receiveonly

Receiveonly refers to hardware, software, or configurations that are capable of receiving signals or data but are unable to transmit. In radio communications, a receive-only device omits the transmitter section, enabling passive listening to a frequency or channel. Such devices are common in weather alert radios, scanner receivers, and satellite downlink stations where transmission is unnecessary or restricted.

In network and data applications, receive-only modes can describe interfaces, sockets, or services configured solely to receive data, not send. This mode is used for monitoring, logging, or data collection where bidirectional communication is not required and security concerns may preclude transmission. In both fields, a receive-only setup emphasizes non-emissive operation and reduces the potential for unintended transmissions.

Operational implications include reduced risk of accidental emissions, lower interference, and sometimes easier compliance with regulatory or licensing requirements, since there is no transmitter to certify. However, receive-only systems cannot initiate contact or respond to remote commands that rely on sending data. If transmission is ever required, it must be provided by a separate transmitter with appropriate controls and permissions.

Examples of receive-only configurations include passive spectrum monitors, NOAA weather satellite receivers, RF scanners operated in listening mode, and read-only telemetry feeds in IT environments. The term can also appear as RX-only or receive-only mode in documentation and equipment labeling.

See also: receive mode, RX, transmitter-off, passive receiver.