In the past, we've shown how it's possible to use RTL-SDRs or other SDR devices together with the Airprobe software to analyze data from 2G GSM mobile phones and towers. (Note that it's not possible to listen in on conversations or read SMS data unless you have the encryption code for the recipient phone. This is only capable of showing cell tower basestation telemetry for example).

While not directly related to SDR, readers might be interested to know that a new piece of software called QCSuper has been released which enables similar analysis capabilities for 2G/3G/4G/5G signals through the use of Qualcomm-based phones and modem hardware. To use it you will need a rooted Android phone. The software accesses a diagnostics mode available in Qualcomm devices and makes the data available for view on Wireshark.

[Also seen on Hackaday]

SigintOS is an Ubuntu based distribution with a number of built in signal intelligence applications for software defined radios such as the RTL-SDR and TX capable SDRs like the HackRF, bladeRF and USRP radios.

The OS has a built in launcher UI that helps to automatically launch and set up parameters for various programs and GNU Radio scripts that are commonly used. Examples include an FM transmitter, GPS transmitter, GSM base station searcher, IMSI catcher, LTE base station searcher, LTE decoder and a jammer.

Recently the team behind SigintOS have released version 2.0 Community Edition. The team write on their release page:

About Community Edition

SigintOS 2.0 Community Edition; It was developed to provide a much better experience to its users. With a new interface, more stable and powerful infrastructure and development environment, it allows users to develop new tools in addition to existing tools.

Developing Signal Intelligence tools is now much easier with SigintOS

It is now much easier to develop your own tools with SigintOS, which contains the world’s most famous and free signal processing and communication software. You can develop them effortlessly with tools such as QT and KDevelop.

Say hello to the 5G World!

SigintOS offers you all the possibilities of the 5G world, free of charge and effortlessly!

Whats News?

• A completely new look.
• A more stable and robust infrastructure.
• Latest drivers and software.
• User-friendly interface that prioritizes habits.

SOFTWARE LIST

Most used software and features

• Open5GS
• srsRAN 4G
• YateBTS
• Gqrx
• GnuRadio 3.8
• SigDigger
• SDRAngel
• ADSB Viewer
• Dump1090
• OpenCPN
• GPredict
• BladeRF
• HackRF
• Rtl-SDR
• USRP – UHD Drivers
• Kalibrate RTL & HackRF
• All Gr Modules
• SigintOS SDR Hardware Monitor Widget
• QTCreator
• KDevelop
• Mysql
• MongoDB
• Apache Web Server
• Php
• And more …