The idea
Software-defined radio moved most controls onto a screen, but a lot of traditional radio operation is muscle memory built around physical knobs. This is a study in bringing that back without giving up the flexibility of a software-defined backend.
What it does
A concept for a tactile control surface for the SDR station: a large primary tuning encoder (possibly with a weighted flywheel feel), dual-concentric controls, and dedicated controls for frequency, mode, audio/RF gain, filtering, and transmit/receive — talking to the software over MIDI, USB, or an API.
Interesting challenges
The core design problem is human-computer interaction applied to radio: making a control surface that feels like traditional radio gear while staying compatible with a flexible, software-defined backend underneath.
Progress and outcomes
This is a design exploration, not a built device.
What comes next
Moving from concept to a first physical prototype once the control layout and software integration approach are settled.