Uniden UBC3500XLT User Manual
UBC3500XLT
OWNER’S
MANUAL
OWNER’S MANUAL
Precautions
Before you use this scanner, please read and observe
Precautions
the following.
EARPHONE WARNING!
Be sure to use only a monaural earphone with this
scanner. You can also use an optional 32 Ω stereo
headset. Use of an incorrect earphone or stereo
headset might be potentially hazardous to your
hearing. The output of the phone jack is monaural, but
you will hear it in both headphones of a stereo
headset.
Set the volume to a comfortable audio level coming
from the speaker before plugging in the monaural
earphone or a stereo headset of the proper
impedance (32 Ω). Otherwise, you might experience
some discomfort or possible hearing damage if the
volume suddenly becomes too loud because of the
volume control or squelch control setting. This might
be particularly true of the type of earphone that is
placed in the ear canal.
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.
®
Uniden
Uniden America Corporation.
Close Call
America Corporation.
Other trademarks used throughout this manual are the
property of their respective holders.
Important: If you use the supplied AC adapter to power
the scanner but have not installed batteries in the
scanner, never turn the scanner off by disconnecting
the AC adapter or unplugging it from the AC outlet.
This might corrupt the scanner’s memory.
Always use to turn the scanner off before
disconnecting AC power.
2
and Bearcat® are registered trademarks of
™
are proprietary trademarks of Uniden
Contents
Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................. 6
Feature Highlights....................................................................................... 8
About This Manual ................................................................................... 12
Using the Multifunction Scroll Control ................................................... 12
Entering Text ......................................................................................... 12
How the Scanner’s Controls Are Represented in This Manual ............. 13
Understanding Scanning.......................................................................... 15
Understanding the Scanner’s Memory..................................................... 15
What is Scanning? ................................................................................... 15
What is Searching? .................................................................................. 15
What is CTCSS/DCS?.............................................................................. 16
Conventional Scanning ............................................................................ 18
Simplex Operation ................................................................................. 18
Repeater Operation............................................................................... 19
Where To Get More Information............................................................... 19
Information On The Internet .................................................................. 19
Included With Your Scanner .................................................................... 20
Setting Up Your Scanner .......................................................................... 20
Using Internal Batteries ............................................................................ 21
Using Rechargeable Batteries.................................................................. 22
Removing the Display Sticker .................................................................. 23
Using AC Power ....................................................................................... 23
Connecting the Antenna........................................................................... 24
Connecting an Optional Antenna .......................................................... 24
Connecting an Earphone/Headphone...................................................... 24
Connecting an Extension Speaker........................................................... 24
Attaching the Belt Clip .............................................................................. 25
Attaching the Wrist Strap.......................................................................... 25
A Look At The Keypad ............................................................................. 25
A Look At The Display.............................................................................. 28
Using Menu .............................................................................................. 30
Using Func ............................................................................................... 30
Basic Operation......................................................................................... 31
Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch .................................... 31
Scanning Systems.................................................................................... 32
Selecting Systems to Scan....................................................................... 32
Selecting System Channel Groups .......................................................... 33
Locking/Unlocking Systems ..................................................................... 33
Locking/Unlocking Channels.................................................................... 34
Temporarily Holding On a System ........................................................... 34
Holding On a Channel .............................................................................. 34
Quick-Storing Channels ........................................................................... 34
Quickly Recalling Channels...................................................................... 35
Toggling Channel Alpha Tags .................................................................. 35
Using the Menu.......................................................................................... 36
Settings ...................................................................................................... 38
Displaying System Information ................................................................. 38
Viewing Memory Used .......................................................................... 38
Viewing the Firmware Version............................................................... 38
Adjusting the Key Beep ............................................................................ 38
Locking/Unlocking the Keypad and Scroll................................................ 38
Turning Power Save On or Off ................................................................. 39
Priority Scan ............................................................................................. 39
Using the Backlight................................................................................... 39
Setting the Audio AGC ............................................................................. 40
Adjusting the Display Contrast ................................................................. 40
Initializing the Scanner’s Memory............................................................. 40
Connecting Your Scanner to a Personal Computer ................................. 40
Contents
3
Using the Cloning Options ....................................................................... 41
Wired Cloning ....................................................................................... 42
Programming Radio Systems.................................................................. 43
Programming Conventional Systems ...................................................... 43
Entering/Editing Conventional Channel Groups ................................... 44
Entering/Editing Conventional Channels .............................................. 45
Programming/Editing Optional Settings ................................................ 46
System-Level Settings ............................................................................. 46
Editing the System Name ..................................................................... 46
Editing the System Quick Key .............................................................. 46
Setting System Lockout ........................................................................ 47
Setting the System Hold Time .............................................................. 47
Setting the Channel Delay Time ........................................................... 48
Setting the Data Skip ............................................................................ 48
Deleting Systems .................................................................................. 49
Copying Systems .................................................................................. 49
Group-Level Settings ............................................................................... 49
Entering/Editing the Group Name ......................................................... 49
Setting the Group Quick Key ................................................................ 50
Setting Group Lockout .......................................................................... 51
Deleting Groups .................................................................................... 51
Channel-Level Settings............................................................................ 51
Editing the Channel Name.................................................................... 51
Editing Frequencies .............................................................................. 52
Setting Channel Priority........................................................................ 53
Setting Channel Alert............................................................................ 53
Setting CTCSS/DCS ............................................................................. 54
Setting the Channel Frequency Modulation .......................................... 55
Setting Channel Attenuation................................................................. 56
Setting Channel Lockout....................................................................... 56
Deleting Channels ................................................................................ 57
Copying/Pasting Channels ................................................................... 57
Searching and Storing ............................................................................. 59
Service Search ........................................................................................ 59
Changing the step of Air Band................................................................. 59
Quick Search ........................................................................................... 59
Custom Search ........................................................................................ 60
Editing a Custom Search Range .......................................................... 61
Editing a Service Search ...................................................................... 62
Auto Search and Store ............................................................................ 63
Selecting a System ............................................................................... 64
Using the Close Call Feature ................................................................... 65
Setting Close Call Options ....................................................................... 66
Close Call Hits ......................................................................................... 69
Search and Close Call Options ............................................................... 70
Managing Locked-Out Frequencies......................................................... 70
Unlocking All Frequencies .................................................................... 70
Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies ..................................................... 70
Searching for Subaudible Tones ............................................................. 71
Screening Out Broadcast Sources .......................................................... 71
Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value ................................................... 72
Setting the Modulation Type .................................................................... 72
Setting Attenuation .................................................................................. 73
Setting Data Skip ..................................................................................... 73
Setting the Delay Time ............................................................................ 74
Setting the Search Frequency Step......................................................... 74
Setting Air Band Step .............................................................................. 75
Using Tone-Out......................................................................................... 76
Fire Tone-Out Introduction....................................................................... 76
4
Setting Tone-Out Standby .................................................................... 76
Setting Up Tone-Out ............................................................................. 76
Care and Maintenance.............................................................................. 79
General Use............................................................................................. 79
Location ................................................................................................... 79
Cleaning................................................................................................... 79
Repairs .................................................................................................... 79
Birdies...................................................................................................... 80
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 81
Specifications ........................................................................................... 83
Optional Accessories............................................................................... 85
Appendix ................................................................................................... 86
Planning..................................................................................................... 89
Collecting Information .............................................................................. 89
Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet .................................... 90
System Name and Quick Key ............................................................... 90
Group Name and Quick Key................................................................. 90
Frequency-Alpha Tag-Priority-CTCSS/DCS ......................................... 91
Conventional System Worksheet............................................................ 92
Declaration of Conformiry ....................................................................... 93
Contents
5
Introduction
Your Bearcat UBC3500XLT scanning receiver is a state-of-
Introduction
the-art scanner radio with extended frequency. 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. You can use the scanner’s
scroll control to quickly select channels and frequencies, and
you can automatically program channels in a system using
the AutoStore feature. Use your scanner to monitor:
• Police and fire departments (including rescue and
paramedics)
• Business/Industrial radio and utilities
• Marine and amateur (ham radio) bands
• Air band
• Railroad
The chart below identifies the scanner band numbers,
the frequency range, the modulation mode and the
default step size settings.
To change the band plan:
1. Maker sure the power is turned off.
2. While holding down 1, 2 or 3 (corresponding
number of the band plan), turn on the scanner.
Band Plan 1
Frequency (MHz)
Lower Edge Upper Edge
25.0000 29.9950 FM 5
30.0000 79.9875 FM 12.5
80.0000 82.9900 FM 10
83.0000 87.2875 FM 12.5
87.3000 107.9500 FMB 50
108.0000
108.0000
137.0000 137.9950 FM 5
138.0000 157.9875 FM 12.5
158.0000 160.5900 FM 10
160.6000 162.5875 FM 12.5
162.6000 173.9900 FM 10
174.0000 215.9500 WFM 50
216.0000 224.9950 FM 5
225.0000 399.9500 AM 50
400.0000 405.9875 FM 12.5
406.0000 439.9937 FM 6.25
440.0000 465.9950 FM 5
466.0000 469.9900 FM 10
470.0000 512.0000 FM 6.25
806.0000 960.0000 FM 12.5
1240.0000 1300.0000 FM 12.5
136.9875
136.9916
Modulation Step (kHz)
AM
6
12.5 / 8.33
selectable
Band Plan 2
Frequency (MHz)
Lower Edge Upper Edge
25.0000 49.9950 FM 5
50.0000 84.0100 FM 5
84.0150 87.2950 FM
87.3000 107.9500 FMB 50
108.0000
108.0000
137.0000 143.9950 FM 5
144.0000 145.9875 FM 12.5
146.0000 155.9900 FM 10
156.0000 157.4250 FM 12.5
157.4375 160.5875 FM 12.5
160.6000 162.0250 FM 12.5
162.0300 173.9900 FM 10
174.0000 215.9500 WFM 50
216.0000 224.9950 FM 5
225.0000 399.9500 AM 50
400.0000 405.9875 FM 12.5
406.0000 439.9937 FM 6.25
440.0000 449.9937 FM 6.25
450.0000 469.9900 FM 10
470.0000 512.0000 FM 6.25
806.0000 960.0000 FM 12.5
1240.0000 1300.0000 FM 12.5
136.9875
136.9916
Modulation Step (kHz)
AM
Band Plan 3
Frequency (MHz)
Lower Edge Upper Edge
25.0000 29.9950 FM 5
30.0000 79.9937 FM 6.25
80.0000 82.9937 FM 6.25
83.0000 87.2937 FM 6.25
87.3000 107.9500 FMB 50
108.0000
108.0000
137.0000 137.9950 FM 5
138.0000 157.9937 FM 6.25
158.0000 160.5937 FM 6.25
160.6000 162.5937 FM 6.25
162.6000 173.9937 FM 6.25
174.0000 215.9500 WFM 50
216.0000 224.9950 FM 5
225.0000 399.9500 AM 50
400.0000 405.9875 FM 12.5
406.0000 439.9937 FM 6.25
440.0000 465.9937 FM 6.25
466.0000 469.9937 FM 6.25
470.0000 512.0000 FM 6.25
806.0000 960.0000 FM 12.5
1240.0000 1300.0000 FM 12.5
136.9875
136.9916
Modulation Step (kHz)
AM
20.00 with
15kHz Offset
12.5 / 8.33
selectable
12.5 / 8.33
selectable
Introduction
7
Feature Highlights
General
Feature Highlights
2500 Dynamic Channels - Your scanner stores
channels more efficiently than conventional scanners,
letting you store and quickly tune greater numbers of
interesting frequencies.
TM
Close Call
the scanner so it detects and provides information
about nearby radio transmissions. See “Using the
Close Call Feature” on Page 65 for more information.
Dynamically Allocated Channel Memory - Your
scanner’s memory is organized so that it more closely
matches how radio systems actually work, making it easier
to program and use your scanner and determine how much
memory you have used and how much you have left.
Quick Keys – You can set the scanner so you can
quickly select systems and groups by using the
keypad. This makes it easy to listen to or quickly lock
out those systems or groups you don’t want to scan.
Air Service Search - frequencies are preset to make
it easy to search and scan for the transmissions.
Lockout – You can lock out any system, group,
frequency, or channel while scanning or searching.
If you lock out a system or group, any channels
belonging to that system or group are also locked out.
RF Capture Technology - You can set
You can lock out up to 200 frequencies and review all
locked-out frequencies. The scanner skips locked-out
frequencies while using the Close Call feature or while
searching.
CTCSS and DCS Squelch Modes – prevent
interference from stations not using the mode you
select.
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) then select one for standby monitoring.
8
Broadcast Screen – Sets the scanner so it ignores
Close Call
TM
or search hits on known broadcast
frequencies.
Custom Screen – Lets you input up to 10 frequency
ranges that the scanner will ignore during Close Call
TM
or search operation.
Dropout Delay – You can set whether the scanner pauses
at the end of a transmission to wait for a reply. You can
set the delay time for each system you scan, and while
TM
searching and using the Close Call
feature.
Attenuator – You can set the scanner’s attenuator to
reduce the input strength of strong signals by about 25 dB.
Repeater Reverse – You can set the scanner so it
switches to the input frequency on a conventional
repeater system.
Channel Alert – You can set the scanner so it alerts
you when there is activity on any channel you specify.
Memory Check – Lets you see at a glance how much
total memory is left.
Scan and Search Operation – Lets you include
service search or custom search ranges during normal
scan operation.
Custom Alerts – For each alert in the scanner (such as
channel alert, Close Call alert, emergency alert), you 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 – Lets you select a frequency step
(5, 6.25, 7.5, 8.33, 10, 12.5,15, 20, 25, 50 or 100 kHz)
for manual mode and chain search mode. The scanner’s
auto step feature lets you set the scanner so it automatically
chooses the correct step.
Feature Highlights
9
Quick Recall – Lets you quickly select a specific
channel by choosing the system, group, and channel.
Scan/Search Delay – You can set the scanner so it
remains on a frequency up to 5 seconds after the last
transmission to wait for a possible reply.
Text Tagging – You can name each system, group,
channel and custom search range using up to 16
characters per name.
Unique Data Skip – Allows your scanner to skip
unwanted data transmissions and reduces birdies.
Duplicate Frequency Alert – Alerts you if you try to enter
a duplicate name or frequency already stored in a system.
Memory Backup – If power is lost or disconnected,
the scanner retains the frequencies you programmed
in its memory.
Note: The scanner’s frequency coverage is not
continuous.
Search
Air Service Search – Lets you search the scanner’s
preprogrammed frequencies.
Custom Search – Lets you program up to 10 custom
search ranges. You can search any of these ranges
simultaneously.
CTCSS/DCS Search – Lets the scanner search for
CTCSS or DCS tones. You can identify up to 50
CTCSS tones and 104 DCS tones.
Quick Search – Lets you search from the currently-tuned
frequency if you are searching a conventional system.
Auto Store
Frequency AutoStore – Automatically stores all active
frequencies into the selected conventional system.
10
Priority
Priority Scan – Priority channels let you keep track of
activity on your most important channel(s) while
monitoring other channels for transmissions.
Priority Plus – You can set the scanner so it scans
only the priority channels
Backlight and Power
Display and Keypad Backlight – Makes the display and
keypad easy to see in dim light. You can adjust the
back light so it turns on when you press a key, when
squelch breaks during a transmission, or manually.
Low Battery Alert – The scanner alerts you if the
batteries need to be recharged or replaced.
Battery Save – You can set the scanner so it reduces
the amount of power it needs if there are no transmissions.
Key Controls
Key Lock – You can deactivate the scanner’s keys to
help prevent accidentally changing the scanner’s
programming.
PC Control and Cloning
PC Control – You can transfer programming data to and
from your scanner and your personal computer, and
control the scanner using a computer and optional
software available at http://www.racescanner.eu. This
helps you find frequencies listed on the Internet and
load them into the scanner.
Clone Mode
including the contents of the scanner’s memory, menu
settings, and other parameters from one UBC3500XLT
scanner to another UBC3500XLT scanner.
– You can clone all programmed data,
Feature Highlights
11
About This Manual
The screen displays used in this manual are
representations of what might appear when you use
your scanner. Since what you see depends on the
frequencies for your area and the settings you select,
you might notice some differences between what is in
this manual and what appears on your scanner.
Using the Multifunction Scroll Control
The scroll control on top of the UBC3500XLT lets you
easily control channel selection, volume, and squelch,
and how information appears on the display.
To adjust menu settings, change channels in Hold
mode, and resume scanning: Simply rotate the
scroll control.
To change the scanner’s volume: Briefly press the
scroll control once, then rotate it. VOLUME LEVEL and
the current volume level appear on the display.
To adjust the squelch: While holding down on
the left side of the scanner, briefly press the scroll
control once then rotate it. SQUELCH LEVEL and the
current squelch level appear on the display.
Func
Entering Text
To enter a letter, turn the scroll control until the
character you want appears, To enter a number, press a
number key. To enter a decimal point, press .
To move the cursor to the left, press /4. To move the
cursor to the right, press 6/ .
To clear a character, press twice. To clear all
characters, press three times.
To accept an entry, press down on the scroll control or
press E.
12
How the Scanner’s Controls Are
Represented in This Manual
To help navigate the scanner’s menus, the steps
shown in this manual show the displays you see and
the keys you press or control you operate to get a
desired result.
This example shows you how to use the scanner’s
menu to edit an existing system name. It shows you
the key to press ( ) to select a menu option and
the option you see (Program System) when you
Menu
press . It also instructs you to turn the scroll
control (shown as
press the scroll control (shown as
(Edit Name).
Menu
Program System
Select the system
Edit Name
Follow these steps to enter/edit the system name.
1. The first character of the system name is covered
by a cursor. Rotate the scroll control to select the
character you want.
Menu
) to view a series of choices then
) to select a choice
2. Press 6/ on the keypad to select the next
character. The cursor moves to the next character.
To move the cursor to a previous character, press
/4.
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.
• Press twice to delete the current character.
• Press three times to clear the entire alpha tag.
Feature Highlights
13
To get the most from this manual, review the contents
to become familiar with the basic functions available.
If you are new to scanning, be sure to read
“Understanding Scanning” on Page 15 for a quick
background on the technology. The first thing you’ll
need to do is install batteries in the scanner. Then you
need to connect the included antenna to the scanner.
See “Setting Up Your Scanner” on Page 20 if you
need any help doing this.
14
Understanding Scanning
This section provides you with background on how
Understanding Scanning
scanning works. You don’t really need to know all of
this to use your scanner, but some background
knowledge will help you get the most from your
UBC3500XLT.
Understanding the Scanner’s
Memory
Your scanner’s memory is organized in an architecture
called Dynamic Allocated Channel memory. This type
of memory is organized differently and more efficiently
than the bank/channel architecture used by traditional
scanners. Dynamic Allocated design matches how
radio systems actually work much more closely, making
it easier to program and use your scanner and
determine how much memory you have used and how
much you have left.
Instead of being organized into separate banks and
channels, your scanner’s memory is contained in a
pool. You simply use as much memory as you need in
the pool to store as many frequencies and alpha tags
as you need. No memory space is wasted, and you
can tell at a glance how much
memory you have used and how much remains.
What is Scanning?
Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most twoway communications do not transmit continuously.
Your UBC3500XLT scans programmed channels until
it finds an active frequency, then stops on that
frequency and remains on that channel as long as the
transmission continues. When the transmission ends,
the scanning cycle resumes until the scanner receives
another transmission.
What is Searching?
The UBC3500XLT can search each of its bands and
up to 10 bands together to find active frequencies.
Understanding Scanning
15
This is different from scanning because you are
searching for frequencies that have not been
programmed into the scanner. When you select
frequency bands to search, the scanner searches for
any active frequency within the lower and upper limits
you specify. When the scanner finds an active
frequency, it stops on that frequency as long as the
transmission lasts. If you think the frequency is
interesting, you can program it into the scanner’s
memory. If not, you can continue to search.
What is CTCSS/DCS?
Your scanner can monitor systems using a Continuous
Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and Digital
Coded Squelch (DCS) system, which allow squelch to
open only when the tone you have programmed with a
specific frequency is received along with a
transmission.
CTCSS and DCS are subaudible tone signaling
systems sometimes referred to as PL or DPL
(Motorola’s trademarked terms for Private Line and
Digital Private Line respectively). CTCSS and DCS
are used only for FM signals and are usually
associated with both amateur and commercial twoway frequencies. These systems make use of a
special subaudible tone that accompanies a
transmitted signal.
CTCSS and DCS are used for many purposes. In
many cases, CTCSS and DCS are used to restrict
access to a commercial repeater, so that only those
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. The stations might even interfere
16
with each other to the point where it is impossible to
clearly receive any of the stations. A scanner
equipped with CTCSS and DCS (like your scanner)
can code each received frequency with a specific
CTCSS or DCS frequency. Then, when you receive
multiple signals, you only hear the transmission with
the CTCSS or DCS tone you programmed. If you do
not receive the correct tone with a signal, the
scanner’s squelch remains closed and you hear
nothing.
You can search for the following CTCSS frequencies
and DCS codes.
CTCSS Frequencies (Hz)
67.0 69.3 71.9 74.4 77.0 79.7
82.5 85.4 88.5 91.5 94.8 97.4
100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9 114.8 118.8
123.0 127.3 131.8 136.5 141.3 146.2
151.4 156.7 159.8 162.2 165.5 167.9
171.3 173.8 177.3 179.9 183.5 186.2
189.9 192.8 196.6 199.5 203.5 206.5
210.7 218.1 225.7 229.1 233.6 241.8
250.3 254.1
DCS Codes (Octal)
023 025 026 031 032 036 043 047
051 053 054 065 071 072 073 074
114 115 116 122 125 131 132 134
143 145 152 155 156 162 165 172
174 205 212 223 225 226 243 244
245 246 251 252 255 261 263 265
266 271 274 306 311 315 325 331
332 343 346 351 356 364 365 371
411 412 413 423 431 432 445 446
Understanding Scanning
17
452 454 455 462 464 465 466 503
506 516 523 526 532 546 565 606
612 624 627 631 632 654 662 664
703 712 723 731 732 734 743 754
Conventional Scanning
Conventional scanning is a relatively simple concept.
Each group of users in a conventional system is
assigned a single frequency (for simplex systems) or
two frequencies (for repeater systems). Any time one
of them transmits, their transmission always goes out
on the same frequency.
Today there are still many 2-way radio users who
operate using a conventional system:
•Aircraft
• Amateur radio
• LPD/PMR users
• Broadcast AM/FM/TV stations
• Many business radio users
When you want to store a conventional system, all you
need to know is the frequencies they operate on.
When you are scanning a conventional system, the
scanner stops very briefly on each channel to see if
there is activity. If there isn’t, the scanner quickly
moves to the next channel. If there is, then the
scanner pauses on the transmission until it is over.
Simplex Operation
Simplex systems use a single frequency for both
transmit and receive. Most radios using this type of
operation are limited to line-of-sight operation. This
type of radio is frequently used at construction job
sites, and with inexpensive consumer radios such as
LPD/PMR radios. The range is typically 1-5 km,
depending upon the terrain and many other factors.
18
Repeater Operation
Repeater systems use two frequencies: one transmits
from the radio to a central repeater; the other transmits
from the repeater to other radios in the system. With a
repeater-based system, the repeater is located on top
of a tall building or on a radio tower that provides great
visibility to the area of operation. When a user
transmits (on an input frequency), the signal is picked
up by the repeater and retransmitted (on an output
frequency). The user’s radios always listen for activity
on the output frequency and transmit on the input
frequency. Since the repeater is located very high,
there is a very large line of sight.
Where To Get More Information
By itself, this manual really only provides part of what
you need to know to have fun scanning – how to
program and use the scanner.
Information On The Internet
The Internet is a great source for current frequencies
and information about scanning. Many web sites have
lists of frequencies for your area. You can use a
search engine to find and use them.
Make a list of the agencies you want to listen to, then
look up the frequencies and systems used by those
agencies.
• www.racescanner.eu - Race frequency
information, programming software and
accessories.
Understanding Scanning
19
Included With Your Scanner
Included With Your Scanner
Wrist Strap
AC Adapter
Scanner
(with antenna
attached)
Belt Clip
BNC/SMA Adapter
Setting Up Your Scanner
Batteries
Owners
Manual
and other
printed
material
20
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. (You can purchase this type of antenna
at a local electronics store). If the optional antenna
has no cable, use 50-75 Ω coaxial cable for leadin. A mating plug might be necessary for the
optional antennas.
• Use an optional mono earphone or mono headset
with proper impedance (32 Ω) for private listening.
Read the precautions on the inside front cover of
this Owners Manual.
• Do not use the scanner in high-moisture
environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.
• Avoid placing the scanner in direct sunlight or near
heating elements or vents.
Using Internal Batteries
You can power your scanner using three alkaline or
rechargeable AA batteries.
Before installing batteries, set the switch in the battery
compartment to match the type of batteries you will
use. Select ALKALINE for non-rechargeable battery
types and Ni-MH for rechargeable battery types. See
also “Using Rechargeable Batteries” on Page 22 when
you use rechargeable batteries.
1. Remove the battery cover and set the battery
switch.
Setting Up Your Scanner
21
2. Install 3 AA batteries,
matching the polarity
symbols (+ -).
WARNING!
Set ALKALINE/Ni-MH to Ni-MH for use only with
rechargeable batteries. Never attempt to recharge
non-rechargeable batteries. Non-rechargeable
batteries can get hot and can even burst if you try to
recharge them.
3.Replace the cover.
When flashes and the scanner beeps every 15
seconds, replace the batteries.
Using Rechargeable Batteries
You can also use three rechargeable batteries to power
your scanner. Before you use rechargeable batteries,
you must charge them. The scanner has a built-in
circuit that lets you recharge batteries while they are in
the scanner. To charge the batteries, set ALKALINE/
Ni-MH inside the battery compartment to NI-MH,
install the batteries in the scanner, and connect the
supplied AC adapter to the scanner's DC 6V jack (see
“Using AC Power” on Page 23).
WARNING!
Do not connect the AC adapter to the scanner if
non-rechargeable batteries (such as alkaline
batteries) are installed in the scanner and
ALKALINE/Ni-MH is set to NI-MH, or if you are
unsure of the switch's position. Non-rechargeable
batteries can get hot and can even burst if you try
to recharge them. Before you use rechargeable
batteries for the first time, charge them for 14
hours to bring them to a full charge. Discharged
batteries take about 14 hours to fully recharge.
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If an AC adapter is connected to the scanner, the
scanner checks the condition of the installed batteries.
If the scanner is turned off and the batteries require a
full charge, Normal Charging appears as the
batteries are recharged. When the batteries are fully
charged, Charge Complete appears.
If no batteries are installed in the scanner, No Battery
appears. If there is a problem with the installed batteries,
Battery Error appears. If the installed batteries are
Ni-MH batteries but ALKALINE/Ni-MH is set to
ALKALINE, Charge Off appears and the scanner
does not charge the batteries.
Removing the Display Sticker
Before you use the scanner, 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 adapter into
6V 800 mA on the right side
of the scanner, then plug
the AC adapter into a standard
AC outlet.
If rechargeable batteries are installed and ALKALINE/
Ni-MH is set to NI-MH, the adapter powers the scanner
and recharges the installed batteries at the same time.
WARNING!
To prevent damage to Ni-MH batteries, never charge
them in an area where the temperature is above
45°C (113°F) or below 4°C (40°F).
Setting Up Your Scanner
23
Connecting the Antenna
To attach the supplied flexible antenna to the
connector on the top of your scanner, simply screw it
onto the scanner's SMA connector.
Connecting an Optional Antenna
The scanner's SMA connector makes it easy to
connect a variety of optional antennas, including an
external mobile antenna or outdoor base station
antenna.
Note: Always use 50- or 75-ohm, RG-58, or RG-8,
coaxial cable and the supplied BNC/SMA adapter to
connect an outdoor antenna. If the antenna is over 50
feet from the scanner, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric
coaxial cable. Cable loss increases with higher frequency.
Connecting an Earphone/Headphone
For private listening, you can plug a 1/8-inch (3.5 mm)
mini-plug earphone or headphones (not supplied) into
the headphone jack on top of your scanner. This
automatically disconnects the internal speaker.
See “Earphone Warning” at the front of the manual for
important information about using an earphone/
headphone.
Connecting an Extension Speaker
In a noisy area, an optional amplified extension
speaker, positioned in the right place, might provide
more comfortable listening. Plug the speaker cable's
1
/8-inch (3.5-mm) mini-plug into your scanner's jack.
WARNING!
Never connect anything other than an earphone or
the recommended amplified extension speaker to
the scanner’s headphone jack. This might damage
the scanner.
24
WARNING!
Never connect any part of the headphone jack to
the antenna jack or connect the radio to an
installation where the antenna and audio
connection are grounded. This might damage the
scanner.
Attaching the Belt Clip
To make your scanner easier to carry when you are on
the go, use the supplied belt clip. Rotate the scanner
upside down to remove it from the clip.
Attaching the Wrist Strap
To keep your scanner safely close at hand, use the
supplied wrist strap. Push the small loop on one end of
the wrist strap through the lug on the right side of the
scanner, then thread the other end of the wrist strap
back through the small loop to secure it.
A Look At The Keypad
car
Your scanner's keys have various functions labeled on
the key tops and below the keys.
To select the function labeled on a key, simply press
the key. To select the function labeled below a key,
hold down on the left side of the scanner then
press the key. appears on the display.
Func
F
Setting Up Your Scanner
25
If your scanner's keys seem confusing at first, the
following information should help you understand each
key's function.
Key Name Description
Hold/
Hold – Holds the scan or the
frequency search when pressed.
Resumes the scan or the
frequency search when pressed
again. Release the mute when
pressed in Tone-Out Standby
mode.
Func
+ – Quickly turns the
Close Call feature on or off (see
“Setting Close Call Options” on
Page 66).
Scan/srch Scan – Scans the stored channels.
Func
+ srch – Starts quick search
or quickly accesses the
search menu.
L/O
Lets you lock out a selected
L/O –
channel or skip a specified frequency.
Press and hold for more than 2
seconds to unlock all channels in a
system or all frequencies in a Search
mode and Close Call mode. Also use
to exit a menu.
Func
+ L/O – Press quickly to lock
and unlock a selected system in Scan
or Scan Hold mode and review search
lockout frequencies in Search or
Search Hold mode.
26
Key Name Description
//
– Turns the display
backlight on or off.
Press and hold for more than 2
seconds to turn the scanner on or
off.
Func
+ – Locks and unlocks
the keypad.
0-90-9 – Enters a frequency, enters
quick key numbers, and selects a
custom search range in Custom
Search mode.
Selects systems by quick key in
scan mode.
Func
+ 0-9 – Selects groups by
quick key in scan mode.
1/pri 1 – Enters a 1.
Func
+ pri – Selects the priority
mode in scan hold mode.
/4
4 – Enters a 4.
Func
+ – Moves the active
character to the left while editing data.
6/
6 – Enters a 6.
Func
+ – Moves the active
character to the right while editing
data.
7/rcl 7 – Enters a 7.
Func
+ rcl – Displays a series of
prompts to quickly select a specific
channel in the scan hold mode.
Setting Up Your Scanner
27
Key Name Description
/no
/rev
– Enters a decimal point or dash
in a frequency, enters or selects an
extended 2-digit Quick Key.
At a prompt, answers “No.”
Func
+ rev – Monitors the
currently-tuned frequency’s
reverse frequency.
E/yes/att E – Press to select input and menu
items, to quickly edit a channel in
Scan Hold Mode, and store a
frequency into memory in Search
Hold mode.
At a prompt, answers “Yes.”
Func
+ att – Turns the scanner’s
attenuator on or off for the current
channel or frequency.
A Look At The Display
The display has indicators that show the scanner's
current operating status. The display information helps
you understand how your scanner operates.
Sn: - appears with a number to show the currentlyselected System Quick Key number. n appears to
show the first digit of the Quick Key number.
For example, if System Quick Key 75 is selected, S7:
appears. The currently active system indicator flashes.
ATT - appears when the attenuation feature is turned
on. See “Setting Attenuation” on Page 73, and
“Setting Channel Attenuation” on Page 56.
PRI - appears when the priority feature is turned on
(see “Priority Scan” on Page 39).
28
- appears when you lock the keypad (see
“Locking/Unlocking the Keypad and Scroll” on
Page 38).
- alerts you when the battery power gets low.
GRP - shows the currently activated group or selected
group Quick Key number, appears with numbers
(0-9). The currently active group indicator flashes.
AM/FM/NFM/WFM/FMB - appears to show the type of
reception mode.
L/O - appears when you manually select a channel
you locked out or a skip frequency.
F
- appears when you hold down to select a
Func
function.
- appears when the scanner is set to CC Pri Mode
(see “Using the Close Call Feature” on Page 65).
- appears when the scanner is set to Close Call
DND Mode. (see “Using the Close Call Feature” on
Page 65).
SCAN - scrolls while the scanner is scanning.
DSKP - appears when data skip is turned on.
HOLD - appears while the scanner is set to scan or
search hold mode.
P
- appears if priority is turned on
SCR - appears when one or more broadcast screen
bands are turned on.
- appears to show signal strength (0 to 5).
Setting Up Your Scanner
29
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