SDS100/SDS200: bc-gps and sds100

[AA8CB]

When plugging the bc-sgps into the sds100 (or any scanner), should the power on the scanner be off and the bc-sgps plugged into the power source already? After you plug in your bc-sgps cable to the scanner, you then turn the scanner on. Or does it matter if the scanner is already on and working when you plug the bc-sgps into the scanner?

 

[hexagon_keyhole]

I don't think this is a big issue as the USB is only providing about 4.5-5v of power that the scanner is already expecting on that port.

I like to power on the GPS unit first so that it can do its own thing to acquire satellites, etc and then start streaming the GPS data when I plug it into the scanner.

 

[JDKelley]

Actually, I don't think the GPS unit is providing any power to the scanner - I've had the batteries go flat on me on longer drives with the GPS plugged in and the charger idle.

Which is why I'm looking for a wye plug (2*female arm 1*male stem) for USB Mini-B, so I can have the GPS and the charge plugged in at the same time. Be best if I could get a blocking diode on one so I don't backfeed power into the GPS unit, but that would entail building it myself, and I'd hav to track down parts (which I just might end up doing anyhow...)

 

[Randyk4661]

If you get the Uniden GPS kit, it does power the radio
And I have done both, plugged the power in with the scanner on and off. with the GPS plug and doesn't seem to make a difference.
If you don't have the Uniden kit, you can use the other jack to power the radio.

There is a setting that can turn the charge off while the radio is on. It will only charge if the radio is off.

Settings,
Battery options
Set charge while on
Enable