BCD 396T Programming Software..Any good?

[motorman105]

I'm getting my new BCT 396T today and I was wondering if anyone out there had used the PC programming software that comes with it.
I used the Butel software for my last scanner but if the Uniden software is any good I would rather use it than go out and spend more money.
Thanks!

[Dewey]

Originally Posted by motorman105

I'm getting my new BCT 396T today and I was wondering if anyone out there had used the PC programming software that comes with it.
I used the Butel software for my last scanner but if the Uniden software is any good I would rather use it than go out and spend more money.
Thanks!

The supplied software is just fine. I think you'll find differing opinions here, but the bottom line is that they both do the same thing except that the ARC will download directly from the databases here. Both have a virtual control panel and will program your radio. Both are a little awkward on data entry in their own ways. Personally, I prefer Butel, but sometimes used the UASD depending on what I want to do at the time. As an afterthought, I do think that the logging feature on the ARC products is better than the UASD, but other than that, both are ok once you get used to them.

Dewey

[wjf]

Originally Posted by motorman105

I'm getting my new BCT 396T today and I was wondering if anyone out there had used the PC programming software that comes with it.
I used the Butel software for my last scanner but if the Uniden software is any good I would rather use it than go out and spend more money.
Thanks!

Save your money.

[loumaag]

Originally Posted by Dewey

...As an afterthought, I do think that the logging feature on the ARC products is better than the UASD, but other than that, both are ok once you get used to them.

And there is IDTracker (freeware), which is far superior to the ARC programs for logging/recording IMHO.

[gatorhater]

IDTracker software how good is this software? From your experience is it better than the free software that comes with the BCD 396T from Uniden?

Thanks Loumaag, I'm considering the IDTracker that you are recommending.

[loumaag]

Originally Posted by gatorhater

IDTracker software how good is this software? From your experience is it better than the free software that comes with the BCD 396T from Uniden?

Thanks Loumaag, I'm considering the IDTracker that you are recommending.

IDTracker does not program your scanner, it only allows you to somewhat control and log/record audio, but it is very detailed as to your controlling what gets recorded/logged and does not fill your HD with stuff you don't want. The UASD software is adequate for programming your radio. The only thing missing is the download from RR. I guess with enough interest someone will write a utility to download from the web service. Paul (UPMan) wrote a utility to download trunked system data just after the introduction of the BC246T but it was never updated for conventional and to be honest it is a little difficult use use.

[gatorhater]

Thanks for the input Loumaag.

[bonus1331]

I use the below for recording and logging. Find it alittle more user friendly than ID tracker.
http://www.scannerbase.com/scannerba...nner-software/

However, neither AVC396 or IDtracker will program the 396.

[gatorhater]

Thanks for the link. I'll be looking at them and plan on trying out.

[motorman105]

Thanks for all the help!!