Getting Started!

[rh0dium]

Hey all,

My dad was an avid scanner guy. I live in SE Valley (Gilbert) what's a good radio that will get me PD/Fire/Rescue/etc.

Thanks

S

 

[mbnv992]

SDS100 / SDS200 by Uniden is basically your only option for a scanner out here. Once they all go encrypted ( which one by one each department eventually will, just like Mesa just did a few months back ) - it’s time to find another hobby unfortunately.

 

[GlobalNorth]

LE may encrypt, but there is plenty to listen to other than police calls. The SDS200 is the one you want if you are listening at home or the office. If you like to wander about, the SDS100 is the portable version.

It's a drive, but Ham Radio Outlet at 43rd Avenue and W. Peoria has them in stock.

 

[cfsimmont]

SDS100 / SDS200 by Uniden is basically your only option for a scanner out here. Once they all go encrypted ( which one by one each department eventually will, just like Mesa just did a few months back ) - it’s time to find another hobby unfortunately.

Just to clarify that statement, Mesa PD went encrypted Fire/EMS is still in the clear and Queen Creek PD went encrypted upon forming the new department. SDS100 works well on the Mesa Topaz system (covers Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Apache Junction, & Fort Mcdowell). Does well with the Maricopa County phase II system, Phoenix RWC, and the AZWINS where you will find alot of the DPS traffic. With a good outside antenna, you can receive some of the analog departments like Rural Metro FD. The SDS100 doesn't do as well on analog as it does the digital, but still plenty to listen to.

 

[rh0dium]

I love my new SDS100 - This thing is awesome. Thanks everyone for your help.

 

[radiochuck]

It's a drive, but Ham Radio Outlet at 43rd Avenue and W. Peoria has them in stock.

That's where I bought my first SDS100 (and other radios). Great service.

I love my new SDS100 - This thing is awesome. Thanks everyone for your help.

Glad you're enjoying it. There are a lot of people on here who know the PHX valley systems well. Feel free to reach out for help. Also, make sure you update your Full Database via Sentinel, if you haven't done so already. That's assuming you're using the Full Database and not favorites lists, but it's still good to keep that updated. I try to update my radios once a month or so.