BCD325P2 or BCD436HP as my 2nd. Scanner Purchase in 45 years?

[teedee911]

I sold my 436HP to upgrade to the SDS100 but I sure do miss it, there are some comparisons to the two but overall the SDS100 comes out
on top for sure. Who knows, I may just trim down the herd and get another one. There's something about the feel and comfort of the 436HP I
can't quite explain, maybe it's the 7 years I regularly used it and got to know it so well.

 

[AudioPhool]

Excellent replies hiegtx! You answered my first question without me asking it. I wasn't sure, but assumed, that programming was identical for the "436HP & 536HP, as well as the SDS100 & SDS200". So, after exhausting the fewer 436HP videos, I began scrolling though the numerous SDS101/200 programming videos.

Your other information was on target. Verses my original 1st. choice, the 325p2, the more I read and see about the Sentinel/zip code scanners, the more I like; because of their seemingly quick-start ability. What I've seen and what you provided, suggests that I've probably been making too much about the programing, by wanting to get it all "right" the first time. In fact, bringing data into the 436HP seems so quick and easy, that "messing up" and beginning again, doesn't appear to be the big deal, that I was making of it. As such, the following comments you made were outstanding:

All you would need to do is simply erase the lists on your 436HP's SD card. Presuming you initially created them in Sentinel (or ProScan), they'll still be on your PC, so you can go back and make whatever changes you want, then send the edited list(s) back to the scanner. For that matter, you could make any desired changes, then, when you are ready to send the updated lists to the scanner, select the option to delete all lists in the scanner before writing the changed lists to the scanner from your software. Note that it always a good idea to keep a spare, preprogrammed, SD card for quick & easy access. A very high percentage of problem issues posted in various forum threads are cured by either replacing the card, or formatting the existing one. If you format a card, use this program. Then use the 'Clear User Data' option to set up the basic files and folders needed, then send your modified lists to the scanner.

Also, having done a couple cursory reviews of the "Easier To Read Manual", I didn't see the section on planning, or the worksheets. If these or something else provides a more graphical organizational depiction, that would be helpful. So, indeed your following paragraph and your 2-others, provided superb nudges in the right direction:

The Easier to Read Manual site has the steps you need. Also on that site, there is a section on planning what you do, and do not want. Also in that section are some worksheet templates that you can print & use to get a handle on how you want things set up. You might ask, in your state forum, for someone to share a sample file with you. Even if it is not specifically for your area, you can get a look at how their list is laid out. You do not have to copy exactly their method, if you want something a little different, but at least that will give you some ideas.

Thanks, -Mike

 

[pb_lonny]

Having owned and used both, the 436 is the clear winner for me.

 

[AudioPhool]

As I've posted on the Indiana forum, with the assistance of RR forum members, I have successfully programed favorites into the 436, using both Sentinel and Butel ARC536Pro. I had more trouble figuring-out Indiana's/Indianapolis' systems than the programming steps themselves.

Also, after programming specific favorites, I took another tact, which confirms my decision to have purchased the 436HP over the 325p2. I inserted my zip, reduced the range, marked and unmarked services and am logging what I'm receiving in Butel, to get a handle on the specifics of what's actually out there! Having the full database loaded and then dissecting it down to a viable range and services, provides an inkling of what there is to listen, which is especially important for a rank beginner like me. This self-programming (if you will) aspect of the Home Patrol line of scanners as it relates to a newbie like me, or simply when you're traveling, should be a consideration when deciding upon which Uniden scanner to buy.

 

[bradenmikael]

I went with the BCD325P2 myself, got it from Bearcat Warehouse and they were not only very helpful, they were downright courteous and professional by giving me several status updates (via phone call) of my purchase (that's a rarity these days). I purchased Butel ARC-XT Pro, it works really well. I gave ProScan a test drive last night, and I have to admit, it seems more logically laid out than the Butel offering. I will continue to use the Butel application in order to get as familiar with it as I can and will see where I go with it, however, I am close to purchasing a $50.00 license for ProScan because the developer has obviously put a heck of a lot of thought, effort, and logic into his software; not to mention it seems a lot easier to use for me.

Performance-wise, I cannot really complain about the BCD325P2; battery life is pretty good considering it only uses AA-cells. I do keep quality rechargeable cells on hand with a good smart charger. One caveat for me is learning the 'ins and outs' of the keypad interface, quick-keys, and groups are something I am having a little bit of confusion with. I am sure I'll grasp it in time, I just play with the radio - and both aforementioned software applications, while I absorb as much online documentation as I can - the "Easier to read BCD325P2 manual" from marksscanners.com is incredibly helpful in helping me understand the operation of this radio.

I am really impressed with the copious, and helpful resources on here.

Cheers!

 

[NuthinFancy]

I have both scanners and love them both, great little units.

 

[W1KNE]

Having owned and used both, the 436 is the clear winner for me.

Same here. The ability to hold departments, the easy to quickly ID DMR TGs, the ability to replay audio. All make it the best choice for me.