Software-defined radio
Software-defined radio (SDR) is a radio communication system where components that have traditionally been implemented in hardware are instead implemented using software. With SDR, the radio functions are performed by a computer, which can be reprogrammed and reconfigured to adapt to different communication protocols and waveform standards.
About
With SDR, the radio functions are performed by a computer, which can be reprogrammed and reconfigured to adapt to different communication protocols and waveform standards. The concept of SDR originated in the 1970s, but it was not until the 1990s that technological advancements made it feasible and commercially viable. Today, SDR is widely used in various domains, including military, telecommunications, amateur radio, and wireless communication research. One of the key advantages of SDR is its flexibility. By using software, different communication standards can be implemented on the same hardware platform, eliminating the need for specialized hardware for each protocol. This flexibility enables faster deployment of new communication systems and allows for the coexistence of multiple protocols in the same physical space. SDR also offers improved performance and efficiency. As software can be updated or replaced, SDR systems can adapt to changing requirements and take advantage of advancements in signal processing algorithms. Moreover, SDR systems can be built with off-the-shelf hardware, reducing costs and making maintenance and upgrades easier. There are different architectures of SDR, ranging from fully software-based to hybrid systems that combine hardware and software components. Software-defined radio has also paved the way for the development of cognitive radio, which can autonomously adapt to the radio frequency spectrum without human intervention. Despite its advantages, SDR also poses challenges. The high computational requirements of software-defined radio systems can be demanding for some applications. Additionally, security concerns regarding the reprogrammability of SDR systems need to be addressed to prevent unauthorized access and tampering. Overall, software-defined radio has revolutionized the field of radio communication by offering flexibility, improved performance, and cost-effective solutions. As technology continues to advance, it is expected that SDR will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of wireless communication.