Getting started with SDR receivers

[jonohudson]

Low cost SDRs are a great way for newcomers to radio to get started. This video which SDRplay put together, illustrates how easy it is to get started with short wave listening using an RSP1A. The tips given, particularly to do with setting up a simple wire antenna, are applicable to all SDRs covering HF frequencies:
https://youtu.be/JvP8t8aPmRw

This additional video demonstrates the practical importance of having a good ground or counterpoise: https://youtu.be/qvbeip0JFqo

 

[N4VKF]

I just plugged in my new NESR Smartee by Nooelec. I still cant figure out what software to use and how to get it started. Can anyone Help?

 

[BrainBro]

Check out this site for software recommendations.
The BIG List of RTL-SDR Supported Software
They also have instructions on how to set up software on the site.

 

[bob550]

I've been using Jon's SDRplay RSP2 for 18 months and enjoy it immensely. It's every bit as sensitive as my old Icom R71A, and has become my primary receiver. The multiple antenna inputs give me "DC to daylight" coverage. Software-wise, I have settled on SDR Console after trying both SDRuno and HDSDR.

 

[bob550]

I just plugged in my new NESR Smartee by Nooelec. I still cant figure out what software to use and how to get it started. Can anyone Help?

Using SDR receivers is not quite like using a dedicated hardware-based shortwave receiver. I started in the SDR hobby using a Nooelec SDR with SDR# as the software. With SDR#, you can start with the built-in features and add from there. However, adding features can be somewhat difficult as there will be SDR# files to modify each time. The good news is that the mechanism to add features is pretty much the same regardless of which one(s) you choose.