Software Tools for Shortwave Radio Listening (SWL)
Find programs for decoding signals, logging stations, controlling receivers, and managing schedules for shortwave listening.
Shortwave listening (SWL) offers operators a chance to tune into distant broadcasts, utility stations, and amateur radio activity across various bands without transmitting. Many hams enjoy SWL as a way to learn about propagation, identify signals, and locate new frequencies. Its a fascinating aspect of radio, allowing for reception of signals from around the globe, often revealing unique insights into international communications and natural radio phenomena.
Specialized software tools enhance the SWL experience, providing features like digital mode decoding for signals such as PSK31, as seen with RX-PSK31. Listeners also use programs to identify Non-Directional Beacons (NDBs) or manage extensive frequency databases like the EiBi list, accessible through apps like SWList. Logging software, including SWL DQR Log, helps shortwave listeners keep track of their QSOs and received stations, often with features for contest logging and Cabrillo file export. Other applications offer radio control for receivers like the ICOM R8500, making it easier to tune and manage frequencies.
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Free program that interfaces most ICOM radios with the ILG radio frequencies database and lets you click a station in the database to tune your radio to the station, or scan the list looking for stations that are on the air. -
NDBfinder allows you to use your PC and soundcard to receive, detect, identify and log NDBs (Non Directional Beacons used for maritime and aeronautical navigation) -
Graphic viewer for shortwave broadcasting and programming schedules. Supports viewing schedules in an expanding table and on a 24-hour Gantt chart using the local time and the UTC time display modes. Runs on multiple platforms. -
The RadioFrequency Program is a professional Software dedicated to all HAM, SWL and Radio Listeners. Freeware. Included is a Text-CSV dBase Converter. Connection to the ICOM R8500 Receiver. Special Scanning Feature. Special Search Feature x large dBase. -
Easy to use Audio Spectrum- and PSK31 decoding program specially designed for SWL's who don't need TX or for anyone who just like to monitor PSK31 or analyse signals. Adjustable DSP and Spectrum settings for audio and frequency spectrum analasys or to set it for best decoding of PSK31 signals. By ON6MU -
SIGINT Systems. Provides the Harvester database system, a professional SIGINT Collection toolkit for radio enthusiasts. -
SWList iOS App, provides access to the EiBi list for discovering and identifying shortwave radio stations, curated by Eike Bierwirth. It offers four search methods: by frequency, radio band, station name, or language. Users can view detailed station information and map locations if available, with support for both light and dark modes. -
This program descrambles band inverted encrypted transmissions, usually found on VHF/UHF. It uses a NCO (numerical controlled oscillator) to re-produce the originally inverted audio band. Use it only if legally permitted in your country. I assume no responsabilities deriving from its use. Standard disclaimer applies -
DXtreme Monitor Log 14 is a logging software for radio spectrum monitoring, enabling hams to log stations and track Maidenhead grid squares. -
Free windows logbook program for SWLs, allow a quick and fast SWL logging during ham radio contests. Dupe check, utc time, partial check, cabrillo file export, multi language support -
A shortwave radio listeners log book runs on Windows and MacOS Catalina and above. The KB6IBB SWL Logger is a program designed for the shortwave radio listener. It offers shortwave specific logging of stations, with most tasks handled automatically. The program also incorporates the use of EiBi shortwave database for logging and looking up various known shortwave stations world wide. -
A quick and easy logging application designed for BCL and shortwave listeners, requires a recent Windows OS and .Net Framework