Former USMC RO needs help picking a scanner...

[blitzer_]

Greetings y'all.

First let me qualify myself:
For the past 3 years I have served as a Scout Sniper/Radio Operator on a SS team. Now I teach pistol marksmanship, but that's another story. My communications experience is in HF, the whole VHF, and UHF encrypted voice and data communications. Worked with scan plans, computer control, rxmt stations, etc. Built most of my antennas out of speaker wire...small, light, easy to conceal. Works pretty well.
The entirety of my experience with scanners comes from the past several hours of browsing this website.


Second, What I need.
My target is State Police. CHP in CA and DPS in TX.
Handheld scanner, will use on motorcycle. Operating in S. California, NM, AZ, and West/Central Texas.
Audio going into helmet via AUX cord/Chatterbox. Would be nice to keep scanner stowed in gear on body, but I may devise a way to mount on bike if necessary.

I like the "Close Call" function of Uniden scanners, seems to me that would work like a "manual" Bearcat mode if you program the mobile rxmt freq in there, am I grasping that function correctly?

I love the idea of Location Based Scanning function but I don't think my Garmin FORETREX 401 will interface and I don't like the idea of having to buy another piece of gear.

I have not been able to figure out if I need a trunking feature or NAC decoding capabilities.



Once I've selected the appropriate scanner I will start educating myself on it specifically.

Thanks in advance.

 

[russellmaher]

Hello blitzer_ and let me welcome you to RR. Glad to have you aboard (from a former USCG RO).

Let me try to answer your question. Since you want to receive the State Police in several states while you're traveling, you'll need a scanner that's capable of receiving numerous types of systems, and yes, you will need to monitor conventional, trunking systems, and you will need NAC decoding capabilities. The units you want to hear use some or all of the above.

My recommendation would be the Uniden Home Patrol since it already has the entire RR database installed and it does support all the systems that you want to listen to. You must remember that any systems that utilize encryption cannot be monitored by any scanners (if there are some of these in those systems you want to hear). The HP-1 can also be hooked up to a GPS (not sure if your Garmin is compatible) so the scanner will move from area to area while you're moving along. I'm not the owner of a HP-1 (yet), but it's the newest and most advanced scanner out there (in my opinion), and I'm sure that some of our members that have one will join in here and lend their expertise to this discussion.

Also, some members that reside in those states you listed will probably also add their input on here.

Anyway, I just want to say welcome to RR; and oh yes, THANK YOU for your service!

Russell

 

[KC0CSE]

welcome!!! and thanks for your service....I'm a former Marine class of 1969.....I use the PRO 106 &PRO197....For your app I would have to agree with the poster above.HP1..has GPS ect...just what you need looks like to me...Semper-Fi.....

 

[blitzer_]

welcome!!! and thanks for your service....I'm a former Marine class of 1969.....I use the PRO 106 &PRO197....For your app I would have to agree with the poster above.HP1..has GPS ect...just what you need looks like to me...Semper-Fi.....

Semper, brother. Always a comfort to meet another. You were exactly 40 years before me. I wish I could've been a part of your Corps. Even since our last Presidential election you have no idea how much it has changed. I can't imagine how yours was. A different organization, I am positive.

Hello blitzer_ and let me welcome you to RR. Glad to have you aboard (from a former USCG RO).

Let me try to answer your question. Since you want to receive the State Police in several states while you're traveling, you'll need a scanner that's capable of receiving numerous types of systems, and yes, you will need to monitor conventional, trunking systems, and you will need NAC decoding capabilities. The units you want to hear use some or all of the above.

My recommendation would be the Uniden Home Patrol since it already has the entire RR database installed and it does support all the systems that you want to listen to. You must remember that any systems that utilize encryption cannot be monitored by any scanners (if there are some of these in those systems you want to hear). The HP-1 can also be hooked up to a GPS (not sure if your Garmin is compatible) so the scanner will move from area to area while you're moving along. I'm not the owner of a HP-1 (yet), but it's the newest and most advanced scanner out there (in my opinion), and I'm sure that some of our members that have one will join in here and lend their expertise to this discussion.

Also, some members that reside in those states you listed will probably also add their input on here.

Anyway, I just want to say welcome to RR; and oh yes, THANK YOU for your service!

Russell

Thanks for your reply, Russell. You and I share a first name.

The technology behind the HP1 is outstanding but I'm not sure how well it will work for my motorcycle. Operating a touch screen with gloved hands is frustrating if not impossible. The weather resistance of the HP1 is, at a quick glance, nil. Also, I am on a liter class sportbike and the cockpit space is limited, 25% of which has already been claimed by an Escort Redline.

Not to mention the HP1 lacks the NAC decoding capability and Close Call feature (which, I am still under the impression, can be used as a manually programed Beartracker).


I'm flipflopping between the Uniden 396XT and the GRE PSR-800, any input?

-rp

 

[One13Truck]

Being familiar with the PSR-800 and a proud owner of the 396XT I have to say both are very good scanners. Unfortunately I don't know the areas you're looking for to say which would be the better choice. The GRE is a better choice if you want to get up and running in seconds (as opposed to a few extra seconds with the 396XT). I still enjoy programming and tweaking by hand instead of using a computer program to do it so I like the 396XT. But as long as all of the systems you want to listen to are able to be monitored by both of these there's really no wrong choice.

 

[russellmaher]

Hi Russell:

Sorry to feed you bad info on the HP-1 but I thought it was NAC decode capable. As for touch screen operation with your gloves on - are you really going to be operating your scanner (no matter which brand you choose) while driving your motorcycle? Sounds risky to me. I don't know of any scanners that are made to be weather resistant, but if you're clipping a handheld unit to your belt and it's under your clothes then the unit should be protected from the elements.

Now on to the choices of scanners you're looking at. I have had several of each brand (Uniden and Radio Shack) through the years so I'm familiar with both. My first scanners were RS's because their stores were all over the place, but then I bought a Uniden and that changed me forever. So, I have to say that the 396XT would be my recommendation. But, you'll get some others to give you their thoughts.

Whatever you decide, have fun with it and happy scanning!


Russell

 

[mkewman]

Welcome to RR!
First off, Thanks for your service sir!

The close call function actually scans ALL bands and finds nearby transmissions. You can't actually use it like a beartracker... HOWEVER, you can make certain frequencies (in your example, CHP vehicle extenders) in a bank "priority" and therefore, whenever a CHP is using their vehicle extenders, you'll know.

I would recommend the BCD396XT as mentioned before, stow it with an external antenna attached and you could even get the remote head (if you have room on your bike) to operate it.


I have 2 BCD396T scanners that I use everyday (they're the previous version of the 396XT) and they're fantastic.

 

[UPMan]

HP-1 does decode and use NAC, but as you not, not Close Call(tm) RF Capture. If it is primarily for cross-country travel, there is no better setup than the HP-1 with a compatible GPS. Some Garmins can output the necessary NMEA signaling using an accessory cable from https://www.argentdata.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=113 (they have several variations). Your challenge (really with any scanner) is going to be weatherizing while maintaining access to the controls. At least with the HP-1+GPS you don't have to do anything as you relocate...it will continuously reselect only local channels.

 

[blitzer_]

Welcome to RR!
First off, Thanks for your service sir!

The close call function actually scans ALL bands and finds nearby transmissions. You can't actually use it like a beartracker... HOWEVER, you can make certain frequencies (in your example, CHP vehicle extenders) in a bank "priority" and therefore, whenever a CHP is using their vehicle extenders, you'll know.

I would recommend the BCD396XT as mentioned before, stow it with an external antenna attached and you could even get the remote head (if you have room on your bike) to operate it.


I have 2 BCD396T scanners that I use everyday (they're the previous version of the 396XT) and they're fantastic.

Scans all bands? That seems impressive to me, maybe it's not all that difficult to pick out a single transmission above the baseline noise.

So, as an example to make sure I understand the feature correctly now, I could use the Close Call to figure out which VHF Low freqs my Chatterbox communicator works on by activating the Close Call and keying the PTT button on that Chatterbox.

I am tracking on the Priority function, I have used something similar before.

If I do not need to change my pre-programmed scan plan (if I'm not leaving the immediate area) is there any reason that I would need access to the keypad or any need to see the display other than to know what freq I'm receiving on? I have never operated such an advanced scanner, (my last one was from the early 90's) I simply can't anticipate what I'll need to screw with while it's running.


I will research the 396T's, perhaps buy used. Always good to save some $$$.

HP-1 does decode and use NAC, but as you not, not Close Call(tm) RF Capture. If it is primarily for cross-country travel, there is no better setup than the HP-1 with a compatible GPS. Some Garmins can output the necessary NMEA signaling using an accessory cable from https://www.argentdata.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=113 (they have several variations). Your challenge (really with any scanner) is going to be weatherizing while maintaining access to the controls. At least with the HP-1+GPS you don't have to do anything as you relocate...it will continuously reselect only local channels.

The unit will be used primarily within a 2-3 "areas" at a time. For daily use I feel confident I can manually switch between scan plans while on the move. Early 2013 I will be making several pre-moving trips between Camp Pendleton, CA (SoCal) and Austin, TX so the need for cross country is there, but not a priority. Once we get moved hopefully I'll never have to leave Texas again.

Weatherizing can be as simple as a ziplock bag. Nothing really gets wet inside the cockpit, the air bubble protects everything. When I talk about the weather I mean sunlight, heat, dust, and the general abuse things take from being outside. Equipment meant to be worn on a belt is usually more durable than that which is to be kept on a desk or inside a vehicle.

Uniden's website under the Specifications tab has a big red X for the NAC on the HP-1. Perhaps something has been updated with the scanner, but not their website.

I understand that the HP-1 has all the databases pre-loaded, but the same end state can be achieved on the 396XT or the PSR-800 with the databases on RadioReference, right??

I have neither the space nor the desire to dick with a big bright touchscreen powered device while I'm on the move. I've narrowed it down to the 396 or the PSR-800.

I have an e-mail in with Garmin right now to see if my FORETREX 401 supports NMEA. Will keep thread updated.

Hi Russell:

Sorry to feed you bad info on the HP-1 but I thought it was NAC decode capable. As for touch screen operation with your gloves on - are you really going to be operating your scanner (no matter which brand you choose) while driving your motorcycle? Sounds risky to me. I don't know of any scanners that are made to be weather resistant, but if you're clipping a handheld unit to your belt and it's under your clothes then the unit should be protected from the elements.

Now on to the choices of scanners you're looking at. I have had several of each brand (Uniden and Radio Shack) through the years so I'm familiar with both. My first scanners were RS's because their stores were all over the place, but then I bought a Uniden and that changed me forever. So, I have to say that the 396XT would be my recommendation. But, you'll get some others to give you their thoughts.

Whatever you decide, have fun with it and happy scanning!


Russell

Russell,

As far as the risk associated with distractions while riding, you are correct in your initial assessment of riding a motorcycle as extremely risky. A much smarter man than I devised a system of breaking your attention into a system of measurement akin to a "ten dollar bill".

When you've got to spend $8.50 switching scan plans on your scanner, it is suggestible you drive/ride in a manner so that you don't "overspend" yourself. The same should apply to flipping the radio, eating, putting on makeup, screaming at the kids, talking on the phone, or generally not giving a **** about any of the other 22.5 million people around you, but I don't think many people in Southern California have heard of the "$10 bill" system so generally I've found it doesn't apply.



Happy motoring

-rp

 

[blitzer_]

Thank you for contacting Garmin International.


Unfortunately; the Foretrex does not output NMEA data. There are a number of handheld series that do provide NMEA 0183 data:

Oregon series
GPSMap 78 series
Montana series
GPSMap 62 series

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=161

The least expensive newGarmin that supports it is the GPSMAP 78, retails $250. I'm looking into which discontinued models have NMEA out that can be had for pennies on the dollar.


I started another thread in the GRE forum, stating that I am leaning towards a Uniden 396XT and looking for strong opinions for a GRE radio.

The expert guidance I've received has changed my target GRE to a PSR-500. I have all but ruled out the HP-1 because it lacks the Close Call feature which is just too exciting. If only the 500 had GPS control support...

I don't mind taking the hours in front of a computer to set up the scanner, which brings me to my next question about the quality of the software that interfaces the computer with the scanner. Which software is easier to use, more reliable, allows more flexibility with the unit?

This decision is quickly boiling down to the quality of the manufacturer and the user-friendliness of the scanner itself. Which scanner will be easier for me to teach myself with.

Regards,
-rp

 

[russellmaher]

Hello again, blitzer_ , I'm back, and just want to add another comment.

If you're ruling out the HP-1 due to the lack of the Close Call feature, I understand, and so I can see why you're leaning to the 396XT. I'm with you on that. I have no experience with the GRE line of products, so I can't help with that.

My experience with Uniden is with several units and the newest (for me anyways) is the 396T that I've had since 2005. I've thought about moving up to the HP-1 and although I'm fascinated by the look of it and how it operates, I'm leaning more and more to the 396XT for the extra capacity and the systems that it receives that the 396T doesn't. I think the XT could be what Santa's bringing this year.

For what it's worth.....I know that most members here tout the benefits of using the software as a easy, more efficient way to load what you want into the scanner, and I'm sure that it is. However, I have not gotten into this way (up to now) and just want you to know that it's not that difficult to program a Uniden such as the 396T. I have done mine manually and have enjoyed doing so; however it is a time consuming process, but I get a lot of satisfaction from it, and will probably do the XT the same way.

So, being a fan of Uniden products (I've got their wireless phone's too) I think you'll like them too.

Good for you that you're taking the time to do your research. We hear from new scannists all the time that don't check this stuff out and wind up purchasing a unit that will not monitor the systems that are in their area and how unhappy they are with what they bought. Good luck on your search.

Russell

 

[One13Truck]

For what it's worth.....I know that most members here tout the benefits of using the software as a easy, more efficient way to load what you want into the scanner, and I'm sure that it is. However, I have not gotten into this way (up to now) and just want you to know that it's not that difficult to program a Uniden such as the 396T. I have done mine manually and have enjoyed doing so; however it is a time consuming process, but I get a lot of satisfaction from it, and will probably do the XT the same way.

I'm with you on that one and I take a lot of heat on here for it. I still enjoy doing everything by hand. A lot of people that just plug and dump think I'm crazy. I don't care that it takes 5 seconds to do a data dump as opposed to the extra time to do it by hand. I enjoy it and will keep doing it that way as long as there's scanners out there that still allow it.

As for the 396XT I think you and blitzer would both enjoy the 396XT (as long as the systems you want to scan play well with it). The 800 is nice too but I still like to do my stuff by hand and it's much harder to do on the 800. I'm also going to look at the 996XT to replace an old scanner but waiting for the GRE PSR900 to be released 1st. Depending on the things it can do and if it does/doesn't have a keypad will determine which I go with.

 

[blitzer_]

I've had to hand-jam scan plans when there were no other options and as an exercise to make sure you still remember how, but generally I have to agree with the other as of yet unspoken opinions that you'd be a little crazy not to use a computer to program a radio whenever you can.

I know what you mean about the satisfaction of doing it yourself, but I've sat for hours hand jamming a radio only to screw up a single keypress and have to do it over, and I'm over that mess. In fact there were several more advanced functions on our radios that could only be accessed via a computer, impossible to program a 3G scan plan by hand.

I'm going to venture into a local HAM radio shop and play around with whatever they have, get a real life feel for it.

I'm surprised nobody offered any opinions on the software that interfaces with the radio...

 

[One13Truck]

The software you'll have to leave to someone else. I do have one of them but I only keep it on the laptop as an "oh crap" back up for when I do the firmware updates to the scanners. I've never actually used it to do any of the tweaking and programming so I can't say if it's better than other options out there and honestly I use it so infrequently I don't remember which one I have on there. It has it's fans as do others that I can't think of the names to right now. I'm sure the others here can tell you the best bets based on the scanner you go with though. Or a quick question on the Uniden or GRE boards will work too.

The hand programming for me is just my escape from the world. Kind of going off in my own happy place for a while is the best I can describe it. I do have other hobbies as well but I usually say it's like some people enjoy golf, surfing, painting, running, reading, sudoku, etc to take their minds off of the rest of life. For me doing this is part of that when I don't feel like doing the other hobbies. I'll program portables and Minitors on the computer but not the scanners. What can I say? I'm a stubborn Irish...

 

[russellmaher]

I agree....

The hand programming for me is just my escape from the world. Kind of going off in my own happy place for a while is the best I can describe it)

with the idea that it's a form of relaxation and de-stresser, which is why I do it also.

There is one drawback, however. Doing the programming on the 396 wreaks havoc on that little scroll button on the top. Putting in multiple systems, groups, TGIDs, and all the other data needed for programming really wore out the button on my scanner. It still functions, but the crisp feel when turning it is no longer there, so someday it may go in for a repair, but not right now.

Russell

 

[jwlehman]

I cannot offer much help in the scanner area (still a newbie myself), but I do ride, and the touch screen issue can be addressed with a part of capacitative gloves. I found a pair on sale at Kohls last fall...here's a link...they come in all different styles:

TouchTec gloves let you use your capacitive touchscreen device in the cold

 

[jmp883]

First let me say thank you for your service to our country. I tried to serve twice, in the mid-80's, but due to a minor medical issue was barred both times. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten.

I've read through this thread and I think what you're wanting to do is great. The only concern I have is that you want to do this while on a motorcycle. I've been a scanner listener and ham radio operator for years. I have a nice radio shack at home and a scanner and mobile ham rig mounted in my truck but I have never thought of doing radio on my motorcycle. Besides the safety factor there is the issue of where to mount the equipment. I ride a Harley Ultra Classic and, believe it or not, even on a bike that size there isn't much room to add additional equipment. I refuse to mount any equipment in my trunk or saddlebags and there just isn't enough room inside the fairing. I could remove the factory-installed DIN-chassied AM/FM/CB/Wx/CD radio and install one of the DIN-chassied scanners but I like having my music.

I used to enjoy manually programming my radios but with the amount of radios that I have now using software makes it much easier and quicker. There is a myriad of programs available, I prefer the software from Butel.

Good luck with your choices and stay safe!