LD-1B Software-Defined Radio Turns Computer into Agile, High-Performnce Amateur / Shortwave Receiver

LD-1B Software-Defined Radio Turns Computer into Agile, High-Performnce Amateur / Shortwave Receiver Review

LD-1B Software-Defined Radio Turns Computer into Agile, High-Performnce Amateur / Shortwave Receiver Feature

• Frequency Coverage: 100 kHz - 30 MHz
• Sensitivity: 0.18 microvolt for 10 dB signal-to-noise ratio
• 5-Watt Transmitter Module Coming Soon
• Performance Comparable to Conventional Amateur-Grade Receivers
• Turns a PC into an agile, high-performance shortwave receiver

The LD-1B from Lazy Dog Engineering turns a personal computer, iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch into an agile, high-performance shortwave receiver suitable for Amateur Radio operators and serious shortwave listeners. It is controlled by a host computer via a USB connection, but may be detached from the computer for portable use with an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. Its low cost and high performance (comparable to a typical Amateur-grade receiver, such as an FT-817) make it a great addition to any ham shack. Small in size, it is also ideal for portable operation using a notebook computer, iPod Touch, iPad or iPhone. It does require a host computer, either desktop or notebook (or even a netbook) with Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7; a souncard with a stereo line-in connector; and SDR signal-processing software (Winrad is recommended, download it at no cost). With appropriate SDR software (many SDR software apps are available at no cost) the LD-1B is capable of demodulating AM, FM, SSB, CW, DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale), and "soundcard" modes such as PSK-31, WSPR, and Olivia. Requirements: Personal Computer with Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 operating system and one USB port sound card with stereo (two-channel) line-in or mic connector Third-party SDR (Software Defined Radio) software such as Winrad (preferred), Rocky, PowerSDR, SDR-Radio (all free) Audio patch cable with 3.5 mm stereo plug on both ends Power supply, 6-14 Volts DC, 5.5 mm x 2.1 mm coaxial power connector Grounded antenna for bands of interest with SMA connector or adapter Reception of digital modes (e.g., PSK-31, Olivia, WSPR) may require Virtual Audio Cable (VAC, available from third-party for approx. ) and third-party demodulation software in addition to SDR software. Most demodulation software (e.g., MixW, Digital Master 780) is free. Reception of DRM requires VAC, which is not included and third-party DRM decoder software. Free DRM decoders are available.