What is it?

This is a high-performance RTL-SDR (Software Defined Radio) receiver based on the RTL2832U chipset and the improved R820T2 tuner. It supports wideband reception from 500 kHz to 1.7 GHz with up to 3.2 MHz of bandwidth (2.4 MHz stable) and includes a 1PPM temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) for precise frequency stability. The receiver features a robust aluminum enclosure with passive cooling, SMA F antenna connector, and a software-enabled bias-tee for powering LNA and active antennas.

It comes bundled with a versatile dipole antenna kit, making it perfect for beginners and hobbyists looking to dive into SDR applications. Whether you're monitoring ADS-B aircraft signals, decoding NOAA/Meteor weather satellites, exploring HF bands, or experimenting with radio astronomy, this RTL-SDR V3 is a powerful and affordable solution.

Why did I make it?

The RTL-SDR was born from a DIY community need for a low-cost, high-performance wideband radio receiver that hobbyists and makers could use without investing hundreds or thousands of dollars. By repurposing DVB-T dongles based on the RTL2832U chipset and improving them with TCXO, low-noise PCB, and a redesigned case, we’ve created a tool that gives users access to the radio spectrum like never before.

This RTL-SDR V3 model is made for DIYers, RF explorers, and radio hackers who need versatility, stability, and precision in a compact and beginner-friendly form factor. Whether you're using a Raspberry Pi or a high-end workstation, this receiver is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of SDR software.

What makes it special?

RTL2832U ADC + R820T2 Tuner: Industry-standard SDR chipset combination, optimized for stability and wide frequency coverage. 1PPM TCXO: Ultra-stable frequency reference for accurate reception across temperature changes and long sessions. 500 kHz – 1.7 GHz Frequency Range: Supports HF reception via direct sampling (below 24 MHz). Up to 3.2 Msps Sampling Rate: (2.4 Msps stable) for wider bandwidth applications. 8-bit ADC Resolution: Ideal for most SDR applications and excellent software compatibility. Software-Enabled Bias-T (4.5V): Powers LNAs and active antennas directly through the coax cable. Improved PCB Design: Reduced noise, ESD protection, and heat-dissipating aluminum case. SMA F Connector: Standard connector for better signal integrity and antenna compatibility. Dipole Antenna Kit Included: Configurable for vertical or V-dipole setups with 3m RG174 coax, adjustable elements, and outdoor-ready mounts. Passive Cooling Aluminum Enclosure: Ensures stable performance under extended use. Wide OS Compatibility: Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and Raspberry Pi. Compatible Software: Supports SDR#, HDSDR, GQRX, CubicSDR, SDR-Radio, SDR Touch, and more.

Perfect for:

General radio spectrum scanning ADS-B aircraft tracking NOAA APT & Meteor M2 weather satellite reception HF and shortwave listening (500 kHz – 30 MHz) Radio astronomy Amateur radio panadapter use Public safety and trunked radio decoding (P25, MotoTRBO) ACARS, APRS, POCSAG decoding DAB broadcast reception Weather balloon telemetry Experimental DSP and SDR development

Product Compatibility

This RTL-SDR Blog V3 receiver is compatible with the most widely used SDR software, including: Windows: SDR#, HDSDR, SDR-Radio, CubicSDR Linux: GQRX, CubicSDR, command-line tools like rtl_fm and dump1090 macOS: GQRX, CubicSDR Android: SDR Touch (via OTG cable) Raspberry Pi: Works great with rtl_fm, dump1090, GQRX, and custom setups Plug and play with most systems via USB 2.0. Antenna setup is also beginner-friendly thanks to the included dipole mounting kit and adjustable elements.

Technical Specs

Frequency Range: 500 kHz – 1.766 GHz Sampling Rate: Up to 3.2 Msps (2.56 Msps stable) ADC Resolution: 8-bit TCXO Accuracy: 1PPM Bias-T Voltage: 4.5V (software activated) RF Input Connector: SMA F Enclosure Material: Aluminum (passive cooling) Antenna Kit: 3m RG174 cable, adjustable dipole elements, base mounts Packaging: Paper box + antistatic bag Weight: 55g Dimensions: 12 × 9.5 × 3.5 cm

Note:

1.This is a receive-only SDR and cannot transmit. 2.For HF (<24 MHz), enable Direct Sampling Mode (Q-branch) in your SDR software. 3.Use the included dipole antenna kit for ADS-B, VHF/UHF reception, or configure it for 137 MHz satellite passes and ISS communication. 4.Requires an OTG cable for Android use. 5.Some applications may benefit from using an external LNA or bandpass filter, depending on your environment.