The story of the firmware is one of a community-driven transformation, where independent developers turned a simple "toy" radio into a versatile tool for amateur radio enthusiasts. The Evolution of the Firmware The Original (V1.1.5): Most ATS-20 units ship with stock firmware based on the PU2CLR Si4735 library
. While functional, it is often viewed as basic, providing standard broadcast AM/FM and shortwave reception. The Game Changer (Goshante/ATS_EX):
Developer Goshante released a "re-imagined" firmware that pushed the hardware to its absolute limits. This version introduced a completely reworked interface, replaced "ugly" stretched fonts with readable ones, and added advanced features like SSB (Single Side Band) and CW (Morse code) support with tuning steps as low as 10Hz. The Memory Wall:
The ATS-20's Arduino-based hardware has hit its physical flash memory limit. Because the Goshante firmware is so optimized and takes up nearly all available space, the developer has stated no new features can be added without removing existing ones. ATS20 SUPER FIRMWARE INSTALL,Goshante v1.18
Title: ATS20 Firmware Deep Dive: Which one gives the best performance? ats20 firmware
Posted by: RadioRookie42
Hey everyone,
I’ve been tinkering with the ATS20 (Si5351 + Si4732 based SDR receiver) for a few months now. While the stock firmware is fine, I recently dove into the custom firmware options, and wow – it’s a completely different radio.
If you’re new to the ATS20, here’s a breakdown of the firmware scene I wish I had from day one. The story of the firmware is one of
The ATS20 (and its popular successor, the ATS20+) is a staple in the world of low-cost SDR (Software Defined Radio) and portable shortwave listening. For under $50, hobbyists get a compact, Si4732-based radio capable of SSB (Single Sideband), AM, and FM reception. However, the stock software these devices ship with often leaves much to be desired.
The secret to transforming this budget radio into a powerful DXing tool lies in one phrase: ATS20 firmware.
Whether you are experiencing display glitches, poor audio filtering, or simply want to add new features like spectrum scopes, updating the firmware is the best upgrade you can perform. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Once you have mastered the firmware, consider pairing it with hardware mods for professional performance: Title: ATS20 Firmware Deep Dive: Which one gives
Because the ATS20 firmware sits at a rare intersection:
✅ Cheap ($30–40)
✅ Hackable (C/Arduino style code)
✅ Capable (Si4732 DSP is a beast when unleashed)
In many ways, the ATS20 is not a finished radio — it’s a platform. The community firmware turns it from a toy into a serious portable receiver, sometimes rivaling gear costing ten times more.
When you buy an ATS-20, it usually arrives with the manufacturer’s default firmware. While functional, early versions were notorious for issues such as:
For casual broadcast listening (AM), the stock firmware is adequate. But for amateur radio operators hunting Morse code (CW) or voice (SSB), an upgrade is often necessary.
If your radio arrived from China last week, it likely has outdated firmware. Here is why you should flash a new version immediately:
While IU5JAE is the most popular, other developers have contributed: