Portable RF Test Module – Power Supply Considerations & Seeking Advice

[djy27]

Hi all,​

First post on this forum, so bear with me.

I am working on a portable RF test module using the following hardware (See attached Diagram: note, I should have drawn an arrow from the Pluto SDR back to the amplifier for the Tx!):

Raspberry Pi 4B (running GNU Radio)
Pluto-ADALM SDR (for signal transmission/reception)
ZX60-V62+ Mini-Circuits RF Power Amplifier (Data Sheet here: https://www.digikey.co.uk/en/produc...hg_bR_cMKidVNUw2t9ea7F16-5fhiSh_C8AvkvR_JX3N1)
Two high-gain SMA antennas connected via the amplifier (Tx Only, Rx Will be for surveying reciprocal test module about 500 metres away) (https://www.getic.com/cart)
GPS Module (GlobalSat BU-353N5: for potential timing synchronization/location-based testing)
Android Tablet (connected via mini-HDMI for control/interface)
ANKER 26800mAh Powerbank (used as the primary power source)

Current Working Setup (Without the RF Amplifier)​

So far, I have successfully powered the Raspberry Pi 4B using the ANKER power bank via USB-C.

• The Pluto SDR is drawing power via the Raspberry Pi’s USB port, and everything works fine.
• The Android Tablet is connected via mini-HDMI for control, and a GPS module is also connected.

Adding the ZX60-V62+ RF Power Amplifier​

Now, I need to power the ZX60-V62+ amplifier, which requires:

• 5V DC with a typical current draw of 82mA (max 92mA)

I was considering three different methods to power the amplifier, and I’d appreciate feedback on the best approach:

Power Supply Considerations​

Option 1: Use Raspberry Pi’s GPIO 5V Pin ( Potential Risk)​

Pros: Simple wiring, no extra components.
Cons: The Pi’s GPIO pins are not designed for high-current draw and lack overcurrent protection. I’m concerned about potential voltage fluctuations or current limitations affecting stability.

Option 2: Use a USB to 5V Breakout Adapter ( Preferred Option?)​

Pros: The RF amplifier gets power directly from the ANKER Powerbank, reducing the load on the Raspberry Pi.
Pros: Provides a more stable power source.
Cons: Slightly more complex wiring (requires soldering to the breakout adapter).

Option 3: Use a Dedicated Small Battery Pack ( Separate RF Power)​

Pros: Completely isolates RF amplifier power, reducing EMI/noise interference.
Cons: Requires an additional small battery pack, adding to the complexity.

My Key Questions for the Community:​

. Would using the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO 5V pin be too risky regarding stability and protection?
. Is a USB to 5V breakout adapter the best option for clean, stable power?
. Would an additional capacitor (e.g., 10µF - 100µF) on the ZX60-V62+ power input help smooth out noise?
. Has anyone encountered RF noise/interference issues when powering an amplifier from a shared USB power source?
. Any other suggestions to improve power reliability and RF performance in a portable test setup?

I’d love to hear from those with experience in portable RF test setups, SDR systems, and power optimization. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help.