SDR Project Part 2 – Selecting The Computer

Posted by Unity Gain on January 5, 2025
Posted in: Radio, SDR, Technology. Tagged: , , , , . Leave a comment
Raspberry Pi 400 - Front
Raspberry Pi 400 - Back

Step One, Select a Computer

I have been thinking through the Software Defined Radio (SDR) project that I mentioned previously in this blog. I went into it planning on using a Raspberry Pi as the computer. But which Pi? I have many to choose from. The original version, Pi 2, Pi 3, Pi 4 and now a Pi 5. Also, there are different form factors. There is the ‘regular’ flavor, Zero, Pico, and the sort of unique Pi 400. Here’s the Wikipedia page if you want to find out more about the various iterations.

In the end, I decided to go with the Raspberry Pi 400. I have been holding out of the new Pi 500 to be announced. But, it doesn’t have all of the features that I was hoping for. So, just going to stick with the good old Pi 400 for this project. I could say that I analyzed all the requirements for this project and weighed the pros and cons for each. But really, the Pi 400 is just awesome, and I’ve been looking for a project where I could use it. And here we are.

A Closer Look at My Platform of Choice

So, what is a Raspberry Pi 400? It’s basically a Raspberry Pi 4 with 4GB of RAM, encased within the official Raspberry Pi keyboard. This makes it a convenient all-in-one solution for users who need a simple and space-saving computer for basic tasks. I just think of it as a modern Commodore 64 or Amiga 500. Two of my old favorites.

The Raspberry Pi 400 is powered by a 1.8 GHz quad-core Cortex-A72 processor, which is a nice upgrade from the Raspberry Pi 4’s 1.5 GHz chip. It comes with a 40-pin GPIO header and a MicroSD card slot for storage and the OS. Though, I may try to get an SSD mounted in there.

For connectivity, the Pi 400 has Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, two USB 3.0 ports, one USB 2.0 port, and two micro-HDMI ports that can handle 4K video at 60 frames per second. You can easily hook it up to dual monitors and all kinds of peripherals, making it very flexible.

While the Pi 400 is great for light office work like web browsing, checking emails, or editing documents, it can struggle if you’re trying to multitask or run more resource-heavy apps. It does run Linux, of course. The Pi 400 is user-friendly and perfect for learning programming and electronics, which makes it great for schools and hobbyists. It can also boot from USB, giving you more options for storage and operating systems. For now, I’m sticking with the MicroSD card, but I might upgrade to something bigger and faster later if needed.

All in all, the Raspberry Pi 400 is affordable, compact, and functional, making it a solid pick for anyone who wants a simple and efficient computer for low-power computing. And my pick for the hub of my SDR system.

Now, I just need to make time to work on this project. Like many, I have a huge number of interests and tend to float between them. But this year I’m going to try to focus on a select few. More on my plan to handle that to come soon.

Software Defined Radio Project

Posted by Unity Gain on September 2, 2024
Posted in: Radio, Technology. Tagged: , . Leave a comment
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Planning Out a New Project

Starting a new project and thought I’d bring you along

Hi all. I was just rummaging around in my collection of computer and electronics gear. It occurred to me that some sort of project was in order. I think that I’ve settled on an idea. It will involve a Raspberry Pi and Software Defined Radio (SDR).

What is Software Defined Radio?

In case you don’t know about SDR. It represents a major shift in radio technology and transforms the way we receive radio communications. Basically, SDR replaces traditional hardware-based radio components with software, allowing for greater flexibility and functionality.

SDR is a radio communication system where components typically implemented in hardware (e.g. filters, amplifiers, modulators/demodulators) are instead implemented by means of software on a computer or embedded system. This approach offers several advantages:

  • Cost-effectiveness: A single SDR device can replace multiple specialized radios.
  • Upgradability: New features and capabilities can be added through software updates.
  • Wide frequency coverage: Many SDRs can tune across a vast range of frequencies.
  • Flexibility: SDRs can be easily reconfigured to handle different modulation schemes, frequencies, and protocols without changing hardware.

How SDR Works

The basic architecture of an SDR system typically includes a few common parts. An antenna. A radio frequency (RF) front-end to amplify and filter the signal. An Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADAC). And a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to process the converted signal. The software of our SDR can perform tasks such as demodulation, filtering, and decoding, which were traditionally done by specialized hardware circuits.

Applications of SDR

The versatility of SDR has led to its adoption in various fields. These include Research, Education, Military, Public Safety, Amateur Radio and, importantly here, Satellite Communications.

Getting Started with SDR

If you would also like to try out SDR, there are low-cost USB dongles based on the RTL-SDR chipset that offer an accessible entry point into the world of SDR. These devices, coupled with free software, allow you to explore a wide range of radio signals, from FM broadcasts to aircraft transponders. I’ll be sure to go over various options that exist while writing about my progress.

The Future of SDR

As processing power continues to increase and costs decrease, SDR technology is poised to become even more prevalent. Future developments may include more integration with artificial intelligence for signal processing, increased use in 5G networks and beyond, and further miniaturization of SDR devices.

Software Defined Radio represents a paradigm shift in radio technology, offering unparalleled flexibility and capability. Whether you’re a hobbyist, researcher, or professional, SDR opens a world of possibilities in wireless communications, limited only by the imagination and ingenuity of its users.

Sounds like something that I should learn more about.

My Plan

For this project, I plan to use a Raspberry Pi to receive data from a passing satellite and process the image. Seems simple enough. First, I need to decide on which satellite I want to target. That will, in part, determine the equipment that I will need. For example, the antenna will need to be compatible with the signal being sent. I will most likely be looking at a weather satellite. So, at this point, I’m thinking that either a Landsat or NOAA satellite makes the most sense here.

I will be sure to post about each step I take and why I choose the parts that I do. I’ll most likely also make a few videos about the process that I will post both here and on my YouTube channel.

Stay tuned.

Investments – 2024 Update

Posted by Unity Gain on July 30, 2024
Posted in: Dividend Investing, Retirement, Stocks. Tagged: , , , , , , , , . Leave a comment
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List of my stock holdings for 2024

We’re just over half way through the year, but thought that I would post an update on my portfolio. Mostly since I’ve already reached my goal for the year. I was hoping to be receiving $250/month in dividends by the new year. Well, happy new year!

As always, no analysis here. I see too much of that on all of the socials. Mostly from idiots. I don’t intend to join those ranks. Just the usual list of my favorites. No changes as far as that goes. My requirement for any holding is that it pays a divided of about 9% if it pays quarterly. I may let it slide a little lower if it pays monthly.

(ARCC) Ares Capital Corporation. This is my largest holding right now. Even though it has the lowest rate of return. I just have the most confidence in this holding and certainly don’t think that I should complain about anything paying over 9%. This fund pays quarterly.

(TCPC) BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. I do love this stock, but consider it bit more risky than ARCC. So, even though it pays better at 12.4%, it has a lower presence in my portfolio. This pays quarterly on the same schedule as ARCC.

(PFLT) Pennant Park Floating Rate Capital Ltd. I’m liking this one more and more. Not only does it pay out at nearly 10.5%, but it pays monthly dividends. More reason to love it.

(RITM) Rithm Capital Corp. Another fund that just barely makes my cut at a bit over 9%. The dividends are paid quarterly. But, I believe that this will be a permanent part of my portfolio. The price will have to come back down a bit before I buy any more. But if it does, I will.

(SVOL) Simplify Volatility Premium ETF. Picked up a couple more shares of this fund today. Still paying out at 16% at my average price. Better yet, it’s monthly. I still see plenty of so called social media experts crying “dividend trap”. I am neither moved by their cases, nor am I concerned in the least. Hey, at least I sold my Credit Suisse ETN funds!

Thinking long term, at least for me since I’m already old, I’m hoping for $600/month when I retire in 2,801 days. Not that I’m counting…

Magic: The Gathering Arena

Posted by Unity Gain on July 7, 2024
Posted in: Gaming, YouTube. Tagged: , , . Leave a comment

If you follow any of my socials, one thing you will notice is that my interests are all over the map. Around my house, we simply describe my condition as ADOSS. Attention Deficit…Oh, Something Shiny! So, for those mediums that can accommodate it, I will try to group things together. Such as playlists on YouTube.

For today’s installation, I give you Magic the Gathering Arena. An online version of the wildly popular tabletop game. My oldest prefers Pokemon. Pfft, kids. I like MTG because of the awesome art on the cards and the complex behaviors. Some of which can interact with other cards in very unexpected ways. The game really requires deep thought much of the time. Especially while building your deck. You want what the players call synergy. Where the cards actions play off each other to amplify the effects. The game is free to play on Steam. Give it a try.

For anybody here to check in on my investing, photography, gardening, travel…hold tight. I’ll get there. Sorry.

Lomomatic 110 – A New Film Camera

Posted by Unity Gain on June 29, 2024
Posted in: Film, photography. Tagged: , , , . Leave a comment
Lomomatic 110 Film Camera and Film

I just received my shiny new Lomomatic 110 film camera from Lomography.  I believe that they released this around March. Took a while to get my hands on one. I picked up the Golden Gate model with the flash attachment. I just love the retro vibe of it. Looks like something I would have had with my Commadore 64 and Juno-106. Good times. I am also trying out Lomography’s Tiger 200-ISO film with it.

Thinking for the first couple rolls, I’ll just carry it around with me and shoot random daily scenes. Sort of street photography, but also around the house and just wherever I happen to be. There is a local lab that will process 110 film and do the scans for me. I’ll share what I come up with. But again, these will just be ‘test rolls’. Not planning on anything spectacular. Not that I ever do. If I had any style, that wouldn’t be it. Just daily life. Such as it is.

First Pictures with Nikon FA

Posted by Unity Gain on March 20, 2024
Posted in: photography. Tagged: , , , . Leave a comment
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I shot a test roll of film with the new Nikon FA using Ilford Delta 100 B&W film. I casually carried it around the house and on a walk, snapping photos of whatever caught my eye. Surprisingly, considering the camera and lens are 40 years old and had been sitting on a shelf unused, the pictures turned out quite well. Not quite the grain I was planning on. But I like the look. Here are a couple that I wanted to share. That’s all for now. Thank you!

Two New Toys

Posted by Unity Gain on March 16, 2024
Posted in: photography. Tagged: , , , . Leave a comment
Nikon FA 35mm Camera


Hi again, fellow film photography enthusiasts! Three likes on last post, so guessing I can use the plural there.

I’ve got some exciting news to share with you. While scrolling through Facebook Marketplace, I made an awesome find. It’s a mint-condition Nikon FA 35mm camera. It doesn’t look like it was ever used. Even came with a couple extra lenses and a bag. One lens appears to have a bit of mold. But other than that, it’s nearly perfect. Just had to buy a new battery and it’s ready to go.

The Nikon FA is a true classic, revered by photographers for its impeccable build quality, advanced features, and stunning performance. While most people today look for an F3, but I think that this is the perfect Nikon film camera.

It gets even better. Along with my shiny new-to-me Nikon FA, I also finally managed to get my hands on something equally special: Harman Phoenix color film. If you’re not familiar with Harman Phoenix, let me tell you why I’m happy with this score. It’s a new film – known for its rich, vibrant colors, fine grain, and exceptional sharpness. In other words, it’s the perfect match for my vintage Nikon FA.

I mentioned previously about my ridiculously long wait to get film developed at my local Walgreens. I have now dropped a roll off at a local camera shop. They promised 10 days. It’s been 14. Guess we’ll see how this plays out. While I wait for that, it’s the perfect opportunity to test out the Phoenix film. I just need to find the right subject matter. I have a few ideas and hope to check them out this week.

But wait, there’s more. I also picked up an adapter so that I can use that beautiful vintage glass from my Canon A1 on my everyday carry, Canon M50 Mark II. So, there is even more interesting science to do there. I will post some of the results.

My Photographs Showed Up!

Posted by Unity Gain on February 24, 2024
Posted in: photography. Tagged: , , , , . Leave a comment
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Well guess what. After only 10 weeks, I received my photos back from Walgreens. Guess February has some photos in it after all. Another staggering display of modern technology. I just can’t imagine why their stock has dropped over 65% over the last 3 years with that kind of impressive service.

This was just a test roll of random photos I took to confirm the functionality of my 40-year-old camera and lens. The amazing Canon A-1 and a Canon 50mm f/1.4 lens. I picked them both up from KEH at a great price. I used Ilford HP5 Plus 400-speed black and white film. I was going for a moody feel with some grain to it. Guess I got that part right. My practice with film exposures was obviously a bit rusty. I also only have a very sketchy 600dpi flatbed scanner available. But again, it was just a test roll. Nothing I was planning to keep.

The photos were taken on a foggy December day at local parks in the Cascade, Michigan area. They are my favorite locations for doing a bit of walking and taking a few pics. Right now, my company is having me fly all over the country. Maybe I will see about packing the old Canon and working in a bit of photography while I’m on the road.

I have found a local shop here in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area that will develop and scan my photos in high resolution. Better yet, they will do it in less than two weeks. Guess that’s progress. I will let you know how it works out.

New PRS SE CE24 in Blood Orange

Posted by Unity Gain on February 18, 2024
Posted in: Guitar, Life, Music. Tagged: , . Leave a comment
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PRS SE CE24 Guitar in Blood Orange

I’ve recently made the decision to learn to play the guitar, adding to my list of possibly over 30 hobbies. With some musical background, I felt it was time to explore a new instrument, and after careful consideration, I bought a PRS SE CE24 guitar in the striking color of Blood Orange. I do want to thank the awesome folks at Sweetwater for their usual excellent service with this.

As a beginner, I understand the importance of finding the right resources for learning. Currently, I’m taking advantage of the wealth of knowledge available on the JustinGuitar YouTube channel. The step-by-step lessons and tips provided by Justin have been invaluable in helping me grasp the fundamentals of playing the guitar.

I did query Perplexity AI as to the unique properties of the SE CE24 model. Just for fun really. But here’s what I received back:

The PRS SE CE24 model differs in sound from other PRS models due to several factors, as highlighted in the provided search results:
1.       Bolt-on Neck Construction: The SE CE24 features a bolt-on maple neck, which is said to contribute to a slightly brighter tone compared to the set neck construction found in other PRS models.
2.       Electronics and Versatility: Equipped with PRS 85/15 “S” pickups, the SE CE24 offers clarity and an extended high and low end, suitable for modern playing styles. The push/pull tone control adds versatility with coil splits, allowing for a range of sounds from humbucking to single-coil tones.
3.       Wood Combination and Aesthetics: The combination of a maple top with a mahogany back and a rosewood fretboard, along with the Blood Orange color option, provides a unique tonal and visual character to the SE CE24.
4.       Price Point and Accessibility: The SE CE24 is part of the SE Series, known for bringing PRS quality to a more affordable price range. This may also influence its sound compared to higher-end PRS models.
In summary, the sound differences between the PRS SE CE24 and other PRS models can be attributed to its bolt-on neck construction, electronics, wood combination, and price point. These factors contribute to the SE CE24’s unique tonal characteristics and versatility compared to other PRS guitars.

Sure, I’ll go with that. Mostly since it costs me $20 a month for its input. Looks like most of that was gathered from the PRS website. You can always go check it out there.

In my quest to improve, I’ve encountered various challenges. Mostly just making the time in my day with all of my other interests. However, I’ve found that dedication and patience are crucial in making progress. As I continue on this musical journey, I look forward to further honing my skills and expanding my skills on the guitar.

My company does have me traveling a bit over the next few months. But I’ll do my best to stick to it. I will also try to start posting things from my travels. Sort of why I started this blog in the first place.

I’ll also set a goal of recording a video of myself playing something awesome and posting it for everybody. Most likely on my YT channel but I’ll link it here as well. About time I started posting stuff over there anyways!

No Photo February

Posted by Unity Gain on February 17, 2024
Posted in: photography. Tagged: , , . Leave a comment
Canon A-1 Film Camera
Canon A-1 35mm Film Camera

Hey there, fellow camera enthusiasts and those who just accidentally stumbled upon this post.

I had this grand idea at the beginning of the year. I was going to dive headfirst back into the world of film photography. Yep, you heard that right – no fancy digital cameras for me this time around. I wanted to get down and dirty with a good old film camera. Why? Well, why not? There’s something nostalgic and magical about the process that I just couldn’t resist.

My choice of gear was a nearly 40-year-old camera and lens combo that I managed to get my hands on. A Canon A-1 in perfect condition. Talk about vintage charm! I loaded up my first roll of film and snapped away.

It was December when I eagerly dropped off my roll of test film at the local Walgreens. The promise? A speedy (by current standards) return by the first week of January. I guess the 24-hour lab isn’t a thing anymore. So much for progress. But it should be fine, right? Wrong.

Here we are in the middle of February, and guess what? No photos, no film, and no idea when they may show up. And to make matters worse, Walgreens can’t seem to give me a straight answer on where my film disappeared to. Only “try back in a couple of weeks”. Awesome.

But fear not, I have…a plan! I refuse to let a little hiccup like this deter me from my analog adventures. So, what is this plan, you ask? Well, I’ve decided to try a different approach and give a mail-in lab a shot. Who knows, maybe they’ll have better luck getting one simple roll of black and white film processed.

I’ll be sure to keep you all in the loop with regular updates on how this whole story unfolds. Consider it my way of documenting the highs and lows along the way. Just in case you are of a similar mind (heaven help you).

I will update you soon.