The FIRST "Programmable" scanner I remember that did NOT require crystals was the Regency "Whamo" scanner, model ACT-W10. It was programmed with a series of aluminum combs where teeth were broken off the combs for each particular frequency. A large 8X10 inch book came with the unit listing all the available frequencies (VHF Lo, VHF Hi and UHF) showing which teeth were to be broken off the comb for the frequencies you wanted. These combs were then plugged into one of ten slots on the rear of the unit. I bought one and still have it today -- it still works. I also bought the optional accessory box that was available whereby you could "dial up" any frequency you wanted "on the fly". This box would also plug into one of the slots where the aluminum combs would go. It was a large bulky rig with the scanner AND the optional "dial-up frequency box" each being about the size of a shoebox.
I still have the frequency programming book for programming the combs, but would like a source for the aluminum combs. For a while, Regency sold extra combs for a very reasonable price, but I haven't seen them offered in decades!
This is a true museum piece by today's standards, but at the time, it was a great scanner set-up. One major advantage of this rig was its ability NOT TO LOSE memory if the power failed!
I believe this model was introduced in 1976, give - or take - a year.
Tom, KR4BD