The Software Communications Architecture (SCA) establishes an implementation-independent framework for the development of Joint Tactical Radio System software configurable radios. It specifies the Operating Environment, services and interfaces that applications use. Software Defined Radio: The Software Communications Architecture focuses on the issues and benefits associated with developing a radio system in compliance with the SCA specification. This book provides a comprehensive, practical introduction to building a SCA-compliant system taking the reader through the historical and conceptual background to help filling in the gaps between the intent of the SCA specification and the practice. Key features:* Presents a practical approach to the Software Communications Architecture* Provides an example-oriented understanding of the usage of the SCA and thus allows the reader to extend the concepts and practice to more complicated multi-processor distributed environments.* Covers the Operating Environment: a Core framework, CORBA middleware, POSIX operating systems and Domain profiles.* Features an accompanying website with appendices, and links to further information on the SCA. This invaluable reference will provide applications programmers, designers, professional researchers, wireless manufacturers and operators with an indispensable guide to the Software Communications Architecture. Advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students on mobile and wireless communications courses will also find this to be an excellent guide to the topic.