RF/SDR/Communications
RF/SDR/Communications
Section titled “RF/SDR/Communications”RF Learning
Section titled “RF Learning”- RF Learning Pipeline - A comprehensive guide to learning RF engineering concepts, skills, and certifications.
Getting Started
Section titled “Getting Started”| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Software Defined Radios (SDRs) | Introduction to SDR concepts and hardware |
| DragonOS | Pre-configured Linux for SDR operations |
| HAM Radio | Amateur radio licensing and resources |
| Modem Design & Digital Modes | RF sync, timing, and digital protocols |
Software Defined Radio (SDR)
Section titled “Software Defined Radio (SDR)”What is SDR?
Section titled “What is SDR?”Software-defined radio (SDR) is a radio communication system where components traditionally implemented in analog hardware (mixers, filters, amplifiers, modulators/demodulators) are instead implemented using software on a computer or embedded system.
SDR Hardware
Section titled “SDR Hardware”| Device | Use Case | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RTL-SDR | Entry-level | Receive only, inexpensive |
| HackRF One | General purpose | Transmit and receive, wide frequency range |
| PlutoSDR | Learning/Teaching | Great with PySDR, networkable, FPGA capable |
| LimeSDR | Advanced | Full duplex, high bandwidth |
| BladeRF | Professional | High performance |
Getting Started with SDR
Section titled “Getting Started with SDR”Recommended for Learning: PlutoSDR + PySDR
- Can be networked for remote learning
- Supports Maia firmware for 50MHz+ spectrum via FPGA
- Can be hacked for LTE support
- Available at Mouser Electronics
SDR Software & Platforms
Section titled “SDR Software & Platforms”- DragonOS - Pre-configured Linux with SDR software suite
- GNU Radio - Open-source signal processing toolkit
- SDR++ - Cross-platform SDR software
- GQRX - Open source SDR receiver
DragonOS
Section titled “DragonOS”DragonOS leverages Lubuntu Linux as a delivery package for pre-installed open-source SDR software.
Supported Platforms
Section titled “Supported Platforms”| Platform | Notes |
|---|---|
| VirtualBox | Virtualized |
| VMware | Virtualized |
| Raspberry Pi 3/4 | Native ARM |
| Intel | Native x86 |
Installation
Section titled “Installation”- Download from SourceForge
- Prepare USB with Ventoy or Etcher
- Boot from live image or install dual-boot
DragonOS Resources
Section titled “DragonOS Resources”- DragonOS Guide - Full installation and usage guide
- YouTube Channel - Video tutorials
- Discord Community
- Matrix Channels
Pre-configured Products
Section titled “Pre-configured Products”- WarDragon Kit+ - Ready-to-use SDR kit
HAM Radio
Section titled “HAM Radio”License Classes (US)
Section titled “License Classes (US)”| License | Privileges | Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Technician | VHF/UHF, local/regional comms | 35 questions |
| General | HF privileges, worldwide comms | 35 questions |
| Amateur Extra | All privileges, all bands | 50 questions |
Licenses valid for 10 years. See ARRL Getting Licensed.
Study Resources
Section titled “Study Resources”| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Ham Cram | ham-cram.com |
| ARRL Exam Practice | arrl.org/exam-practice |
| Technician Anki Deck | Anki Flashcards |
| Extra Class Anki Deck | Anki Flashcards |
Find Exam Sessions
Section titled “Find Exam Sessions”ARRL Exam Session Finder - In-person and online testing
See: HAM Radio Guide
Flipper Zero
Section titled “Flipper Zero”Flipper Zero - Multi-tool device for pentesters and RF enthusiasts.
Resources
Section titled “Resources”- Flipc.org - Collection of Flipper Zero applications
- GitHub: fap-list - .fap files built automatically
Radio Operations
Section titled “Radio Operations”- Radio Checks - Proper radio check procedures
Related Topics
Section titled “Related Topics”Electronic Warfare
Section titled “Electronic Warfare”SDR knowledge applies to understanding EW concepts:
- Signal analysis and identification
- Spectrum monitoring
- Communications security
Unmanned Systems
Section titled “Unmanned Systems”RF knowledge is critical for:
- Command and control links (ELRS, Crossfire)
- Video transmission (5.8GHz FPV)
- GPS/GNSS systems
- Counter-UAS jamming
See: Unmanned Systems
References
Section titled “References”- Dillinger, Markus et al. (2003). Software Defined Radio: Architectures, Systems, and Functions. Wiley & Sons.
- Amaral, Cristiano (2021). Guia Moderno do Radioescuta. Brazil: Amazon.
External Resources
Section titled “External Resources”Related Pages
Section titled “Related Pages”- Unmanned Systems - RF links for drones
- Counter-UxS - Electronic warfare concepts
- Certifications - RF/EW certifications