What is the Maximum Input Power for the USRP 290x or B2x0

Issue Details

From the USRP-2901 Specifications, it states that the maximum input power is -15 dBm. Is that -15 dBm the peak or average input power that the radio can handle? 

Solution

The maximum input power specification of -15 dBm is based off a continuous acquisition, meaning that -15 dBm is the max average power that the RF frontend should receive. It is always recommended to keep the input signal power level below specification to avoid damaging the device. 

The maximum always-safe peak input power is 0 dBm, across all frequencies. 

Additional Information

The NI USRP-2901 and Ettus B210 are functionally the same device. If you look at the schematics for these radios, found from the Ettus B210 KB article, you will see that the AD9361 transceiver is the limiting factor for the input power rating since the other components in the signal path (balun, swtiches) are rated for even higher power levels. The maximum input power before damage can occur that is spec'd for the AD9361 is 2.5 dBm, so you should always keep the signal power well below this level.