BCT15X Big Problems

[KellyKelly]

I have had this scanner for a few days and cannot learn how to program it. I have read the manf. manual and the easy manual and tons of material on the web. I am more confused than ever. All I get is bursts of static. Is there an easy way to just put int he dozen or so scanner codes and let it scan them? I mean simple. I have never felt dumber in my life!

 

[Rt169Radio]

Have you tried programming it by software? Take a look at FreeScan, you will need the programming cable although.

This is the process to program it by hand:

1. Make a new system, go to Program System and press "E" on the keypad on the "new system" words.

2. Make a new group, once you have a system go through the options on there and press "E" on the "new group" words.

3. Add channels to that group, when you have the group you just press "E" on the "add channels" words

Basically it is just pressing yes (the E button) to make them, once you have channels in you can start scanning. Also if you type in "how to program BCT15" into YouTube there are some videos that show you how to program it.

 

[tglendye]

Also, what system(s) are you trying to monitor? Are you getting any voice at all?

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk 2

 

[KellyKelly]

I will try the programming suggestions. Thank you. I was most suprised that the included cable is not usable. It is set for my state, and It stops on *State Police* in the 800's and gives me bursts of static. So I think I have fouled up some audio setting, perhaps?

 

[hiegtx]

I have had this scanner for a few days and cannot learn how to program it. I have read the manf. manual and the easy manual and tons of material on the web. I am more confused than ever. All I get is bursts of static. Is there an easy way to just put int he dozen or so scanner codes and let it scan them? I mean simple. I have never felt dumber in my life!

Welcome to RadioReference, Kelly

As was already noted by tglendye, it would be much easier to help you if you would advise what system you are trying to monitor. The 'bursts of static' you mention could be either from poor reception, incorrect programming, or, perhaps, you are trying to monitor a channel or system that uses digital voice traffic.

With the name of the system, or even better a link to it's database page, you'll get much more useful answers. Your location, city (or county) and state, would also help. You might also find this Wili page, along with the linked articles, helpful: Program your DMA Scanner - The RadioReference Wiki

 

[StephenVa]

Easier to read bct15x manual
Easier to Read BCT15-X Scanner Manual

 

[KellyKelly]

I am trying to use this database ( Houghton County Michigan) Houghton County, Michigan (MI) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference I have followed instructions from the Youtube video and I am seeing the number come up but I hear only static. I am confused as the "FM" setting?

 

[loumaag]

The main system for your county and the state in general is a P25 trunking system. Your BCT15X cannot monitor that type of system.

 

[KellyKelly]

I guess I bought the wrong scanner. It says TrunkTracker III on the front of the unit so I thought I was good to go.

 

[loumaag]

I guess I bought the wrong scanner. It says TrunkTracker III on the front of the unit so I thought I was good to go.

There are a few terms that you must be familiar with in the scanning hobby. Scanning can be divided into 4 subject areas that you must understand.

• Audio Types:
  • Analog
  • Digital
• Transmission Modes:
  • Conventional
  • Trunking

The above is a very simplistic overview and in today's consumer market, the majority of scanners are generally divided between the two types of audio. The high end scanners are trunking digital capable. Those are capable of doing all of the above four listed modes. Your BCT15X is a trunking analog model. It can handle 3 different types of trunking systems (along with conventional monitoring); that is Motorola, EDACS, and LTR. What is missing is P25 (APCO Project 25). You may do well to inquire in the Michigan forum to see what works well in your local area.

 

[KellyKelly]

Educating myself

Thank you so much for all your help and advise. I see now what I need to do and to learn. I will master this ! I have printed out the 71 page easier manual and all your kind replies. I am going to sit down with the info and the scanner and get something going. I have also ordered the proper USB cable. ( What was with that serial port thing? )