Skip to content

SoftRF LoRa module

Linar Yusupov edited this page Sep 18, 2023 · 22 revisions

This module is designed to be pin-to-pin compatible with Nordic NRF905-based one.
Physical dimensions are very close.

Pros:

  • better link budget ;
  • very flexible RF chip settings allow implementation for variety of radio protocols, such as (FSK modulated):
    • "Legacy" (FLARM AIR V6) ;
    • P3I (PilotAware) ;
    • OGNTP (OGN tracker)
  • when Semtech's proprietary LoRa modulation is in use, operating range of the SoftRF is increasing up to 2-4 times under same Tx power level.
    One known good implementation of the LoRa modulation for aviation proximity awareness is:
    • FANET protocol (Skytraxx)

Schematics

If you would like to print the schematics I would suggest to use this PDF file.

PCB manufacturing

You can order the PCB direct from manufacturer: 1

     Order from PCBs.io

It should typically cost you around 3 USD for minimum 4 pcs of PCB with basic international shipping included in.

Expect to wait:

  • 1 week for panelization
  • 2 weeks for fabrication
  • 1-2 weeks for delivery to your location

Alternatively you may pick these Gerber files and order the PCB from a local manufacturer of your preference.

1 - SSL Cert error warning may come up - it is known to be safely ignored

Bill of materials

Number Part Qty Picture Source
1 PCB 1 Order from PCBs.io
2 HopeRF RFM95-868 1 AliExpress
3 Female SMA-KHD 1 AliExpress
4 2x7 male header 2.54mm 1 Local
5 Capacitor 10uF 1 Local
6 1x40 male header 2.54mm 1 AliExpress

Errata

Revision 1.2

No known errors.

Revision 1.1

This module revision has no connection between RFM95W's RESET pad and MCU.

Although there were no any issues detected in operation with current SoftRF firmware, in theory this may cause unwanted behaviour when SoftRF user switches RF protocol from any FSK-based (Legacy, PAW, OGN) onto LoRa-based (FANET) or backward.

Full "power off" - "power on" cycle of the unit should help as a workaround.

Fix

Solder a wire as shown on this picture:

Hardware

SoftRF

SkyView

Flight Recorder

Adapters

Software

Firmware

Tools

Protocols

Clone this wiki locally