FAQ

Do I need to buy a special dongle?

No. An RTL-SDR Blog V3 for around €40 is the device most people use, and it is what Spektra RF was built around. If you already own a tinySA, RF Explorer, HackRF or Airspy, use that. The full list is in Supported hardware.

Does it work without internet?

Yes, fully. Scanning, the equipment library, the Advisor and every export are local. You can run it on an isolated show network or with Wi-Fi off. The only time it needs a connection is the one-off licence activation.

Is the trial limited?

No. For 14 days you have every feature. Afterwards it becomes demo-only until you enter a key. See Licence, trial and your data.

Can I use one licence on my laptop and my desktop?

Yes. A key works on up to 3 computers, and you can free a slot yourself with Licence… → Forget this key on this computer.

Can it change the frequency on my mics?

No. Spektra RF scans and coordinates; it does not push settings into receivers the way Wireless Workbench or Sennheiser WSM do. Take the plan it prints and dial it in on the packs.

Are the dBm readings accurate?

An RTL-SDR has no calibrated reference, so the level axis shows relative values by default. The relationships are right, the absolute number is approximate. Analyzer devices (tinySA, RF Explorer) report calibrated dBm from their own firmware.

Two scanners on the same antenna can differ by 10–20 dB. The shape of the curve and where signals sit relative to the threshold is what tells you something — the absolute value does not.

Does it replace professional coordination software?

For the pre-show workflow it closes the loop: sweep, read what is genuinely free, let the Frequency Advisor place intermod-checked frequencies, print the sheet. It does not remote-control receivers the way manufacturer suites do for their own gear.

How does Spektra RF relate to FreqSense?

FreqSense (free, in the browser) plans before you travel. Spektra RF measures when you arrive. Export the clear windows as CSV / JSON from Spektra RF and drop them into FreqSense.

What is the browser demo?

/spektra-rf/demo runs the real spectrum view on synthetic data: drag the noise threshold, switch band and region, watch free windows recompute, export CSV or JSON. It needs a free account, no licence and no dongle. It does not scan your real airspace.

Is it free or open source?

The desktop app is a paid product under its own licence. The scanning engine inside it is released under the GPL-3.0, and its source is available from the product page. The EULA and the third-party notices are on the same page and inside the app under Licences & source.

Do I get updates?

Yes — updates for the major version you own are included. There is no subscription. The update check inside the app is off by default; turn it on in Settings or press Check for updates when you want it.

Which languages does the interface have?

Seven: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch and Portuguese. Pick one in Settings; the choice is remembered.

Which operating systems does it need?

macOS 11 or later, or Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit). Windows 7 and 8 are not supported.