Tagged: USB-C

RTL-SDR Blog V3/V4 USB-C Model Released For Sale

We're happy to announce that we have released a new USB-C version of the popular RTL-SDR Blog V3 and V4 dongles on our store at www.rtl-sdr.com/store!

Many members of the RTL-SDR community have been requesting a USB-C version for some time now. The dongle circuitry is identical to your favorite V3 and V4 models, but the USB-A plug has been replaced with a USB-C female plug instead.

The new V4c RTL-SDR Blog V4 with USB-C Plug
The new V4c RTL-SDR Blog V4 with USB-C Plug

Please note that you will need a USB-C cable to use the dongle (not included); however, we always recommend using a USB cable with the dongle anyway to avoid strain on your USB ports and to get the dongle further away from the RF-noisy PC. Also, please note that the dongle is still USB 2.0, as simply changing to a USB-C plug does not change the USB spec.

So far, we have only produced a small batch of these USB-C dongles as a trial to test the market. If they prove popular, we will increase the number of dongles manufactured. 

For now, we are only shipping these new units worldwide from our warehouse in China. They can be purchased at www.rtl-sdr.com/store. Amazon USA will be stocked with a few hundred of these dongles within about a month. 

A USB-C Mod for RTL-SDR Blog V3/V4 Dongles

Over on GitHub, umbertoragone has uploaded some schematics for a USB-C modification he's made for RTL-SDR Blog V3 and V4 dongles. The modification removes the stock USB-A plug on the dongle, and instead replaces it with a USB-C connector mounted on an adapter PCB.

The repo contains all the gerbers, BOM, and assembly details required to replicate the modification. He notes that he is also selling a pre-made USB-C adapter board over on his Tindie or Lectronz store for US$4 (currently out of stock).

Let us know in the comments if you would be interested in seeing an official USB-C version of the Blog V3 and V4 line of dongles. Previous polling has indicated that USB-A is still the preferred choice by a wide margin, but attitudes may have changed over the years.

A USB-C Modification for RTL-SDR Blog V3 and V4 dongles.
A USB-C Modification for RTL-SDR Blog V3 and V4 dongles.