A configuration utilizing a low-cost single-board computer in conjunction with radio technology enables the implementation of versatile radio communication systems. This setup allows for the reception and transmission of radio signals through software manipulation, rather than dedicated hardware components. For instance, a broadcast FM radio receiver or a digital communication link can be created using this methodology.
This approach offers considerable advantages in terms of flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. Traditionally, radio systems necessitated specialized hardware for each frequency band or modulation scheme. The integration of computing capabilities with radio transceivers facilitates adaptability, allowing users to experiment with diverse radio protocols and applications. This paradigm has democratized radio technology, making it accessible to hobbyists, researchers, and developers, fostering innovation in areas such as amateur radio, IoT, and spectrum monitoring.