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Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual

Scanner radio with trunktracking and automatic scanning capabilities
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BC246T
OWNER'S
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OWNER'S MANUAL

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Summary of Contents for Uniden BC246T

  • Page 1 BC246T OWNER’S MANUAL OWNER’S MANUAL...
  • Page 2 Changes or modifications to this product not expressly approved by Uniden, or operation of this product in any way other than as detailed by this Operating Guide, could void your authority to operate this product.
  • Page 3 WARNING! Uniden does not represent this unit to be waterproof. To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. ® Motorola , SMARTNET Digital Private Line registered trademarks of Motorola, Inc.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Scanning Legally ... 8 Introduction ... 10 Feature Highlights ... 12 About This Manual ... 16 How the Scanner’s Controls Are Represented in This Manual ... 16 Entering Text ... 17 Understanding Scanning ... 18 Understanding the Scanner’s Memory ... 18 What is Scanning? ...
  • Page 5 Using the Backlight ... 49 Initializing the Scanner’s Memory ... 49 Using the PC Control and Cloning Options ... 50 Connecting Your Scanner to a Personal Computer ... 50 Cloning the Scanner ... 51 Programming Radio Systems ... 52 Programming Conventional Systems ... 53 Entering/Editing Conventional Channel Groups ...
  • Page 6 Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only) ... 67 Setting the Motorola Status Bit (Motorola Systems Only) ... 67 Setting the End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only) ... 68 Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) ... 68 Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola & EDACS Systems Only) ...69 Setting the EDACS ID Format (EDACS Systems Only) ...
  • Page 7 Setting Data Skip ... 92 Setting the Delay Time ... 92 Setting the Search Frequency Step ... 93 Using Weather Alert (SAME) ... 94 Searching For a Weather Broadcast ... 94 Turning Weather Alert On/Off ... 94 Programming a SAME Group ... 95 Setting WX Alert Priority ...

  • Page 8: The Fcc Wants You To Know

    If this scanner does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the scanner on and off, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: •...
  • Page 9 FCC authorization to operate it. In some areas, mobile use of this scanner is unlawful or requires a permit. Check the laws in your area. It is also illegal in many areas (and a bad idea everywhere) to interfere with the duties of public safety officials by traveling to the scene of an incident without authorization.

  • Page 10: Introduction

    Introduction Your BC246T scanner is a state-of-the-art scanner radio with TrunkTracking™ and automatic scanning capabilities. You can store frequencies such as police, fire/emergency, marine, air, amateur, and other communications into the scanner. You can carry it with you wherever you go, use it at home as a base unit, or install it in your vehicle as a mobile unit.
  • Page 11 29.7-49.990 50.0-54.0 108.0- 136.9750 137.0- 12.5 143.9875 144.0- 147.995 148.0- 12.5 150.7875 150.800- 161.995 162.0-174.0 12.5 216.0-224.98 400.0- 12.5 405.9875 406.0- 12.5 419.9875 420.0- 12.5 449.9875 450.0- 12.5 469.9875 470.0-512.0 12.5 806.0- 12.5 823.9875 849.0125- 12.5 868.9875 894.0125- 12.5 956.0000 1240.0000- 1300.0000 VHF Low Band...

  • Page 12: Feature Highlights

    “Preprogrammed Systems” on Page 119. Quick Keys – You can set the scanner so you can select systems and groups by pressing a single key. This makes it easy to listen to or quickly lock out those systems or groups you don’t want to scan.
  • Page 13 Channel Alert – You can set the scanner so it alerts you when there is activity on any channel you specify. Memory Check – Lets you see at a glance how much total memory is left.

  • Page 14: Trunk Tracking

    The scanner can scan both conventional and trunked systems at the same time. Control Channel Only Scanning – If the scanner is set to scan Motorola trunking frequencies, you can set it so it scans using only control channel data. You do not have to program voice channel frequencies into memory in this mode.

  • Page 15: Auto Store

    Priority Scan – Priority channels let you keep track of activity on your most important channel(s) while monitoring other channels for transmissions. Priority Plus – You can set the scanner so it scans only the priority channels Backlight and Power LCD Back Light –...

  • Page 16: About This Manual

    Clone Mode – You can clone all programmed data, including the contents of the scanner’s memory, menu settings, and other parameters from one BC246T scanner to another BC246T scanner. About This Manual The screen displays used in this manual are representations of what might appear when you use your scanner.

  • Page 17: Entering Text

    Entering Text To enter a letter, turn the scroll control until the character you want appears, To enter a number, press a number key. To enter a decimal point, press To move the cursor to the left, hold then press Func or rotate the scroll control to the left.

  • Page 18: Understanding Scanning

    You don’t really need to know all of this to use your scanner, but some background knowledge will help you get the most from your BC246T. Understanding the Scanner’s Memory Your scanner’s memory is organized in an architecture called Dynamic Allocated Channel memory.

  • Page 19: What Is Searching

    What is Searching? The BC246T can search each of its 21 bands and up to 10 bands together to find active frequencies. This is different from scanning because you are searching for frequencies that have not been programmed into the scanner.
  • Page 20 The stations might even interfere with each other to the point where it is impossible to clearly receive any of the stations. A scanner equipped with CTCSS and DCS (like your scanner) can code each received frequency with a specific CTCSS or DCS frequency.

  • Page 21: Conventional Scanning

    When you are scanning a conventional system, the scanner stops very briefly on each channel to see if there is activity. If there isn’t, the scanner quickly moves to the next channel. If there is, then the scanner pauses on the transmission until it is over.

  • Page 22: Repeater Operation

    Typical repeater systems provide coverage out to about a 25-mile radius from the repeater location. What is Trunk Tracking? Your BC246T is designed to track the following types of trunking systems. • Motorola Type I, Type II, Type IIi hybrid, SMARTNET,...

  • Page 23: Trunked Scanning

    This semi-random frequency assignment made monitoring such a system impossible prior to Uniden’s invention of the Trunktracking scanner. Not only does your BC246T scan channels like a conventional scanner, it actually follows the users of a Understanding Scanning...

  • Page 24: Types Of Trunking Systems

    If you are a new scanner enthusiast, you might want to read the first part of this manual and use your scanner in conventional mode before you begin trunk tracking. Understanding scanning fundamentals and terminology will make trunk tracking much easier.

  • Page 25: Edacs Trunking

    Also, talk groups are assigned in an Agency- Fleet-Subfleet (AFS) hierarchy. Also, there is one variation of EDACS called SCAT that your BC246T can monitor. Logical Channel Numbers – each frequency used by the system is assigned an LCN.

  • Page 26: Ltr Trunking

    Because of the logical hierarchy of the AFS system, your BC246T lets you assign wildcard ID’s that let you, for example, use only one ID memory to identify all units in either an agency or a fleet.

  • Page 27: I-Call (Motorola/Edacs)

    ID. I-Call (Motorola/EDACS) I-calls are direct unit-to-unit transmissions that are not heard by other system users. Your BC246T can receive I-call transmissions. See “Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 68 for more information about monitoring I-call transmissions.
  • Page 28 US Government • http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BC246T for people interested in discussing the BC246T. * - These web sites are not affiliated with Uniden Corporation. For more information about Uniden and accessories or products, visit http://www.uniden.com. - the Internet's...

  • Page 29: Included With Your Scanner

    Included With Your Scanner Scanner Belt Clip If any of these items are missing or damaged, immediately contact your place of purchase or Uniden Customer Service at: (800) 297-1023, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central, Monday through Friday. Setting Up Your Scanner...

  • Page 30: Setting Up Your Scanner

    These guidelines will help you install and set up your new scanner: • If your scanner receives interference or electrical noise, move the scanner or its antenna away from the source. • To improve the scanner’s reception, use an optional external antenna designed for multi-band coverage.
  • Page 31 WARNING! Set REG. ALK. BATT./NI-MH. BATT. to NI-MH. BATT. for use only with rechargeable batteries. Never attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries. Non-rechargeable batteries can get hot and can even burst if you try to recharge them. Setting Up Your Scanner...

  • Page 32: Using Rechargeable Batteries

    REG. ALK. BATT./NI-MH. BATT. inside the battery compartment to NI-MH. BATT., install the batteries in the scanner, and connect the supplied AC adapter to the scanner's DC 6V jack (see “Using AC Power” on Page 33). WARNING! Do not connect the AC adapter to the scanner if non-...

  • Page 33: Removing The Display Sticker

    Using AC Power You can power the scanner using the supplied 6V, 500 mA AC adapter. To use the scanner on AC power, plug the AC adapter into a standard AC outlet. If rechargeable batteries are installed and REG. ALK.

  • Page 34: Connecting An Earphone/Headphone

    This might damage the scanner. Attaching the Belt Clip To make your scanner easier to carry when you are on the go, use the supplied belt clip. Use a Phillips screwdriver and the supplied screws to attach the clip to the scanner.

  • Page 35: Attaching The Wrist Strap

    You must install the software to use the scanner with your computer. After you install the BC246T SS Install program, start it by double clicking on the desktop icon or by selecting it in the Start Programs list.

  • Page 36: A Look At The Keypad

    To select the function labeled on a key, simply press the key. To select the function labeled below a key, hold down on the left side of the scanner then press the key. Func appears on the display.
  • Page 37 – Locks and unlocks Func the keypad. Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to turn the scanner on or off. Press quickly to cancel a prompt. 1-9, 0 – Enters a frequency, enters quick key numbers, and selects a custom search range in Custom Search mode.
  • Page 38 Scan Hold Mode, and store a frequency into memory in Scan Hold mode. At a prompt, answers “Yes.” + Att – Turns the scanner’s Func attenuator on or off for the current channel (for conventional systems) or system (for trunked systems).

  • Page 39: A Look At The Display

    - appears when you hold down to select a Func function. - appears when the scanner is set to a Close Call feature mode (see “Using the Close Call Feature” on Page 86). Setting Up Your Scanner...

  • Page 40: Using Menu

    Func mode, hold down Using the Scroll Control Turn the scroll control on top of the scanner to select a channel or frequency in Hold mode, select menu items in Menu mode, and to select a character while editing a name.

  • Page 41: Basic Operation

    • The BC246T scans a system for the duration you set using the System Hold Time option (see “Setting the System Hold Time” on Page 64). For trunked...

  • Page 42: Preprogrammed System Tips

    You can scan preprogrammed systems more efficiently by preventing the BC246T from scanning systems that are not in your area. There are three ways to do this: • Lock out the faraway systems (see “Locking/Unlock- ing Systems”...

  • Page 43: Selecting System Channel Groups

    continue to hold unlock the system. Selecting System Channel Groups Within a system, you can assign groups of channels to a group quick key (see “Setting the Group Quick Key” on Page 72). Follow these steps to activate or deactivate a channel group within a system while scanning.

  • Page 44: Id Scan/Id Search Mode

    While you are scanning a trunked system, the scanner can be in either ID Scan or ID Search mode: • ID Scan – the scanner only stops on talk group ID’s that you have programmed into the system • ID Search – the scanner stops on any unlocked talk group that becomes active.

  • Page 45: Quickly Recalling Channels

    Then, the scanner prompts you to save other channel settings. If you enter a talk group ID then press E, the scanner prompts you to rotate the scroll control to select the system where you want to store the ID. The ID is stored into a channel group named Qck Save Grp in the selected system.

  • Page 46: Using The Menu

    Using the Menu Using the Menu The scanner’s menu lets you select options that let you set up and use the scanner. To use the menu, press scanner. In most cases, the current menu position appears on the upper line of the menu. Menu items and a place to input information appear on the lower line of the menu.
  • Page 47 -- M E N U -- Adjust Key Beep -- M E N U -- Set Battery Save -- M E N U -- See Scanner Info -- M E N U -- Xfer Information Lets You ... Set up priority options.

  • Page 48: Other Settings

    Scan or Hold. Adjusting the Key Beep Adjust Key Beep Menu • Off: The scanner is silent when you press a key. • On: The scanner beeps when you press a key. Locking/Unlocking the Keypad Press and hold down the keypad.

  • Page 49: Using The Backlight

    • Priority Off: Normal scanning • Priority On: While scanning a conventional system, the scanner interrupts every 2 seconds and checks the priority channels in each unlocked conventional system. Priority channels in lower priority key numbered systems (starting from 1) have highest priority.

  • Page 50: Using The Pc Control And Cloning Options

    Then, press 2, 9, and Hold while turning it on. Using the PC Control and Cloning Options Use the included connection cable to connect your scanner to another BC246T scanner or your personal computer. Xfer Information Menu • PC Control Lets you set the baud rate your scanner uses to communicate with a personal computer.

  • Page 51: Cloning The Scanner

    • 57600 bps The baud rate is set to 57,600 bps. Cloning the Scanner To clone (copy) data from one BC246T scanner to another BC246T scanner, you must first connect the scanners to each other using the included connection cables and a DB9 null modem adapter and DB9 gender changer (neither included), available at most computer stores.

  • Page 52: Programming Radio Systems

    Programming Radio Systems Programming Radio Systems Your BC246T comes preprogrammed with the major analog systems used in the 25 most populous counties in the US. However, to get the most enjoyment from your scanner (especially if you do not live near one of these counties), you must customize the programming for your area.

  • Page 53: Programming Conventional Systems

    Setting Up a Channel Group Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system. Conventional Programming Radio Systems C.

  • Page 54: Entering/Editing Conventional Channels

    Refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: • See “Entering/Editing the Group Name” on Page 71 • See “Setting the Group Quick Key” on Page 72 • See “Deleting Groups” on Page 73 • See “Setting System Lockout” on Page 64 •...
  • Page 55 For most settings, you can accept the default. However, for the items in bold, you must enter information in order for your scanner to scan the system. • See “Editing the System Name” on Page 63 • See “Editing the System Quick Key” on Page 63 •...

  • Page 56: Setting System Frequencies

    Setting Up a Channel Group Edit Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system. New Group...

  • Page 57: Entering/Editing Motorola Channels

    Next, refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: • See “Entering/Editing the Group Name” on Page 71 • See “Setting the Group Quick Key” on Page 72 • See “Deleting Groups” on Page 73 • See “Copying Systems” on Page 71 •...

  • Page 58: Programming Edacs Systems

    For most settings, you can accept the default. However, for the items in bold, you must enter information in order for your scanner to scan the system. • See “Editing the System Name” on Page 63 • See “Editing the System Quick Key” on Page 63 •...

  • Page 59: Setting System Frequencies

    Page 59 Setting System Frequencies SET FREQUENCIES NEW FREQUENCY Input a system frequency, then press E. The scanner then prompts you to enter the LCN for the entered frequency. Enter the LCN, then press E. To enter additional frequencies, press Frequency, then repeat the above.

  • Page 60: Entering/Editing Edacs Channels

    • If you have selected to use AFS format for talk group ID's (the default), press • To enter an I-Call ID, press • If you omit the fleet and/or subfleet, the scanner treats these fields as wildcards. Note: Press to enter a hyphen.

  • Page 61: Setting System Frequencies

    For most settings, you can accept the default. However, for the items in bold, you must enter informa- tion in order for your scanner to scan the system. • See “Editing the System Name” on Page 63 • See “Setting the System Hold Time” on Page 64 •...

  • Page 62: Entering/Editing Ltr Channels/Talkgroups

    Setting Up a Channel Group EDIT GROUP NEW GROUP The scanner creates a group with a default name of GROUP nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: •...

  • Page 63: Programming/Editing Optional Settings

    Programming/Editing Optional Settings Programming/Editing Optional Settings This section details the instructions for each of the optional programming steps referred to in “Programming Radio Systems” on Page 52. Use the instructions in the appropriate section to enter or edit a setting. System-Level Settings These settings apply to the entire system.

  • Page 64: Setting System Lockout

    Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Hold Time This setting controls how many seconds the scanner scans a system before moving to the next unlocked system. Enter a value from 0-255, then press E to save the setting.

  • Page 65: Setting The Channel Delay Time

    Notes: • If you select 0, the scanner stays on the system for a minimal time (only long enough to check current system activity). • The default setting is 2 seconds for each system. • For conventional systems, all unlocked channels will be scanned at least once regardless of this setting.

  • Page 66: Setting The Base Frequency/Step/Offset (Motorola Uhf/Vhf Systems Only)

    Offset (380-759) This setting lets you enter the base frequency, step, and offset for the band plan you select. This information lets you set the scanner so it will scan a Motorola UHF/VHF system. Setting Data Skip (Conventional Systems Only)

  • Page 67: Editing The Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only)

    Edit Fleet Map For Motorola Type I systems, you must enter a system fleet map in order for the scanner to properly track and display talk group ID's. The fleet map is usually included in the same resource that provided system frequencies and talk group ID lists.

  • Page 68: Setting The End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only)

    ID numbers that fall between these ID's indicate special status flags for the system. This setting determines how the scanner will handle ID's that are not multiples of 16. Select your setting then press E. Ignore - the scanner rounds all received ID's down to the next interval of 16.

  • Page 69: Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola & Edacs Systems Only)

    This setting determines how your scanner handles radio traffic that has the emergency flag set. Select your setting then press E. Alert - the scanner sounds an alert beep to notify you of the emergency transmission. Ignore - the scanner does not alert you to emergency transmissions.

  • Page 70: Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only)

    Notes: • The scanner defaults to AFS (agency, fleet, subfleet) format - the format used in most EDACS systems. • See “EDACS Trunking” on Page 25 for more information about the AFS format. Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only) program system...

  • Page 71: Deleting Systems

    Deleting Systems program system Menu Select the system Delete System The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press No. Notes: • Deleted systems cannot be restored. You must re-enter them. • You cannot restore preloaded systems.

  • Page 72: Setting The Group Quick Key

    • Each group name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. • The group and system name alternate in the top line of the display when the scanner stops on a channel. • Press twice to delete the current character.

  • Page 73: Deleting Groups

    Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Delete Group The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press No. Note: Deleted groups cannot be restored. You must re-enter them. Channel-Level Settings These settings affect only the channel you are programming.

  • Page 74: Setting Channel Priority (Conventional Channels Only)

    • The channel name appears on the second line of the display when the scanner stops on a channel. • If you do not enter a channel name, the scanner displays the frequency (for conventional systems) or the talk group ID (for trunked systems) when it stops on a channel.

  • Page 75: Setting Channel Alert

    This setting controls whether the scanner will alert you when the channel becomes active. Select your setting, then press E. On - the scanner beeps when the channel becomes active. Off - no alert sounds. Notes: • Channel alert does not work if key beep is turned off.

  • Page 76: Setting Channel Modulation (Conventional Channels Only)

    The scanner then prompts you to enter or scroll to the desired tone. DCS - the scanner only opens squelch if the DCS tone you select is also present with the signal. The scanner then prompts you to enter or scroll to the desired tone.

  • Page 77: Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)

    Edit Channel Select the channel Set Attenuator This setting controls whether the scanner attenuates signals on this channel. Select your setting, then press E. On - the channel is attenuated by about 18 dB. Off - the channel is not attenuated.

  • Page 78: Setting Channel Lockout

    Auto - the step is based on the band (see the table at the front of the manual) 5.0 kHz, 6.25 kHz, 7.5 kHz, 10.0 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 15.0 kHz, 20.0 kHz, 25.0 kHz, 50.0 kHz, 100.0 kHz - The scanner uses the selected step. Note: The scanner defaults to Auto.

  • Page 79: Copying/Pasting Channels

    Edit Channel Select the channel Delete Channel The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press No. Note: Deleted channels cannot be restored. You must re-enter them. Copying/Pasting Channels To copy a channel including all settings:...

  • Page 80: Searching And Storing

    Service Search Service Search lets you quickly select and search the scanner’s preprogrammed search ranges. During service search, the scanner searches starting with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range. 1. Press...

  • Page 81: Quick Search

    Close Call modes. You can identify up to 50 CTCSS tones and 104 DCS codes. Turning this option on lets the scanner search for CTCSS/ DCS tones. If the scanner detects the tone, it displays the tone’s frequency and DCS code. 1. Press...

  • Page 82: Editing A Custom Search Range

    Scan/Srch, then select No. One of the search feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control until CUSTOM Search appears, then press E to select it. The scanner starts custom search of the custom search range you selected, stopping on any transmission it finds and displaying the frequency.

  • Page 83: Auto Search And Store

    SET ATTENUATOR - lets you set whether the scanner will attenuate reception by 18dB during search SET DATA SKIP - lets you set whether the scanner will skip data transmissions during search SET STEP - lets you set the custom search range’s step (the gap between frequencies) 4.

  • Page 84: Selecting A System

    If all systems are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scanner does not store any frequencies. When you select a search range, the scanner looks for active frequencies within that range and Search and Store appears on the display’s lower line and the system name and search range name appear on the display’s...

  • Page 85: Storing A Trunked System

    If the talk group ID has not been stored, it stores the talk group ID into a group named FOUND CHANNELS, then resumes searching. The scanner creates this group if it does not already exist. Searching and Storing...

  • Page 86: Using The Close Call Feature

    Close Call feature is working, or turn off the Close Call feature and use the scanner normally. You can set the scanner so it alerts you when the Close Call feature finds a frequency. You can also set the frequency band where you want the scanner to look for transmissions.

  • Page 87: Setting Close Call Options

    Then press E. Close Call feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control to select an option. • Close Call Only: Lets you set the scanner only for Close Call searching. The scanner does not scan frequencies or channels when this option is turned on.

  • Page 88: Close Call Hits

    E. • Set CC Mode: Lets you select the Close Call mode. If you turn this option on, the scanner sets itself to its Close Call settings about once every 2 seconds. Turn the scroll control to display an option, then press E.

  • Page 89: Search And Close Call Options

    Close Call operation. Managing Locked-Out Frequencies While searching or during Close Call operation, if you press L/O while the scanner is stopped on a frequency, that frequency is locked out of these modes. You can lock out up to 200 frequencies.

  • Page 90: Screening Out Paging Systems

    Finding Repeater Output Frequencies Menu Repeater Find This feature sets whether the scanner tries to tune to a repeater output frequency during Close Call operation when it detects a transmission on a repeater input frequency. Since you can normally only hear one side of a...

  • Page 91: Setting The Maximum Auto Store Value

    FIND appears, and it remains on the output frequency until transmissions end. If it does not detect a transmission on the output frequency, it remains on the original frequency. Off The scanner does not try to find the output frequency. Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value...

  • Page 92: Setting Attenuation

    This setting controls how the scanner behaves when it detects a constant-level transmission during quick search or Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. Off The scanner remains on the transmission until it ends. On The scanner quickly resumes searching or Close Call operation.

  • Page 93: Setting The Search Frequency Step

    Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. The scanner resumes immediately when the transmission ends. 1-5 sec The scanner waits the set amount of time after the transmission ends before resuming. Note: The default setting is 2 seconds.

  • Page 94: Using Weather Alert (Same)

    This is especially useful when your area is expecting severe weather conditions late at night. When you set the scanner to weather alert mode, it holds on the weather channel, but does not play the channel’s audio. If it detects a weather alert, it sounds a tone, displays information about the weather alert, and turns on the audio so you can hear the weather broadcast.

  • Page 95: Programming A Same Group

    FIPS code you have programmed into the specified SAME group. Programming a SAME Group You can edit any of the 5 SAME groups in your scanner. Each group can have up to 8 FIPS codes. SAME (Specific Area Messaging System) is a system...

  • Page 96: Setting Wx Alert Priority

    Setting WX Alert Priority Menu WX ALT PRIIORITY On - the scanner checks the weather channels every 5 seconds for a 1050 Hz weather alert signal. Press E to select. Off - the scanner does not check the weather channels.

  • Page 97: Care And Maintenance

    • Also try changing the height or angle of the antenna. Cleaning • Disconnect the power to the unit before cleaning. • Clean the outside of the scanner with a mild detergent. • To prevent scratches, do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

  • Page 98: Repairs

    Repairs Do not attempt any repair. The scanner contains no user serviceable parts. Contact the Uniden Customer Service Center or take it to a qualified repair technician. Birdies All radios can receive “birdies” (undesired signals). If your scanner stops during Scan mode and no sound is heard, it might be receiving a birdie.

  • Page 99: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Troubleshooting If your BC246T is not performing properly, try these steps. Problem Possible Cause The scanner The scanner might doesn’t not be receiving work. any power. Improper The antenna reception. might need to be adjusted. Scan won’t The squelch might stop.
  • Page 100 Check the antenna connection. Adjust the squelch threshold. See “Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch” on Page 41. Check the antenna connection. Move to an area with a NOAA weather broadcast.
  • Page 101 If you still cannot get satisfactory results while using your scanner or if you want additional information, please call or write the Uniden Parts and Service Division. The address and phone number are listed in the Warranty at the end of this manual. If you would like immediate assistance, please call Customer Service at (800) 297-1023.

  • Page 102: Specifications

    Specifications Certified in accordance with FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15, Subpart C, as of date of manufacture. Dynamic Allocation Capacity (with Name Assigned To Each System, Group, and Channel): Systems: ... 200 max Groups: ... 20 per system Channels: ... up to 2500 Channels per Trunked System: ...
  • Page 103 Operating Temperature: Normal ...–20°C to +60°C Close Call ...–10°C to +60°C Scan Rate: ... 100 channels per second Search Rate: ... 300 steps per second (5 kHz step only) Scan Delay: ...0-5 seconds Audio Output: .. 320mW nominal into 8Ω internal speaker Power Requirements: or 2 AA Rechargeable Ni-MH Batteries (2.4V DC), or AC Adapter (6 VDC 500mA) (AD-0008)

  • Page 104: Optional Accessories

    Optional Accessories Optional Accessories Contact your local Uniden Dealer or call the Uniden Parts Center at: (800) 554-3988, 8:00AM to 5:00PM EST, Monday through Friday, for information about ordering these optional accessories. fi Earphone External Amplified Speaker Optional Accessories...

  • Page 105: Appendix

    Appendix Preset Fleet Maps Preset Map 1 Block Size Code Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Preset Map 3 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4...
  • Page 106 Preset Map 9 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Preset Map 11 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0...

  • Page 107: User Defined Fleet Maps

    When a block is assigned a size code, the fleet or fleets created within the block are assigned a Type I ID. The way these ID’s display on your scanner depend on the block number and the block’s size code. When a Type I ID appears, the leftmost digit represents the block which contains the ID.

  • Page 108: Size Code Restrictions

    the block you just programmed, then you’ve probably selected the right size code and can work on the next block of the map. Finally, for most public safety systems there are some size codes which are more common. S-3 and S-4 are probably the most common, followed by S-10, S-11, and S-12.

  • Page 109: Planning

    Here are a few useful sites: • http://www.scannermaster.com/ - frequency resources and home of Police Call. You can also call them at 1 800 SCANNER (hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday.) • http://www.radioreference.com/ - the Internet's premier source for user-supported radio system information.

  • Page 110: Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet

    • Before you start, make as many copies of the worksheets as you think you'll need. You can also go to the download section of http://www.uniden.com/productsupport.cfm and download the worksheets there. • All worksheet instructions assume that you have completed the critical Step 1 (collecting the system information).

  • Page 111: Group Name And Quick Key

    Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems. Group Name and Quick Key Each worksheet documents the settings for one channel group within a system. If you have fewer channels in the group than fits on the page, you can skip a line and enter an additional group of channels (enter the group info in the line you skipped).

  • Page 112: System Frequencies

    Fill in the fleet map used by this agency. Band Plan (VHF or UHF Only) A band plan is required so the scanner can correctly determine the voice channel frequency. Fill in the band plan used by this agency, consisting of: •...

  • Page 113: Talk Group Id-Alpha Tag-Alert

    Talk Group ID-Alpha Tag-Alert Fill in the details for each channel you want to store in this channel group. Filling Out the LTR and EDACS Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to create.

  • Page 114: Conventional System Worksheet

    Conventional System Worksheet Con ve n tio na l S yste m W o rkshe e t S y s tem Nam e S y s tem Quic k K ey F requenc y A lpha Tag Group Nam e Group Quic k K ey P riority CTCS S /DCS Planning...

  • Page 115: Motorola System Worksheet

    Motorola System Worksheet Motorola Syste m W orkshee t 1 System Name System Quick Key System Frequencies Type I Type II 800 MHz: Standard Splinter Type II UHF Type II VHF Fleet Map Block 0 Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4 Block 5 Block 6...
  • Page 116 Motorola System Worksheet 2 System Name Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Group Name Group Quick Key Alert Planning...

  • Page 117: Ltr/Edacs System Worksheet

    LTR/EDACS System Worksheet LTR/EDACS System Worksheet 1 System Name System Quick Key System Frequency Logical Channel Planning...
  • Page 118 LTR/EDACS Syste m W orkshe e t 2 System Name System Quick Key Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Group Name Group Quick Key Alert Planning...

  • Page 119: Preprogrammed Systems

    Refer to “Deleting Systems” on Page 71. • Data used for the preprogrammed information was supplied courtesy of http://www.radioreference.com , the Internet’s premier scanning resource (RadioReference is not affiliated with Uniden America Corporation). Func , rotate the scroll control Func...
  • Page 120 State County Arizona Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa California California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California...
  • Page 121 State County California Los Angeles Hermosa Beach California Los Angeles Huntington Park California Los Angeles Industry California Los Angeles Inglewood California Los Angeles Irwindale California Los Angeles LA County California Los Angeles La Habra Heights California Los Angeles La Verne California Los Angeles Lakewood California...
  • Page 122 State County California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California Bernadino California...
  • Page 123 State County California San Diego California San Diego California San Diego California San Diego California San Diego California San Diego California San Diego California San Diego California Santa Clara Gilroy California Santa Clara Milpitas California Santa Clara Mountain View California Santa Clara Palo Alto California Santa Clara San Jose...
  • Page 124 State County Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Illinois Cook Massachusetts Middlesex Massachusetts Middlesex Massachusetts Middlesex Massachusetts Middlesex Massachusetts Middlesex Massachusetts Middlesex Massachusetts Michigan Michigan...
  • Page 125 State County New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk New York Suffolk...
  • Page 126 State County Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Ohio...
  • Page 127 State County Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas...
  • Page 128 State County Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas...

  • Page 129: One-Year Limited Warranty

    WARRANTOR: UNIDEN AMERICA CORPORATION (“Uniden”) ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants, for one year, to the original retail owner, this Uniden Product to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or exclusions set out below. WARRANTY DURATION: This warranty to the original user shall terminate and be of no further effect 12 months after the date of original retail sale.
  • Page 130 The Product should be shipped freight prepaid, by traceable means, or delivered, to warrantor at: Uniden America Corporation Parts and Service Division 4700 Amon Carter Boulevard Fort Worth, TX 76155 (800) 297-1023, 8:00 a.m.
  • Page 131 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 132 REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! THANK YOU FOR BUYING A UNIDEN PRODUCT. May be covered under one or more of the following U.S. patents. 4,398,304 4,409,688 4,455,679 4,461,036 4,627,100 4,841,302 4,888,815 4,932,074 5,199,109 5,408,692 5,428,826 5,438,688 5,471,660 5,483,684 5,530,296 5,548,832 5,577,076 5,598,430...

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