RadioReference.com Forums

I recently picked up a Bearcat 210 XL at a flea market. I bought this more for the novelty of the scanner but thought if it worked, then it would be a good addition to my megger shack. By all accounts the scanner seems to operate. It does take a little time for the old LED to warm up and become visible. The volume and squelch work, lockout and delay seem to work. It did come with the stock telescoping antenna. I've tried this radio on several occasions always with the same results...I enter a few local public service freqs, let her scan and nothing. I have other scanners running so I know there is traffic on the freqs I've entered.

So tonight I thought I'd play around with it again. I took the case (metal) off of the radio and plug her up, again put in a few freqs....low and behold she is working...still needs some adjustments I think and maybe an external speaker, but she was stopping on the same traffic that my Pro-95 was. I was completely and pleasantly surprised.

Here is the rub...I put the cover back on and guess what...dead silence. Could the case be grounding out the radio or causing something else? Have any of you ever experienced this type of issue before? If so what was the cure. I have noticed a GRND screw on the rear of the unit...is it imperative that I use this. Looking for a little help and guidance.

Keith