Dump1090 Decoder Guide
Dump1090 is the core ADS-B decoder software that powers Stratux and other traffic receivers. Learn how it decodes 1090 MHz Mode S and ADS-B signals into usable traffic data.
What is Dump1090?
Dump1090 is an open-source software-defined radio (SDR) decoder for ADS-B signals. It takes the raw radio signals received by an RTL-SDR dongle on 1090 MHz and decodes them into aircraft position, altitude, callsign, and other flight data.
Originally created by Salvatore Sanfilippo (antirez), Dump1090 has been forked and improved by the community. Popular versions include dump1090-mutability and dump1090-fa (FlightAware), each adding features like improved decoding, web interfaces, and network output.
In Stratux, Dump1090 runs in the background, continuously processing ADS-B signals and feeding the decoded data to the GDL90 output stream. This is what allows your EFB app to display commercial and IFR traffic on your moving map.
How Dump1090 Works
RF Reception
RTL-SDR dongle receives 1090 MHz radio signals from aircraft transponders
Signal Processing
Raw I/Q samples are processed to detect Mode S preambles and extract data bits
Message Decoding
Mode S messages are decoded into aircraft data: ICAO address, position, altitude, velocity
Data Output
Decoded data is output via network ports (30003, 30005) or piped to GDL90 encoder
Dump1090 Versions & Forks
dump1090 (Original)
Archivedby antirez
The original version. Basic decoding, minimal interface. Historical reference.
dump1090-mutability
Stableby Oliver Jowett
Major improvements: better decoding, web interface, network feeds, statistics. Widely used.
dump1090-fa
Activeby FlightAware
FlightAware's fork with enhanced decoding, improved aircraft tracking, and Skyaware interface.
readsb
Activeby wiedehopf
Modern rewrite focused on performance and features. Powers many ADS-B feeders.
Dump1090 in Stratux
Stratux uses a customized version of Dump1090 optimized for portable aviation use. When you power on your Stratux, Dump1090 starts automatically and begins decoding ADS-B traffic from the 1090 MHz SDR receiver.
The decoded traffic data flows through Stratux's traffic processing engine, which combines it with FLARM/OGN data from the 868 MHz receiver. This merged traffic stream is then converted to GDL90 format and broadcast over WiFi to your EFB app.
You can monitor Dump1090's status through the Stratux web interface at 192.168.10.1. The 'Traffic' page shows all received aircraft, while the 'Settings' page allows you to configure SDR gain and other receiver parameters.
ADS-B Message Types
| Type | Content | Aviation Use |
|---|---|---|
| DF17 (ES) | Position, altitude, velocity, callsign | Primary traffic display |
| DF4/5 | Altitude replies | Mode C altitude verification |
| DF11 | All-call replies, ICAO address | Aircraft identification |
| DF20/21 | Comm-B altitude, BDS data | Extended data (weather, speed) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Stratux: Dump1090 Made Easy
Our Stratux devices come pre-configured with optimized Dump1090 settings. No command-line knowledge required-just power on and receive traffic.
Related Technology Guides
Disclaimer
Stratux is not certified aviation equipment. It does not replace a transponder or relieve the pilot of traffic awareness responsibilities. Use as supplementary situational awareness only. Dross:Aviation assumes no responsibility or liability for the use of Stratux devices, firmware flashing, or hardware modifications. All DIY guides are provided without warranty-use at your own risk.