Coiling wires in a portable setup

[hruskacha]

I want to put some SDRs, Raspberry Pi, maybe an Ethernet switch, etc. into a small briefcase for Portable use.

This case is 8" x 12" x 6". I try to order cables that are shielded, high quality, thicker gauge on the USB power cables, and most importantly the closest length. but some cables are going to have some extra length that has to be managed.

Should I coil them? Stack and bend?

I worry especially with the RF cables being super close to USB, HDMI, and Ethernet cables. I just don't want to run into any interference issues.

 

[serial14]

I'm not sure anybody can give you an absolute for that situation, but I can offer my own experiences.

I have built several project similar to your description. Meaning, plenty of devices integrated into a space constrained area. I've done both coiling and rerouting approaches and haven't had any notable issues. I usually choose based on what makes the most sense for the specific situation. You try and do your best to follow the cable routing rules, and just deal with what is actually possible.

There is one situation I've consistently run into and had issues. If you have or add a small GPS receiver into the mix, make sure there are NO cables running on top of the GPS antenna. Every time that has happened, I never get a GPS lock or its really poor and inconsistent. I don't know if the cause is "shadowing" or "interference" but the end result is the same. As soon as I ensure the space ABOVE the antenna is clear, GPS locks instantly comes back.