HackRF Parrot is a mobile application that allows you to record and retransmit signals using a HackRF SDR device. You can capture IQ data from a frequency of your choice and replay it, effectively “parroting” signals.
⚠️ Important: Use this app responsibly and in accordance with local regulations. Unauthorized transmission on certain frequencies can be illegal.
- Connects to a HackRF SDR device via USB OTG.
- Record IQ data from a selected frequency.
- Transmit previously recorded IQ files.
- Adjust RX/TX gain and sample rate.
- Built-in file library to manage recordings.
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Connect your HackRF Plug your HackRF device into your Android device via USB OTG. The app will automatically detect it.
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Set Frequency Enter the desired frequency (in MHz) in the Frequency field. Example:
433.92
for 433.92 MHz. -
Adjust Sample Rate (MHz) Use the slider to set the sample rate. HackRF supports 2–20 MHz. Higher sample rates capture more data but generate larger files.
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Set Gain (RX/TX) Adjust the Gain slider to control the HackRF receiver and transmitter amplification. Typical values are 20–35 dB.
- Press the Record button.
- The app will start receiving the signal. The status bar will display the recording progress in MB.
- Press Stop to finish recording.
- The IQ data is automatically saved to the app’s library with a filename format:
<frequency>MHz_<sampleRate>MHz_gain<gain>_<timestamp>.iq
- The saved file will now appear in the IQ File Library at the bottom of the app.
Tip: Long-press on a file to delete it if no longer needed.
- Select an IQ file from the IQ File Library by tapping on it.
- Ensure your HackRF is connected and not recording.
- Press the Transmit button. The app will replay the recorded signal at the configured frequency and gain.
- Press Stop to finish transmitting.
⚠️ Do not transmit on unauthorized frequencies. Ensure your local license allows transmission.
- Initializing… – App is setting up the HackRF device.
- HackRF connected. Ready. – Device is connected and ready.
- RECORDING… – Recording IQ data.
- TRANSMITTING… – Transmitting selected IQ file.
- Error: … – Displays any errors during RX or TX.
- Tap a file to select it for transmission.
- Long-press a file to delete it.
- Files are saved in the app’s documents directory and listed in descending order by timestamp.
- Lower sample rates reduce file size but capture less bandwidth.
- Experiment with gain values for optimal reception and transmission.