Data collection for spectrum sensing algorithms based on USRP

The high demand for radio resources that became critical in the last years leaded to a reconsideration of the way in which the frequency spectrum is used. The classical method of allocating resources is a static one, as the licenses for most of the frequency bands are sold for long periods of time and give exclusive rights to the owner. By using such an approach, even if from the license point of view the spectrum seems overcrowded, reality shows that many frequency areas are actually used in a very small degree. Consequently one has to find solutions for using the radio spectrum in a more efficient manner. One technology that can achieve this requirement is the cognitive radio (CR) technology. This paper aims to present a solution for a data collection system that can be used in a cognitive radio system, based on software defined radio (SDR) platforms.