Equipment register / Radio / RF
Record 004RTL-SDR Blog V3
A receive-only software-defined radio with an R860 tuner, RTL2832U demodulator, 1 PPM TCXO, HF direct sampling and a software-controlled bias tee.
My take
The RTL-SDR Blog V3 is a receive-only software-defined radio for listening to and decoding compatible radio signals with software on a computer. Its R860 tuner covers VHF and UHF reception, while the built-in direct-sampling path extends reception into HF without requiring a hardware modification.
The 1 PPM temperature-compensated oscillator improves frequency stability, and the software-controlled bias tee can power compatible active antennas or low-noise amplifiers through the SMA connection. The included adjustable dipole kit supports portable terrestrial and satellite reception setups.
Field notes
- Interface
- USB 2.0
- Radio chipset
- R860 tuner / RTL2832U demodulator
- Reception
- Approximately 24–1766 MHz through the tuner
- HF reception
- Approximately 500 kHz–24 MHz through direct sampling
- Frequency stability
- 1 PPM TCXO
- RF connector
- SMA female
- Features
- Software-controlled 4.5 V bias tee, HF direct sampling
- Kit
- Dipole base, telescopic elements, coax extension, tripod and suction mount