Direct Connections to the USRP RIO

The USRP RIO is an RF instrument that is sensitive to ESD and transients. Ensure you take the following precautions when making direct connections to the USRP RIO to avoid damaging the device.

Caution Apply external signals only while the USRP RIO is powered on. Applying external signals while the device is powered off may cause damage.
  • Ensure you are properly grounded when manipulating cables or antennas connected to the USRP RIO TX 1 RX 1, RX 1, or RX 2 connector.
  • If you are using nonisolated devices, such as a nonisolated RF antenna, ensure the devices are maintained in a static-free environment.
  • If you are using an active device, such as a preamplifier or switch routed to the USRP RIO TX 1 RX 1, RX 1, or RX 2 connector, ensure that the device cannot generate signal transients greater than the RF and DC specifications of the USRP RIO TX 1 RX 1, RX 1, or RX 2 connector.