SDS100/SDS200: Question about Sentinel software on a programmed SDS100?

[HagueGuy]

Hello from Grand Rapids, Michigan! OK, I apologize in advance IF this is too much of a newbie question. I just ordered and received a Uniden SDS100 scanner. I had it pre-programmed for two zip codes, 49503 and for our neighboring Ottawa County.
I understand I need to update the scanner's database weekly using Sentinel software and Radio Reference database.
QUESTION: Does the pre-programmed SDS100 come with the Sentinel software already onboard the scanner? If NOT, where do I download it from AND how do I get the scanner to store this Sentinel software aboard?
Sorry if I sound like too much of a newbie; I am! As a seventy three year old newbie, however, I don't feel too much like a dummy asking for this help. I DID contact Uniden and Zip Scanners but, so far, have gotten no response.
Thanks in advance for any and all answers to my inquiry!
Please be gentle in your responses! LOL!

 

[Enjoi19]

Sentinel can be downloaded right from Uniden's site here. Download is the hyperlink near the top of the page.

I understand I need to update the scanner's database weekly

Only if something changes - not totally necessary to be connecting it every single week.

 

[tvengr]

If NOT, where do I download it from AND how do I get the scanner to store this Sentinel software aboard?

BCDx36HPSentinel < UnidenMan4 < TWiki

info.uniden.com

The Sentinel software stays on the computer. You use it to send favorites list files to the scanner.

 

[dmfalk]

Also important for firmware updates.

Just remember, before installing Sentinel, install .NET Framework 2.0 through "Windows Features" (you type this in your Windows search bar, without quotes), and select ".NET Framework 3.0/3.5 (includes 2.0)", or some variant of that, and let it load, install and update, before installing Sentinel.

Grand Rapids is a big city, and things do change almost weekly. You might want to invest in the DMR and NXDN upgrades, too, preferably directly from Uniden. (Cheaper than Zip Scanners).

You might want to spend some time on the FAQ page, to get to know your SDS100 better! It's a good receiver, but the antenna is less than desirable, and you might want to blow another $30 of a better one.

SDS100 and SDS200 FAQ Page - The RadioReference Wiki

wiki.radioreference.com

 

[drdispatch]

Hello, fellow Michigander!
It's also a good idea, once you have downloaded Sentinel, to update the scanner's firmware. (Just to ensure that you are running the most current version.)

 

[dave3825]

QUESTION: Does the pre-programmed SDS100 come with the Sentinel software already onboard the scanner?

I DID contact Uniden and Zip Scanners but, so far, have gotten no response.

Not surprised about Uniden. Their CS has turned to **** within that last year or so.

Surprised about Zip. They are crooks and would probably try to sell you the Sentinel software.

You might want to invest in the DMR and NXDN upgrades, too, preferably directly from Uniden. (Cheaper than Zip Scanners).

Everybody is cheaper then Zip. They are just about double of what Uniden ( who is the cheapest) charges.

Steer Clear of Zip.

SDS100/SDS200: - Just bought a SDS100 got a couple questions.

AngWay: (OP) Again, in reading all of your questions, I'd strongly recommend getting a better grasp of trunking. Please take the time to go to the below links. Trunked radio system - Wikipedia How does trunking work? | Tait Radio Academy Trunking Basics - The RadioReference Wiki

forums.radioreference.com

 

[tvengr]

When you get Sentinel installed, do this: Go to the Tools tab and set Target Model to SDS100. Connect USB cable to computer. Turn the scanner on. Plug the USB cable into the scanner. You will get a message to press E to enter USB Mass Storage. Press E. Go to the Scanner tab in Sentinel and click on Read from Scanner. That will download your preprogramming from the scanner into Sentinel. Go to the File tab and click on Save. If something happens to the programming in the scanner, you will be able to reload it.

 

[HagueGuy]

Sentinel can be downloaded right from Uniden's site here. Download is the hyperlink near the top of the page.



Only if something changes - not totally necessary to be connecting it every single week.

Thank you my friend! I appreciate the help!

 

[HagueGuy]

When you get Sentinel installed, do this: Go to the Tools tab and set Target Model to SDS100. Connect USB cable to computer. Turn the scanner on. Plug the USB cable into the scanner. You will get a message to press E to enter USB Mass Storage. Press E. Go to the Scanner tab in Sentinel and click on Read from Scanner. That will download your preprogramming from the scanner into Sentinel. Go to the File tab and click on Save. If something happens to the programming in the scanner, you will be able to reload it.

That is exactly what I needed to know! Greatly appreciate your taking the time to reply. Thanks!

 

[HagueGuy]

Also important for firmware updates.

Just remember, before installing Sentinel, install .NET Framework 2.0 through "Windows Features" (you type this in your Windows search bar, without quotes), and select ".NET Framework 3.0/3.5 (includes 2.0)", or some variant of that, and let it load, install and update, before installing Sentinel.

Grand Rapids is a big city, and things do change almost weekly. You might want to invest in the DMR and NXDN upgrades, too, preferably directly from Uniden. (Cheaper than Zip Scanners).

You might want to spend some time on the FAQ page, to get to know your SDS100 better! It's a good receiver, but the antenna is less than desirable, and you might want to blow another $30 of a better one.

SDS100 and SDS200 FAQ Page - The RadioReference Wiki

wiki.radioreference.com

Great to know! Thanks!