USB FM/AM tuner with RDS/RBDS

**GruvThang** · 07-25-2004, 05:04 AM

Most of the things I can think of are for Frodo and the other guys (software), removable antenna is the only hardware thing I could think of at the moment.

**masch** · 07-25-2004, 07:28 AM

how about TV tuner option?

**Seth** · 07-25-2004, 07:48 AM

I don't think so.

1) Very complex design (goes beyond the scope of a DIY project)
2) HUGE tuner (VHF/UHF FM/AM)
3) Seperate designs for NTSC/PAL
4) Expensive components
5) It already exists (PCI card though)

**Spaghetti** · 07-25-2004, 09:09 AM

OK Seth, here's one for ya: how about implimenting the RDS so that it kicks in even if you're not listening to the radio...?? Like on a 'proper' radio? Obviously you'd need to be able to turn it off....

**gareva1** · 07-25-2004, 09:44 AM

count me in to buy 2 when it hits the market

**vipergda** · 07-25-2004, 12:59 PM

count me in for 1

**Seth** · 07-25-2004, 01:03 PM

Originally Posted by Spaghetti

OK Seth, here's one for ya: how about implimenting the RDS so that it kicks in even if you're not listening to the radio...?? Like on a 'proper' radio? Obviously you'd need to be able to turn it off....

I don't know if I'm getting this right but you mean that a window should pop-up when Traffic Programme (TP) or Traffic Announcement (TA) data are received causing other sound sources to mute?
I believe capturing TP/TA data is a software issue since the RDS pre-processor SAA6588 is capable of full RDS/RBDS signal decode and the data will be continuously available through the I²C / USB bridge.

btw here is the SAA6588 datasheet :

**Spaghetti** · 07-25-2004, 01:09 PM

What I meant was, that the RDS announcements to still be on, even if you're not listening to the radio.
So, you could be driving down the M1/E-whatever motorway, listening to mp3's, but you still have automatic traffic reports. Capisce! So basically, you don't have to be using the radio to have the announcements, just like in most normal DIN-sized car stereos.

**Seth** · 07-25-2004, 01:42 PM

It goes like this (see attachment)

So in order to receive RDS TA or TP the tuner MUST tune either to a station or in an EON network if available. It's just that the audio out of the tuner ic is muted. It is still a matter of software design. The hardware can do it.

**djkriz** · 07-25-2004, 08:06 PM

how will the audio be played?

do you have to connect it through line-in on your sound card?
or will the data be sent through usb also? (I would like that)

anyway, perfect idea, hope you will ship to the netherlands also!