ConfPad

Software Defined Radios (SDR) are devices that implement the components of a radio, that have been traditionally implemented in hardware, with more flexible software. These components include mixers, filters, modulators and demodulators. In my talk I will introduce the audience to the concept of SDRs and other basic radio concepts, describe some cool projects that are only made possible with SDRs (with possible demo videos; time permitting), and finally how easy it is to purchase and get started playing with SDRs. I will also introduce the audience to Amateur Radio which provides both some spectrum they would be licenced to play around with and access to a group of likeminded hobbyists. SDRs can be used to better understand the consumer devices that we use everyday and that sometimes can seem like magic. SDRs can also be used to inexpensively (for around $30) monitor and record the emergency response (i.e. fire, paramedics and police) and airplane traffic. Concluding my presentation, I will walk though today’s SDR market and make suggestions of what to buy for those both new and experienced with SDRs. I believe this technology is so cool because it both allows us to demystify the radio-controlled electronics we use everyday and can enable us to be better connected to our communities.