HackRFParrot

A HackRF Parroting Application For Android

HackRF Parrot

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.


Features

  • 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.

Getting Started

  1. Connect your HackRF Plug your HackRF device into your Android device via USB OTG. The app will automatically detect it.

  2. Set Frequency Enter the desired frequency (in MHz) in the Frequency field. Example: 433.92 for 433.92 MHz.

  3. 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.

  4. Set Gain (RX/TX) Adjust the Gain slider to control the HackRF receiver and transmitter amplification. Typical values are 20–35 dB.


Recording a Signal

  1. Press the Record button.
  2. The app will start receiving the signal. The status bar will display the recording progress in MB.
  3. Press Stop to finish recording.
  4. The IQ data is automatically saved to the app’s library with a filename format:
<frequency>MHz_<sampleRate>MHz_gain<gain>_<timestamp>.iq
  1. 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.


Transmitting a Signal

  1. Select an IQ file from the IQ File Library by tapping on it.
  2. Ensure your HackRF is connected and not recording.
  3. Press the Transmit button. The app will replay the recorded signal at the configured frequency and gain.
  4. Press Stop to finish transmitting.

⚠️ Do not transmit on unauthorized frequencies. Ensure your local license allows transmission.


Status Messages

  • 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.

File Management

  • 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.

Tips & Tricks

  • Lower sample rates reduce file size but capture less bandwidth.
  • Experiment with gain values for optimal reception and transmission.

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