Introduction
Below are 10 SDR-related project ideas recommended by Tommy Reed that can help beginners get started with software-defined radio. Note: using SDR transmitters requires compliance with local laws and regulations.
Project List
1. Receive ham radio frequencies
If you have an SDR receiver, you can begin receiving ham radio signals. Even a low-cost SDR dongle should be able to pick up amateur signals. If you have a transceiver that can both transmit and receive, you can also transmit on permitted frequencies. There are several software projects that make it easy to start ham radio contacts.
2. Radio astronomy with SDR
Radio astronomy studies celestial objects in the radio frequency domain, looking for RF energy emitted from space. Large professional radio telescopes are expensive, but it is possible to receive interesting interstellar signals with affordable SDR hardware. The critical element is the radio front end: a suitable antenna. Specifically, a large dish reflector antenna with a wideband LNA will give the best results. When connecting an antenna located away from the radio, use high-quality coaxial cable.
3. Receive NOAA weather satellite images
Amateur meteorologists can use SDR to receive weather images broadcast by NOAA and GOES satellites. Special decoding software is required to convert RF signals into images. There are SDR kits that include the necessary components to get started quickly.
4. Listen to air traffic control
Enthusiasts can receive air traffic control (ATC) audio on appropriate frequencies. ATC typically uses AM modulation, which allows transmissions to propagate over long distances, sometimes up to 100 miles. This is a practical and interesting early project for SDR users.
5. Track ships using AIS
In port areas you can use SDR to receive AIS transmissions from ships and display vessel information on a map using suitable software. For AIS reception, antenna choice is important; a vertically polarized antenna is usually best.
6. Listen to broadcast radio
Broadcast AM and FM stations are among the easiest signals to receive with SDR. You do not need complex antennas or amplifiers; a simple dipole antenna can perform well. Broadcast radio is therefore an excellent starting point for SDR beginners.
7. Build a GSM network with SDR
Using high-end SDR platforms such as USRP, you can build a private GSM network. GSM is a widespread mobile communications standard and building a network is a practical way to learn wireless networking, network management, and GSM protocols. Open-source projects such as OpenBTS and OsmoBTS are common starting points.
8. Create a custom GNSS receiver
This project typically requires a higher-end SDR receiver such as HackRF One or USRP. You will also need specialized software like GNSS-SDR, which allows reception and processing of GNSS signals including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. GNSS-SDR lets you inspect and control internal receiver processes, from raw ADC output bits through to the navigation solution that computes position and time.
9. Receive ATSC or DVB-T television signals
SDR can tune to DVB-T or ATSC broadcast TV signals depending on the local standard. Many SDR dongles can receive these signals, and open-source projects such as GNURadio and SDRPlay examples provide step-by-step tutorials for receiving TV broadcasts.
10. Track aircraft using ADS-B
ADS-B, or Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast, is used by many commercial and private aircraft to periodically broadcast position and velocity information derived from navigation systems. SDR can receive ADS-B transmissions so you can visualize aircraft in your vicinity. Numerous project files and forum resources are available to help set up ADS-B receivers.
