SDR (Software Defined Radio)

[89Laredo]

Anyone done this or heard of it?
http://www.rtl-sdr.com/about-rtl-sdr/

Just made an impulse buy on this:
Amazon.com : NooElec TV28T v2 USB DVB-T & RTL-SDR Receiver, RTL2832U & R820T Tuner, MCX Input. Low-Cost Software Defined Radio Compatible with Many SDR Software Packages. R820T Tuner & ESD-Safe Antenna Input, Guaranteed : Tv Remote Controls : Electronics@@AMEPARAM@@http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41td41ltEYL.@@AMEPARAM@@41td41ltEYL

and Im going to try it out. Looks like it runs 24 – 1766 MHz which means itll pick up our local weather radio (27.525mhz), should pick up CB radio (26.965-27.405 MHz with some "pirate" stations thrown in), will pick up police/fire, and ALOT of other stuff, (Including marine weatherfax).
Should be an interesting little experiment...

[Mudderoy]

Have a look here... :link: (http://www.xjtalk.com/showthread.php?t=13269&highlight=software+defined+radio)

[redneck999]

I just checked ebay on these and i see that some say in ad It does not support US, Canada, Japan, Singapore users due to different digital standard, is one of these a preferred unit os what would one look for to get the right one?

[89Laredo]

They were most likely talking about the TV standard, since thats what these were originally made for. (PAL/NTSC differences or whatever they are for tv)
Since we are not using them for tv and instead using them for snooping into radio traffic, it doesnt really matter.
Best bet is to do some Reading here: http://www.rtl-sdr.com/rtl-sdr-quick-start-guide/
and here: http://www.rtl-sdr.com/buy-rtl-sdr-dvb-t-dongles/
And decide what one you want (R820T or E4000, most likely) I bought the one that I linked to because it was recommended on the rtl-sdr site and seemed to have the broadest frequency range for the price.

[redneck999]

Many thanks, i didn't even know this was out there, we always ran a table top scanner. besides, my wife just loves it when i bring new stuff home! not. at least this wont take up much room.