OnAirTV · Experimental
Decode Analog TV with an SDR
OnAir receives Analog TV. Analogue TV: PAL, SECAM and NTSC with FM sound.
What Analog TV is
Analogue television (PAL, SECAM, NTSC and their regional variants) is switched off in many countries but still exists on cable, in test equipment and in vintage setups.
Frequencies and where it is used
PAL, SECAM, NTSC; systems B/G, I, D/K, M, N, H, K', positive-modulation A (405 lines), C, E (819 lines), L, L'; NBTV and mechanical TV.
In OnAir the tuning shortcut is PAL, SECAM, NTSC; you can enter any frequency your radio reaches.
What OnAir shows for Analog TV
Picture and sound.
This receiver is built from the published specification and checked end to end on simulated signals. It has had little or no testing on real transmissions yet, so reports and recordings on Discord are 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.
Questions about Analog TV
Can I decode Analog TV with an RTL-SDR?
Usually yes for narrowband signals, as an RTL-SDR tunes roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz at up to about 2.4 Msps. Wide signals such as TV channels need a faster radio, and OnAir says next to the source what the selected radio can do.
Is it legal to receive Analog TV?
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 Analog TV 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.
Try it without a radio
OnAir includes built-in synthetic test signals for most modes, so you can open this screen, see the layout and try the controls before you own a radio. The Tour button walks you through the app.