Programming scanner for NYPD usage

[FCV96]

Hello all; I'm relatively new to the scanner-scene and would like to pose a few questions to the knowledgeable folks that peruse this forum. I currently reside in Queens, NY, closest to the 105th Precinct and became interested in scanners and other equipment of the sort. Knowing that NYPD currently uses an analog-trunking system, I have a scanner in mind to purchase - the Uniden Bearcat BC346XT. What I was curious about, however, is what I would need in order to program the radio for the use of specifically listening to the NYPD. I know of the Freescan software as well as the necessary serial-to-USB cable, but I am more focused upon information necessary. I see that radioreference has the frequencies for specific precincts listed, but I've heard talk of requiring a callgroup for trunking scanning? Any information on this or anything I'd need to know would be much appreciated. :-D

Here's a link to that Uniden Scanner from ScannerMaster - https://www.scannermaster.com/Uniden_Bearcat_BC346XT_Police_Scanner_p/10-501357.htm

And also, would it be worth it to invest in a Digital Scanner at this time?; I've heard that NYPD and FDNY plan to switch sometime, but I doubt they could acquire the funding to replace every single radio they currently operate at the moment.

 

[mike4164]

The NYPD does not use an analog trunking system in daily operations. They use the UHF frequencies listed in the database. As for the NYPD and FDNY going digital that is not likely to happen in our lifetime,it would cost too much money to switch and the FDNY has no need to go digital. As for the NYPD,some of their channels are encrypted,like IAD and the Commissioners channel. There is a trunked system in use in NYC but if you look at it in the DB you will see it is not used for daily operations for NYPD and the FDNY uses it for supervisors and administrative things.


Mike
Retired Haz-Tac
FDNY/EMS

 

[GTR8000]

The BC346XT is an excellent choice for NYC scanning. I own one myself, it's a great scanner.

NYPD and FDNY are analog conventional, not trunked. Most of the city is analog conventional, in fact. You'll find a few trunked systems like the Port Authority, which is analog and the 346XT will handle with no trouble at all.

Take a look at the database page for NYC. Everything listed on that page is a conventional frequency, just enter it in the scanner and start listening.

New York City, New York (NY) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference

 

[FCV96]

The NYPD does not use an analog trunking system in daily operations. They use the UHF frequencies listed in the database. As for the NYPD and FDNY going digital that is not likely to happen in our lifetime,it would cost too much money to switch and the FDNY has no need to go digital. As for the NYPD,some of their channels are encrypted,like IAD and the Commissioners channel. There is a trunked system in use in NYC but if you look at it in the DB you will see it is not used for daily operations for NYPD and the FDNY uses it for supervisors and administrative things.


Mike
Retired Haz-Tac
FDNY/EMS

Guess the conventional system explains the lack of information on the database other than frequency; thank you very much for your help.

The BC346XT is an excellent choice for NYC scanning. I own one myself, it's a great scanner.

NYPD and FDNY are analog conventional, not trunked. Most of the city is analog conventional, in fact. You'll find a few trunked systems like the Port Authority, which is analog and the 346XT will handle with no trouble at all.

Take a look at the database page for NYC. Everything listed on that page is a conventional frequency, just enter it in the scanner and start listening.

New York City, New York (NY) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference

Thanks a bunch!; the BC346XT looks to be just about everything I've wanted in a scanner [other than digital, but I doubt I'll need that judging from Mike's post]. Out of curiosity, how is it programming-wise? I'd probably be using Freescan to program it; would I be able to assign specific frequencies names, or put them into groups based upon their locations? And would it be worth ponying up the cash to purchase the programming software/easier-to-read manual from scannermaster?

 

[SCPD]

Just my 2 cents is to save your money and goto this site.

Easier to Read BC346XT Scanner Manual

and if you really have to but a programm app buy proscan. If not freescan and that link above and this site is all that you will need.


Mike

 

[FCV96]

Just my 2 cents is to save your money and goto this site.

Easier to Read BC346XT Scanner Manual

And look into buying proscan if you feel the need to buy something if not freescan and that link above and this site is all you will need.


Mike

That link certainly helps me out; thanks for the advice. ^-^

 

[62Truck]

Doesn't FDNY have one fireground that is digital?

 

[KC2zZe]

Yes, they do. In portable Zone A it's F9 (486.01875).

 

[SCPD]

New York City Radio System

Hi..You do NOT need to get a BC-396XT..the new Bearcat AT-125 will do great for NYPD/NYFD use and is also narrow band complaint which FDNY just switched to on UHF in the 480mhz area. It has features of the higher end handhelds except trunking and 800mhz. This radio replaces the Uniden BC-72XLT/BC-95XLT. Please email me back here and I will tell you more. I am also a dealer but no store-front. I mainly sell to firefighters and some police departments in Westchester County, NY and I have every frequency printed up in my book along with CTCSS/DCS tones so drop me a line. This radio I can program for you but not the BC-15XT/BCD996XT,and higher end handhelds..not easy setting them up. Only easy w/the new AT-125 so check it out.

Bob