This matrix helps you explore common RF signals by frequency, modulation, and the equipment typically needed to receive them. Some are easy to detect, some are more advanced, and some require more advanced software, licensing awareness, or careful legal consideration. Inspired by structured threat-intelligence frameworks, but applied to the open airwaves.
Analog vs Digital
Analog signals (like FM radio) represent data as continuous waves. Digital signals (like ADS-B) encode data into discrete bits/packets.
Burst vs Periodic
One-shot 'bursts' (like key fobs) only appear when triggered. Periodic signals (like AIS) beacon data at regular intervals.
Detect vs Decode
It is easy to 'see' a signal on a waterfall, but 'decoding' it into meaningful text or audio often requires specific software and protocols.
Legal Context
Receive-only exploration is broadly legal, but decrypting private messages or interfering with transmissions is strictly regulated.
FM Broadcast
Easy
NOAA Satellite
Analog
ADS-B Aircraft
Digital
AIS Marine
Tracking
DMR / P25
Advanced
16 signals found
1090 MHz | PPM (Mode S)
The primary way to track commercial aircraft in real-time using open, unencrypted data links.
137.1 - 137.9 MHz | FM (Analog Image)
Receive live weather photographs directly from space using analog FM demodulation.
315 MHz / 433 MHz | OOK / ASK
Analyze and interact with legacy, non-rolling code wireless devices using On-Off Keying.
137 - 870 MHz | C4FM / CQPSK
The primary digital protocol for public safety communications in North America.
138 - 470 MHz | FSK
Monitor text-based paging alerts from industrial systems and hospital networks.
129 - 131 MHz VHF | AM / MSK
Intercept the operational 'chat' between aircraft and ground stations.
144.390 MHz (NA) | AFSK 1200 baud
Visualize the real-time movement of ham radio operators and weather stations in your area.
136 - 470 MHz | 4FSK (2-slot TDMA)
Standard digital voice used by commercial and industrial enterprises globally.
915 MHz (NA) | CSS (Chirp Spread Spectrum)
Analyze the long-range chirping signals of smart city sensors and IoT networks.
161.975 / 162.025 MHz | GMSK 9600 baud
The maritime equivalent of flight tracking โ see every commercial ship in your local waters.
380โ400 MHz | ฯ/4-DQPSK (4-slot TDMA)
Analyze the complex, high-efficiency digital voice standard used by international public safety.
14.074 MHz (HF) | 8-GFSK
Decode signals from across the planet, even when they are buried deep in the noise.
162.400 - 162.550 MHz | FSK (SAME)
Monitor the digital logic behind the emergency alert system.
14.0956 MHz (HF) | 4-FSK
Contribute to global science by tracking how the ionosphere affects radio waves.
315 MHz / 433 MHz | FSK / ASK
Receive the telemetry data broadcast by the tire sensors of nearby vehicles.
2.4 GHz / 5 GHz | OFDM / DSSS
Analyze the fundamental RF protocols that power modern wireless networking.