Experience Report – BRICK2 SDR (Firmware, Compatibility and Technical Support)
Experience Report – BRICK2 SDR (Firmware, Compatibility and Technical Support)
In April 2025, I purchased a BRICK2 SDR 14b from Kits and Parts. Due to my location, the equipment was initially delivered to Belgium, to a relative’s residence, who recently brought it to me.
After receiving the unit, I carefully followed the official manual and installed the Thetis software, aiming to operate the radio using a modern setup. However, from the very first use, the device presented multiple operational issues, including audio failures, malfunctioning headphone output, no audio from the internal speaker (appearing as a hardware defect), and incorrect high SWR readings.
Initially, I sought support through public comments, where I received vague responses. I then contacted support directly via Telegram, where I was assisted by the seller himself, identified as Anton, whom I understand to be responsible for the company.
At first, communication was difficult, with limited responses and little technical clarification. At times, messages containing technical questions were removed during the conversation. Later, the dialogue resumed in a more constructive manner after the seller issued an apology.
During the support interaction, I was informed that the device operates with firmware protocol 1, and I was advised to use PowerSDR mRX (2018) — a discontinued platform with no updates for several years.
Despite this limitation, I decided to perform a practical test: I installed PowerSDR mRX as recommended. To my surprise, the equipment began to operate apparently normally, without the issues previously observed in Thetis. Functions such as audio output, headphone operation, internal speaker (previously non-functional, now working correctly), and SWR behavior all performed properly in this environment.
This test demonstrates an important technical point:
the hardware itself is not defective, and the issues observed are directly related to the incompatibility between outdated firmware (protocol 1) and modern software such as Thetis.
During the conversation, the seller confirmed the existence of a newer firmware (protocol 2), already used in current production units. This firmware appears to address the compatibility limitations.
However, despite the existence of a clear solution, the seller refused to provide the firmware or any update procedure to the end user.
The only option offered was to send the equipment back to Germany — an impractical solution considering:
- high international shipping costs
- risk of additional import taxes upon return
- extended downtime without the equipment
I proposed standard technical alternatives commonly used in such situations:
- providing the firmware files
- update instructions
- or even remote assistance to perform the update
All options were declined without any convincing technical justification.
I would also like to note that I have retained records (screenshots) of the entire Telegram conversation documenting the points described above.
Technical Assessment
Based on the tests performed, the following conclusions can be drawn:
- The hardware is functional
- The issue lies in outdated firmware (protocol 1)
- A newer firmware (protocol 2) exists and is already in use
- Compatibility issues with modern software like Thetis are real
- A solution exists but is not made available to the end user
Conclusion
My objective has always been simple: to fully operate and utilize the equipment I purchased.
However, I am facing a technical limitation caused by outdated firmware, combined with the inability to access the necessary update, even after direct contact with official support.
This report is intended to inform the international SDR community, allowing others to consider these factors before making a purchase decision.
Should the situation be resolved in the future, I will update this report accordingly.
73 and good DX.
Vanderlei Santos – PT2RF
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