How do you know what scanner you need?

[jvendryes]

Basic question, but how would I figure out what scanner or technology I need to listen so I can listen to all the channels that I want? Sorry if I missed this answer somewhere on this site.

Thanks!

 

[cherubim]

The choice of scanner is determined by the systems and frequencies you wish to monitor. Have a look in the database section for the areas you wish to monitor. From there you can choose whether an analog or digital scanner is more appropriate for your needs.

 

[n5ims]

As was already indicated, start with the RR Database for your area (perhaps this page --> Adams County, Colorado (CO) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference). Find out what types of system(s) the agencies you're interested in monitoring use (e.g. conventional analog - generally indicated by "FM" in the Mode column, EDACS Trunked, Project 25 Phase I (FDMA), LTR Passport, LTR Standard, Motorola Type II SmartZone, etc.). Then crossreference those types with what the various radios support based on the articles in the RR WIKI (start here --> Category:Radio Models - The RadioReference Wiki).

Please note that a digital scanner will do basically everything an analog scanner will plus do the indicated digital mode(s). Also note that there are some types of systems that no current scanner will support. Examples of these are OpenSky, ProVoice, LTR Passport, MotoTRBO, or anything analog or digital that is encrypted. For help on what system types are, start here (Trunked Radio Systems - The RadioReference Wiki) and drill down as necessary.

 

[jvendryes]

Thanks!

I found that the channels I want to list to all say: Project 25 Phase I (FDMA)

I bought the Pro-106 and am now trying to figure out how to program it.

 

[AC2OY]

Wow that was quick!!!.....do yourself a favor purchase some software and you can create a file put all your conventional frequencies,talk groups,...ect. In all at once then upload it to your scanner!! The beauty of al, this is you have a working file in progress that you can always add to or upgrade!!!

 

[reconrider8]

or go to youtube and watch the videos on how to program the 106 thats what i did man and i can now program a whole system trunk or untrunk in like 5 min or less

 

[jvendryes]

Thanks for all the advice! I was able to manually program my Pro-106 after watching this YouTube video:

How To Program the PRO-106 Digital Trunking Scanner - YouTube

I appreciate everyones feedback!

 

[AC2OY]

Nifty video what if you program the wrong system will it still work? He mentioned it didn't matter I suppose the scanner knows better and adjusts to the proper recieve frequency!! See I am learning!!....lol

 

[AC2OY]

There's a video of listening to a digitally encrypted police system...it sounded like the aliens from the movie..."battle Los Angeles!!