Open RAN Software Radio Base Station Kit with Raspberry Pi 5
Build a Private 2G GSM Base Station with the Open RAN Software Radio Kit and Raspberry Pi 5
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Dual RTL-SDR dongles and GNU Radio turn the Raspberry Pi 5 into a fully software-defined GSM base station for closed-campus voice and SMS. From a first call between two mobile phones to a multi-cell footprint across a university quad, this kit puts the same toolchain telecom startups and RF research labs use on your workbench. You will not simulate a network—you will operate one.
What You'll Build
You will configure and run OpenBTS or YateBTS to create a private GSM cell with its own MCC/MNC, attach commercial mobile phones, and complete voice calls and SMS within the coverage area. The pair of outdoor antennas extends range beyond a single room, while the NVMe SSD holds call records and network logs for analysis and demo presentations.
What You'll Learn
- Configure GNU Radio flowgraphs for GSM uplink and downlink signal processing
- Deploy and tune OpenBTS or YateBTS on a headless Raspberry Pi 5 running Ubuntu Server
- Understand GSM channel structure, frequency planning, and network parameter databases
- Integrate dual RTL-SDR hardware into a real-time base station software stack
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 5 8GB | 1 |
| RTL-SDR Dongle | 2 |
| NVMe SSD 256GB | 1 |
| Pi 5 M.2 HAT+ | 1 |
| USB-C PSU | 1 |
| MicroSD Card 32GB | 1 |
| Outdoor Antenna | 2 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Final-year B.Tech ECE students and M.Tech communication systems researchers at IITs, NITs, VIT, BITS, and other Indian universities will find this a thesis-ready hardware platform. Telecom startups prototyping private network solutions for rural connectivity or campus micro-operators can validate concepts without waiting on multiple component orders. Smart India Hackathon teams focused on indigenous Open RAN demonstrations can have a fully assembled base station live within a weekend.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code inside the box to open the AI companion; it knows every step of this specific base station project. If you still need help, WhatsApp us directly and an engineer will walk you through the issue.
Can I connect this base station to a public cellular network?
No. This kit is for closed-campus experimental use only, operating on license-free or coordinated spectrum. Connecting to any public network without regulatory approval is illegal.
What range can I expect from the outdoor antennas?
In an open area, the included antennas typically provide a reliable cell radius of 50–150 meters, depending on obstacles and antenna placement. For larger coverage, you can swap in higher-gain antennas with the same connector.
Can I upgrade this kit to run 4G/LTE?
This kit is specifically tuned for GSM 2G software stacks. A 4G/LTE base station would require different SDR hardware (such as LimeSDR) and a different software suite. The Compoden team can advise on a future upgrade path if needed.
RTL-SDR and GNU Radio on Raspberry Pi 5 implement a 2G GSM base station for closed campus use.
What's in this kit
- Raspberry Pi 5 8GB
- RTL-SDR Dongle x2
- NVMe SSD 256GB
- Pi 5 M.2 HAT+
- USB-C PSU
- MicroSD Card 32GB
- Outdoor Antenna x2
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items