HackRF PortaPack H4M · Mayhem
Learn every feature of this pocket-sized software-defined radio — first the simple way a 10-year-old can follow, then the technical way for experts. Flip the toggle in the header anytime.
New to the HackRF? Start here
A friendly beginner's walkthrough — unboxing the PortaPack, flashing the Mayhem firmware, and trying out the apps.
Video: Tech Minds (YouTube)
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 — 71 apps with simple + technical explanations, step-by-step usage, and examples.
Use Cases
12 real projects — from tracking planes to lab RF 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.
Latest Firmware
What's new in the newest Mayhem builds, current versions, and how to update your device.