Installing an RTL-SDR on a Windows PC

The RTL-SDR is a low-cost USB software defined radio dongle that turns your computer into a powerful wideband receiver. To use it on Windows, you need to replace the default TV tuner driver with a compatible one using Zadig, then install SDR software like SDR Console.

Step 1: Install the RTL-SDR Driver with Zadig

Windows automatically installs a DVB-T (digital TV) driver for the RTL-SDR, which prevents SDR software from accessing it. Zadig installs the WinUSB driver instead.

  1. Download Zadig from the official site: https://zadig.akeo.ie (download the latest .exe, currently zadig-2.9.exe).
  2. Plug in your RTL-SDR dongle (do not install any software that came with it).
  3. Run Zadig.exe as administrator (right-click → Run as administrator).
  4. In Zadig, go to Options → List All Devices (check it).
  5. From the dropdown menu, select “Bulk-In, Interface (Interface 0)” or something like “RTL2832U” or “RTL2838UHIDIR”. (If nothing shows, try a different USB port or restart.)
  6. Ensure the driver on the right is “WinUSB (v6.xxxx)”.
  7. Click Install Driver or Replace Driver. (Windows may warn about unsigned drivers—proceed anyway.)
  8. Wait for completion (it may take a minute). Success message confirms it’s done.

If issues arise (common on Windows 10/11), uncheck “Ignore Hubs or Composite Parents” in Options, or uninstall existing drivers in Device Manager first.

Step 2: Install SDR Console

SDR Console by Simon Brown (G4ELI) is one of the most powerful and feature-rich free SDR programs, excellent for general listening, remote operation, and advanced features.

  1. Download SDR Console from the official site: https://www.sdr-radio.com/download (choose the latest 64-bit or 32-bit installer kit).
  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts (it’s straightforward—no special options needed for basic use).
  3. Launch SDR Console.
  4. In the startup window, click Radio Definitions → Search or Add, then select “RTL-SDR” or “RTL2832U” from the list.
  5. Start the radio—tune to a strong FM broadcast station around 88–108 MHz to test (you’ll see the spectrum and hear audio).

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