42Mhz Anetnna

[glideslope]

Hey guys,
I'm from Massachusetts and wanted to scan the State Police. Massachusetts State Police operates on a range of 42.3400-44.900 Mhz. I have a center loaded telescoping antenna from RadioShack with a RadioShack PRO-95 scanner. I dont ever really hear the state police on my scanner.I'm also not sure how to work the trunking system of this scanner.

I was unsure if maybe it was my antenna that was causing me to not be able to listen in. Could this be the issue? If it is, whats a good low band antenna for me?

 

[commstar]

You are aware that they transitioned to an 800Mhz trunked radio system some time ago?

Here is a link:
http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?sid=736

 

[DPD1]

The good news is, now you won't need a 10' antenna. ;-)

Dave
www.DPDProductions.com
Antennas & Accessories for the RF Professional & Radio Hobbyist

 

[glideslope]

You are aware that they transitioned to an 800Mhz trunked radio system some time ago?

Here is a link:
http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?sid=736

I actually did not know that! Thanks!

I was working off of...

42.4400 ch1 - Statewide emerg/Inter-troop/Tactical/Escort & events/Air wing
42.3400 ch2 - Troop A - OPS/Car to car Western Mass.
42.4000 ch3 - Troop C Ops (Central Mass.)
42.5000 ch4 - Troop D Ops/Car to car Western Mass.
42.5400 ch5 - Station H - HQ units/Command/Detectives/Admin cmd posts/Radar
42.4600 ch6 - Troop B Ops/Car to car Eastern Mass.
42.4200 ch7 - Detectives/Surveillance/Radar teams/Car to car
44.7400 ch8 - Administration/Small town units/Air wing
44.9000 ch9 - Auto theft strike force/Turnpike car to car


Well, now that they're on 800 Mhz, I guess this antenna might be a good buy for me?
http://www.scannermaster.com/Comtelco_All_Band_Low_Prof_Antenna_p/07-540719.htm

 

[af5rn]

Well, now that they're on 800 Mhz, I guess this antenna might be a good buy for me?
http://www.scannermaster.com/Comtelco_All_Band_Low_Prof_Antenna_p/07-540719.htm

Definitely a good choice, assuming you need multi-band performance. Unless you need low band, that Comtelco is about the best multi-band scanner antenna for the money. Also a sturdy and stylish antenna too. Not too long (19"), and professional looking so it doesn't scream "SCANNER!" on your car. Highly recommended.