The ADALM-PLUTO Active Learning Module (PlutoSDR) is an easy to use tool available from Analog Devices Inc. (ADI) that can be used to introduce fundamentals of Software Defined Radio (SDR) or Radio Frequency (RF) or Communications as advanced topics in electrical engineering in a self or instructor lead setting. The PlutoSDR allows students to better understand the real-world RF around them, and is applicable for all students, at all levels, from all backgrounds. Early learning in a hands-on manner with the PlutoSDR will ensure a solid foundation for students to build on, as they pursue science, technology, or engineering degrees.

The PlutoSDR Active Learning Module is a tool that closes the relationship between theory and practical radio frequency activities of the user. It provides a personal portable lab that, when used with a host, can augment the learning that takes place in the classroom. A variety of software packages such as MATLAB or Simulink provide an innovative graphical user interface (GUI), allowing intuitive usage and minimizing the learning curve, enabling students to learn faster, work smarter, and explore more!

The ADALM-PLUTO Active Learning Module is a learning tool for everyone.

Based on the AD9363, it offers one receive channel and one transmit channel which can be operated in full duplex, capable of generating or measuring RF analog signals from 325 to 3800 MHz, at up to 61.44 Mega Samples per Second (MSPS) with a 20 MHz bandwidth. The PlutoSDR is completely self-contained, fits nicely in a shirt pocket or backpack, and is entirely USB powered with the default firmware. With support for OS X™, Windows™, and Linux™, it allows exploration and understanding of RF systems no matter where the user is or when.

PlutoSDR is a self-contained RF lab in your hand. It's more than the combination of a few parts, but to understand the capabilities of the module, you must understand the fundamental operation of each part inside the module. Depending on who you are, and what you want to do, you may have different needs, different wants, and will use different software. It's expected that many people will stop when they solve their immediate problem and don't want to go any deeper into the stack. Before digging into the documentation, check out the module prerequisites, and try to think about how you will use the ADALM-PLUTO.

1. PlutoSDR Users & students
   • PlutoSDR users normally interact with RF signals with MATLAB, Simulink, GNU Radio or custom C, C++, C#, or Python environment on a host (x86) Windows, Linux or Mac or embedded Linux platform (Raspberry Pi, Beaglebone, 96boards.org, insert your favorite embedded Linux platform) over USB.
   • If you want to see how to generate or capture RF waveforms, this is the place.
   • Everyone should read this section, as it describes the device, and describes how to get the drivers and host software installed properly.
   • Most users should find all the information they need in this section.
2. HDL and Embedded Software Resources:
   • This material is for those who normally write custom software or HDL (for the FPGA) that runs directly on the PlutoSDR. This may put the PlutoSDR in different modes, and support different external USB devices (including LAN (via USB), or WiFi (via USB)), extending the capabilities of the device. This includes all the information to compile HDL projects, compile kernels, change to custom USB PID/VID and/or run custom user space applications. For example, you could set up:
     • a standalone airplane tracking station which communicates to the internet via Wifi or LAN.
     • a mobile terminal to emulate someone else's keyboard.
3. PCB and Layout Resources:
   • This section may be useful for those taking the PCB out of the case and making hardware modifications, or connecting GPIO to different devices, or attempting to synchronize multiple PlutoSDRs together. Since this is pretty wide open, we don't have any examples of this - but we do provide the info needed, including all the schematics and layout.

It's expected that most people will work their way down through each section, reading and skimming most of the content. The content is in a constant state of improvement, so if you do have a question, please ask at EngineerZone, or check the help and support page.