Location-Based Scanning
You can connect the scanner to a compatible GPS device and set the scanner to automatically lock and unlock trunked sites and channel groups based on the location information and range settings you program for those sites/groups. This frees you from having to manually enable and disable sites/groups as you change location. The BCT15-X uses the data, supplied by an (optional) attached GPS unit, that allows the radio to automatically unlock and lockout sites/groups based on latitude and longitude. It uses the (programmed) center of the site/group, and the (programmed) range - the radius of a circle around the latitude and longitude up to 125 miles from that center.
A good application of this feature would be to set the longitude and latitude for each multi-site system transmitter as usually you can receive at least a handful in any given location. Set the range to around 30 miles and the scanner will automatically lock out the site when out of range. It may also be relevant to set different locations/ranges for the groups within the site.
You can find the physical location of antennas using the databases available at Radio Reference or the FCC's Antenna Structure Registration site. Both sites list the latitude, longitude, and height of the antenna, and both sites can map the exact location for you. Radio Reference is more user-friendly, so it's easier to find what you're looking for.
Non Radio Location-Based GPS Features
When connected to a GPS, you can program specific location information which will trigger an alert from the scanner. The scanner becomes an extension of the GPS device. Even if you don't use the scanner to scan, you can enhance you GPS unit with information the scanner provides. The scanner also allows you to program audio and/or visual alerts for a:
Point of Interest (POI): Stores location and range. If you approach the set location, the radio sounds an alert up to 4 miles/km from the center.
Dangerous Road/Dangerous Crossing: Stores location, direction of travel, and speed. If you are traveling at a speed greater than that specified, in the direction specified, and if you are within range of the set location, the scanner sounds an alert at 1.0, .50, and .10 miles/km from the point. These range distances are also automatic and fixed.
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Easier to Read BCT15-X Scanner Manual gps
