Front
While the concept of SDR is not new, the rapidly evolving capabilities of digital electronics make practical many processes which were once only theoretically possible.

Rear
This basic system consists of a Flex 1500 (the size of a binocular case) and a personal computer. Significant amounts of signal processing are handed over to the general-purpose (PC) processor, rather than being done in special-purpose hardware (electronic circuits).
 

We experiment with this new "software defined" radio
Here it is on the back of the desk

The FLEX-1500 is a low-cost, 5 Watt SDR that is positioned to allow ham radio operators the ability to experience the incredible capabilities and just plain fun of operating a software defined radio without breaking the budget. The 1500 is packed with features that make it ideally positioned to be the ultimate low cost, high performance radio.
 

Such a design produces a radio which can receive and transmit widely different radio protocols based solely on the software used.
It is a radio communication system where components that have been traditionally implemented in hardware (e.g. mixers, filters, amplifiers, modulators/demodulators, detectors, etc.) are instead implemented by means of software on a personal computer.
 

Screen Shot
Shot of the PC screen
There must be fifty buttons and sliders
Having a panoramic view of the frequencies above and below you is a real plus
 

Initial Observations 4/2019:

 This is quite a radio!
2. The software defined capabilities available are stunning.
3. You need to observe the limits of QRP s.
3. It is connected to the end-fed 220ft wire antenna for these tests.