What is the Buzzer/UVB-76? Simple answer: it is a signal broadcast by the Russian military at 4625.00 kHz. A buzz or horn tone repeats about 25 times per minute. This is played on a loop 24/7 to occupy the frequency, presumably so others cannot use it. However, local radio pirates often broadcast music and other content over the Buzzer. Sometimes there are short interruptions with a voice message.
The Buzzer has been in operation since 1997, and there are numerous theories about what purpose it serves. It's part of human nature to enjoy a mystery, which is why many people are fascinated by it. Everything you could want to know is linked below. Start with the Wiki article, where you'll find samples of audio and messages.
How can I listen to the Buzzer/UVB-76? There are a few ways.
- Option 1: Select any webSDR from this list and tune it to 4625.00 USB:
- http://kiwisdr.com/.public/
- http://rx.linkfanel.net/
- http://websdr.org/
- https://rx-tx.info/map-sdr-points
- Option 2: Visit https://priyom.org/blog/new-priyom-streams-are-ready-for-testing for their live stream
- Option 3: Search YouTube for an independent live stream
Why can’t I hear the Buzzer/UVB-76 on this WebSDR? There are certain times when its antenna in the Netherlands cannot pick up or “hear” the Buzzer near Moscow. It’s due to the way radio waves bounce off the ionosphere (Earth's atmosphere), and sometimes weather. To learn a bit more about radio wave propagation, go to https://www.short-wave.info/index.php?feature=propagation
Where does the Buzzer broadcast from? Russia. There are two transmitters, one near St. Petersburg and one near Moscow. According to numbers-stations.com, “One is confirmed to be at 60°18'40.1"N 30°16'40.5"E where It sends radio relay and phone lines directly from Moscow via St. Petersburg's command hub on Palace Square.”
Why does the Buzzer/UVB-76 sometimes broadcast on more than one frequency? The simple answer is that no one "officially" knows why. With increased military activity due to global tensions, it is likely that the Russian military is attempting to secure more territory in the shortwave realm.