Uniden BC785D User Manual

4 (1)
Uniden BC785D User Manual

Contents

 

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.1

Front and Rear View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.2

BC785D SHORTCUTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.4

Important Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.6

Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.7

What is Scanning? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.7

What is Searching? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.7

What is Trunk Tracking? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.7

What is APCO Project 25 Digital Communications ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.8

Feature Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.9

Where to Obtain More Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10

Information on the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10

Included with Your Scanner Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11

Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12

Connecting an Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12

Mounting an Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12

Optional Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12

Typical Mounting Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13

Mounting the Scanner in Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13

Applying Power for Vehicle Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14

Desktop Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15

Applying Power Using Standard AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15

Connecting an External Speaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15

Connecting an Earphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15

Listening Safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16

Connecting the Clone Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16

Connecting the Tape Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16

Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17

Turn the Scanner On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17

Setting the Squelch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17

Understanding the Menu System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

18

Menu Description and Numeric Keypad Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

19

Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

26

Storing Frequencies into Channels in Menu Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

26

Deleting a Stored Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

27

Editing a Stored Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

27

Duplicate Frequency Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

27

Transfer Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28

Storing Text Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28

Beep Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

29

Programming Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

29

Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

30

Scan Hold Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

30

Storing Frequency During Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

31

RF Attenuation Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

31

Setting the Delay Mode for Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

31

Channel Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

32

Restoring a Locked-out Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33

Restoring All Locked-out Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33

Priority Scan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34

Changing the Priority Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34

Prioroty Channel Plus Scan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

35

Searching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36

Setting a Search Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36

Starting Chain Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

37

Search Hold Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

37

Data Skip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

37

Frequency Skip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38

Storing Search Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38

Auto Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

39

iii

Squelch (SQ) Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

39

Additional Menu Options for Searching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

41

Service Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

42

Service Search Skip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

43

NWR-SAME Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

43

Testing the Alert Siren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44

Programming FIPS Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44

Digital and Trunked Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

45

Programming and Receiving Digital and Trunked Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46

STEP 1: Selecting or Changing Trunking System Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46

STEP 2: Programming Trunking Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

47

STEP 3: Programming ID Scan Lists Manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

48

Scan Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

48

Setting the Squelch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

50

Receiving Trunked Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

50

ID Scan Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51

ID Scan Hold Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51

Trunked Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51

ID Monitor Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

ID Search Hold and Direct Entry ID Hold Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

ID Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

Review ID Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

53

Restoring Locked-out IDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

53

Setting the Delay Mode for Trunking Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

54

Setting Priority in Trunking Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

54

Programming Scan Lists During Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

54

Deleting a Stored ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

55

Moving between Scan List Memories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

55

I-Call (Motorola/EDACS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

55

Multi-Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56

EDACS Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

58

EDACS Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

58

Programming EDACS System Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

58

An EDACS Trunked system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59

Special EDACS Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59

EDACS SCAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

61

LTR Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

62

LTR Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

62

Motorola Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

63

Motorola Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

63

Fleet Map Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

64

Selecting Preset Fleet Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

64

Programming a Fleet Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

64

Programming a Hybrid System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

65

Setting the Base, Spacing Frequencies and Offset Channel for

 

Motorola VHF/UHF Trunked Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

65

Toggling the Status Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

66

Control Channel Only Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

66

Disconnect Tone Detect Option (End Code) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

67

APCO Project 25 Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

68

Installing the APCO P-25 Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

68

Precautions for Iistalling the BCi25D Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

69

Turn ON/OFF the APCO P-25 Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

69

APCO P-25 Sound Quality Fine Tuning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

70

Remote Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

72

PC Control Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

72

Clone Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

73

Additional Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

76

Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

78

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

79

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

81

Glossary of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

82

Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

85

One Year Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

95

iv

Introduction

The BC785D is a state-of-the-art Digital Capable radio with TrunkTracker III and automatic scanning capabilities. It can store frequencies such as police, fire/emergency, marine, railroad, air, amateur, and other communications into 10 banks of 100 channels for a total of 1000 channels.

With the optional BCi25D, APCO P-25 Digital Card installed you can monitor Public Safety Organizations who currently use conventional, Trunked at 3600 and Mixed Mode APCO 25 systems.

Use your new scanner to monitor:

Police and Fire Departments (including rescue and paramedics)

Trunking for: Motorola

Type I Type II

Type I & II: (Hybrid) EDACS

Wide band Narrow band Scat

LTR

Digital Communication for: APCO Project 25

Conventional Tranked at 3600 Mixed Mode at 3600

NOAA Weather Broadcasts

Business/Industrial Radio

Utilities

Marine and Amateur (ham radio) Bands

Air Band

And much more...

The chart below identifies the scanner band numbers, the frequency range, the modulation mode and the default step size settings.

Band

Frequency Range

Mode

Step

Band

Frequency Range

Mode

Step

No.

(MHz)

 

(kHz)

No.

(MHz)

 

(kHz)

1

25.0000

- 26.9600

AM

5

15

162.0000

- 173.9875

FM

12.5

2

26.9650

- 27.4050

AM

5

16

174.0000

- 215.9500

WFM

50

3

27.4100

- 27.9950

AM

5

17

216.0000

- 224.9950

FM

5

4

28.0000

- 29.6900

FM

10

18

225.0000

- 399.9500

AM

50

5

29.7000

- 49.9900

FM

10

19

400.0000

- 405.9875

NFM

12.5

6

50.0000

- 53.9900

FM

10

20

406.0000

- 419.9875

NFM

12.5

7

54.0000

- 71.9500

WFM

50

21

420.0000

- 449.9875

NFM

12.5

8

72.0000

- 75.9950

FM

5

22

450.0000

- 469.9875

NFM

12.5

9

76.0000

- 87.9500

WFM

50

23

470.0000

- 512.0000

NFM

12.5

10

88.0000 - 107.9000

WFM

100

24

806.0000

- 823.9875

NFM

12.5

11

108.0000

- 136.9750

AM

25

25

849.0125

- 868.9875

NFM

12.5

12

137.0000

- 143.9950

FM

5

26

894.0125

- 956.0000

NFM

12.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

144.0000

- 147.9950

FM

5

27

1240.0000

- 1300.0000

NFM

12.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14

148.0000

- 161.9950

FM

5

 

 

 

 

 

1

Front and Rear View

3

4

5

6

7

8

VOLUME

 

SCAN

 

1

SRVC

MODE

 

 

SQUELCH

 

 

CHAN/FREQ

 

 

SRCH

 

2

MENU

BC785D

 

digital ready

BACK

VFO/SELECT PUSH

9 10

1.Volume/Squelch Control

2.VFO/Select Channel/Frequency Control

3.Scan Key (SCAN)

4.Service Key (SRVC)

5.Display

6.Resume Key ( RSM )

7.Hold/Up/Manual Key (▲/HOLD)

8.Numeric Keypad

9.Menu/Bank Key (MENU)

 

MANUAL

1-100

101-200

201-300

 

2

 

3

 

1

 

 

HOLD

301-400

401-500

501-600

 

4

5

 

6

 

RSM

601-700

701-800

801-900

 

7

8

 

9

 

LIMIT

RVRS

901-1000

SELECT

1000

 

0

 

E

TRUNK

PRI

TRNFR

CHANNEL

L/O

MUTE

1112 13 14 15 16 17

10.Search Key (SRCH)

11.Limit/Down Key (LIMIT/▼)

12.Trunk Key (TRUNK)

13.Decimal/Reverse Key ( )

14.Lockout Key (L/O)

15.Priority Key (PRI)

16.Transfer/Mute Key (TRNFR)

17.Enter/Select Key (E)

33

34

35

36

37

 

 

 

EXPANSION SLOT

38

 

 

 

 

33.

Antenna Connector

35.

External Speaker Jack

 

34.

Tape Recorder Output Jack

36.

DC Power Jack

 

 

 

37.

Remote Control Terminal

 

 

38.

Expansion Slot

 

2

ICON

DESCRIPTION

PPriority Channel Indicator

L/O

Lock Out Mode Indicator

 

Scan/Search Direction Indicator

SRCH

Chain Search Mode Indicator

SRVC

Service Search Mode Indicator

SCAN

Scan Mode Indicator

ID SCAN

ID Scan Mode Indicator

ID SEARCH

ID Search Mode Indicator

C

Channel Type Indicator

 

Conventional Type

Trunk Type

MMorola Tracking Type

LLTR Tracking Type

EEDACS Tracking Type

P25

Digital Communications

 

 

 

 

 

 

P25: APCO Project 25

AM,FM

Receiving Mode Indicators

WFM,NFM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signal Meter

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uniden® and Bearcat® are registered trademarks of Uniden America Corporation.

TrunkTracker is a proprietary trademark of Uniden America Corporation.

3

BC785D SHORTCUTS

MENU

3

2

1

MENU

3

1

1

MENU

3

3

2

MENU

3

1

2

neat entry programming.

MENU

3

4

1

reenter

SCAN

/HOLD

5

/HOLD

1

5

5

.

 

E

MENU

2

1

E

4

1

MENU

3

9

1

then by rotating the VFO control to enter the text and using ▲/HOLD or LIMIT/▼ to the move cursor.

After the text is entered, press E

MENU

2

2

E

3

select

ID MEMORY

E

4

1

This shortcut card is designed to assist you in getting through the menu screens using the direct entry mode for commonly used features. Please read the manual thoroughly before using this card. Be sure to back out of the menu screen after each shortcut by repeatedly pressing MENU or by pressing SCAN or SRCH keys.

4

BC785D SHORTCUTS

MENU

1

7 1

CHAIN

SEARCH E

select

bank SRCH

To set up a system for trunk tracking, select a bank, then enter the trunk type.

MENU

2

2

E

1

 

Then enter the trunk type you want to track. Press E .

MENU

1

CHAIN

 

SEARCH

 

E

2

select

E

range

1

 

 

 

E

after each Frequency

entered. To begin Searching between the Range, press SRCH .

MENU

1

CHAIN

E

SEARCH

2

select

E

4

range

Rotate the VFO control to enter the tag and use ▲/HOLD or LIMIT/▼ to move the cursor forward or back and then press E .

MENU

2

1

E

5

1

To silence the scanner's audio output, set the scanner to "Mute On".

Press and hold MUTE .

MENU

2

1

E

1

E

Rotate the VFO control to enter the tag and use ▲/HOLD or LIMIT/▼ to move the cursor and then press E .

To program and control your scanner remotely from a PC using Uniden’s E-Scanner third party software, do the following:

Press MENU

3

5

select

speed

 

 

 

If you need any assistance with this product, please call our Customer Service Hotline at 1-800-297-1023. A Uniden representative will be happy to help you with any matters regarding the operation of this unit, available accessories, or any other related matters. Hours: M-F 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central time.

Also please check out our website at scanner.uniden.com

5

Important Notice

This scanning radio has been manufactured so that it will not tune radio frequencies assigned by the FCC for cellular telephone usage. The Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986, as amended, makes it a federal crime to intentionally intercept cellular or cordless telephone transmissions or to market this radio when altered to receive them.

The installation, possession, or use of this scanning radio in a motor vehicle may be prohibited, regulated, or require a permit in certain states, cities, and/or local jurisdictions. Your local law enforcement officials should be able to provide you with information regarding the laws in your community.

Changes or modifications to this product are strictly prohibited or operation of this product in any way other than as detailed by this Owner’s manual. Could void your authority to operate this product.

The screen displays used in this manual are representations of what might appear when you use your scanner.

6

Terminology

What is Scanning?

Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most two-way communications do not transmit continuously. The BC785D scans the Frequencies you have programmed into the Scanner’s channels you program until it finds an active frequency.

Scanning stops on an active frequency and remains on that channel as long as the transmission continues. When the transmission ends, the scanning cycle resumes until another transmission is received.

What is Searching?

The BC785D can search each of its 27 bands to find active frequencies. This is different from scanning because you are searching for frequencies that have not been programmed into your Scanner’s channels. The scanner automatically chooses between two speeds while searching. Turbo Search, can search the VHF FM bands at up to 300 steps per second.

What is Trunk Tracking?

Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a radio frequency in your scanner’s memory which is used by someone you want to monitor. For example, the police in your area may broadcast on 460.500 MHz, the fire department on 154.445 MHz, the highway department on 37.900 MHz, etc. So when your scanner stops on a frequency, you usually know who it is, and more importantly, you can stop on a channel and listen to an entire conversation. This type of scanning is easy and fun.

As the demand for public communications has increased, many public radio users don't have enough frequencies to meet their needs, and this has created a serious problem. Trunking radio systems solve this problem.

In a trunked radio system, which contains up to 28 different frequencies, radio users are divided into groups, often called talkgroups, and these talkgroups are assigned specific IDs. When someone in a talkgroup uses their radio, a brief burst of data is broadcasted before each transmission. The trunking system computer uses this data to temporarily assign each radio in a talkgroup to an available frequency. If the group using a frequency stops broadcasting or pauses between replies for a few seconds, they are removed from the frequency so another talkgroup can use it.

Sharing of the available public service frequencies, or trunking, allows cities, counties, or other agencies to accommodate hundreds of users with relatively few frequencies. Following a conversation on a trunked system using a scanner is difficult, if not impossible. Because when there's a short break during the conversation you're monitoring, it’s possible that the talkgroup will be assigned to a completely different frequency in the trunked system. This type of scanning is difficult and frustrating.

7

TrunkTracker III changes this! Not only does your new BC785D scan channels like a conventional scanner, it actually follows the users of a trunked radio system. Once you know a talkgroups ID, you won’t miss any of the action.

If you're a new scanner enthusiast, you may want to read the first part of this manual and use your scanner in conventional mode before you begin trunk tracking. Understanding scanning fundamentals and its terminology will make trunk tracking much easier. A glossary of other commonly used terms is provided in the back. (Refer to the "Glossary of Terms" section.) But if you're already an experienced scanner operator, you may want to skip to Programming and Receiving Digital and Trunked Systems on page 46.

What is APCO Project 25 Digital Communications?

APCO Project 25 is a modulation process where voice communications are converted into digital communications. This conversion is similar to the technology used with digital mobile phones. There are several types of project 25 systems available!

-Conventional – one frequency with digital voice.

-Trunked with analog control channel and digital voice – control channel operates at 3600 Baud.

-Mixed Mode – trunked system with an analog control channel alternating/mixing analog and digital voice communications.

-Trunked with digital control channel and digital voice. Control channel operates at 9600 Baud. (This type of APCO P-25 System is not supported with this radio.)

8

Feature Highlights

Trunk Tracking – Follow VHF High Band UHF 800/900MHz trunked public safety and public service systems just as if conventional two-way communications were used.

Digital Capable – With the APCO 25 Digital card (BCi25D) installed, you can monitor supported project 25 systems.

Multi-Track – Track more than one trunking system at a time. Scan conventional and trunked systems at the same time.

1000 Channels – Program one frequency into each channel. You must have at least one channel programmed to use the Scan mode.

27 Bands – Includes 27 bands, with aircraft and 800 MHz.

10 Banks – 10 banks with 100 channels each are useful for storing similar frequencies to maintain faster scanning cycles or for storing all the frequencies of a trunked system.

25 MHz-1300 MHz – Indicates the range of frequencies that can be searched within the bands of your scanner.

Note: The frequency coverage is not continuous and excludes the cellular band, 512-806MHz.

10 Priority Channels – You can assign one priority channel in each bank. Assigning a priority channel allows you to keep track of activity on your most important channel(s) while monitoring other channels for transmissions. You can also assign trunking priority talkgroups.

Priority Plus Scan – Allows you to scan only priority channels.

Preprogrammed Service – Allows you to toggle through preprogrammed public safety, news media, TV broadcast audio, Ham, CB, FRS, special low power, railroad, aircraft, marine, racing, and weather frequencies.

Unique Data Skip – Allows your scanner to skip unwanted data transmissions and reduces birdies.

Memory Backup – If power is disconnected, the frequencies programmed in your scanner are retained in memory.

Direct Channel Access – Go directly to any channel without entering the Menu mode.

Attenuator – Reduces the signal strength on a per frequency basis.

PC Programmable – Allows you to easily program all frequencies and Trunking Talk Groups into your BC785D through Uniden E-Scanner software running on your PC.

For more information on E-Scanner Programming software visit our website at scanner.uniden.com.

Turbo Search – Increases the search speed to 300 steps per second. This applies only to transmission bands with 5 kHz steps.

Text Tags – You can customize your scanner by storing text tags (up to 16 characters).

Auto Store – The scanner automatically stores found active frequencies into an assigned bank.

CTCSS/DCS – The scanner can receive and search for subaudible tones.

NWR-SAME Alert – The scanner is compatible with warning siren and message transmissions.

FIPS Code – Six digit FIPS Code (emergency and geographic area code) programmable.

9

Where to Obtain More Information

Before using your scanner, you must program frequencies into available channels. The Betty Bearcat Frequency Guide lists typical frequencies used around the U.S.A. and Canada that you may program into your new scanner.

To obtain frequency information for your area, contact one of the following:

Bearcat Frequency Hotline

(937)299-0414 (Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday.)

Bearcat Radio Club

(800)423-1331 (Hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday.)

Scanner Master

(800)722-6701 (Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday.)

To obtain another copy of the frequency guide, contact one of the following:

Uniden Parts Department

(800) 554-3988 (Hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time Monday through Friday.)

Local Dealer

Information on the Internet

If you have access to the internet, you may want to visit one of the following websites for additional information:

scanner.uniden.com

www.bearcat1.com

10

Included with Your Scanner Package

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.

BC785D Scanner

AC Adapter (AD 580D)

Cigarette Cord

DC Cord

Mounting Bracket

Telescopic Antenna

Operating Guide

Trunk Tracker Frequency Guide

Other Printed Material

E-Scanner Programming Software CD-ROM

Screwdriver

11

Setup

Connecting an Antenna

You must install an antenna before you can operate the scanner. You have been provided a standard telescopic antenna that works well with this scanner, but you may want to purchases another type to increase the range. To connect the telescopic antenna, simply connect it to the BNC type ANT. connector on the rear of the scanner. You can purchase a variety of scanner antennas for both mobile and base station available at a local electronics store. Choose the one that best meets your needs.

When deciding on a mobile or base station antenna and its location, consider these points.

The antenna should be as high as possible on a vehicle or a house.

The antenna and its cable should be as far as possible from sources of electrical noise (ignition systems, gauges, and so on).

The antenna should be vertical for the best performance.

Mounting an Antenna

Once you choose an antenna, follow the mounting instructions supplied with the antenna. Then route the antenna cable to the scanner.

The antenna connector on your scanner makes it easy to use the scanner with a variety of antennas, such as an external mobile antenna or an outdoor base station antenna.

Always use 50 ohm coaxial cable, such as RG-58 or RG-8, to connect an outdoor antenna. For lengths over 50 feet, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric coaxial cable If your antenna’s cable does not have a BNC connector, you will also need a BNC adapter (available at a local electronics store).

Follow the Installation instructions supplied with the antenna, route the antenna cable to the scanner, then connect it to the ANT. jack.

Warning: Use extreme caution when you install or remove an outdoor antenna. If the antenna starts to fall, let it go! It could contact overhead power lines. If the antenna touches a power line, contact with the antenna, mast, cable, or guy wires can cause electrocution and death. Call the power company to remove the antenna. DO NOT attempt to do it yourself.

Optional Antenna

If you have chosen an optional mobile antenna, connect the antenna plug into the ANT. connector on the rear of the scanner. (For more information on antenna installation, please refer to the instruction guide that came with your antenna.)

12

Typical Mounting Methods

The BC785D can be conveniently mounted on a table, bulkhead, overhead, or any other desired location (refer to figure below for typical mounting methods).

Caution: Make sure there are no hidden electrical wires or other items behind the desired location before proceeding. Check that free access for mounting and cabling

is available.

• Table top mount

• Bulkhead mount

• Overhead mount

Mounting the Scanner in Your Vehicle

Before you mount the scanner, make sure you have all the necessary materials. Then confirm that the scanner fits your vehicle’s mounting area. This unit requires a mounting area of 2-3/8 inch high by 6-15/16 inch wide by 6-9/16 inch deep (61 x 176.5 x 167 mm).

Caution: Be sure to avoid obstructions behind the mounting surface.

Follow these steps to mount the scanner in your vehicle.

1. Choose a mounting location, then use the supplied mounting bracket as a template to mark the positions for the mounting screw holes.

2. In the marked positions, drill holes slightly smaller than the supplied screws.

3. Attach the mounting bracket to the mounting location using the supplied screws and lock washers.

4. Attach the scanner to the mounting bracket using the supplied mounting knobs.

5. Connect the antenna’s cable to the ANT. connector on the back of the scanner.

Note: If the antenna cable’s connector does not fit in the ANT. connector, you might also need a Motorola-to BNC antenna plug adapter (available at a local

electronics store).

13

Applying Power for Vehicle Installation

You can power your scanner using either the supplied DC power cord or your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket using DC cigarette lighter power cord.

Caution: You must use a power source that supplies 13.8 V DC and delivers at least 700 mA. Your standard 12 V car battery should be sufficient. The cord connector’s center tip must be set to positive and its plug must fit the scanner’s

DC 13.8 V jack. The supplied DC power cord meets these specifications. Using a power cord that does not meet these specifications could damage the scanner or the adapter.

Always connect the adapter or DC power cord to the scanner before you connect it to the power source. When you finish, disconnect the adapter or DC power cord from the power source before you disconnect it from the scanner.

• For added safety and to protect your scanner, disconnect the cable from your vehicle battery’s negative (-) terminal before you begin.

Follow these steps to connect the supplied DC power cord.

1.Connect the power cord’s black wire to a chassis ground, such as a metal screw attached to a metal part of the vehicle’s frame. Be sure that the screw is not insulated from the frame by a plastic part.

2. Connect the power cord’s red wire (with in-line fuse) to a source of voltage that turns on and off with the ignition switch, such as a spare accessory terminal in your vehicle’s fuse box.

3. Insert the power cord’s barrel plug into the DC 13.8 V jack on the back of the scanner.

4. Reconnect the cable to the vehicle battery’s negative (-) terminal.

To power the scanner from a vehicle’s 12 V power source (such as a cigarette-lighter socket), you need a cigarette-lighter adapter.

To connect an optional DC cigarette-lighter power cable, insert its barrel plug into the DC 13.8 V jack on the back of the scanner, then plug the power cable into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket.

Note: If you use a cigarette-lighter power cable and your vehicle’s engine is running, you might hear electrical noise from the engine while scanning. This is normal.

14

Desktop Installation

You can place this scanner on a desk, shelf, or table to use it as a base station.

1. Flip up the feet for desk installation.

2. Extend the antenna to full vertical position. Adjust the angle for best reception.

Applying Power Using Standard AC Power

To power the scanner from an AC outlet, use the provided AC adapter with a 5.5 mm outer diameter/2.1mm inner diameter tip.

Caution: You must use a Class 2 power source that supplies 13.8 V DC and delivers at least 700 mA. The cord connector’s center tip must be set to positive and its plug must fit the scanner’s DC 13.8 V jack. Using an adapter that does not meet these specifications could damage the scanner or the adapter.

Always connect the AC adapter to the scanner before you connect it to AC power. When you finish, disconnect the adapter from the AC power before you disconnect it from

the scanner.

1.Insert the adapter’s barrel plug into the DC 13.8 V jack on the back of the scanner.

2.Plug the adapter into a standard AC outlet.

Note: Use only the AC adapter supplied with your scanner.

13.

8V

 

Connecting an External Speaker

In a noisy area, an external speaker (available at a local electronics store) positioned in the right place might provide more comfortable listening.

Plug the speaker cable’s 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) plug into your scanner’s EXT. SP. jack.

Note: Connecting an external speaker disconnects the scanner’s internal speaker.

Connecting an Earphone

For private listening, you can connect an earphone with a 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) plug to the

EXT. SP. jack on the back of the scanner. Be very careful as damage to your hearing can result if the VOLUME control is not set to the lowest level first. See below for "Listening Safely" instructions. (Your local electronics store should carry a wide selection of earphones.) Once the earphone is connected, it will automatically disconnects the internal speaker.

15

Listening Safely

To protect your hearing, follow these guidelines when you use an earphone or headphones.

Do not use the earphone to listen to the WX alert siren test. The volume is not adjustable and damage to your hearing could occur.

Do not listen at extremely high volume levels. Extended high volume listening can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Set the VOLUME to the lowest setting before you begin listening. After you begin listening, adjust the VOLUME to a comfortable level.

Once you set the VOLUME, do not increase it. Over time, your ears adapt to the volume level, so a volume level that does not cause discomfort might still damage your hearing.

Connecting the Clone Cable

You can transfer the programmed data to and from another BC785D scanner using a RS232C Cable (9 pin to 9 pin) (not supplied). Connect the cable between each scanner’s REMOTE jacks. See "Clone Mode" on page 73. You can also upload or download the programmed data to or from a PC using an optional PC interface kit available through your local electronics store.

Connecting the Tape Recorder

You can use a standard tape recorder or a VOX (Voice Operated Control) recorder. To connect the recorder to the scanner, connect a cable with a 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) plug from the tape recorder’s remote jack to the TAPE OUT jack on the back of the scanner. (Your local electronics store should carry a wide selection of cables and tape recorders.) Refer to the "Record" section under "Additional Features" in the manual.

Remember!

You must mark a channel, ID, talkgroup, or bank for Recording in order for this feature to work.

• This feature does not work if your scanner is set with MUTE ON.

The VOLUME control affects the Audio output. Do not set the volume on minimum. Make a trial taping to be certain the volume levels are set correctly.

16

Basic Operation

Turn the Scanner On

Turn the VOLUME control clockwise out of the detent position. The scanner automatically starts scanning. Since there are no frequencies programmed in your scanner initially, you may not receive any signals. Once you set the squelch and program some frequencies, you will be hearing conversations regularly.

Note: If you turn the Scanner on when the optional APCO Cord is not installed, APCO P25 CARD NOT INSTALLED appears on the display. To delete the message, select 2:DISABLE in the Menu mode (see page 69).

Setting the Squelch

To set the squelch, you must be in the hold mode, and you should not be receiving a signal on your scanner.

1.Press ▲/HOLD until you do not hear a signal.

2.Make sure that the VOLUME is set to a comfortable listening level.

3.Think of the Squelch Control as a gate.

Turn the SQUELCH control fully counter-clockwise.

This raises the "Squelch Gate" so high that only very strong signals can get through.

4.Turn SQUELCH clockwise until you hear a hiss. This lowers the "Squelch Gate" so that everything gets through – noise, weak signals, medium signals and strong signals.

STRONG SIGNALS

MEDIUM SIGNALS

WEAK SIGNALS

NOISE

STRONG SIGNALS

MEDIUM SIGNALS

WEAK SIGNALS

NOISE

5.Turn SQUELCH back counter-clockwise just until the hiss stops. Now the "Squelch Gate" allows only clear signals through.

STRONG SIGNALS

MEDIUM SIGNALS

WEAK SIGNALS

NOISE

17

Next you must program some frequencies (page 26). It is recommended that you read the next part "Understanding the Menu System" because it will assist you in accessing and understanding many of the features. Later in a section called "Additional Features", you will find explanations on how to disable the keypad acknowledgement tones, to mute the audio, to change the appearance of the display and other general features.

Understanding the Menu System

It is very important for you to understand the Menu screen. To navigate through the Menu screen is really quite simple. Many of the features of this scanner, can only be accessed by the Menu screens. There are several ways to get through the screens. First of all, press MENU to get started. Anytime you want to exit this mode or simply quit from where you are, repeatedly press MENU until the scanner returns to the original state or you can press SCAN or SRCH to exit directly MENU MODE. Anytime you are in the Menu mode, the audio will be muted.

To assist you in understanding the Menu screen, flow charts are provided towards the back of the manual so you can follow along. Two things to remember are rotate the through the menu and press E or VFO to execute the command. For simplicity, we have chosen to rotate the VFO control up or down in order to scroll through the menu and the E key for entering or executing a command. Once you have pressed the E key and executed the final choice (for instance, ON or OFF), the display backs up to the previous level of options.

Also direct entry of the numbers in the flow chart will get you through the screens, but the other screen options are not visible. This method should be used only after you have gone through the manual at least once. Tearout shortcut cards (see pages 4 and 5) are provided to assist you in the direct entry method for commonly used features.

The illustration below shows the first level of the Menu screen. These levels are then provided in a flow chart on pages 92 to 94. You will find a description section to explain the meanings of these functions on the next pages. Then, you will be walked through all the steps of programming, scanning, searching, and trunktracking.

Hint: You can check the options you programmed on the display when you press and hold MENU for 2 seconds in the following modes.

Scan mode/Scan Hold mode (as well as Trunk).

Chain Search mode/Chain Search Hold mode

ID Search mode/ID Search Hold mode

MENU MODE

1:SERVICE OPTION

 

2:SCAN OPTION

 

3:SYSTEM OPTION

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Menu Description and Numeric Keypad Equivalents

Below are the Menu screens and a brief description or purpose of the feature.

1:SERVICE OPTION

Service Search menus are preprogrammed services used around the U.S.

1:WEATHER

1:MONITOR

When you select this mode, the preprogrammed NOAA weather channel begins to activate.

2:ALERT

You can set NWR-SAME weather alert to 1:ON or 2:OFF. With ALERT ON you can enter the mode to program your FIPS code.

2:PUBLIC SAFETY 3:NEWS

4:TV BROADCAST 5:HAM RADIO 6:MARINE 7:RAILROAD 8:AIR

9:CB RADIO 0:FRS :RACING :SPECIAL

:CHAIN SEARCH

You can program up to 10 search ranges. The first time you program a range you will need to do so through the Menu. After the first time you can program a range as you do on most any other scanner, using the numeric keypad, ▲, ▼ VFO control. Use this Menu item to select the search range that you want to program. You can program range 1 through 10, one at a time. For each of the ranges, the following options can be modified.

1:CHAIN SEARCH

You must turn Chain Search feature ON, in order to use the Chain Search feature.

2:SEARCH RANGE

1:RANGE

Enter the upper and lower frequency limits of the Search Range.

2:STEPS

You can assign a variety of step sizes to the search range.

Note: The default step is usually acceptable and is listed on page 1.

3:MODE

You can change the Auto receive mode to AM, FM, WFM and NFM.

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4:ALPHA TAG

You can enter an Alpha Tag for any or all of the search ranges.

5:TRUNK

During Chain Search mode, when the scanner finds an active frequency, the trunk tracking system will be active. Four frequency plans apply to the Control Channel Only feature (for details see page 66).

3:DELAY

Set the delay for the search ranges. This applies to Search mode, and Service Search mode. The delay time for Service Search mode can be changed. (See 2:SCAN OPTION / 1:CONVENTIONAL / 2:DELAY for details).

4:ATTENUATOR

Set attenuation for all search ranges.

(See 2:SCAN OPTION / 1:CONVENTIONAL/ 5:ATTENUATOR for details).

5:TONE DATA

The default mode is OFF. This means that you will receive all transmissions on any frequencies that are active within your search range(s). By selecting CTCSS or DCS you can set the radio to receive only a particular subaudible tone to be received during your search. You can also lockout a particular CTCSS or DCS tone. You may wish to do this if you want to search a range but not hear transmissions on any frequency that has a particular subaudible tone.

Note: Through the System Menu you can set the radio to operate in Tone Search mode during Search as well. In this mode, the radio will automatically determine the active subaudible tone on any frequency received during the search.

Set a delay for the search ranges. This applies to all ranges (See CHANNEL DATA-STEPS for details).

6:RECORD

With Record set to on, any frequency that is active, during the search, can be recorded to an external tape recorder.

7:AUTO STORE

You can automatically store active frequencies found during a search into the memory. You can select which bank you want to program the found frequencies. The audio will be muted during Auto Store.

2:SCAN OPTION

1:CONVENTIONAL

Choose the channel number. The following options are available for the selected channel only. Repeat using a different channel number, if necessary.

1:FREQUENCY.

Allows you to edit or enter a frequency in each channel you select.

Also you can set an alphanumeric text tag for each programmed frequency.

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2:DELAY

You can set delay for a trunk system on a bank by bank basis. If you’ve set delay for 1 second, then there will be a one second delay in Trunk Search for that bank and a one second delay for all the talkgroups you have programmed into Scan List memory. You cannot set delay individually by talkgroup. The default delay is two seconds.

3:TONE DATA

You can set a CTCSS (analog) or DCS (digital) subaudible tone for a frequency. To do so you must have the SQ Mode in the System Menu set to Tone SQ. You can also program a subaudible tone easily by pressing the E key in Scan Hold mode after programming a frequency. This will bring up the Tone Data menu without having to navigate the Menu. By doing this you will receive all transmissions on the frequency, regardless of the subaudible tone, except the one which you have locked. Any transmissions with that tone will not be received.

4:BEEP ALERT

You can set a Beep Alert on a per-channel basis to alert you when specific frequencies are active. For example, you may wish to be alerted anytime a mutual aid fire frequency is active. With Beep Alert, you will hear three beeps at the start of each transmission that you have flagged as such. You will also notice that as you scroll pass the flagged channel(s), you will hear three beeps.

5:ATTENUATOR

The BC785D comes with an RF Attenuation feature. If you are near an unusually strong signal source, the signal may overload the scanner. The scanner may stop repeatedly on that signal and miss other transmissions. The RF Attenuation feature works in all modes and attenuates (reduces) the incoming signal strength to prevent stronger signals from overloading the scanner.

6:STEPS

Your BC785D is programmed with default step sizes for each frequency range (see page 1). Steps are important if you are interested in using the VFO to tune off from a frequency programmed into memory or if you wish to program a frequency that the default step size will not accept.

For example, in VHF Hi-band mode, the default step size between 148 and 162 MHz is 5 KHz. However, the FCC has recently instituted 7.5 KHz channel intervals. If you wish to enter 155.4075 into the scanner without changing the default step, the scanner will change the programmed frequency to 155.4100. Use the Menu to change the default step size to 7.5 KHz and then you will be able to enter 155.4075.

7:MODE

Default Auto receive modes are also programmed into memory. AM for aircraft and CB bands, for example. All frequencies (other than audio TV broadcast) above 400 MHz are received in NFM mode which helps prevent adjacent channel interference. You can change the default settings on a per-channel basis with this Menu item.

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8:RECORD

You can flag any channel for recording using this menu function. Use your own recording device plugged into the jack on the back of the scanner.

2:TRUNK

Choose the Trunk bank. The following options are available for the selected trunk bank only. Repeat using a different trunk bank, if necessary.

1:TRUNK TYPE

You will need to assign the correct trunking type for the bank you are about to program. If you want to listen to a Motorola Type I system, you will need to use this Menu option to assign the same. If you do not know the type of trunking system you are about to monitor, refer to the guide included with the scanner or check out www.bearcat1.com.

Note: Some trunking systems require that you know the channel order. In these cases you will also need to start programming the trunked system at the start of the bank. The scanner defaults to the most common type of trunking system, Motorola Type II 800.

2:TRUNK CHANNEL

1:FREQUENCY

To use Trunk Tracking, you need to program a frequency for at least one channel. Also you can enter an alpha tag for each channel in this Menu.

2:STEPS

You can assign a variety of step sizes to the channel.

3:TALK GROUP

You can program IDs into the Scan List memory either during Trunk Scan or Search without going into the Menu. However, you can also use the Menu to program IDs. This is particularly helpful when you are not near the trunked system you wish to later monitor. You can set it up and have it ready to go at some later time. After you have selected the Scan List location (1-10), you can then do the following:

1.Program ID number

2.Set an alpha tag

3.Set Record to ON/OFF.

4.Assign a Beep Alert to the ID. Whenever that ID is active, you will hear three beeps at the start of the transmission.

4:DELAY

You can set delay for a trunk system on a bank by bank basis. If you've set delay for 1 second, then there will be a 1 second delay in Trunk Search for that bank and a 1 second delay for all the talkgroups you have programmed into Scan List memory. You cannot set delay individually by talkgroup. The default delay is 2 seconds.

5:RECORD

This Record option applies to Trunk Search. All talkgroups received during Trunk Search will be recordable through the TAPE OUT jack on the back of the scanner. To record individual talkgroups during Scan, see Item 5 on the next page. The default is off.

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6:ID LIST TAG

Assign an alphanumeric tag to any or all of the 10 Scan Lists for the system. During ID Scan Mode, you will see the ID List Tag (on the bottom text line) along with any alpha tag you may have set for an ID. In Search mode, you will see any Bank Tag you have set.

7:L/O ID REVIEW

Use this menu item to review the IDs that you have locked out during Search and Scan. Rotate the VFO up or down to view the IDs that have been locked out. To leave the lockout IDs unchanged, press MENU to back out of the menu. To unlock an ID, press the L/O key. To unlock all the IDs that have been locked out, press and hold the L/O key for about 2 seconds.

8: ACTIVITY ID

When activity ID is set to ON, your scanner receives any transmissions on the ID every 0.5 seconds while scanning.

9:I-CALL (MOTOROLA/EDACS)

Most communications within a trunked system are group calls where one unit (such as a dispatcher) communicates with all the units within his/her group (all the patrol vehicles on the east side of town, for example). The units within this group comprise what is typically known as a talkgroup.

There are some communications which are direct unit-to-unit conversations where one individual converses with another individual. The call is initiated by a radio and is directed to another single radio. Within the system, no one outside of these two users hears the conversation. Your BC785D defaults to I-CALL OFF mode. You can hear these conversations by using this Menu item to turn the I-CALL function to ON. In Search mode, with I-CALL ON, you will hear both talkgroup calls and I-CALLs. You can also set I-CALLs to I-CALL ONLY during which you will monitor only I-CALLs in Search mode. You can also program I-CALL IDs into Scan List memory.

OR

9:ID SCAN LIST (LTR)

When scanning an LTR system you can only turn Scan Lists OFF and ON when an LTR talk group that you have entered into memory is active. To provide you with another method to turn Scan Lists ON and OFF, you can use this Menu item which only appears when you have selected LTR in Trunk Type.

OR

0:EMERGENCY ALT (EDACS)

In EDACS trunked systems, you can set an alert for an EDASC transmission received. Set Emergency Alert to ON, EMERGENCY flashes on the display and you will hear beep alerts when you receive an EDASC emergency transmission.

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0:STATUS BIT (MOTOROLA)

On Type 2 trunking systems there is a method by which specialized types of communications utilize unique talkgroup numbers. An emergency call will occur on a unique talkgroup from its primary assignment, for example. Because the BC785D defaults to Status-Bit On mode, you never need to worry about missing these transmissions. If you've programmed talkgroup 33264 into Scan List memory, for example, and there is an emergency call within the group, you will hear it on 33264.

EDCS ID FORM (EDACS)

You can change to display the talkgroups in decimal mode, but this mode does not provide you with the flexibility that you get with AFS. The BC785D defaults to show the talkgroup number in AFS mode (Agency-Fleet- Subfleet). For details on AFS see pages 59~60.

OR

:END CODE (MOTOROLA)

When this function is disabled, the radio looks for squelch before returning to the control channel instead of waiting for the disconnect tone. Only in rare instances will you need to adjust the default settings. The condition to return to control channels depends on whether a signal is present or not.

:CNTRL CH ONLY

(TYPE 1/TYPE 2 800, 900)

With this mode you will be able to track Motorola Type I and II 800 and 900 MHz trunked systems by simply entering the control channel which manages the trunked system. You will not have to program the voice channels. There are 4 channel plans which you can select from.

3:SYSTEM OPTION

1:DIMMER

Allows you to change the brightness of the display.

2:SCREEN MASK

Screen Mask allows you to limit what appears on the display to the alpha tags that you have set for a channel along with a few function icons. Screen Mask removes the frequency, receiving mode tone data and signal strength bars. This mode is particularly useful in public safety vehicles where "information overload" is already a problem. Screen Mask does not work in Search mode.

3:KEY BEEP

Use this function to turn OFF the keypad acknowledgement beep. The default setting is ON.

4:ENTER LOCK

Use Enter Lock to prevent accidental re-programming of channels, tone (CTCSS/DCS) and talkgroups entered into memory. The default setting is OFF.

5:PC CONTROL

Use this function to set the transfer speed (baud rate) at which your personal computer (PC) communicates with the scanner when downloading information into your scanner using Uniden E-Scanner software. See page 72 for details.

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6:CLONE

You can clone all the programming, including frequencies, talkgroups and alpha tags as well as bank settings and other parameters from one BC785D to a BC250D or another BC785D.

7:DATA SKIP

A scanner will normally stop on any transmission it receives. This means the BC785D will occasionally stop on data signals and unmodulated transmissions. You can automatically skip many of these types of transmissions during search.

8:SQ MODE

The SQ Mode allows you to set at your option, whether the scanner will stop on all active transmissions on a particular frequency or it will only respond to transmissions with a pre-set subaudible tone. This applies to both Conventional Search and Scan modes. The options are as follows:

1.CSQ - The default setting is CSQ (carrier squelch). In this mode the scanner will stop on any transmission on a programmed frequency (Squelch mode does not apply to trunking).

2.TONE SQ - In Tone Squelch mode, if you have set a subaudible tone (CTCSS or DCS) for a frequency, the scanner will only stop on that frequency if the transmission includes the prescribed tone.

3.TONE SEARCH - In this mode, as soon as the scanner stops on any (nontrunked) channel, the scanner will begin to search for any subaudible tone that is being used on a transmitted frequency. The scanner will check each CTCSS tone sequentially and it will find DCS tones instantly.

9:BANK TAG

Allows you to set an alphanumeric text tag for individual banks in the scanner (1- 10). (The "0" key represents Bank number 10.) For example, you may wish to set the Bank one text tag as Law Enforcement, the second bank as Fire, etc.

0:P-25 CARD

When you insert the optional card (BCi25D) and select 1:ENABLE in this mode, you can monitor APCO P-25 digital communications. See page 68 for details.

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Programming

Before the BC785D can begin conventional scanning, you must program a frequency into at least one channel.

Repeat this procedure for each channel you want to program.

Storing Frequencies into Channels in Menu Mode

1. Select frequencies you received from your dealer, from various sources on the internet, or from one of the guides listed on page 10.

Here is a list of sample

frequencies you should try: 156.800 Marine Calling channel

155.340 Ambulance operations

155.280 Ambulance operations

155.160 Ambulance operations

462.950 Ambulance operations

462.5625 Family Radio Services (channel one)

2.Press MENU.

3.Select 2:SCAN OPTION / 1:CONVENTIONAL by rotating the VFO and pressing

E.

4. Select a channel.

a. Enter the channel number using the keypad.

b. Then press E.

5.Select 1:FREQUENCY and enter the frequency.

a. Enter the frequency number using

.

(decimal key) and

 

 

the keypad.

 

 

b.Then press E.

6.Enter the alpha tag and press E. (See page 28.)

7.The following display appears, select the location you want.

Remember! You can also use ▲ or ▼ instead of rotating the

VFO.

Also instead of pressing E, you can press the VFO control.

C 001 1:FREQUENCY 2:DELAY

3:TONE DATA

C 001 0000.0000 NFM ALPHA TAG

¡

1:OTHER CHANNEL

2:CHANNEL OPTION 3:DONE

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