OnAirDecode TV (auto) with an SDR
TV, automatic: the standard and its parameters are measured from the signal.
- Group
- TV
- In the mode list
- Any TV standard, automatic
What TV (auto) is
Finds out which TV standard the channel carries (DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-C, DVB-S/S2, ISDB-T, ATSC 1.0 / 3.0, DTMB, analogue) and its parameters, then switches the receiver on.
Frequencies and settings
OnAir takes any frequency you type; the numbers above are the mode's starting point and the range its table describes. In the app the shortcut label is Any TV standard, automatic.
What OnAir shows
Finds out which TV standard the channel carries (DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-C, DVB-S/S2, ISDB-T, ATSC 1.0 / 3.0, DTMB, analogue) and its parameters, then switches the receiver on.
Limits and what it was checked with
Checked with generated signals and impairments; recordings of real signals welcome.
Which radio you need
Any radio that tunes this range works. An RTL-SDR covers roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz, and every other radio in the radio guide reaches it too. Antenna height and a clear view of the transmitter matter most.
Receiving and the law
Questions about TV (auto)
Can I decode TV (auto) with an RTL-SDR?
No: wide TV channels need a radio that samples faster than an RTL-SDR, which reaches about 2.4 Msps. See the radio guide.
Is it legal to receive TV (auto)?
Receiving free-to-air broadcasts is legal in most countries. OnAir cannot decode encrypted or scrambled services, and does not try to.
Can I try TV (auto) in OnAir without a radio?
Yes. Most modes include a built-in synthetic test signal, so you can open the screen and try the controls before you own a radio.