Software Defined Radio Applications for Mini GSM BTS and Spectrum Analyzer with BladeRF

Software Defined Radio (SDR) technology enables the flexibility of a programmable hardware platform for radio applications. A wideband SDR can be programmed to function with various radio systems: FM radio, GSM (2G), 3G or WiFi systems. In this paper, the BladeRF SDR with the frequency range of 300 MHz - 3.8 GHz and full-duplex transmission capability will be set up as a GSM BTS (base transceiver station). The BladeRF is working with the YateBTS software for the BTS operation. Raspberry Pi is utilized as the processor to provide further portability. A GSM repeater that is connected to the BladeRF was used to amplify the signal up to 41 dB, and can increase the coverage range to about 70 m. Although the reliability of voice and SMS communication is only about 50% and 85% respectively, the BladeRF can still provide an ad-hoc alternative communication system in time of emergency or in remote areas.