I see FBI frequencies in NYC on the database page that state P25 transmission and 167 NAC tone. Does this mean that they are encrypted and we can't listen to them? Thanks I'm a rookie at this.
No. The modes are:
D= digital (P25 is monitorable)
A= analog
E= encrypted (no one can listen)
Welcome to RR.
Most FBI transmissions are encrypted however
Regardlesss if its listed as encrypted or not, it might at some times be differant from what it says
Thanks very much for the info. Maybe OT but I'm trying to figure out what scanner/receiver to buy and i was trying to see what I would listen to first. I'm in NYC and was turned on to the new PSR800 with the included database and trucking ability. However, i kind of like the AR2300 as a wideband receiver that would do everything. Do you guys use a dedicate scanner and is a wideband receiver like an AOR a bad idea for VHF scanning etc? thanks
So much fed traffic is simplex such a mobile surveillance operations, marshals moving around, etc. For longer range comms so much is done on cell phones, nextel, etc.
So it all depends on where you are and what you can catch. You would surprised whats in the open.
Does the 2300 track trunked systems? It should for $3500.00. You don't need all that. A Uniden 996XT would be more than enough.
DC and Norther VA area has many repeaters for them to use. They also use simplex like you mentioned.
If you've ever used a scanner and a "professional receiver" you'll understand why they cost more. The AOR AR2300 is a software defined radio, plus it offers a huge amount of real receiver features. But still, you will not get the RX performance in a scanner that a modern professional receiver will provide. Since Federal radio is still conventional, and predominantly on VHF, using a good grade receiver will pull in those distant Fed signals. I have a ICOM PCR2500 dedicated to Federal VHF.Wait up Cochise...what type of scanner costs $3500.00 and what can you listen to with that...,Star Fleet Operations??....LOL "Kirk Star Fleet this is Enterprise"
A HIDTA for instance has FBI, DEA, IRS, local cops, etc all in one office. They may elect to use a DEA simplex or repeater or a local TRS, just depends and it changes as their needs do.
DC and Norther VA area has many repeaters for them to use. They also use simplex like you mentioned.