Right Scanner?

[sugarsand]

I've been looking here and on ebay for digital trunk tracking scanners as suggested by the group to pick up trunked systems.. There are a number of scanners (Radio shack Pro 2050, 2052, 2053, 2067 and Uniden BCT8) which are available but none specifically say "digital." Would these models work? I'm still a little stumped by some of the terminology - like "PL 71.9", "TGID 33872" but willing to learn...but don't want to purchase the wrong equipment.
Many thanks.

 

[trap5858]

You don't say where you are so that makes a difference. Take a look at the database for frequencies and check your local town or state information to see what type of system they operate, If they are operating a digital system then those scanners your mentioned will not work. Just to be sure you are getting the right equipment why not take that plunge and get a digital trunking scanner right off-then you are sure you can monitor pretty much whatever system they throw at you, No scanner will be able to decode encrypted transmissions.

Right now uniden 396T or 396XT are the top of the uniden handheld line
Radio Shack Pro 96 or Pro 106 are the top of the Radio Shack line
GRE who makes the radio shack radios has their own branded version of the Radio Shack model it is the PSR500

Both manufacturers also offer a base version of these radios.

 

[ranger821]

Sugarsand. None of the scanners you mentioned are digital scanners. If you live in an area that has a lot of digital, a digital scanner is a good purchase. Have you looked at the RR database for your area. What city do you live in? PL 71.9 is a code that can be used to seperate two or more agencies using the same frequencies. TGID = Talk Group ID's These are programmed into the scanner so you can hear them. There is a lot of good info for new people and folks that have been doing this a while and experts. I am not new to scanning, but am new to Trunking and digital scanners. I bought a PRo 197 digital scanner on black Friday. Having fun with it. There is always folks here that can help you with problems and questions.

 

[yMidnite]

I am guessing that sugarsand is somewhere in FL. I can tell you for sure that if you are in the Gainesville area - those will not work.

 

[sugarsand]

Thank You!

I am guilty of not replying sooner...I've been reading through the forum and appreciate your assistance. I live in NJ and my local PD (Roxbury Township) has recently switched to the Morris County system from the previous local dispatch.

I think I've decided to purchase the Uniden BCD 996XT or the RS Pro2096. The former is available for $400; the Radio Shack for around $325.00.

I'll probably be looking for help again setting the scanner up.

Thanks in advance.

If there is a real quality difference between the 2 units I'd like to know.

Thanks again!

 

[ranger821]

Radio shack in running a sale today only on the web 269 dollars for a pro 106. Today only from what I read on there site.

 

[sugarsand]

Thanks!

I'll check it out.

 

[TES]

Radio shack in running a sale today only on the web 269 dollars for a pro 106. Today only from what I read on there site.

Not seeing the $269 here. Just THIS PAGE showing $249? Sale valid until 12/11/10 + Free Ground Shipping.

 

[ranger821]

249

Sorry, old eyes. It does says 249. Sales tax would make it go higher.

 

[SCPD]

psr 600 for 398, and psr 500 for 358 at scannermaster