The HackRF PortaPack H4M · Mayhem Explorer
Learn every feature of this pocket-sized radio — first the simple way a 10-year-old can follow, then the technical way for the experts. Flip the toggle in the header anytime.
What is a HackRF PortaPack H4M Mayhem?
A HackRF is a radio that can both listen and talk across a huge range of channels — way more than a normal radio. The PortaPack H4M is a screen-and-buttons pack that clips on top so it works all by itself, without a computer. The 'Mayhem' firmware is the free software that fills it with dozens of fun apps.
It can tune to a giant range of channels, from low AM radio all the way up to Wi-Fi.
It takes 20 million tiny snapshots of the radio wave every second.
When it talks, it's fairly quiet — like a whisper compared to a real radio tower.
It has a very steady internal clock so the channel numbers stay accurate.
A screen you can tap, made matte so you can still see it outside in the sun.
It can listen or talk, but not both at the exact same moment.
A memory card to save recordings, a USB-C port to charge and connect, and a headphone jack.
It has its own battery so you can carry it around without plugging it in.
Where to go next
All Features
Every app in detail — 43 apps with simple + technical explanations, step-by-step usage, and examples.
Use Cases
12 real projects — from tracking planes to lab-safe security experiments — each mapped to the apps it needs.
Feature Explorer
An interactive map of every feature, plus a guided 'what do you want to do?' picker that lights up the right path.
Sources
Where this deep-dive comes from — the Mayhem firmware, wiki, and hardware documentation.
Please read: legality & safety
This website is just for learning how radios work. Some apps can 'talk' on radio channels — only ever use those on channels you're allowed to, with a grown-up who knows the rules. Never do anything that could bother real airplanes, boats, phones, or emergency services.