power and flexibility.
A power adapter or any other cable is not included. Brand Ettus Research, MPN USRP N310, Type Networked Software Defined Radio.: It is being sold exactly as shown in the pictures. Shipping We primarily use UPS and USPS for shipping.
C0 - For Parts / Not Working. Retail box and instructions not included. Our technicians will test and refurbish items to the best of their ability. F5 Refurbished.
Accessories: This item will only include what is shown in the pictures.