sigmf

sigmf stands for Signal Metadata and Format. It is an open file format specification designed for the storage and exchange of raw signal data and its associated metadata. The goal of sigmf is to provide a standardized way to represent signals captured by software-defined radio (SDR) and other signal processing applications, ensuring interoperability between different tools and platforms.

The sigmf format consists of two parts: a data file and a metadata file. The data file typically contains the raw signal samples, which can be in various formats such as I/Q samples. The metadata file, usually a JSON file with a .sigmf extension, describes the contents of the data file and provides contextual information. This metadata can include details like the sample rate, center frequency, bandwidth, data type, timestamp, recording location, and any processing steps applied.

The sigmf specification is maintained by the Linux Foundation's Open Source Radio project. Its design emphasizes flexibility, allowing for a wide range of signal types and metadata to be described. This standardization is crucial for enabling reproducible research, collaborative development, and the efficient sharing of signal intelligence. Many popular SDR software packages and libraries have adopted or are in the process of adopting sigmf, contributing to its growing ecosystem.