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Uniden BCD396T Owner's Manual

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Revision 1; 031005
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BCD396T
OWNER'S
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  • Page 1 (INDICATES INFORMATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND/OR DELETION) Revision 1; 031005 OWNER’S MANUAL BCD396T OWNER’S MANUAL...

  • Page 2: Precautions

    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. ® ® Astro , DPL , Digital Private Line ® , PRIVACY PLUS ®...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Contents Contents Precautions 2 Contents 4 The FCC Wants You to Know 8 Scanning Legally 8 Introduction 10 Feature Highlights 11 About This Manual 16 Using the Multifunction Scroll Control 16 Entering Text 16 How the Scanner’s Controls Are Represented in This Manual 17 Understanding Scanning 19 Understanding the Scanner’s Memory 19 What is Scanning? 19...
  • Page 5 Viewing Memory Used 53 Viewing the Firmware Version 53 Adjusting the Key Beep 53 Locking/Unlocking the Keypad 53 Turning Power Save On or Off 54 Priority Scan 54 Other Settings 54 Using the Backlight 54 Setting the Audio AGC 55 Adjusting the Display Contrast 55 Initializing the Scanner’s Memory 55 Connecting Your Scanner to a Personal Computer 56...
  • Page 6 Setting Channel Priority (Conventional Channels Only) 85 Setting Channel Alert 85 Setting CTCSS/DCS (Conventional Channels Only) 86 Setting the System Frequency Modulation 87 Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only) 88 Setting the Frequency Step (Conventional Channels Only) 88 Setting Channel Lockout 89 Deleting Channels 89 Copying/Pasting Channels 90 Searching and Storing 91...
  • Page 7 Group Name and Quick Key 131 Frequency-Alpha Tag-Priority-CTCSS/DCS 131 Filling Out The Motorola Worksheet 131 System Name and Quick Key 131 System Type 132 System Frequencies 132 Fleet Map (Type I or Type I/Type II Hybrid Only) 132 Band Plan (VHF or UHF Only) 133 Group Name and Quick Key 133 Talk Group ID-Alpha Tag-Alert 133 Filling Out the LTR and EDACS Worksheet 133...

  • 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 • Telephone conversations (cellular, cordless, or other private means of telephone signal transmis- sion) • Pager transmissions • Any scrambled or encrypted transmissions 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 Your BCD396T scanner is a state-of-the-art scanner radio with TrunkTracker IV™ 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: 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 100 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...
  • Page 12 CTCSS and DCS Squelch Modes – prevent interference from stations not using the mode you select. Audio AGC – Helps automatically balance the volume level between different radio systems. Fire Tone-Out Standby – Lets you set the scanner to alert you if a two-tone sequential page is transmitted. You can set up to 10 settings (transmit frequency, tone frequencies) for standby monitoring.

  • Page 13: Trunk Tracking

    can select from 9 different tone patterns and also set the alert volume level independently from the main volume level. Automatic Channel Step – Accepts frequencies on any valid channel step, even if it does not fall within the band plan’s default step. Frequency Step –...

  • Page 14: Auto Store

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

  • Page 15: Pc Control And Cloning

    BCD396T scanner to another BCD396T scanner. On-Air Cloning – You can clone all programmed data over the air from one BCD396T scanner to another Feature Highlights...

  • Page 16: About This Manual

    Using the Multifunction Scroll Control The scroll control on top of the BCD396T lets you easily control channel selection, volume, and squelch, and how information appears on the display.

  • Page 17: How The Scanner's Controls Are Represented In This Manual

    /4 or rotate the scroll control to the left. To move the cursor to the right, hold the scroll control to the right. To clear a character, press No twice. To clear all characters, press No 3 times. To accept an entry, press down on the scroll control or press E.
  • Page 18 3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you have entered the system name. Then press down on the scroll control or press E to accept the setting. Hints: • Each system name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. •...

  • Page 19: Understanding Scanning

    ID’s. What is Scanning? Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most two- way communications do not transmit continuously. Your BCD396T scans programmed channels until it Understanding Scanning...

  • Page 20: What Is Searching

    What is Searching? The BCD396T 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 21 units, which transmit the correct tone along with their signal can “talk” to the repeater. CTCSS and DCS are also used in areas that receive interference where there are several stations with output frequencies close to each other. When this occurs, you might hear multiple communications on the same frequency.

  • Page 22: Conventional Scanning

    174 205 212 245 246 251 266 271 274 332 343 346 412 413 452 454 455 506 516 523 612 624 627 703 712 723 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).

  • Page 23: Simplex Operation

    Typical repeater systems provide coverage out to about a 25-mile radius from the repeater location. What is Trunk Tracking? Your BCD396T is designed to track the following types of trunking systems. • Motorola Astro (APCO 25) trunking systems. • Motorola Type I, Type II, Type IIi hybrid,...

  • Page 24: Trunked Scanning

    • The frequencies for many of the 800 MHz public safety systems are listed in the National Public Safety Trunked System Frequency Guide included with your BCD396T scanner. Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a frequency used by someone you want to monitor into your scanner’s memory.

  • Page 25: Types Of Trunking Systems

    Uniden’s invention of the TrunkTracker IV scanner. Not only does your BCD396T scan channels like a conventional scanner, it actually follows the users of a trunked radio system. Once you know a talk group’s ID, you won’t miss any of the action.
  • Page 26 many as 4 per system), plus one or more voice channels (typically 10, 20, or 28 total channels). When a user presses Push To Talk (PTT) to transmit, their radio first sends their talk group information to the control channel. The computer then assigns that talk group to a specific voice channel and transmits that data over the control channel.

  • Page 27: 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 BCD396T can monitor. Logical Channel Numbers – each frequency used by the system is assigned an LCN. This information is programmed into each user radio.

  • Page 28: Ltr Trunking

    Autonomous Trunking) systems operate on a single channel and alternate control data with analog voice traffic. While your BCD396T 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 29: I-Call (Motorola/Edacs)

    I-Call (Motorola/EDACS) I-calls are direct unit-to-unit transmissions that are not heard by other system users. Your BCD396T can receive I-call transmissions. See “Setting I-Call (Motorola Analog and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 77 for more information about monitoring I-call transmissions.
  • Page 30 US Government • http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BCD396T group for people interested in discussing the BCD396T. * - These web sites are not affiliated with Uniden Corporation. To purchase another copy of the conventional or trunking frequency guide, contact your local dealer or: Uniden Parts Department (800) 554-3988 (Hours are from 8:00 a.m.

  • Page 31: Included With Your Scanner

    Scanner (illus) Belt Clip Frequency Guide 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. Wrist Strap Batteries...

  • Page 32: Setting Up Your Scanner

    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 33 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 Batter- ies” on Page 34 when you use rechargeable batteries. 1.

  • Page 34: Using Rechargeable Batteries

    3. Replace the cover. (illus - show back of scanner with battery compartment in place) 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.

  • Page 35: 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, 800 mA AC adapter. To use the scanner on AC power, plug the AC adapter into a standard AC outlet.

  • Page 36: Connecting An Earphone/Headphone

    Connecting an Earphone/ Headphone For private listening, you can plug a 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 37: 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 Func press the key.
  • Page 38 Key Name 1-9, 0 1/Pri Description L/O – Lets you lock out a selected channel or skip a specified frequency. + L/O – Press quickly to lock Func and unlock a selected system in Scan or Scan Hold mode and review search lockout frequencies in Search or Search Hold mode.
  • Page 39 Key Name 2/Wx 7/Rcl No /Rev Description 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 40 Key Name E/Yes/Att Description E – Press to select input and menu items, to quickly edit a channel in Scan Hold Mode, and store a fre- quency into memory in Scan Hold mode. At a prompt, answers “Yes.” + Att – Turns the scanner’s Func attenuator on or off for the current channel (for conventional systems)

  • Page 41: A Look At The Display

    A Look At The Display (illus - show 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.

  • Page 42: Using Menu

    Using Menu Menu Press on the left side of the scanner to enter the Menu menu. See “Using the Menu” on Page 49 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 scanner, then press that key.

  • Page 43: Basic Operation

    LEVEL disappears. If this happens, simply press the scroll control again. Scanning Systems To begin scanning programmed systems, press Scan. The BCD396T scans all unlocked systems in all activated quick-key groups. (illus - show top of scanner) for about 2 seconds to turn on...

  • Page 44: Preprogrammed System Tips

    • The BCD396T scans a system for the duration you set using the System Hold Time option (see “Setting the System Hold Time” on Page 74). For...

  • Page 45: Selecting Systems To Scan

    You can scan preprogrammed systems more efficiently by preventing the BCD396T from scanning systems that are not in your area. There are three ways to do this: • Lock out the faraway systems (see “Locking/ Unlocking Systems” on Page 46).

  • Page 46: Locking/Unlocking Systems

    1. Press Func then rotate the scroll control to select the Func system). 2. Continue to hold corresponding to the channel group you want to activate or deactivate. Locking/Unlocking Systems Follow these steps to lock out a system so that it does not scan even if its quick key is selected.

  • Page 47: Temporarily Holding On A System

    • ID Scan – the scanner only stops on talk group ID’s that you have programmed into the system • ID Search – the scanner stops on any unlocked talk group that becomes active. To toggle between ID Scan and ID Search, press Scan while the scanner is scanning the system.

  • Page 48: 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 49: Using The Menu

    Using the Menu Using the Menu The scanner’s menu lets you select options that let you set up and use the scanner. To use the menu, press scanner. To select a menu item, rotate the scroll control clockwise or counterclockwise. The currently-selected menu item is highlighted with a bar on the display.
  • Page 50 Menu Item -- M E N U -- Srch/CloCall Opt Search for ... Close Call -- M E N U -- Search for ... Close Call Set Priority -- M E N U -- Close Call Set Priority WX Operation -- M E N U -- Set Priority WX Operation...

  • Page 51: Programming Systems Menu

    Programming Systems Menu This table shows the scanner’s systems menu structure. This menu lets you program new systems or change existing systems. To find information about a particular menu setting in this manual, go to the page number shown under or next to the setting. To use the systems menu, press press the scroll control.
  • Page 52 Menu/ Submenu Select Sys Type Conventional EDCS Srch/CloCall Op “Programming LTR Systems” on Page 69 Option Menu System 1 Edit Name Edit Sys Option Set Frequencies Srch/CloCall Opt Set Modulation Set Attenuator Edit Group Delete System Copy System (72) (73) (70) (64) (81)

  • Page 53: Other Settings

    Other Settings Other Settings Displaying System Information Viewing Memory Used Settings Menu See Scanner Info % 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 Settings Menu...

  • Page 54: Turning Power Save On Or Off

    Turning Power Save On or Off Settings Menu Set Battery Save • On The scanner goes into low-power mode when you monitor a conventional channel that has no activity. • Off Power save is off. Priority Scan Set Priority Menu Or, while holding on any channel, press to select one of these priority modes: •...

  • Page 55: Setting The Audio Agc

    • Keypress The backlight turns on when any key is pressed then stays on for 10 seconds. • Infinite The backlight turns on when you press then stays on until you press Pressing any key while the backlight is on extends the backlight period.

  • Page 56: Connecting Your Scanner To A Personal Computer

    Using the Cloning Options Lets you set your scanner as a master (source) or slave (recipient), letting you transfer programming to or from another BCD396T scanner. See “Wired Clon- ing” on Page 57 and “On-Air Cloning” on Page 58. Other Settings...

  • Page 57: Wired Cloning

    • Slave Sets the scanner to be the recipient scanner. To clone (copy) data directly from one BCD396T scanner to another BCD396T 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 58: On-Air Cloning

    • Set Modulation Lets you set the cloning broadcast’s modulation type. To clone (copy) data from a transceiver to a BCD396T scanner, you need a transceiver, a PC that has an audio input, and a cable to connect your PC’s sound card to the transceiver.

  • Page 59: Programming Radio Systems

    Programming Radio Systems Programming Radio Systems Your BCD396T 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 60: Programming Conventional Systems

    • Total channels are limited to about 5500. • Channels that have text tags use more memory than those that do not. If you use a text tag for every channel, total channels are reduced from 5500 (2500 is typical). Programming Conventional Systems Program System...

  • Page 61: Entering/Editing Conventional Channels

    Then, enter the channel and channel parameters in the group(s). Setting Up a Channel Group Program System Menu Select the system Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group n. n increments by one for each new group you create within a system.

  • Page 62: Programming Motorola Systems

    • See “Deleting Channels” on Page 89 • See “Copying/Pasting Channels” on Page 90 To create another channel group and enter more channels, press “Setting Up a Channel Group” on Page 61. Programming Motorola Systems Program System Menu New System Next, rotate the scroll control to select the type of Motorola system you want to program, then briefly press the scroll control to select it.

  • Page 63: Setting System Frequencies

    • See “Setting the Channel Delay Time” on Page 74 • See “Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 75 • See “Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only)” on Page 75 (must be set up for Type I systems) •...

  • Page 64: Setting Modulation

    To enter additional frequencies, press scroll control to select New Frequency, then repeat the above. Note: If you select Control Channel Only mode (see “Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only)” on Page 78), you only need to enter the frequency(s) that can be assigned as the control channel.

  • Page 65: Entering/Editing Motorola Channel Groups

    This setting controls whether the attenuator will be on or off for the current system. Select your setting then press the scroll control. Off - the attenuator is off. On - system frequencies are attenuated by about 18 Notes: • Turn on this setting if you are near strong signal sources.

  • Page 66: Entering/Editing Motorola Channels

    • See “Entering/Editing Motorola Channels” on Page 66 • See “Setting I-Call (Motorola Analog and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 77 Entering/Editing Motorola Channels Refer to the appropriate section to change a channel setting: • See “Setting the Digital Decode Threshold (Motor- ola and Conventional Systems Only)”...
  • Page 67 The scanner creates an empty EDACS system, with a default name of System n n is a number that increments as you add new systems. E indicates that this is an EDACS system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set system- wide options.

  • Page 68: Setting System Frequencies

    Setting System Frequencies Program System Menu Select the system Set Frequencies New Frequency Input a system frequency, then press the scroll control. The scanner then prompts you to enter the LCN for the entered frequency. Enter the LCN, then press the scroll control.

  • Page 69: Entering/Editing Edacs Channels

    • See “Deleting Groups” on Page 83 • See “Editing the Channel Name” on Page 84 • See “Setting Group Lockout” on Page 83 Entering/Editing EDACS Channels Refer to the appropriate section to change a channel setting: • See “Editing the Channel Name” on Page 84 •...

  • Page 70: Setting System Frequencies

    • See “Setting the Channel Delay Time” on Page 74 • See “Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 75 • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 104 • See “Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)” on Page 88 •...

  • Page 71: Entering/Editing Ltr Channels/Talkgroups

    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: • See “Entering/Editing the Group Name” on Page 82 •...

  • Page 72: Programming/Editing Optional Settings

    Programming/Editing Optional Settings tings Programming/Editing Optional Set- This section details the instructions for each of the optional programming steps referred to in “Program- ming Radio Systems” on Page 59. Use the instructions in the appropriate section to enter or edit a setting.

  • Page 73: Editing The System Quick Key

    • Press twice to delete the current character. • Press three times to clear the entire alpha tag. Editing the System Quick Key Program System Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Quick Key After selecting this option, select any number from 0-99 to assign the system to a quick key or press No to assign the system to no quick key, then press E.

  • Page 74: Setting The System Hold Time

    Note: You can also lock or unlock a system by press- , selecting the system, then pressing Func L/O. Setting the System Hold Time Program System Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Hold Time This setting controls how many seconds the scanner scans a system before moving to the next unlocked system.

  • Page 75: Setting Id Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only)

    Notes: • The default setting is 2 seconds for each system. • This setting applies to all channels within the system. Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only) Program System Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option ID Scan/Search This setting controls how the system will be scanned. Select your setting, then press E.

  • Page 76: Setting The Motorola Status Bit (Motorola Systems Only)

    Preset - select from the 16 most common fleet maps (see “Preset Fleet Maps” on Page 125). Press E to select. Custom - allows you to enter a custom fleet map. Enter the size code for each block. Press E to select. Notes: •...

  • Page 77: Setting The End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only)

    Setting the End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only) Program System Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Set End Code This setting determines how the scanner handles the transmission end code sent by most Motorola sys- tems. Select your setting then press E. Yes - the scanner immediately returns to the control channel when it detects the end code.

  • Page 78: Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola And Edacs Systems Only)

    Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) Program System Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Emergency Alert Off - the scanner does not alert you to emergency transmissions. Alert 1 - 9 the scanner sounds an alert beep to notify you of the emergency transmission.

  • Page 79: Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies

    Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies Program System Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Rvw ID: Srch L/O The scanner displays the first locked-out frequency and prompts you to unlock the frequency. Press E to unlock the frequency. Or, rotate the scroll control or press No to select a different frequency.

  • Page 80: Setting The Edacs Id Format (Edacs Systems Only)

    Auto - the scanner automatically adjusts the digital decode threshold to match the transmission you are hearing when it receives a strong signal and has a high decode rate. Manual - lets you manually adjust the digital decode threshold. Default - sets the digital decode threshold to the default value.

  • Page 81: Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only)

    Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only) Program System Menu Select the system Set Attenuator This setting controls whether the attenuator will be on or off for the current system. Select your setting then press E. Off - the attenuator is off. On - system frequencies are attenuated by about 18 Notes: •...

  • Page 82: Group-Level Settings

    Program System Menu Select the system Copy System New Sys Name? Enter a name for the copied system, then press E. Group-Level Settings The settings in this section apply to all of the channels stored in the current group. Entering/Editing the Group Name Program System Menu Select the system...

  • Page 83: Setting The Group Quick Key

    Setting the Group Quick Key Program System Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Set Quick Key After selecting this option, press 0-9 to assign the group to a quick key or press No to assign the system to no quick key, then press E.

  • Page 84: Channel-Level Settings

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

  • Page 85: Setting Channel Priority (Conventional Channels Only)

    • 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. • Press twice to delete the current character. • Press three times to clear the entire alpha tag.

  • Page 86: Setting Ctcss/Dcs (Conventional Channels Only)

    Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set Alert Off - the scanner does not alert you to emergency transmissions. Alert 1 - 9 the scanner sounds an alert beep to notify you of the emergency transmission. You can choose any of 9 different beep types.

  • Page 87: Setting The System Frequency Modulation

    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 88: Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)

    correct modulation type for the system you are programming. 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.

  • Page 89: Setting Channel Lockout

    Set Step 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 90: Copying/Pasting Channels

    Select the group 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 91: 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 92: Quick Search

    Notes: • If all frequencies in the search band you selected are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scanner does not search the band. • If the service you select uses channels (such as CB radio or marine), the scanner displays the service channel number.

  • Page 93: Custom Search

    Custom Search Custom Search lets you program and search 10 custom search ranges. You can search any of these ranges simultaneously and select each custom search range you set. During custom search, the scanner searches starting with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range.

  • Page 94: Editing A Custom Search Range

    Note: If all frequencies in all active custom search ranges are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scanner does not stop. Editing a Custom Search Range You can edit up to 10 custom search ranges. The names of the custom search ranges appear on the display.

  • Page 95: Editing A Service Search

    Set C-Ch Only - lets you search for a Motorola con- trol channel. If it finds one, the scanner scans the sys- tem. Adjust P25 Level - adjusts the digital decode threshold to match the transmission you are hearing when it receives a strong signal and has a high decode rate.
  • Page 96 1-5 sec The scanner waits the set amount of time after the transmission ends before resuming. Note: The default setting is 2 sec. • Set Attenuator This setting controls the attenuator for search operation. Select your setting, then press the scroll control. Off The attenuator is off.

  • Page 97: Auto Search And Store

    • For conventional systems, all unlocked channels will be scanned at least once regardless of this setting. • The scanner moves to the next system after the hold time expires, any current transmission ends, and the channel delay time expires. Auto Search and Store Your scanner’s Auto Store feature lets you search for new frequencies in custom search ranges or within a...

  • Page 98: Storing A Trunked System

    2. Turn the scroll control until the type of search you want appears, then press the scroll control to select it. A search band appears. If all systems are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scanner does not store any fre- quencies.
  • Page 99 When you select a search range, the scanner looks for active talk group ID’s within that range and ID Search and Store appears on the display’s lower line and the system name and search range name appear on the display’s upper line. When the scanner finds an active talk group ID, it checks if the talk group ID has already been stored in the system.

  • Page 100: Using The Close Call Feature

    Using the Close Call Feature Using the Close Call Feature Your scanner's Close Call 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 101: Setting Close Call Options

    Setting Close Call Options 1. Press Menu Call appears. Then press the scroll control. Close Call feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control to select an option. • Close Call Only: Lets you set the scanner only for Close Call searching. The scanner does not scan frequencies or channels when this option is turned on.

  • Page 102: Select Mode

    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 appears. Turn the scroll control to display an option, then press the scroll control.

  • Page 103: 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 MHz) VHF Low 2 (54.0000 MHz) Air Band (108.0000 - 136.9750 MHz) VHF High1 (137.0000 MHz) VHF High2 (224.9950 MHz) UHF (400.0000 - 512.0000 MHz) 800MHz+ (806.0000 - 956.0000 MHz)

  • Page 104: 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 105: Screening Out Broadcast Sources

    Off The scanner does not search for subaudible tones. On The scanner searches for and displays any subaudible tone found. Note: This feature does not operate when the scanner is in AM modulation mode. Screening Out Broadcast Sources Menu Broadcast Screen This setting determines whether the scanner automatically ignores transmissions found during searching or Close Call operation that are on common...

  • Page 106: Finding Repeater Output Frequencies

    • NOAA WX - the scanner skips known NOAA weather frequencies. • Band 1-10 - select the band where you want to screen out broadcast sources. Program Band - lets you program a specific band for broadcast screen. Turn the scroll control to select an option then press the scroll control to change the setting.

  • Page 107: Setting The Maximum Auto Store Value

    Off The scanner does not try to find the output frequency. Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value Menu Max Auto Store This value sets how many hits the scanner will automatically store when it is in either Search and Store or Close Call Auto Store mode. Use the number keys to enter a value from 1 - 256, then press the scroll control.

  • Page 108: Setting Data Skip

    This setting controls the attenuator for quick search and Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press the scroll control. 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 109: 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 the scroll control. Off 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 110: 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 111: Setting Tone-Out Standby

    You need tone-out setup information from the agency you want to be alerted for or from online sources. Uniden America Corporation does not have information for local tone-out systems. Setting Tone-Out Standby Menu Tone-Out Standby Turn the scroll control until the tone-out standby mode you want to select appears.

  • Page 112: Turning Weather Alert On/Off

    • Set Tone Lets you set the tone-out type. Edit Tone A - Enter the frequency (in Hz) for Tone A Edit Duration A - Enter the duration (in ns) for Duration A. 500 ns is the default. Edit Tone B - Enter the frequency (in Hz) for Tone B Edit Duration B - Enter the duration (in ns) for Duration B.

  • Page 113: Programming A Same Group

    All FIPS - the scanner alerts and displays information about the weather alert when it receives any FIPS code (see “Programming a SAME Group” on Page 113). 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 114: Setting Wx Alert Priority

    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”. Menu Program SAME Select the SAME group to edit Edit Name - enter the name you want to assign to the SAME group you selected.

  • Page 115: Care And Maintenance

    Care and Maintenance Care and Mainte- nance 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. •...

  • Page 116: 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 techni- cian. 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 117: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Troubleshooting If your BCD396T is not performing properly, try these steps. Problem Possible Cause The scanner might scanner not be receiving doesn’t any power. work. Improper The antenna reception. might need to be adjusted. Scan The squelch might won’t need to be stop.
  • Page 118 The squelch might need to be adjusted. One or more channels might be locked out. The antenna might need to be adjusted. Weather The squelch might scan need to be doesn’t adjusted. work. The antenna might need to be adjusted. There might not be a NOAA weather broadcast...
  • Page 119 Scanner The system you won’t are trying to scan track a might be LTR or trunked EDACS. system. (continued) Scanner No ID’s have been won’t stop programmed. scanning a trunked system. The ID’s you have stored are not active. Scanner The squelch might won’t need to be...
  • Page 120 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 Divi- sion. 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 121: 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: up to 2500 Channels per Trunked System: up to 200 Attenuation: 18 dB (nominal), 10 dB (limit) Frequency Range (MHz):...
  • Page 122 806.0 - 823.9875 Public Service Band 849.0125 - 868.9875 Public Service Band 894.0125 - 956.0 Public Service Band Above bands in 12.5 kHz steps 28.0 - 29.680 10 Meter Amateur Band 50.0 - 54.0 6 Meter Amateur Band 216.0 - 224.980 1.25 Meter Amateur Band Above bands in 20 kHz steps 108.0 - 136.9750 Aircraft 1240.0 - 1300.0 25 cm Amateur Band...
  • Page 123 External Jacks: Antenna Jack SMA Type Ext. Speaker Jack 3.5mm DC Power Jack (EIAJ TYPE-2 Center Positive) 5.5mm Remote Jack 4 Pin Mini Size: 2.72 in. (W) x 1.26 in. (D) x 4.6 in. (H) Weight: 0.48 lbs Features, specifications, and availability of optional accessories are all subject to change without notice.

  • Page 124: 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 Betty Bearcat Frequency Directory/...

  • Page 125: Appendix

    Appendix Preset Fleet Maps Preset Map 1Preset Map 2 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 3Preset Map 4 Block Size Code Size Code 4...
  • Page 126 Preset Map 9Preset Map 10 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Preset Map 11Preset Map 12 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0...

  • Page 127: 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 128: 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 conversa- tions with ID’s assigned to the block you just pro- grammed, then you’ve probably selected the right size code and can work on the next block of the map.

  • Page 129: Planning

    Planning Collecting Information Getting your scanner programmed and scanning takes a few steps. This help guides 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. Do you want to listen to your local police and fire departments? How about the highway patrol, ambulance service, and aircraft? You...
  • Page 130 • 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 131: Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet

    Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to create. For example, you can enter "Dallas Police" or "Amateur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed."...

  • Page 132: System Type

    Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems. System Type Circle in the type of Motorola system you are scan- ning. • Type 1. A fleet map is supplied for this type of system.

  • Page 133: Band Plan (Vhf Or Uhf Only)

    Band Plan (VHF or UHF Only) A band plan is required so the scanner can correctly determine the voice channel frequency. Fill in the band plan used by this agency, consisting of: • Base frequency • Step frequency • Channel offset You can enter up to three band plans.

  • Page 134: System Frequencies And Lcn

    Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems. System Frequencies and LCN Fill in each system frequency and its associated Logi- cal Channel Number (LCN). Group Name and Quick Key Each “LTR/EDACS System Worksheet 2”...

  • Page 135: Conventional System Worksheet

    Conventional System Worksheet Conve ntiona l S yste m W orkshe e t S y s tem Nam e S y s tem Quic k K ey Frequenc y A lpha Tag G roup Nam e G roup Q uic k K ey P riority CTCS S /DCS Planning...

  • Page 136: Motorola System Worksheet

    Motorola System Worksheet Motorola System W orksheet 1 System Name System Quick Key System Frequencies Type I Type II 800 MHz: Standard Splinter Type II UHF Type II VHF Fleet Map Block 0 Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4 Block 5 Block 6 Block 7...
  • Page 137 Motorola System Worksheet 2 System Name Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Group Name Group Quick Key Alert Planning...

  • Page 138: Ltr/Edacs System Worksheet

    LTR/EDACS System Worksheet LTR/EDACS System Worksheet 1 System Name System Quick Key System Frequency Logical Channel Planning...
  • Page 139 LTR/EDACS System W orkshee t 2 System Name System Quick Key Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Group Name Group Quick Key Alert Planning...

  • Page 140: Preprogrammed Systems

    Page 81. • Data used for the preprogrammed information was supplied courtesy of http://www.radioreference.com , the Internet’s premier scanning resource (RadioReference is not affiliated with Uniden America Corporation). Func , rotate the scroll Func , press L/O to lock...
  • Page 141 State County Arizona Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa Arizona Maricopa California California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California Alameda California...
  • Page 142 California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles State County California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California...
  • Page 143 California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California Angeles California...
  • Page 144 California Angeles California Angeles California Orange California Orange California Orange California Orange California Orange California Orange California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside State County California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California Riverside California...
  • Page 145 California Bernadino Redlands California Bernadino Rialto California Bernadino San Bernadino California Bernadino Twin Peaks California Bernadino Upland California Bernadino Wrightwood California Bernadino Yucaipa California San Diego Camp Pendalton California San Diego Del Mar California San Diego Escondido State County California San Diego Inland California San Diego Monte Vista...
  • Page 146 Florida Broward Florida Broward Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Florida Dade Illinois Illinois Cook Illinois Cook State County Illinois Cook...
  • Page 147 Michigan Wayne Michigan Wayne Michigan Wayne Michigan Wayne Michigan Wayne Nevada Nevada Clark Nevada Clark Nevada Clark Nevada Clark New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York...
  • Page 148 Ohio Cuyahoga Brookpark Ohio Cuyahoga Chagrin Falls Ohio Cuyahoga Cleveland Heights Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga Cuyahoga Ohio Cuyahoga Cuyahoga Heights Cuyahoga Conv Ohio Cuyahoga East Cleveland Ohio Cuyahoga Euclid Ohio Cuyahoga Fairview Park Ohio Cuyahoga Garfield Heights Ohio Cuyahoga Gates Mills Ohio Cuyahoga Glenwillow Ohio...
  • Page 149 Ohio Cuyahoga Woodmere Pennsylvania Philadlphia Temple PD Pennsylvania Texas Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Bexar Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas Texas Dallas...
  • Page 150 Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Harris Texas Tarrant Texas Tarrant Texas...
  • Page 151 Texas Tarrant Washington Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King Washington King...

  • Page 152: 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.
  • Page 153 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 156 REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! THANK YOU FOR BUYING A UNIDEN PRODUCT. May be covered under one or more of the following U.S. patents. 4,398,304 4,409,688 4,455,679 4,461,036 4,627,100 4,841,302 4,888,815 4,932,074 5,199,109 5,408,692 5,428,826 5,438,688 5,471,660 5,483,684 5,530,296 5,548,832 5,577,076 5,598,430...

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