Software Defined Radio (SDR) software is a type of application that processes and interprets radio signals using software rather than traditional hardware components.
SDR software works in conjunction with radio hardware to provide a flexible and versatile platform for a wide range of radio communication tasks, including signal analysis, demodulation, and spectrum monitoring.
In this post we present a comprehensive list of popular SDR software along with a brief description of each.
Table of Contents
List of SDR Software
SDR# (SDRSharp)
- Description: A widely-used SDR application known for its user-friendly interface and extensive plugin support.
- Website: SDRSharp
HDSDR
- Description: Versatile SDR software that supports a variety of hardware and offers powerful signal processing capabilities.
- Website: HDSDR
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GNU Radio
- Description: A powerful toolkit that provides signal processing blocks to implement software radios, supporting many SDR hardware platforms.
- Website: GNU Radio
CubicSDR
- Description: An open-source, cross-platform SDR application with a visually appealing interface, supporting multiple SDR devices.
- Website: CubicSDR
Gqrx
- Description: An open-source SDR receiver software with a simple and easy-to-use interface, available for Linux and macOS, and with a Windows version.
- Website: Gqrx
SDR Console
- Description: A comprehensive SDR application with advanced features such as recording, playback, and remote operation.
- Website: SDR Console
Spectrum Lab
- Description: A powerful audio spectrum analyzer software that can be used with SDR hardware for advanced spectrum analysis.
- Website: Spectrum Lab
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Pothos
- Description: An open-source data-flow framework used for SDR applications, supporting various SDR hardware with a modular design.
- Website: Pothos
SDRUno
Description: A software suite developed by SDRplay for use with their SDR receivers, offering a highly integrated suite of tools.
Website: SDRUno
Quisk
Description: An open-source SDR application that supports many SDR platforms, offering flexible and powerful functionality.
Website: Quisk
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Linrad
Description: A highly flexible and powerful SDR software package that supports many different SDR hardware setups.
Website: Linrad
PowerSDR
Description: Originally designed for FlexRadio SDR hardware, it is now open-source and supports various SDR devices.
Website: PowerSDR
OpenWebRX
Description: An open-source SDR receiver software with a web-based interface, allowing remote access and control of SDR devices.
Website: OpenWebRX
Skywave Linux
Description: A Linux distribution specifically designed for SDR use, preloaded with a variety of SDR software.
Website: Skywave Linux
SDRangel
Description: An open-source SDR and signal analyzer with a comprehensive set of features for signal analysis and demodulation.
Website: SDRangel
These SDR software options cater to a wide range of needs, from basic spectrum analysis to advanced signal processing, and support various SDR hardware devices, making them suitable for both beginners and professionals
Hardware Compatibility
The table below shows SDR platform compatibility
| Software | Compatible SDR Hardware |
|---|---|
| SDR# (SDRSharp) | Airspy, RTL-SDR, HackRF, SDRplay, Funcube Dongle, QRP-2000, QRP-2000 and many more |
| HDSDR | RTL-SDR, Airspy, HackRF, Funcube Dongle, SDRplay, QS1R, Perseus, Elektor SDR, and more |
| GNU Radio | USRP (Universal Software Radio Peripheral), RTL-SDR, HackRF, BladeRF, LimeSDR, and many more |
| CubicSDR | RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, SDRplay, Red Pitaya, and other SoapySDR supported devices |
| Gqrx | RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, BladeRF, FunCube Dongle, SDRplay, USRP devices, and more |
| SDR Console | RTL-SDR, Airspy, HackRF, SDRplay, Funcube Dongle, Elad FDM-S1/S2/SW2, Afedri, and more |
| Spectrum Lab | Any SDR hardware that provides I/Q data stream including RTL-SDR, Funcube Dongle, and more |
| Touchstone Pro | USRP, RTL-SDR, HackRF, LimeSDR, BladeRF, and other commonly used SDR devices |
| Pothos | USRP, RTL-SDR, HackRF, BladeRF, LimeSDR, and other devices supported by SoapySDR |
| SDRUno | SDRplay RSP1, RSP1A, RSP2, RSPduo, RSPdx |
| Quisk | USRP, RTL-SDR, HackRF, Red Pitaya, and other SoapySDR supported devices |
| Linrad | RTL-SDR, FunCube Dongle, SoftRock, Peaberry, and other similar devices |
| PowerSDR | FlexRadio SDR hardware, RTL-SDR, HackRF, and more |
| OpenWebRX | RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, USRP, Red Pitaya, and other SoapySDR supported devices |
| Skywave Linux | RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, SDRplay, and other SDR hardware supported by the preloaded software |
| SDRangel | RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, BladeRF, LimeSDR, PlutoSDR, and more |
What can you do with SDR Software?
Here is a lit of what the software is used for:
- Spectrum Analysis: Visualizes the frequency spectrum, allowing users to identify and analyze signals.
- Demodulation: Converts received radio signals into audio or data formats.
- Frequency Tuning: Adjusts the frequency of the SDR hardware to receive different signals.
- Signal Decoding: Interprets digital signals and protocols.
- Recording and Playback: Records radio signals for later analysis and playback.
- Plugin Support: Extends functionality with additional plugins and modules for specific tasks.
- Remote Operation: Allows remote access and control of SDR hardware over a network.
What are the applications of SDR Software?
- Amateur Radio: Allows radio enthusiasts to explore and experiment with different frequency bands and modulation techniques.
- Research and Development: Used in academia and industry for developing and testing new communication protocols and technologies.
- Military and Defense: Provides flexible and adaptive communication systems for various applications.
- Emergency Services: Ensures reliable communication in critical situations through adaptable and resilient systems.
- Spectrum Monitoring: Used by regulatory bodies to monitor and manage the radio spectrum.
Here is a curated list of frequently asked questions about Software Defined Radio (SDR) software, with clear answers, synthesizing what SDR users on forums like Reddit and others ask and discuss. This article is formatted for blog readability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SDR software and what does it do?
SDR software (such as SDR#, SDR++, GQRX, HDSDR, CubicSDR, GNURadio, SDRAngel, and SDRconsole) is the core that turns your radio hardware’s raw signals into audio, decoded data, or visualizations. It handles tuning, demodulation, and often includes advanced analysis, filtering, recording, and remote-control features.
What is the best SDR software for beginners?
Beginners often choose SDR# (for Windows), GQRX (for Linux/macOS), and CubicSDR (cross-platform) for their easy setup and user-friendly interface. SDR++ is widely recommended for general use due to its modern interface and low resource requirements. These programs provide a quick way to get started viewing signals and listening to audio with minimal configuration.
Which SDR software should I use for advanced features or experimentation?
GNU Radio is the most flexible but has a steep learning curve, ideal for DSP experimentation or building custom radio pipelines. SDRAngel and SDRconsole offer comprehensive feature sets supporting a wide range of hardware, modulation types, decoders, and even satellite tracking or transmit capabilities with compatible devices.
Can SDR software run on Linux or macOS?
Most major SDR programs have Linux versions; GQRX, CubicSDR, SDR++, and SDRAngel all work on Linux. GQRX and SDR++ also support macOS. SDR# and SDRconsole are Windows-only. Tools like DragonOS bundle most major SDR programs for Linux for easy experimentation.
Is there SDR software available for mobile devices?
Some Android apps can control basic SDR dongles (like SDR Touch or RF Analyzer). However, mobile SDR solutions are limited in features compared to desktop options.
How do I set up SDR software with my hardware?
Most SDR software requires you to install the correct drivers for your hardware first (for example, Zadig for RTL-SDR dongles). After installing the software, select the input device and it should automatically detect and start displaying the spectrum. Guides for specific setups, especially RTL-SDR, are widely available online.
What SDR software is best for satellite decoding or weather satellite images?
SatDump is highly recommended for satellite data decoding and image processing, supporting many satellites and data modes. For listening and general satellite reception, SDRAngel and SDR++ are good choices due to their satellite tracking and demodulation features.
What should I do if my SDR software won’t recognize my device?
Common fixes include checking that the correct drivers are installed, ensuring no other apps are using the SDR dongle, and trying a different USB port. Restarting the software after plugging in the device also helps. Some USB 3.0/2.0 compatibility issues can be resolved by switching ports or using a powered hub.
Can I use SDR software to decode digital modes (like DMR, P25, ADS-B, etc.)?
Many SDR programs include digital decoders or can be coupled with external decoder applications. For trunked radio systems and DMR/P25, use SDRTrunk or DSDPlus (Windows). SDRAngel, SDR++, and GQRX also support a variety of digital modes and plugin systems.
Are there SDR software solutions for remote or networked operation?
Several SDR programs support network streaming or remote operation. SDR# with the “RTL_TCP” server, OpenWebRX, and SDRconsole’s remote features let you stream IQ data or audio from one computer and control it from another, even across the internet.
How do I learn more or troubleshoot SDR software problems?
Official project websites, subreddits (like r/RTLSDR), vendor forums, and Discord groups are full of helpful guides, troubleshooting tips, and active community support. Many software packages have FAQs and wikis covering common problems.
Can one SDR software program do everything?
No single SDR package supports every hardware, demodulation, and decoding feature, but programs like SDRAngel, SDR++, and SDRconsole come closest for general and advanced use. Many users install several SDR programs and use each for its strengths.
Do I need to pay for SDR software?
Most SDR software is free and open source. Some, such as SDRUno or specific decoders, may require a compatible device or limited commercial licensing for specific uses, but there are always free alternatives available for common tasks.
This FAQ should give both curious newcomers and experienced users a clearer view of SDR software options and troubleshooting.
Summary
SDR software enables our interaction with radio communications by leveraging the power of software to perform tasks traditionally handled by hardware.
Its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and upgradability make it an invaluable tool for a wide range of applications, from amateur radio to advanced R&D. Whether you are a hobbyist, researcher, or professional, SDR software opens up a world of possibilities in the field of radio communication.