Our valley (Cache Valley, Utah) just went to P25 system, requiring me to purchase a new scanner (purchased the BCD325P2). I have uploaded the trunked system data from RadioReference, and the scanner is working, but many, if not most of the transmissions are very choppy and difficult to understand, almost like there is intermittent scramble / encoding. I know this is not the case with broadcasts that others are sharing by using phone scanner apps, as they are clear, but quite delayed. Any thoughts and assistance would be greatly appreciated.
BCD325P2/BCD996P2: BCD325P2 Reception Very Choppy
- Thread starter NV0T
- Start date
The Utah Communications Authority uses a simulcast system in Cache County. The 325P2 is not designed for simulcast, you should have gotten an SDS100 which is simulcast capable. You might try some of the suggestions in the below Wiki, if you can't clear up the distortion you are out of luck.
wiki.radioreference.com
Simulcast Distortion - The RadioReference Wiki
Try using a "stubby ducky" short antenna or if the scanner has an anttenuator try turning it on to reduce the signal. That might help. Another thing to try is use an antenna not made for the frequency band you are having issues with. I am assuming it's a 800 mhz system. If so, try a vhf high band only antenna (like a 2 meter ham rubber ducky)
tvengr
Well Known Member
Welcome to the forums! I also suggest turning off digital audio AGC. The AGC action can increase garbled audio problems when receiving simulcast sites. If you are using software, please attach your programming file so we can take a look at it. You will need to zip the file to be able to attach it. Click on Attach files and open the zipped file.
Watching the signal strength bar what is it showing all 5 bars solid or do they change during the conversation?
wtp
Member
squelch on 2 ?
also,
also,
alwayslistening
Member
If you are operating at a fixed location, I also suggest using a yagi antenna for the frequency band in use, and use a short piece of coaxial cable to connect it to your scanner. The directional antenna may be aimed at the nearest simulcast site to reduce the phase distortion caused by receiving other simulcast sites located at different distances from you. Yagi antennas and suitable cables are available online from Amazon, eBay, etc. It's not a surefire option, but I have had success with this technique with non-IQ receivers.
Similar threads
- Locked
