Airband Radio on the RTL-SDR: Software Defined Radio for Capturing Voice and Data Aviation Communications

Aviation Radio Monitoring on the Surprisingly Versatile Radio DongleNote: Previously published as Airband Radio on the RTL-SDR by Philip CollierRTL-SDRs are small, inexpensive, yet effective software defined radios. They digitize radio signals and enable processing of those signals in a computer. Aviation radio listeners, whether interested in voice communications, digital text (ACARS or VDL), or position tracking (ADS-B), can use techniques and suggestions in this book to achieve the best possible reception on RTL-SDR devices.The book explains how RTL-SDRs work, what they do well, and where their performance has limitations.Not only can you "hear" the signals, but it is possible to make high quality recordings of voice communications and capture digital data. In fact, this SDR may be used to capture the RF waveforms as "I/Q" data for later playback - virtually stepping back in time to examine the radio spectrum again.Antennas, noise mitigation, and software are covered, along with the best settings for various signal modes. Learn how to manage the amplifier gains, set up proper bandpass filtering for the various modes, and beat interference. SDRs can do incredible processing feats on modest computing hardware, but the software choices cause confusion for a lot of listeners. Read how to find the right software for your listening interest and how to set it up!There are plenty of expensive receivers which cover the aviation bands; the RTL-SDR is as reasonably priced as any SDR you will find anytime soon. With a suitable antenna, judicious preamplification, and noise filtering, the little dongle can hold its own against the professional equipment. This book will show you what works best! It was written by a licensed amateur radio operator and jetliner pilot who has monitored, recorded, and actually used the aviation spectrum for decades. Read more