Question about a certain system (ARMER)

[tek0011]

I am looking at getting in scanning and what not. New enough I don't even know what the what not part is.

I see that in my state almost the entire state is on something called ARMER. The question I have is what equipment do I need to scan/listen to this?

Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER) Trunking System, Various, Minnesota - Scanner Frequencies

Does this mean it is an encrypted system and thus I can't listen? Sorry, so much of this is new to me and I am continuing the wiki and researching now. Thought I would see if there are more direct answers here, about this system and if its possible to access, along with what kind of equipment would be needed for it.

Thanks. Im sure Ill have follow up questions.

 

[ME343]

You will need a scanner that is capable of doing P25 Phase I.

 

[ofd8001]

As noted above, you'll need a scanner capable of dealing with digital systems. My preference is the Uniden x36 line. A little less complicated would be the Uniden Home Patrol series. I have the 536 and have used it to listen to the ARMER system on trips to Minnesota (Minneapolis and East Grand Forks) with excellent results.

Alternatively you could go with the Uniden BCD325P2 or BCD996P2.

This is a partially encrypted system, meaning some talkgroups here and there are encrypted.

The ARMER system is a very robust system with a lot of capabilities and excellent coverage. As a new listener, you'll have two separate learning curves. One is the system itself and how everything intertwines. The other is the new breed of scanners.

So you'll need to have a good bit of patience as you work through these.

 

[ofd8001]

A Youtube video of interest:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMT4gHXmTVw

 

[blue5011]

I have two BCD996XT scanners that work very well for me. I use Freescan to program and control them. But I live in out-state MN. From what I read on the MN forum, in the Twin Cities, "multipath distortion" can be an issue. I have not taken my scanner to the BIG CITY yet...

Other than that, ARMER system works very well and is not encrypted. I have separate talkgroups for County Sheriff, MNDoT, State Patrol, EMS, aviation, and ham repeaters.

 

[NDRADIONUT]

The minn forum has lots of armer info and experts available....