Using the USB-receivers based on demodulator RTL2832U in the educational process

The application of USB-receivers based on the demodulator RTL2832U as a software-defined radio (SDR), which can serve as a low-cost platform for a wide range of interesting learning tasks in carrying out laboratory works and course projects in the process of studying subjects related to signal processing and telecommunications systems physical layer is investigated. Examples of analysis of various "live" signals, such as FM signals of broadcast stations, digital television, mobile communication, which may be registered during the lectures and laboratory works, as well as used in preparing of course projects to gain experience in handling real signals are shown. It is shown that the using specialized equipment in the educational process is not appropriate for several reasons, the main of that is price factor, but the using the demodulator RTL2832U provide the necessary technical base in solving various tasks of the educational process in disciplines related to signal processing. The software MATLAB is offered as a base of signal processing.