> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guide.airframes.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guide.airframes.io/hardware-and-equipment/equipment/starter.md).

# Starter

If you are just getting started with aircraft tracking then this is our recommended package of hardware you will new to acquire.

### Required

The following are the minimum required items in order to get started receiving aircraft data and feed exchanges. There are variations to these products but this is a recommended starter list.

| Item                                                               | Description                                                                                                                          |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| [Raspberry Pi 4 (2GB)](https://amzn.to/3hQ75z4)                    | A small and dedicated embedded computer used to run Linux and host the SDR.                                                          |
| [ARGON NEO case for Raspberry Pi 4](https://amzn.to/3mFFGnk)       | An effective and attractive aluminum case that reduces heat.                                                                         |
| [CanaKit Power supply for Raspberry Pi 4](https://amzn.to/2FX9meo) | Provides sufficient power needed for the Raspberry Pi 4 and any SDRs that you plug in.                                               |
| [FlightAware 1090MHz ADS-B Antenna](https://amzn.to/33H8tPz)       | Solid and affordable antenna tuned to 1090mhz that greatly outperforms the wide-band telescopic antenna that SDRs usually come with. |
| [Samsung 32GB EVO Select microSDHC](https://amzn.to/3iLA8oV)       | Memory card to install Linux and the required software to.                                                                           |

### Optional

The following are optional items that can enhance your reception to receive more aircraft or extend range.

| Item                                                            | Description                                                                                                                                |
| --------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| [FlightAware 978 MHz ADS-B Antenna](https://amzn.to/3kvocIf)    | Used for 978 MHz additional ADS-B traffic (UAT) on a secondary SDR.                                                                        |
| [FlightAware 978/1090 Bandpass Filter](https://amzn.to/3mveojc) | Improves reception and range by helping to eliminate outside frequencies and focusing on the 978 and 1090 mhz frequencies. Very effective! |

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