BCD396XT/BCD996XT: Programming Cable

[wisconsinjimmy]

Uniden BCD996XT; A cable was included in the box but I have no idea if it is for the GPS feature or programming, one end plugs into the back of the scanner but the other end is a very small USB connector. I ordered a new cable but it came with male pins. Where can I buy this cable and is there a Uniden part number?
Jim
Cushing, WI

 

[n9mxq]

You got the programming cable. It's just backwards. The USB goes in the front of the radio, and the DB-9 connects to your computer.

 

[W8RMH]

If you don't have a DB-9 connection on your PC you can get the cable from Scannermaster.

Uniden USB Cable

 

[EDCScanner]

You can also use a null modem cable connected to the back GPS serial port which is cheaper and you could probably find locally. If you don't have a DB-9 connection on your computer you can use a DB-9 to USB dongle to connect it to your computer. The only thing you can't do with this method is upload firmware updates to the radio. Of course, at this point in time I really don't think you have to worry about that.

 

[wisconsinjimmy]

To be honest, I purchased a cable from Tiger and yup it was the wrong one, I ordered a USB to DB9 serial adapter but it is the male (pins) and the scanner has pins. I am totally at the mercy of the internet as I have no stores close to be able to compare the fit. I am going to box it up and send it back as this is just to confusing. I thank all of you for your help but this old man is beyond help.
Jim

 

[W8RMH]

Something like the pre-programmed Home Patrol may work better for you.

 

[ofd8001]

Two options available to you:

1. The USB-1 cable menitoned above. (Best option, but more costly by about $10)
2. A USB to 9 pin Serial adapter. (Does work - allows you to connect the supplied programming cable to the computer. Its a little more cumbersome).

Each of these will have a chipset inside the cable for communications purposes. Be sure that whichever you choose has the HXD chipset, especially if your computer is Windows 8.

Whichever you choose, please note the tag that will be on the cable - download and install the appropriate drivers (for that chipset) before connecting the cable. If you don't then you'll have to go through a little aggravation.

 

[Voyager]

To be honest, I purchased a cable from Tiger and yup it was the wrong one, I ordered a USB to DB9 serial adapter but it is the male (pins) and the scanner has pins. I am totally at the mercy of the internet as I have no stores close to be able to compare the fit. I am going to box it up and send it back as this is just to confusing. I thank all of you for your help but this old man is beyond help.
Jim

The adapter is designed to be used with the OEM programming cable. Plug the USB into your PC, the OEM cable DB-9 into the adapter (only end left), and plug the small connector into the front of the scanner.

 

[sfd119]

Jim,

Is this the cable you have? Or similar? Sabrent SBT-USC1M Cable Adapter - 1' ft, USB 2.0 to DB9, Blue at TigerDirect.com

That's the right one. The "mini usb" looking thing goes to the front of the scanner. The DB-9 female cable plugs into the computer or the adapter.

 

[wisconsinjimmy]

Yes that is the cable and now that I know it plugs into the front of the radio and the DB9 cable is correct I am ready to go. Thanks a bunch,
Jim

 

[sfd119]

Good deal. You've got my email if you have any questions.

 

[wisconsinjimmy]

Hey folks I am up and running thank you all for the help and a special thanks tosfd119
Jim