Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual
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Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual

Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual

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  • 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 , PL , Private Line , DPL ®...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Contents Contents The FCC Wants You to Know ............8 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 ..............
  • Page 5 Locking/Unlocking Channels ............43 ID Scan/ID Search Mode ..............44 Temporarily Holding On a System ..........44 Holding On a Channel ..............44 Quickly Storing an ID During ID Search ........44 Quick-Storing Channels or Talk Group ID’s ........44 Quickly Recalling Channels ............
  • 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

    The FCC Wants You to Know The FCC Wants You to Know This scanner has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a scanning receiver, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 9 According to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), you are subject to fines and possible imprisonment for intentionally listening to, using, or divulging the contents of such a conversation unless you have the consent of a party to the conversation (unless such activity is otherwise illegal).

  • Page 10: Introduction

    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 VHF Low Band 50.0-54.0 6 Meter Amateur Band 108.0- Aircraft Band 136.9750 137.0- 12.5 Military Band 143.9875 144.0- 2 Meter 147.995 Amateur Band 148.0- 12.5 Military Land Mobile 150.7875 150.800- VHF High Band 161.995 162.0-174.0 12.5 Federal Government 216.0-224.98 1.25 Meter Amateur Band 400.0-...

  • Page 12: Feature Highlights

    Feature Highlights Feature Highlights General Close Call RF Capture Technology - you can set the scanner so it detects and provides information about nearby radio transmissions. See “Using the Close Call Feature” on Page 86 for more information. Dynamically Allocated Channel Memory - your scanner’s memory is organized so that it more closely matches how radio systems actually work, making it easier to program and use your scanner and determine how...
  • Page 13 Dropout Delay – You can set whether the scanner pauses at the end of a transmission to wait for a reply. You can set the delay time for each system you scan, and while searching and using the Close Call feature. Attenuator –...

  • Page 14: Trunk Tracking

    21 Bands – Includes 21 bands, with Aircraft and 800 MHz. Note: The scanner’s frequency coverage is not continuous and does not include the cellular telephone band. Trunk Tracking ™ Trunk Tracker Operation – Follows conversations on analog Motorola, EDACS, EDACS SCAT, and LTR trunked radio systems.

  • Page 15: Auto Store

    Auto Store Frequency AutoStore – Automatically stores all active frequencies within a system you select. Talk Group ID AutoStore – Automatically stores all new talk group ID’s into a system you select. Priority Priority Scan – Priority channels let you keep track of activity on your most important channel(s) while monitoring other channels for transmissions.

  • 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 frequency. 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. Then, when you receive multiple signals, you only hear the transmission with the CTCSS or DCS tone you programmed.

  • Page 21: Conventional Scanning

    Conventional Scanning Conventional scanning is a relatively simple concept. Each group of users in a conventional system is assigned a single frequency (for simplex systems) or two frequencies (for repeater systems). Any time one of them transmits, their transmission always goes out on the same frequency.

  • 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

    trunked radio system. Once you know a talk group’s ID, you won’t miss any of the action. 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.

  • 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 - a group 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. Understanding Scanning...

  • Page 29: Included With Your Scanner

    Manual and other printed material 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

    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 Before installing batteries, set the switch in the battery compartment to match the type of batteries you will use. Select REG. ALK. BATT. for non-rechargeable battery types and NI-MH. BATT. for rechargeable battery types. See also “Using Rechargeable Batteries” on Page 32 when you use rechargeable batteries.

  • Page 32: Using Rechargeable Batteries

    3. Replace the cover. When flashes and the scanner beeps every 15 seconds, replace both batteries. Using Rechargeable Batteries You can also use two rechargeable batteries to power your scanner. Before you use rechargeable batteries, you must charge them. The scanner has a built-in circuit that lets you recharge batteries while they are in the scanner.

  • Page 33: Removing The Display Sticker

    Removing the Display Sticker Before you use the scanner, use your thumb and forefinger to remove the protective plastic sticker over the display. 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.

  • Page 34: Connecting An Earphone/Headphone

    Connecting an Earphone/Headphone For private listening, you can plug a -inch (3.5 mm) mini-plug earphone or headphones (not supplied) into the headphone jack on top of your scanner. This automatically disconnects the internal speaker. See “Earphone Warning” at the front of the manual for important information about using an earphone/ headphone.

  • 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

    A Look At The Keypad Your scanner's keys have various functions labeled on the key tops and below the keys. 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.
  • Page 37 Key Name Description L/O – Lets you lock out a selected channel or skip a specified frequency. Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to lock all groups and channels in a system. + L/O – Press quickly to lock Func and unlock a selected system in Scan or Scan Hold mode and...
  • Page 38 Key Name Description 2/Wx 2 – Enters a 2. + WX – Selects the weather Func function in the menu in the Hold mode. 4 – Enters a 4. – Moves the active Func character to the left while editing data. 6 –...

  • Page 39: A Look At The Display

    A Look At The Display The display has indicators that show the scanner's current operating status. The display information helps you understand how your scanner operates. The dark area shown above the icons in this illustration is the text display area. Information about the currently tuned frequency appears here.

  • Page 40: Using Menu

    Using Menu Menu Press on the left side of the scanner to enter the Menu menu. See “Using the Menu” on Page 46 for more information about the scanner’s menu options. Using Func Func To select the function labeled below a key on the front of the scanner, hold down on the left side of the Func...

  • 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 and press L/O to either lock out or FUNC 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).

  • Page 44: Id Scan/Id Search Mode

    You can also lock out an active channel by pressing L/O while the scanner is stopped on the channel. ID Scan/ID Search Mode While you are scanning a trunked system, the scanner can be in either ID Scan or ID Search mode: •...

  • Page 45: Quickly Recalling Channels

    3. To quick-store the channel or talk group ID, press E. Otherwise, press No. If you enter a frequency then press E, the scanner stores it in the Qck Save Grp group in a system called Qck Save Cnv Sys. These are created if they do not exist.

  • 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 on the left side of the Menu scanner. In most cases, the current menu position appears on the upper line of the menu.
  • Page 47 Menu Item Lets You ... See ... Set up “Priority Scan” priority options. on Page 48. -- M E N U -- Set Priority Set up “Using weather Weather Alert -- M E N U -- options. (SAME)” on WX Operation Page 94.

  • Page 48: Other Settings

    Other Settings Other Settings Displaying System Information Viewing Memory Used See Scanner Info Menu % Memory Used A bar showing the percent of memory used appears. Press any key to return to the previous menu, then press Scan or Hold. Viewing the Firmware Version See Scanner Info Menu...

  • Page 49: Using The Backlight

    Or, while holding on any channel, press + 1/Pri to Func select one of these priority modes: • 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.

  • 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

    Programming Conventional Systems Program SysteM Menu New System Conventional Confirm? The scanner creates an empty conventional system, with a default name of System nnn C. nnn increments as you add new systems. C indicates that this is a conventional system. Refer to the appropriate section to set system-wide options: •...

  • 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 • 800MHz Standard - Use for 800 MHz systems that use the standard band plan • 800MHz Splinter - Use for 800 MHz systems that use the splinter band plan (typically near international borders) • 900MHz Band - Use for 900 MHz systems •...

  • Page 56: Setting System Frequencies

    • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 89 • See “Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 70 • See “Deleting Systems” on Page 71 • See “Copying Systems” on Page 71 • See “Setting System Frequencies” on Page 56 •...

  • 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

    To program another channel within the same group, press , then repeat the above. Menu To create another channel group and enter more channels, press three times, then proceed from Menu “Entering/Editing Motorola Channel Groups” on Page 56. Programming EDACS Systems Program SysteM Menu New System...

  • Page 59: Setting System Frequencies

    • See “Setting the EDACS ID Format (EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 69 • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 89 • See “Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)” on Page 77 • See “Deleting Systems” on Page 71 •...

  • Page 60: Entering/Editing Edacs Channels

    • 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 “Editing the Channel Name” on Page 73 • See “Setting Group Lockout” on Page 72 Entering/Editing EDACS Channels Edit Channel NEW Channel...

  • Page 61: Setting System Frequencies

    When the scanner prompts Confirm?, press E to accept the settings. The scanner creates an empty LTR system, with a default name of System nnN nNn increments as you add new systems. L indicates that this is an LTR system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set system-wide options.

  • 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

    Edit Sys Option Set Quick Key After selecting this option, press 0-9 to assign the system to a quick key or press No to assign the system to no quick key, then press E. Hints: • You can assign as many systems to the same quick key as you want.

  • 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)

    ID Search - the scanner stops on any transmission for unlocked talk group ID's. Note: You can also change this setting by pressing Scan while scanning the system. Setting the Base Frequency/Step/Offset (Motorola UHF/VHF Systems Only) program system Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Edit Band Plan Select Plan...

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

    Notes: • This setting is ignored for AM channels. • The default setting for this feature is On. Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only) program system Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option 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.

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

    Motorola systems use talk group ID's in multiples of 16. 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)

    On - the scanner tracks I-calls. Press E to select. Off - the scanner ignores I-calls. Press E to select. Only - the scanner only tracks I-calls and ignores other radio traffic on the system. Press E to select. Note: The default setting is Off. Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) program system...

  • 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 Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option...

  • 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. Copying Systems To copy a system including all settings, groups, and channels:...

  • Page 72: Setting The Group Quick Key

    3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you have entered the system name. Then press E or press down on the scroll control to accept the setting. Hints: • Each group name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. •...

  • Page 73: Deleting Groups

    Lockout - the group is not scanned. Unlocked - the group is scanned. Note: The default setting is Unlocked. Deleting Groups program system Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Delete Group The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E.

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

    Hints: • Each channel name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. • 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

    Setting Channel Alert program system Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set 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.

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

    CTCSS - the scanner only opens squelch if the CTCSS tone you select is also present with the signal. 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.

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

    Note: The default setting is AUTO. Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only) program system Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group 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.

  • Page 78: Setting Channel Lockout

    This setting selects the frequency step used for setting the channel's. Select your setting, then press E. 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.

  • 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: program system Menu Select the system...

  • Page 80: Searching And Storing

    Searching and Storing 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.

  • Page 81: Quick Search

    • If the service you select uses channels (such as CB radio or marine), the scanner displays the service channel number. Quick Search Quick Search lets you search from the currently-tuned frequency if you are scanning a conventional system or sets the system to ID search if you are scanning a trunked system.

  • Page 82: Editing A Custom Search Range

    with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range. Notes: • Search ranges are preset. See “Editing a Custom Search Range” on Page 82 to change the range. • You cannot turn off all custom search ranges. then turn the scroll control until Search 1.

  • Page 83: Auto Search And Store

    1. Press then turn the scroll control until Menu Search For ... appears. Then press E. Or press Func and Srch, then No. One of the search feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control until EDIT CUSTOM appears, then press E to select it. 3.

  • Page 84: Selecting A System

    Selecting a System To store frequencies or talk group ID’s you find during Auto Store, you must first select a system where the frequencies or talk group ID’s will be stored. then turn the scroll control until Search 1. Press Menu For ...

  • Page 85: Storing A Trunked System

    searching. The scanner creates this group if it does not already exist. Storing a Trunked System You can store talk group ID’s into the system you selected in “Selecting a System”. Otherwise, the scanner stores talk group ID’s in a new group it creates. Note: Trunked system search and store does not work if an EDACS SCAT system is selected, a system with no frequency is selected, the selected system is locked out...

  • Page 86: Using The Close Call Feature

    Using the Close Call Feature Using the Close Call Feature Your scanner's Close Call feature lets you set the scanner so it detects, displays the frequency of, and lets you hear a nearby strong radio transmission. You can set the scanner so the Close Call feature works "in the background"...

  • Page 87: Setting Close Call Options

    Setting Close Call Options then turn the scroll control until Close Call 1. Press Menu appears. 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.

  • Page 88: Close Call Hits

    appear for about 3 seconds. Press E when this appears to jump to and hold on the frequency. If this option is turned on, the scanner overrides the current channel and goes to the Close Call hit. The scanner displays CC Found! Press Any Key. When you press a key, the frequency is displayed.

  • Page 89: Search And Close Call Options

    Search and Close Call Options Search and Close Call Options The settings in this section affect custom searches, service searches, and 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.

  • Page 90: Screening Out Paging Systems

    Note: This feature does not operate when the scanner is in AM modulation mode. Screening Out Paging Systems Srch/CloCall Opt Menu Pager Screen This setting determines whether the scanner automatically ignores transmissions found during searching or Close Call operation that are on common paging system frequencies.

  • Page 91: Setting The Maximum Auto Store Value

    On The scanner automatically applies repeater reverse to detected transmissions. If the scanner detects the transmission on the output frequency, it beeps, REPEATER 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.

  • Page 92: Setting Attenuation

    Setting Attenuation Srch/CloCall Opt Menu Set Attenuation This setting controls the attenuator for quick search and Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. Off The attenuator is off. Reception is attenuated by about 18 dB. Note: Turn on this setting if you are near other strong signal sources.

  • Page 93: Setting The Search Frequency Step

    This setting determines how long the scanner waits after a transmission ends before resuming quick search or 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.

  • Page 94: Using Weather Alert (Same)

    Using Weather Alert (SAME) Using Weather Alert (SAME) Your scanner has been primarily designed to be a radio scanner. While it incorporates weather alert as one of its features, we strongly recommend that you not use the scanner as your sole means for receiving emergency alerts.

  • Page 95: Programming A Same Group

    WX Operation Menu Weather Alert This setting determines which types of signals will trigger an alert. Select your setting, then press E. Alert Only - the scanner alerts when it detects the 1050 Hz tone that accompanies all weather alerts. ALL FIPS - the scanner alerts and displays information about the weather alert when it receives any FIPS code (see “Programming a SAME Group”...

  • Page 96: Setting Wx Alert Priority

    For example, Tarrant County in Texas is assigned to FIPS code 048439. 0 indicates the entire county 48 indicates the state of Texas 439 indicates Tarrant County To get the FIPS code for your county, visit the National Weather Service web site at http://www.nws.noaa.gov and search for “FIPS Listing”.

  • Page 97: Care And Maintenance

    Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance General Use • Turn the scanner off before disconnecting the power. • Always write down the programmed frequencies in the event of memory loss. • If memory is lost, simply reprogram each channel. • Always press each button firmly until you hear the entry tone for that key entry.

  • 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 Suggestion The scanner The scanner might Make sure the AC adapter doesn’t not be receiving is connected to an AC work. any power. outlet and the scanner.
  • Page 100 Scan won’t One or more Make sure the channels start channels might be you want to scan are not (continued) locked out. locked out. The antenna Check the antenna might need to be connection. adjusted. Weather The squelch might Adjust the squelch scan doesn’t need to be threshold.
  • 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 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: ............

  • Page 103: Specifications

    Operating Temperature: Normal ..........–20°C to +60°C Close Call ..........–10°C to +60°C Scan Rate: ....... 100 channels per second (conventional mode) Search Rate: ..300 steps per second (5 kHz step only) Scan Delay: ...........0-5 seconds Audio Output: .. 320mW nominal into 8 internal speaker 30 mW nominal into 32 headphone...

  • 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 Appendix Preset Fleet Maps Preset Map 1 Preset Map 2 Block Size Code Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 4...
  • Page 106 Preset Map 9 Preset Map 10 Block Size Code Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0...

  • Page 107: User Defined Fleet Maps

    User Defined Fleet Maps Type I Programming Information When a Type I system is designed, the address information for all the ID’s is divided into 8 equal sized blocks, numbered 0–7. When you program your scanner to track a Type I system, you must select a size code for each of these blocks.

  • 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

    Planning Planning Collecting Information Getting your scanner programmed and scanning takes a few steps. This helps guide you through these steps that will make it easier for you to start scanning. 1. Collect information about the system(s) you want to monitor.

  • 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

    • Type 2 UHF. The supplied frequencies are between 406 MHz and 512 MHz. No fleet map is supplied for this type of system. • Type 2 VHF. The supplied frequencies are between 136 MHz and 174 MHz. No fleet map is supplied for this type of system.

  • 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 Group Nam e S y s tem Quic k K ey Group Quic k K ey F requenc y A lpha Tag 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 Type I System Type II 800 MHz: Frequencies 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 Group Name Group Quick Key Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Alert Planning...

  • Page 117: Ltr/Edacs System Worksheet

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

  • Page 119: Preprogrammed Systems

    • To free up memory, you can delete systems that you will not be monitoring. 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). Preprogrammed Systems...
  • Page 120 State County City System Arizona Arizona Maricopa Avondale Maricopa Conv Arizona Maricopa Capitol Maricopa Conv Arizona Maricopa Chandler Chandler MOT Arizona Maricopa Chandler Maricopa Conv Arizona Maricopa El Mirage Maricopa Conv Fort McDowell Arizona Maricopa Indian Community Maricopa Conv Arizona Maricopa Goodyear Maricopa Conv...
  • Page 121 State County City System California Los Angeles Hermosa Beach Los Angeles Conv California Los Angeles Huntington Park Los Angeles Conv California Los Angeles Industry Los Angeles Conv California Los Angeles Inglewood Los Angeles Conv California Los Angeles Irwindale Los Angeles Conv California Los Angeles LA County Los Angeles Conv...
  • Page 122 State County City System California Riverside Murrietta Riverside Conv California Riverside Palm Springs Palm Springs MOT California Riverside Palm Springs Riverside Conv California Riverside Riverside Riverside Conv California Riverside San Jacinto Riverside Conv SanBernadinoE California Bernadino Adelanto SanBernadinoD California Bernadino Barstow SanBernadinoA California...
  • Page 123 State County City System California San Diego Inland San Diego MOT California San Diego Monte Vista San Diego MOT California San Diego National City National City MOT California San Diego North County San Diego MOT California San Diego Rancho San Diego MOT California San Diego San Diego...
  • Page 124 State County City System Illinois Cook Englewood Cook Conv Illinois Cook Evergreen Park Cook Conv Illinois Cook Franklin Park Cook Conv Illinois Cook Hoffman NW Central MOT Illinois Cook Hometown Cook Conv Illinois Cook Merriont Park Cook Conv Illinois Cook Northlake Cook Conv Illinois...
  • Page 125 State County City System New York Suffolk Bridgehampton East Hampton MOT New York Suffolk East Hampton East Hampton MOT New York Suffolk East Hampton East Hampton MOT East Hampton New York Suffolk Village East Hampton MOT New York Suffolk Islip Township SuffolkCounty MOT New York Suffolk...
  • Page 126 State County City System Ohio Cuyahoga Moreland Hills Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga Newburg Heights Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga North Olmsted Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga North Randall Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga North Royalton Brook Park MOT Ohio Cuyahoga North Royalton Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga Oakwood...
  • Page 127 State County City System Texas Dallas Duncanville Dallas Conv Texas Dallas Farmers Branch Carrolton MOT Texas Dallas Flower Mound Lewisville MOT Texas Dallas Garland Garland MOT Texas Dallas Grand Prairie Grand Prairie MOT Texas Dallas Highland Park Dallas Conv Texas Dallas Highland Village Lewisville MOT...
  • Page 128 State County City System Texas Tarrant Burleson Tarrant Conv Texas Tarrant Colleyville NE Tarrant MOT Texas Tarrant Crowley Tarrant Conv Dalworthington Texas Tarrant Gardens Tarrant Conv Texas Tarrant Eagle Mount Tarrant Conv Texas Tarrant Euless NE Tarrant MOT Texas Tarrant Forest Hill Tarrant Conv 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 4,521,915 4,597,104 4,627,100 4,841,302 4,888,815 4,932,074 4,947,456 5,014,348 5,199,109 5,408,692 5,428,826 5,438,688 5,448,256 5,465,402...

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