RSP1B SDR RX

SDRs is one area of our hobby not really explored. A few days ago I purchased the SDRplay RSP1B. 

It was connected up briefly yesterday after downloading the software, which was very straightforward. It is good being able to cover 1kHz to 2GHz with the SDR. 

I think there may be some noise from the PC getting into the RX, so I may add some ferrite chokes to the USB cable later. Watch this space!

UPDATE 1142z:   I am surprised by the number of artifacts. Adding chokes made no difference to LF/MF noise floor, so noise must be external.  I tried several antennas. Next thing to try is a sensitivity test on various bands using the FT817ND and the same antenna each time.

UPDATE 1232z:  Tested 70cm sensitivity comparing the strength of the Leicester beacon. On my 2m big-wheel omni antenna this is just on the noise level on the FT817ND. It was much the same on the RSP1B with the same antenna. This suggests the 70cm sensitivity is similar. Next is to try the Kent beacon on the two rigs on 2m.

UPDATE 1550z: Still learning, but 6m, 2m and 70cm beacons copied OK. Nice seeing whole bands at a time.

UPDATE 1812z:  Would I recommend it? It is great to see the whole way from 1kHz to 2GHz and to be able to just click on a signal.  If you do not have a general coverage RX, probably yes. Otherwise I am not sure. I need to learn more!!