SCM25002 Satellite Dish LNB Link is an interface module for connecting a satellite receiver dish using an L-Band IF to a radio receiver. This junction tends to be a challenge when connecting a general purpose SDR to a satellite dish, and can require a cluttered collection of cables, connectors, along with other RF components. SCM25002 elegantly combines the most commonly needed parts required for satellite dish use in a single, compact module.

Inside is a power converter and bias-T that provide bias power to the LNB. The signal is filtered in the module and can be amplified. Its AC coupled output can be directly connected to an SDR, and operated from a terminal emulator over an FTDI TTL-234X-3V3 or TTL-234X-5V serial cable. SCM25002 can be powered and connected by other methods as well, like as part of an integrated SDR system. The software interface is intentionally simple, supporting easy integration with any computer that has serial connectivity.

Link Up Your SDR

SCM25002 and the connected LNB are fully powered from a standard 12 V power supply. A simple serial interface allows a user or host software to select the LNB bias voltage and enable the LNA and conveniently supports an FTDI USB TTL serial cable. You connect your SDR and satellite dish using single coaxial cables with SMA connectors. SCM25002 makes a satellite dish as easy to use as any antenna in your SDR toolbox.

SCM25002 can also be used to support tuning a satellite dish configuration using a spectrum analyzer or even an SDR programmed for the purpose. The compact and robust enclosure supports field operation. A battery or laptop power supply could even be used to power SCM25002 if working near the dish and away from power.

Features & Specifications

• Completes connectivity between an SDR and a satellite dish
• LNB bias voltage of 0 V, 13 V, or 18 V for common control functions
• Fault protected LNB bias power supply provides up to 500 mA at 13 V or 18 V
• Integrated LNA switchable between bypass and 20 dB gain
• Integrated L-band pass filter improves performance for common L-band IF configurations
• Typical noise figure less than 3 dB
• Intentionally trivial asynchronous serial command interface for use with nearly any host computer
• Serial port compatible with Future Technology Devices (FTDI) USB cables
• Dimensions: 83 x 74 x 23 mm (3.3 x 2.9 x 0.9 in)

For more information, refer to the datasheet on our website.

Open Source

All elements of the design are generally available as open source. We hope to support user understanding of SCM25002’s functionality and to enable adaptation by contributing to the open hardware community. Therefore, the schematic, bill of materials, and firmware will be released online for free access after the crowdfunding campaign ends. The fabrication details will not be made public under a license, but they will be available by contacting Allied Component Works.

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