Hardware needed

Hardware needed for building your own device (BYOD)

This information remains as reference for existing BYOD station owners looking for replacement hardware.

No new BYOD stations can be onboarded as of Oct 14th, 2024.

  1. Computing Device:

    • Raspberry Pi (3B or newer, including Zero 2 W)

    • Le Potato

    • Orange Pi

    • Most Helium hotspots (if they are based on a Raspberry Pi)

  2. ADS-B USB Receiver:

    • FlightAware

    • RadarBox

    • ADS-B Exchange

    • Other SDR (Software-Defined Radio) dongles

  3. Antenna and Connectivity:

    • 1090MHz Antenna

    • Cable to connect the antenna to the receiver (N-Type Male -> SMA Male)

  4. Wingbits USB GeoSigner (release date: Q4 2024):

    • This cryptographically enhanced usb GPS device will be available only for the "build your own device" stations and will have to be purchased through the Wingbits project. This device will be plugged into an open USB port in addition to the existing ADS-B usb receiver. The GeoSigner can be purchased currently during station registration, until all units have been sold out. Note: Until the device is released/shipped and the deadline is met to have it connected, stations can still participate and earn rewards without it.

  5. Optional Components:

    • Filter (reduces signal noise for clearer reception, if receiver doesn't include onboard)

If you do not wish to purchase the GPS dongle in the future, you should not create or onboard a "build your own device" station. Instead, a future "ready to run" device might be a better option.

Make sure each component is compatible with your setup to ensure efficient signal capturing.

Some specific hardware suggestions with external purchase links can be found on the Hardware suggestions page.

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