Software Defined Radio

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Revision as of 21:37, 11 September 2019 by Acinonyx (talk | contribs) (Add reference to Pi 4)


SatNOGS can use a variety of SDRs. The most cost-effective solution is to use an RTL-SDR with a Raspberry Pi. More advanced SDRs can also be used, but they require more processing power than what a Raspberry Pi can offer.

RTL-SDR: RTL2832U & R820T2-Based Software Defined Radios

SatNOGS uses the RTL-SDR as the default signal receiver and tuner. The RTL-SDR is based on two chips -- the versatile RTL2832U chip and the R820T tuner. The RTL-SDR is currently the cheapest, most common, and most performing solution available in terms of general sensitivity having a frequency range of 24 – 1766 MHz. A metal enclosure with SMA connector is preferred, along with a stable TCXO (low ppm). HF coverage is optional.

These RTL-SDR "dongles" are known to work with Raspberry Pi 2 or greater:

Advanced Software Defined Radios

The following advanced SDRs are supported by SatNOGS. These may require more processing power than a Raspberry Pi 3b or 4 can offer.

  • USRP b200
  • USRP2 (not compatible with the SatNOGS client on Raspberry Pi)
  • Airspy (not compatible with the SatNOGS client on Raspberry Pi)
  • HackRF One (not compatible with the SatNOGS client on Raspberry Pi)

References