Uniden BCT15 Owner's Manual
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Uniden BCT15 Owner's Manual

Scanner radio with trunk tracker iii and automatic scanning capabilities
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Summary of Contents for Uniden BCT15

  • Page 1 QUICK START QUICK START ON PAGE 3 ON PAGE 3...

  • Page 2: Precautions

    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.

  • Page 3: Bct15 Quick Start Guide

    BCT15 Quick Start Guide To help you enjoy the features and performance of your BCT15 as fast as possible, follow the steps below. See the content of the manual if you need additional information. 1. Mount the scanner and connect power.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Precautions... 2 BCT15 Quick Start Guide ... 3 Table of Contents ... 4 The FCC Wants You to Know ... 10 Scanning Legally ... 10 Introduction ... 12 Feature Highlights ... 13 General ... 13 Trunk Tracking ... 15 Searches and Scanning ... 16 GPS ...
  • Page 5 Removing the Scanner from the DIN-E Sleeve ... 37 Mounting Using ISO Technique ... 38 Removing the Display Sticker ... 39 Connecting an Optional Antenna ... 39 Connecting an Earphone/Headphone ... 39 Connecting an Extension Speaker ... 40 Controls, Keys, and Functions ... 41 A Look at The LCD Display ...
  • Page 6 Programming General Settings ... 64 Setting and Using the Display Backlight ... 64 Setting the Dimmer ... 64 Adjusting the Key Beep ... 65 Setting the Audio AGC ... 65 Setting the Display Orientation ... 65 Adjusting the Display Contrast ... 66 Setting the GPS Format ...
  • Page 7 Setting I-Call Operation ... 82 Setting the Emergency Alert Option ... 83 Assigning a Conventional System to a State ... 83 Conventional Systems ... 83 Setting the EDACS ID Format ... 84 Setting the System Record Option ... 84 Reviewing ID Search Lockouts ... 84 Clearing All Locked Out ID’s ...
  • Page 8 Searching and Storing ... 101 Service Search ... 101 Quick Search ... 102 Custom Search ... 102 Editing a Custom Search Range ... 103 Search With Scan ... 104 Editing a Service Search ... 105 Method One ... 105 Method Two ... 105 Set Delay Time ...
  • Page 9 Using the BCT15 with a GPS ... 126 Device Compatibility ... 126 Connecting Your Scanner to a GPS Device ... 126 Initial Scanner/GPS Operation ... 126 Location-Based (GPS) Scanning ... 127 Another Example of Multiple Site Creation ... 128 Non-Radio Location Based GPS Features ... 128 Setting the Options ...

  • Page 10: 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 11 up these transmissions. Do not open your scanner’s case to make any modifications that could allow it to pick up transmissions that are illegal to monitor. Modifying or tampering with your scanner’s internal components or using it in a way other than as described in this manual could invalidate your warranty and void your FCC authorization to operate it.

  • Page 12: Introduction

    Your BCT15 scanner is a state-of-the-art scanner radio with Trunk Tracker™ III and automatic scanning capabilities. You can store in the dynamic memory conventional frequencies such as police, fire/emergency, marine, air, amateur, and other communications. You can store and scan services that use Trunked Radio Systems and so much more.

  • Page 13: Feature Highlights

    Frequency Frequency (MHz) (MHz) Lower Edge Upper Edge 400.0000 405.9875 406.0000 419.9875 420.0000 449.9875 450.0000 469.9875 470.0000 512.0000 764.0000 775.9875 794.0000 805.9875 806.0000 823.9875 849.0125 868.9875 894.0125 956.0000 1240.0000 1300.0000 The frequency ranges shown are based on factory-default step settings. Step setting changes are user definable.
  • Page 14 State-by-State Preprogrammed Channels — let you easily keep up with activity on local police, Department of Transportation, and Highway Patrol frequencies when you travel, without having to program any channels. Close Call™ RF Capture Technology — instantly detects and tunes to nearby transmissions with no additional programming.

  • Page 15: Trunk Tracking

    Tone Volume Adjust — lets you select and set various tones for different purposes. You can adjust the level of the following tones: Key Beep, BearTracker Alert, Emergency Alert, Channel Alert, Close Call Alert, Tone-Out Detection Alert, and Location Alert. PC Control —...

  • Page 16: Searches And Scanning

    Name Editing — you can edit or change names, using up to 16 characters, for the following attributes: System, Site, Group, Channel, TGID, GPS Location, Custom Search Range, SAME Group (weather), and Tone-Out. Trunking Activity Indicators — show you trunking activity when you hold on a control channel.

  • Page 17: Gps

    Search With Scan — lets you monitor a service search and a custom search scan sequentially. Service Search — lets you select from a list of the most popular services (Public Safety, News, HAM Radio, Marine, Railroad, Air, Citizens Band Radio, FRS/GMRS, Racing, TV Broadcast, FM Broadcast, Military Air, and Special,) and set up your search within that range.

  • Page 18: Memory Storage Limits

    Memory Storage Limits Systems Sites 1000 Channels in a Conventional System 1000 * depending on the number of TGID in the system. Search Lockout Limits Temporary L/O Frequencies Frequencies About This Manual The screen displays used in this manual are representations of what might appear when you use your scanner.
  • Page 19 type (Program System) when you press [MENU]. It also instructs you to turn the Scroll Control (shown as ) to view a series of choices then press or tap the Scroll Control (the action shown as to enter a choice (Edit Name). [MENU] Program System Select the system...

  • Page 20: A Short User's Guide To Assist The First-Time Scanner Enthusiast

    Scanner Enthusiast Welcome to the family of Uniden scanner users. You have just unpacked your Uniden BCT15 scanner. You are anxious to scan and hear something so you rotate the [VOL/POWER] control and wait a moment as the opening Message and Copyright screens confirm the model information.
  • Page 21 Then, by using the Clone feature or by exchanging files that you each have transferred to a computer using the Uniden Advanced Scanner Director (UASD) software you can install the programmed data into your scanner. Once you have...

  • Page 22: Understanding Scanning And The Bct15

    Traditional “Banked” scanners let you select and deselect banks by pressing a single digit on the keypad. The BCT15 uses a similar method to turn on and off scanning sites and systems. When you program a system or site, you assign a quick key (System/Site Quick Key, or SQK) from 0 to 99.

  • Page 23: What Is Scanning

    What is Searching? The BCT15 can search each of its 13 service search ranges and up to 10 custom search ranges to find active frequencies. This is different from scanning because you are searching for frequencies that have not been programmed into the scanner’s channels.

  • Page 24: Conventional Scanning

    A scanner, such as your BCT15, equipped with CTCSS and DCS, can code each received frequency with a specific sub-audible CTCSS or DCS frequency or code.

  • Page 25: Repeater Operation

    What is Trunk Tracking? Your BCT15 is designed to track the following types of trunking systems. • Motorola Type I, Type II, Type IIi hybrid, SMARTNET, and PRIVACYPLUS analog trunking systems, which are extensively used in 800 MHz communication systems.

  • Page 26: Trunked Scanning

    This semi-random frequency assignment made monitoring such a system impossible prior to Uniden’s invention of the TrunkTracker scanner. Startup Configuration The Startup Configuration option lets you quickly and automatically lock and unlock systems based on your desired configuration.

  • Page 27: Multi-Site Trunking

    Not only does your BCT15 scan channels like a conventional scanner, it actually follows the users of a trunked radio system. Once you know and program a talk group’s ID (TGID), you won’t miss any of the action.

  • Page 28: Edacs Trunking

    Motorola ASTRO 25 (APCO 25) — these radios are similar to Type II systems, but send only the radio ID and radio channel code to the control channel, transmitting voice in digital form. The BCT15 is not designed to process APCO 25 signals.

  • Page 29: Ltr Trunking

    While your BCT15 cannot track ID’s in this system, it can eliminate the control data so that all you hear is the voice transmissions when you monitor this type of system.

  • Page 30: Where To Get More Information

    Communications. • http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/reports/index.cfm * — conventional frequency information on file with the US Government • http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BCT15 * — a group for people interested in discussing the BCT15. * - These web sites are not affiliated with Uniden Corporation. For more information about Uniden and our products, visit http://www.uniden.com.

  • Page 31: Included With Your Scanner

    DB9) 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 Time, Monday through Friday. Included With Your Scanner...

  • Page 32: Setting Up Your Scanner

    These guidelines will help you install and set up your new scanner: The BCT15 can be placed on a convenient surface in your home as a base station, and connected to a standard outlet that supplies 120VAC, 60Hz. You must use either the supplied antenna or an electrically correct outdoor antenna, properly and safely mounted at your chosen site.

  • Page 33: Base Station

    BCT15 Desk Surface Wood Screws...

  • Page 34: Setting Up An Audio Recording Device Or Computer Recording

    13.8V, 750 mA AC adapter. Insert the barrel of the AC adapter to the jack on the rear, upper right side of the radio marked WARNING! Use only the Uniden-supplied AC adapter with this scanner. Insert the connector of the supplied indoor telescoping antenna to the BNC Antenna Connector and apply moderate pressure to secure it.

  • Page 35: Vehicle Installation

    3. Attach the Cigarette Lighter Power Cord to the rear of the scanner and plug the adapter end into a dash mounted 12V DC socket. 4. Attach a suitable mounted mobile antenna to the antenna jack on the back of the scanner. Bracket BCT15 Star Washers Setting Up Your Scanner...

  • Page 36: Mounting Using The Optional Din-E Sleeve

    To purchase the DIN-E sleeve and included Removal Keys, visit http://www.uniden.com/store/ and order part number, DIN-0001. 1. Remove the bracket if it is attached. 2. Remove the four Philips screws from four small tabs on the rear of the case that secure the outer metal case and pull off the case (toward the rear) with care.

  • Page 37: Removing The Scanner From The Din-E Sleeve

    Removal Keys that come with the optional DIN-E sleeve. See “To purchase the DIN-E sleeve and included Removal Keys, visit http://www.uniden.com/store/ and order part number, DIN-0001.” on page 36. Refer to the left illustration that follows, showing the Removal Keys.

  • Page 38: Mounting Using Iso Technique

    Slide the cover toward the rear and off. Once the sleeve is removed, you will see threaded, metric machine screw holes on either side of the chassis cabinet. Uniden does not supply these screws. Their diameter, length, and screw type should be chosen by a qualified installer based on the internal vehicle bracket which will be used in securing the scanner chassis.

  • Page 39: Removing The Display Sticker

    Internal brackets Removing the Display Sticker Before you use the scanner for the first time, remove the protective plastic film over the display. Connecting an Optional Antenna The scanner’s BNC connector makes it easy to connect a variety of optional antennas, including an external mobile antenna or outdoor base station antenna.

  • Page 40: Connecting An Extension Speaker

    Connecting an Extension Speaker In a noisy area, an optional amplified extension speaker, positioned in the right place, might provide more comfortable listening. Plug the speaker cable’s (3.5-mm) mini-plug into your scanner’s back-panel Ext. Sp. Jack. WARNING! Never connect any part of the headphone jack to the antenna jack or connect the radio to an installation where the antenna and audio connection are grounded.

  • Page 41: Controls, Keys, And Functions

    Controls, Keys, and Functions 22 17 Each of the knobs and keys on the BCT15 produce several different results depending upon how you activate them. You can, for example, rotate the knobs as well as press them. Some keys provide one operation when briefly pressed while pressing and holding a key or knob gives a different result.
  • Page 42 Finally, many controls and keys behave differently depending on the mode your radio is in when you use the key or control. Carefully examine the following table to separate those actions. Note: “Press” means press and release briefly. “Press and hold” means press and hold down for at least 2-seconds.
  • Page 43 • Press to cancel FUNCTION mode and return to NORMAL mode. Function Plus Several specific actions can be accomplished by pressing another key or pressing + [MENU] • Use this combination, in Scan or Scan Hold mode, to switch to the edit menu for the current system, current search range, or current location data.
  • Page 44 • Use this combination in any mode except Scan and GPS. Press [3] to toggle Close Call mode. Press and hold [3] to switch to Close Call Only mode. • Use this combination in any mode except Scan and GPS. Press [4], [5], or [6] to begin searching the range set when you set up and assigned one of these keys to a selected search range.
  • Page 45 6. GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) Key • Press to switch to GPS mode. • Press and hold to store current location data with a connected and enabled GPS. 7. L/O Key • Press once to temporarily lockout a system channel, a search frequency, or location data.
  • Page 46 10. [E ] Key • Press to select (enter) data value or a menu selection. • Press to edit channel data in Scan or Scan Hold modes. Note: does not apply to BearTracker system. • Press to capture and store a frequency in Search, Search Hold, Close Call, Close Call Hold, WX Scan, and WX Scan Hold modes.
  • Page 47 17. DC Power IN Connect only the supplied AC adapter to this jack. Never use any other AC adapter as damage might occur. 18. Headphone Jack Connect headphones for private listening. the internal speaker is disconnected. 19. Front Serial Port Connect the supplied serial cable to a PC for using UASD software.

  • Page 48: A Look At The Lcd Display

    A Look at The LCD Display Sx: : This icon appears with icons of Quick Key number for Systems and Sites ( from “0” to “99”). “x” shows current ten’s place of Quick Key for System or Site. GRP : This icon appears with icons of Quick Key number for Groups (1 - 9, 0) in Function Mode.
  • Page 49 PRI : This icon turns on while the Priority Scan works and this blinks while Priority Plus works. GPS : This icon appears when the scanner receives GPS data. AM / FM / NFM / FMB / WFM : These icons show the modulation type. “AM”, “FM”, “NFM”, “FMB” or “WFM” will appear.

  • Page 50: Tones

    Tones The BCT15 produces various tones, beeps, and alert sounds for different reasons. They are comprised of three fundamental tones: high 1200 Hz, middle 920 Hz, and low 640 Hz. In addition there are alert sirens and a series of tones whose volume are user selectable.

  • Page 51: Operation

    Before you apply power, there are a few basic operations to get the scanner ready. Those are covered below. If some seem out of a logical order it is only so you can use the BCT15 more quickly. For example, some of these action are required for basic programming or menu options.

  • Page 52: Entering Text Within A Menu Option

    Entering Text Within A Menu Option To enter a letter, turn the Scroll Control until the letter, numeral or other character you want appears. To move the cursor to the left, press [4]. To move the cursor to the right, press [6]. To clear a character, press [.No] twice.

  • Page 53: Custom Range

    • Within a system, channels are scanned according to the assigned channel group, with the same priority as described above for systems. • The BCT15 scans a system for the duration you set using the System Hold Time option (see “Setting the System Hold Time” on Page 80). For trunked systems, the scanner moves to the next system after the hold time expires, the current transmission ends, and the channel delay expires.

  • Page 54: Selecting Systems To Scan

    Selecting Systems to Scan To select systems to scan, press Scan then press the quick key assigned to the system or systems you want to scan. For quick keys [0] - [9], press the quick key’s number. For quick keys 10-99, press [.No] then press the quick key’s 2-digit number.

  • Page 55: Locking/Unlocking Channels

    Locking/Unlocking Channels If the scanner has stopped on a channel press [L/O] once to temporarily lock it out or quickly press [L/O] twice to permanently lock it out. Cycling power off/on automatically unlocks temporarily locked-out channels. To lockout a channel when the scanner has not stopped on the channel, or to unlock a permanently locked-out channel.

  • Page 56: Holding On A Channel

    scan only the current system. To hold on a different site or system, rotate the Scroll Control to select the new site or system then press [E Holding On a Channel To hold on a channel, press [HOLD/RESUME] while the channel is active. To select a different channel, turn the Scroll Control.

  • Page 57: Trunking Activity Indicators

    Trunking Activity Indicators To get a visual indication of the activity on trunking systems, press [HOLD/RESUME] to hold on any channel. Then tap and then press [.No] The scanner replaces the third line on the display with trunking activity indicators. When the scanner is monitoring on EDACS or Motorola system, the activity indicators will show which system frequencies have activity.Note: For Motorola systems you must program all system frequencies (control and voice frequencies)

  • Page 58: Introduction To Beartracker Operation

    Now, the [POL/DOT] and [HP/B] keys let you select which sets of preprogrammed frequencies to scan, in addition to the channels you have programmed. The BCT15 scans these frequencies according to the settings you select in the following sections. While there is no way to determine the location of a specific service you hear,...

  • Page 59: The Beartracker Scanning Icons

    The BearTracker Scanning Icons When you select a state and one or more of the agencies, each enabled service’s icon is displayed on the lower part of the LCD (PL, DT, HP, BT). When they are disabled, the icon disappears from the display. When the scanner detects a signal in an enabled service, the icon blinks.

  • Page 60: Using The Menu

    The Menu mode of the BCT15 is very powerful. Many settings require that you drill down multiple levels. This assures you the utmost flexibility and the ability to customize the operation to your specific requirements. To assist you to familiarize yourself and help you to become proficient using the menu, we have provided three sections.

  • Page 61: Display Format

    Display Format The Menu screen uses 4 lines of text. The uppermost line is the heading for the level with three choices below. For example, the display to set the modulation looks like: Editing a Name There are many instances when you will want to custom name a new system, a new site, a TGID and more.

  • Page 62: Editing A Frequency

    Editing A Frequency To enter a frequency, use the numeric keys and [.No] for the decimal point. Move to the next place only by turning the Scroll Control. When all the characters are entered, press to finalize the entry. Notes: •...
  • Page 63 Base Level Program System Program System Conventional Program Location MOT TYPE1 Srch/CloCall Opt MOT TYPE2 Search for ... EDCS WIDE/NARROW Set Bear Tracker EDCS SCAT Close Call Set Priority WX Operation Tone-Out for... Wired Clone Settings Close Call Priority Close Call Only CC Auto Store Hits with Scan Plus On...

  • Page 64: Programming General Settings

    Programming General Settings The following section deals with the general settings of the scanner. Setting and Using the Display Backlight Press appears on the display. Repeatedly press [VOL] to reach your desired level from Off, Low, Medium, and High. Setting the Dimmer If you connect the vehicle power cable’s orange wire to a wire or connection point in your car that changes state when you turn on the headlights, the scanner can automatically dim the display when you turn on the headlights.

  • Page 65: Adjusting The Key Beep

    Adjusting the Key Beep [MENU] Settings Adjust Key Beep Auto — the scanner automatically sets the key beep to match the master volume setting level you select. Level 1 - 15 — the scanner lets you manually select one of fifteen key beep levels.

  • Page 66: Adjusting The Display Contrast

    Adjusting the Display Contrast There are 15 contrast levels. As you scroll from level 1 to 15 you see the contrast change. Press the Scroll Control to lock the desired level until the time you desire to change it. [MENU] Settings Adjust Contrast Select a level Level 1 to Level 15...

  • Page 67: Setting The Serial Port Speed

    Setting the Serial Port Speed Use this setting to control the data rate used for the front and back panel serial ports. You typically set the front port to match the speed used to communicate with your PC (default 115200 bps) and the back port to the speed used to communicate with an attached GPS device (default 4800 bps).

  • Page 68: Set Delay Time

    [MENU] Set Bear Tracker Set Hold Time Set the hold time, in seconds, between 0 and 255. to change the number position. If you exceed 255, and press Out of Range, Set Max? (Y/N) If you want to use the maximum setting, press If not, press [.No] to cancel and enter a new number in range.

  • Page 69: Set Alert Tone

    Set Alert Tone This setting lets you choose a sound pattern to serve as an alert for the BearTracker Warning System. [MENU] Set Bear Tracker Set Alert Tone to select a level between 1 and 9 or Off for no alert sound. Set Record This setting lets you enable the REC jack.

  • Page 70: Viewing The Firmware Version And Electronic Serial Number

    Uniden Advanced Scanner Director software. You can download the software from http://www.uniden.com in the Customer Service downloads link. However, you must purchase an Unlocking Key from your Uniden dealer to unlock the software’s full functionality. Important: Start with a high baud rate setting. If, during transfer, you get an error message, reduce the setting in the software and the scanner and start again until you get reliable, complete transfer of data.

  • Page 71: Volume/Squelch With Pc Control

    Wired Cloning Using the scanner in a cloning setup lets you transfer programmed data directly from a source or master BCT15 to a target or slave BCT15. Wired cloning between other models to the BCT15 is not possible. [MENU]...

  • Page 72: Start Of Transfer

    3b. (Slave scanner) Clone Slave Press SCAN Key Clone Slave Connecting 4. When you are ready to clone the scanner, press [SCAN/SEARCH] on the slave scanner first, then [SCAN/SEARCH] on the master scanner. The master scanner checks the connection between the two scanners, then transfers its data to the slave scanner.

  • Page 73: Programming Your Scanner

    2. Program the system into your scanner according to the plan you prepared in Step 1. To make this easier, planning worksheets are available from Uniden’s website: http://www.uniden.com/scanners. There you can fill out a worksheet on line and then print it or print hardcopy to fill out as you see fit.

  • Page 74: System Options

    System Options System Option Settings Set Quick Key Set Startup Key Set Lockout Set Hold Time ID Scan/Search Set Delay Time Set Data Skip Set LocationInfo Set State Edit Fleet Map Set Status Bit Set End Code Set I-Call Emergency Alert EDCS ID Format Set Record Rvw ID:Srch L/O...

  • Page 75: Site Option Settings

    Site Option Settings MOT TYPE I Site Setting 800MHz 800MHz Standard Splinter Edit Name • Set Quick Key • Set Startup • • Frequencies Set Modulation • • Set Attenuator • Set Lockout • Set Hold Time Edit Band Plan Set C-Ch Only •...

  • Page 76: Programming Conventional Systems

    Channel Settings Set CTCSS/DCS • Set Modulation • • Set Attenuator • Set Priority • Set Alert Set Record • Set Lockout • Copy Channel • • Delete Channel • New Channel Programming Conventional Systems [MENU] Program System New System Conventional Confirm? Yes=”E”...

  • Page 77: Programming System Settings

    Then, select the system type: MOT TYPE 1 — Motorola Type I systems MOT TYPE 2 — Motorola Type II systems EDCS WIDE/NARROW — EDACS Wide and Narrow systems EDCS SCAT — EDACS SCAT systems LT — LTR Systems The scanner creates an empty system with a default name of System n x. Note that “n”...

  • Page 78: Specifying The Correct System Type

    Even though a system has digital channels, it is not necessarily a P25 system. Note that the BCT15 is not designed to process P25 signals. These should be entered as Motorola 800 Standard and not P25. EDACS Wide is the same as EDACS Standard.

  • Page 79: Setting The Startup Key

    Notes: • Access single-digit system/site Quick Keys by pressing the single digit on the keypad during scanning. Access two-digit system Quick Keys by pressing [.No] then both digits. • You can assign as many systems to the same quick key as you want. •...

  • Page 80: Setting The System Hold Time

    Setting the System Hold Time [MENU] Program System Select a conventional system Edit Sys Options Set Hold Time Set how long the scanner will remain scanning on this system before moving to the next system (up to 255 seconds). Note that the scanner will scan all unlocked channels at least one time, regardless of the system hold time setting.

  • Page 81: Setting Location Information

    source. If turned on, the scanner resumes scanning as soon as it detects the data signal. Setting Location Information [MENU] Program System Select a Conventional system Edit Sys Option Set LocationInfo This setting control whether the system is automatically enabled and disabled when you connect a GPS to the scanner.

  • Page 82: Setting The Status Bit

    Setting the Status Bit [MENU] Program System Select a Motorola Type I or II system Edit Sys Option Set Status Bit Ignore — the scanner rounds all received ID’s down to the next interval of 16. The default setting is Ignore. Yes —...

  • Page 83: Setting The Emergency Alert Option

    Off — the scanner ignores I-Calls. The default setting is Off. Only — the scanner only tracks I-calls and ignores other radio traffic on the system. Press to select. Note: You can enter a wildcard that matches all I-calls by programming [.No] + [0] into one of the channels.

  • Page 84: Setting The Edacs Id Format

    Setting the EDACS ID Format [MENU] Program System Select an EDACS Wide/Narrow system Edit Sys Option EDCS ID Format EDACS Talk Group ID’s are commonly provided in one of two formats: AFS and Decimal. This setting determines how you enter EDACS ID’s and how the scanner displays them.

  • Page 85: Clearing All Locked Out Id's

    Edit Sys Option Rvw ID:Srch L/O The scanner displays each locked out ID for the system and gives you the option to Unlock the ID. To unlock an ID, rotate the scroll to select the locked out ID, then press [E ].

  • Page 86: Deleting Systems

    [MENU] Program System Select the existing system Copy System New Sys Name? Enter your new name using the Scroll Control and [4] and [6] to move to the right or to the left one character of the display. Press Deleting Systems [MENU] Program System Select the existing system...

  • Page 87: Setting The Site Quick Key

    MU2: Motorola UHF EDW: EDACS Wide EDN: EDACS Narrow Following these steps to change the system name. [MENU] Program System Select a trunked system Edit Site Select a Site Edit Name To enter a letter, turn the Scroll Control until the character you want appears. To enter a decimal point, press [.No].

  • Page 88: Setting Site Frequencies

    Edit Site Select a Site Set Startup Key Select a startup key from [0] to [9] or select “.” for no startup key. Notes: • To unlock the system at startup, press and hold the selected startup key while you turn on the scanner. •...

  • Page 89: Setting Site Attenuation

    Select a Site Set Modulation Auto — the scanner uses the default modulation for the frequency band. FM — the scanner uses FM (frequency modulation) for the frequency band. NFM — the scanner uses narrowband FM for the frequency band. Note: The default setting is Auto.

  • Page 90: Setting Site Hold Time

    Setting Site Hold Time [MENU] Program System Select a trunked system Edit Site Select a site Set Hold Time This setting controls how many seconds the scanner looks at a site before moving to the next unlocked site or system. Using the number keypad, enter a value from [0] to [2][5][5], then press Notes: •...

  • Page 91: Setting Control-Channel Only Mode

    Setting Control-Channel Only Mode [MENU] Program System Select a trunked system Edit Site (current) Select a site Set C-Ch Only This setting determines the frequencies you need to enter for Motorola systems. Select your setting, then press On — You only need to enter control channel frequencies. Off —...

  • Page 92: Trunked Systems (Sites)

    Trunked Systems (Sites) [MENU] Program System Select an existing MOT Type I, II, EDACS, SCAT, or LTR system Edit Site Scroll to an existing site or create a new one Set State Rotate the Scroll Control to the same state as the site’s state. Deleting Sites [MENU] Program System...

  • Page 93: Setting The Group Quick Key

    2. Rotate the Scroll Control to select a new first letter. Press [6] to move one character to the right. Repeat the Scroll Control action to change the character. To move one character to the left, press [4]. 3. Repeat Step 2 until you have entered the system name. Then press accept the setting.

  • Page 94: Deleting Channel Groups

    Temporary L/O — the group is not scanned for this session. The L/O is cancelled when you cycle power. Unlocked — the group is scanned. The default setting is Unlocked Deleting Channel Groups [MENU] Program System Select a system Edit Group Select a channel group Delete Group Confirm Delete?

  • Page 95: Editing Frequencies

    Follow these steps to enter/edit the channel name. 1. The current name displays with the first character of the name highlighted. 2. Rotate the Scroll Control to select a new first letter. 3. Press [6] to move one character to the right. 4.

  • Page 96: Selecting Ctcss/Dcs Tones

    Select the channel Edit TGID To edit the Talk Group ID, enter the Talk Group ID you want using the number keys. Then press Selecting CTCSS/DCS Tones [MENU] Program System Select the conventional system Edit Group Select the group or New Group Edit Channel Select the channel or New Channel Set CTCSS/DCS...

  • Page 97: Setting Channel Modulation Method

    Setting Channel Modulation Method [MENU] Program System Select the conventional system Edit Group Select a channel group Edit Channel Select the Channel Set Modulation Auto — the scanner uses the default modulation for the channel. The default setting is Auto. AM —...

  • Page 98: Setting Channel Priority

    Setting Channel Priority [MENU] Program System Select a conventional system Edit Group Select a channel group Edit Channel Select the channel Set Priority This setting controls whether the scanner treats the channel as a priority channel while scanning. Select On or Off, then press On —...

  • Page 99: Setting Channel Record

    Setting Channel Record to enable a live audio output from REC to an audio recording device. On — the scanner outputs the signal. Off — the scanner does not output any audio. Setting Lockout [MENU] Program System Select a system Edit Group Select a channel group Edit Channel...

  • Page 100: Deleting A Channel

    Deleting a Channel [MENU] Program System Select a trunked system Edit Group Select a channel group Edit Channel Select a channel Delete Channel You see Confirm Delete? Yes=”E” / No=”.” Select Yes to delete the channel or No to cancel. MECL...

  • Page 101: Searching And Storing

    Searching and Storing Service Search Service Search lets you 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. There are two ways to do this.

  • Page 102: Quick Search

    To lock out a frequency found while searching, press [L/O]. Pressing [L/O] once displays Temporary L/O and pressing [L/O] twice displays Locked Out. Notes: • If all frequencies in the search range you selected are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scanner does not search the range. •...

  • Page 103: Editing A Custom Search Range

    Press [.No] then The scanner starts custom search of the custom search range you selected, stopping on any transmission it finds and displaying the frequency. Turn the Scroll Control to change the search direction. An arrow appears, showing the current search direction.

  • Page 104: Search With Scan

    Search With Scan When you press [SCAN/SEARCH] the BCT15 starts a scan of those sites, channels, etc you have manually programmed that are unlocked and have their System Quick key enabled.

  • Page 105: Editing A Service Search

    In addition to this scan you can search any of the preprogrammed service or custom search ranges. While scanning, press service or custom search range. Press [L/O] to unlock it. You can also assign a System Quick Key to the search to make it easy to quickly enable/disable the search range for search and scan.

  • Page 106: Set Attenuator

    Set Attenuator to select to choose an attenuation for all frequencies in the range. On — the frequencies are attenuated. Off — the frequencies are not attenuated. Set Record to enable a live audio output from REC to an audio recording device. On —...

  • Page 107: Auto Search And Store

    Auto Search and Store Your scanner’s Auto Store feature lets you search for new frequencies in custom search ranges or within a service search range on a conventional system, or new talk group ID’s on a trunked 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.

  • Page 108: Trunked Search And Store

    Trunked Search and Store 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 quick key to which the system belongs is turned off, and the group you selected to store found talk group ID’s contains more talk group ID’s than the maximum set in Max Auto Store.

  • Page 109: 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” while you are scanning other frequencies, turn off normal scanning while the Close Call feature is working, or turn off the Close Call feature and use the scanner normally.
  • Page 110 Call mode and stores any Close Call hits, up to the maximum you specified in the Max Auto Store setting. If the scanner stores more hits than this setting, it stops auto store operation. Turn the Scroll Control to display an option, then press Set CC Mode —...

  • Page 111: Close Call Hits

    Set CC Bands — Lets you select the Close Call band settings. You can turn the following bands on or off. VHF Low 1 — (25.0000-53.9800 MHz) VHF Low 2 — (54.0000-107.9000 MHz) Air Band — (108.0000 - 136.9750 MHz) VHF High 1 —...
  • Page 112 you can also set how long the scanner will wait after the signal stops before resuming scan. This lets you continue to hear transmissions detected with the Close Call feature, even after you are no longer close enough to receive it as a Close Call hit.

  • Page 113: Search And Close Call Options

    Search and Close Call Options The settings in this section affect custom searches, service searches, and Close Call operation. The following table shows what options are available for various search modes. Service Setting Search Freq. Lockouts • Broadcast Screen CTCSS/DCS •...

  • Page 114: Unlocking All Frequencies

    Unlocking All Frequencies [MENU] Srch/CloCall Opt Freq Lockouts Unlock All The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm and delete all locked-out frequencies, press If no frequencies are locked, you see Nothing Locked Press Any Key. Otherwise, to cancel, press [MENU] to backstep. Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies [MENU] Srch/CloCall Opt...

  • Page 115: Screening Out Broadcast Sources

    Screening Out Broadcast Sources [MENU] Srch/CloCall Opt Broadcast Screen This setting determines whether the scanner automatically ignores transmissions found during Custom Search, Quick Search, or Close Call operation that are on common broadcasts, paging systems, and other annoyance radio sources. Note: Broadcast screening does not work in all service search ranges.

  • Page 116: Finding Repeater Output Frequencies

    Finding Repeater Output Frequencies [MENU] Srch/CloCall Opt Repeater Find On or Off This feature sets whether the scanner tries to tune to a repeater output frequency during Custom Search, Quick Search, or Close Call operation when it detects a transmission on a repeater input frequency. Since you can normally only hear one side of a conversation when you listen to an input frequency transmission, turning this feature on can let you hear both sides of the conversation where a standard difference frequency is set between the input and the output, to and from the...

  • Page 117: Setting Attenuation

    Auto — the scanner uses the default modulation for the frequency band. The default setting is Auto. AM — the scanner uses AM (amplitude modulation) for the frequency band. FM — the scanner uses FM (frequency modulation) for the frequency band. NFM —...

  • Page 118: Setting The Delay Time

    unmodulated carrier as data and skips the frequency when Data Skip is on. Turn the feature off or talk into the transmitter to modulate the carrier. • This setting is ignored for AM/WFM/FMB channels. Setting the Delay Time [MENU] Srch/CloCall Opt Set Delay Time This setting determines how long the scanner waits after a transmission ends before resuming Quick Search or Close Call operation.

  • Page 119: Priority Scan

    Priority Scan If you activate a Priority Scan while scanning, the radio interrupts its scan every two seconds to check the priority channel (P-Ch). PRI appears on the screen. There are two ways to set Priority Scan. 1. Press + [1] to set one of the following Priority Scan levels in Scan / Scan Hold mode.

  • Page 120: Using Weather Alert (Same)

    Using Weather Alert (SAME) Your BCT15 has been primarily designed as a multi-band, general services scanner. While it incorporates a weather alert ability as one of its features, we recommend that you not use the scanner as your sole means for receiving emergency alerts.

  • Page 121: Programming A Same Group

    This setting determines which types of signals will trigger an alert. Choose your setting, then press Alert Only — the scanner alerts when it detects the 1050 Hz tone that accompanies all weather alerts. SAME 1-5 — the scanner alerts and displays information about the weather alert when it receives a weather alert signal that includes any FIPS code you have programmed into the specified SAME group.

  • Page 122: Setting Wx Alert Priority

    [MENU] WX Operation Program SAME Select the SAME group to edit Edit Name — enter the name you want to assign to the SAME group you selected. Edit County — select the position you want to store the FIPS code into, then press , enter the FIPS code, then press Setting WX Alert Priority...

  • Page 123: Fire Tone-Out Introduction

    [SQ]. You need tone-out setup information from the agency you wish to monitor. Check with your local agency or on-line resources as Uniden America Corporation has no information regarding local tone-out systems. Setting Tone-Out Standby [MENU] Tone-Out for...
  • Page 124 Set Modulation — Set the modulation type for the paging signal. Next choose the modulation setting: Auto — The scanner uses the default modulation for the frequency band. If the default modulation is AM, WFM, or FMB, the modulation operates as FM. FM —...

  • Page 125: Tone-Out Multi-Channel Monitoring

    Tone-Out Multi-Channel Monitoring The scanner can check multiple tone combination pages for channels whose settings are the same. To achieve this, set the channel to the same frequency, modulation, and attenuation. For example, the scanner checks tone combinations for channel 1 to channel 3 for the following settings. Chan Frequency (MHz) Ch 1...

  • Page 126: Using The Bct15 With A Gps

    Using the BCT15 with a GPS The scanner lets you connect a compatible GPS device to it to provide two very convenient operation features: • automatically locks and unlocks systems and sites based on data you input. This fine-tunes the scanning operation and makes it that much enjoyable.

  • Page 127: Location-Based (Gps) Scanning

    Location-Based (GPS) Scanning The BCT15 uses data, supplied by an attached GPS unit, that lets the radio automatically unlock and lockout sites based on the geographical information you provide. • Latitude (the center of the range or site) • Longitude (the center of the range or site) •...

  • Page 128: Another Example Of Multiple Site Creation

    Non-Radio Location Based GPS Features When connected to a GPS, you can program specific location information which will trigger an alert from the scanner. The scanner becomes an extension of the GPS device. The following geographical values are typical of use you might find valuable while traveling.
  • Page 129 Set Range • Set Speed Limit Set Lockout • • Delete Location Dangerous Dangerous Xing Road • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Using the BCT15 with a GPS...

  • Page 130: Setting The Options

    Setting the Options [MENU] Program Location Select a location type (POI, Dangerous Xing, or Dangerous Road). New Location The scanner assigns a sequentially created number to the location. Edit Name Use the Scroll Control and example, enter the name of the place or the Route Number. At this level you have an opportunity to reassign or edit the Set Type location type you first selected and set the location to either one of the other types...

  • Page 131: For Poi Only

    2.0 mile distances to the POI. Shown on the map are 0.5 and 1.0 mile markers. You are alerted when you come within range of your set distances. Select from 15 sound levels, plus Auto and Off. As Using the BCT15 with a GPS...
  • Page 132 You can input the compass direction to the site from your Choose from 0, through 100 MPH in 5 MPH steps or The BCT15, a GPS, and a Dangerous Road Car One is driving south. Car Two is driving Car One east.

  • Page 133: Gps Display Mode

    POI. The third line of the screen shows OFF if no POI is selected. Rotate the Scroll Control to select different POI’s. Press + [GPS] to toggle the Display mode in order. GPS DATA Display ETA Display Clock Display Elevation Display Speed Display Location Display Using the BCT15 with a GPS...

  • Page 134: Gps Review Location Mode

    GPS Review Location Mode If you have programmed data for a Point of Interest, Dangerous Crossing, and a Dangerous Road, you can review each set on a screen dedicated to showing just that data. Press [GPS] and then [E The most recent stored location is displayed. Use the Scroll Control to display the next screen for review.

  • Page 135: Care And Maintenance

    Do not use excessive amounts of water. 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 136: Troubleshooting

    We recommend you visit the Uniden web site periodically to check for the latest updates. However, if you believe your BCT15 is not performing properly, try these suggestions. Possible Cause Make sure the AC adapter is connected to an AC outlet and the scanner.
  • Page 137 Enter the data frequency. Change to a Type I scanner setup. Review programming Motorola systems on the Uniden website, scanners.uniden.com Set the scanner to scan LTR or EDACS systems. Review the LTR and EDACS programming information at scanners.uniden.com...
  • Page 138 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.

  • Page 139: Dcs Codes

    CTCSS Frequencies 67.0 69.3 71.9 82.5 85.4 88.5 100.0 103.5 107.2 123.0 127.3 131.8 151.4 156.7 159.8 171.3 173.8 177.3 189.9 192.8 196.6 210.7 218.1 225.7 250.3 DCS Codes 74.4 77.0 79.7 91.5 94.8 97.4 110.9 114.8 118.8 136.5 141.3 146.2 162.2 165.5...

  • Page 140: Specifications

    Certificated accordance with FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15 Subpart C as of date of manufacture. Dynamic Allocation Capacity Systems : Groups : Site : Channels : Channels per Trunked System : up to 250 Band Coverage : Frequency Range : Range (MHz) 25.0000 to 26.9600 26.9650 to 27.4050...
  • Page 141 Range (MHz) 764.0000 to 775.9875 794.0000 to 805.9875 806.0000 to 823.9875 849.0125 to 868.9875 894.0125 to 956.0000 1240.0000 to 1300.0000 Sensitivity (nominal) 12dB SINAD : 0.4µV 25 - 27.995 MHz 0.3µV 28 - 53.98 MHz 0.7µV 54 - 71.95 MHz 0.3µV 72 - 75.995 MHz 0.6µV...
  • Page 142 Features, specifications, and availability of optional accessories are all subject to change without notice. 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.

  • Page 143: Reference

    Preset Fleet Maps Note: Size Codes in parenthesis indicates that the Size Code spans more than one block. 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...
  • Page 144 Preset Map 7 Block Size Code Size Code 10 Size Code 10 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Preset Map 9 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0...

  • Page 145: User Defined Fleet Maps

    Preset Map 15 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 0 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12) 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.

  • Page 146: Size Code Restrictions

    seems. Select a size code for a block, and then press Scan. Now listen to the communications. If you decide you are receiving most of the replies to the conversations with ID’s assigned to the block you just programmed, then you’ve probably selected the right size code and can work on the next block of the map.

  • Page 147: Index

    Agency Subfleet 28 Alert 14, 51 Channels 59 Dangerous Xing-Road 131 LED 51 Mute 42, 49, 51 Plus 16 POI 131 Tone 59 Antenna Antenna 20, 32, 34, 39, 46, 109, 136 Attenuator 49, 68, 75, 89,104, 106 Auto Store 14, 15, 107, 108, 109, 110, 116 Backlight 42, 51, 64 Band 109, 111, 115, 116, 125 BearTracker Options...
  • Page 148 EDACS trunking 28 FIPS area specific 17 GPS icon 49 Skip 14 State-by-state system 20 Technical systems 27 Wired clone transfer 15 Dimmer 64 DIN-E 14, 31, 32, 35, 36, 37 DOT 44, 48 Editing Alpha tag 94 Band Plan 90 Channel groups 85 Frequencies 62, 95 Name 61...
  • Page 149 NOAA 120-121 NOAA WX 115 POI 133, 134 Example 131 Location, Range 128 Only For 131 Setting 130 POL 3, 58 Police 48 Port 15, 46, 67, 70-71 Preprogrammed 58, 83, 101, 105, 120 Preset maps 143 Priority Channel 49 Plus 16 Scan 16, 49 WX 17...

  • Page 150: One-Year Limited Warranty

    (E) used in any conjunction with equipment or parts or as part of any system not manufactured by Uniden, or (F) installed or programmed by anyone other than as detailed by the Operating Guide for this product.
  • Page 151 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 152 UBZZ01336ZA(0)

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