Flipper Zero & Sub-GHz: What You Need to Know

flipper zero

If youโ€™ve spent any time browsing tech TikTok or security forums, youโ€™ve probably seen a small, cute device with a dolphin on the screen called Flipper Zero. Despite its toy-like look, itโ€™s a powerful multi-tool for learning about wireless security, RFID systems, and radio communication. One of its most popular features is the Sub-GHz radio module โ€” a part of the device that opens the door to exploring low-frequency wireless signals used by everyday gadgets.

In this post, weโ€™ll break down what Sub-GHz is, what Flipper Zero can really do, and what to expect if youโ€™re using it in Malaysia.


What Exactly Is Sub-GHz?

Sub-GHz simply means any radio frequency below 1 GHz (1000 MHz).
These frequencies are widely used by consumer devices because they:

  • Travel farther with less power
  • Penetrate walls better than WiFi
  • Are cheap and efficient for manufacturers

Some common Sub-GHz frequencies include:

  • 315 MHz โ€“ used by some car remotes and older gate systems
  • 433 MHz โ€“ widely used in Malaysia for home remotes, IoT devices, alarm sensors
  • 868 MHz โ€“ used in Europe for long-range IoT
  • 915 MHz โ€“ used in the US for LoRa and other long-range applications

If youโ€™ve ever pressed a car key fob, opened a gate, or triggered a wireless doorbell, youโ€™ve already used Sub-GHz.


Flipper Zero & Sub-GHz: What It Actually Does

Flipper Zero includes a built-in Sub-GHz transceiver capable of both receiving and transmitting signals in the 300โ€“928 MHz range. This allows the device to:

โœ” Read (Receive) Signals

It can detect and analyze radio signals from remotes and sensors.

โœ” Transmit (Send) Signals

For supported frequencies, Flipper can replay certain types of signals.

โœ” Clone Simple Fixed-Code Remotes

Older remotes and low-cost RF switches use simple โ€œfixed codesโ€ โ€” these can often be captured and emulated.

โœ” Replay Saved Signals

Useful for testing your own home gadgets or learning how RF systems work.

โœ” Learn RF Protocols

Flipper displays frequency, modulation, and protocol info, helping beginners understand how radio communication works.


What Flipper Zero Cannot Do

Thereโ€™s a lot of hype online, but itโ€™s important to stay realistic:

โŒ It cannot open modern cars

Most car key fobs use secure rolling-code systems. Flipper cannot crack or replay these codes.

โŒ It cannot bypass encrypted gate remotes

Newer autogates also use rolling or hopping codes.

โŒ It cannot jam signals

The hardware is too weak, and intentional jamming is illegal.

โŒ It cannot brute-force security systems

Sub-GHz regulations limit power output, making brute-forcing impractical.

Despite these limits, Flipper is still an excellent tool for learning RF security.


Is It Legal in Malaysia?

Yes โ€” owning a Flipper Zero is legal.
But its usage falls under MCMC/SKMM guidelines.

Allowed:

  • Scanning and testing your own devices
  • Learning radio communication
  • Using 433 MHz for low-power gadgets
  • Capturing signals from your own gate or switches

Not Allowed:

  • Interfering with othersโ€™ devices
  • Attempting to open someone elseโ€™s car or gate
  • Broadcasting on restricted frequencies
  • Jamming or brute-force attempts

As long as you stick to your own equipment, youโ€™re safe.


Common Malaysian Sub-GHz Devices Flipper Can Interact With

Hereโ€™s what youโ€™ll commonly find in Malaysia:

  • Home autogate remotes (315/433 MHz)
  • Cheap RF smart plugs
  • Wireless alarm sensors
  • 433 MHz plug-and-play switches
  • Simple doorbells
  • Older, non-rolling-code car remotes

A lot of inexpensive devices use ASK/OOK modulation โ€” these are easily read by Flipper.


Is Flipper Zero Worth It for Sub-GHz?

If youโ€™re a tech hobbyist, RF learner, security researcher, maker, or someone who loves experimenting with gadgets โ€” absolutely. The Sub-GHz feature alone is like having a portable RF lab in your pocket.

But if you expect it to be a Hollywood hacking tool, youโ€™ll be disappointed.


Final Thoughts

Flipper Zeroโ€™s Sub-GHz capabilities make radio technology accessible to everyone. Whether you want to test your home devices, learn about wireless systems, or explore the world of low-frequency RF, itโ€™s an amazing little tool โ€” as long as you use it responsibly.

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