- A scanner receiver: This is the device that receives and demodulates the radio signals transmitted by aircraft. Scanner receivers are available in a variety of forms, including handheld, mobile, and base station models. Some scanner receivers also include features such as recording, frequency scanning, and air band filtering.
- Speakers: Speakers are required in order to hear the audio output from the scanner receiver. You can use either external speakers or the built-in speakers on your scanner receiver, if it has any.
- Headphones: Headphones can be used instead of speakers if you want to listen to aircraft communications privately or in a noisy environment. Some scanner receivers also include a built-in headphone jack.
- Cables: You will need cables to connect the scanner receiver to the antenna and the speakers or headphones.
Here is an example of a basic setup for listening to aircraft communications:
- Aircraft scanner antenna
- Scanner receiver
- External speakers
- Coaxial cable (to connect the antenna to the scanner receiver)
- Speaker wire (to connect the scanner receiver to the speakers)
Additional components that may be useful for listening to aircraft communications include:
- A power supply: If you are using a portable scanner receiver, you will need a power supply to operate it. Power supplies are typically included with scanner receivers, but you can also purchase them separately. - A carrying case: If you plan to take your scanner receiver with you on the go, a carrying case can help to protect it from damage. Carrying cases are available in a variety of sizes and styles. - A signal booster: If you live in an area with a weak aircraft communication signal, a signal booster can help to improve the reception. Signal boosters are available in a variety of forms, including indoor, outdoor, and portable models.