RR Database Freqs vs. RS v-folder freqs for MD/VA/DC

[hosehead88]

I was setting up my Pro-2096 for a trip to DC/VA/MD this weekend, and after loading the default RS frequencies into the scanner, I decided to go to the Radio Reference DB. I noticed that there were a number of changes to some of the files in the RR DB as compared to what Radio Shack provides. It appears that not all of the frequencies are in the RS list.

I guess my question is: Would you recommend the RR.com DB files for a better scanning experience in the greater DC area (FFX Cty, Arlington, Alex, PG Cty MD, Frederick Cty MD, Loudon Cty VA, etc)?

Thanks,

KL

 

[bcradio]

Yep.. Or with Win96 (you did buy Win96, right?) you can import trunked information from the RR.com database right into the program.

 

[hosehead88]

(you did buy Win96, right?)

Oops, forgot to mention that...Of course, and it is fantastic. How someone could consider owning this scanner and not purchase the program is beyond me. It is simple to set this up for different configurations.

Thanks for the info.

Another question. With an external antenna on my vehicle, can I expect to pick up DC/Arlington/PG MD fire while in the FFX Cty area? Just curious to know what kind of reception everyone gets in the area.

Thanks again,

KL

 

[ka3jjz]

Once you get Win96, you'll need a cable to go with it; check the software forum on this system for a message from KC4YVK; several sources are presented in that thread.

With both in your hand, you'll be good to go. In addition, you can download Win96 files from the CHM library at:

http://henney.com/chm/files/p96files/index.htm

I see that most of your requirements can be filled by downloading a few of those files, and cut/paste to fit your needs. That is, assuming that the very neat web import feature of Win96 doesn't fill you up first

Of course, you can also ask for files in the various forums. 73s Mike

 

[Admin0140434]

dont forget... the yahoo groups have several files that you can use for your trip

 

[TinEar]

KL, I would most definitely go with the info in the RR database. I'm not sure what Radio Shack provides but I do know this database is correct for the areas you mentioned. Perhaps Loudon is the only one I can't vouch for because I don't work with them but I suspect the info here is correct.

Your other question about hearing Arlington/D.C./PG fire while in the Fairfax area with a mobile antenna: Yes, with the possible exception of PG fire depending on your location. Their fire freqs (495/495 mHz) can get flaky when you're around taller buildings but, in general, you should hear them.

 

[hosehead88]

Thanks for the info, all. After checking everything out, it seems that the info on yahoo, CHM and here on the RR DB are all quite helpful. I have to pare down what I am uploading onto the scanner, since I am going to focus on fire (no offense to the PD/EMS gang...). I am going to try to soak in Arlington, Fairfax, DC, and Loudon, VA, as well as Montco and PG MD (if I can get it).

This site gets more helpful by the minute!

Is there anything else that you would suggest I listen to while in the area?


Kevin

 

[TinEar]

Kevin, since the area around D.C. is almost entirely trunked systems, you will quickly fill the capabilities of your scanner. However, most counties have kept up a VHF or UHF conventional frequency for their Fire/EMS dispatch operations. As you scan the RR database for each county, you might take note of that fact and load those as well as the trunked systems you decide to take. I'm not sure which West Shore you're coming from (PA, MI, FL or even British Columbia) but you'll also have the enroute freqs you can load for that same purpose.

I know you said you only want fire, but it might be an interesting bit of listening while you're in D.C. to load their trunked police net and the U.S. Park Police freqs (conventional VHF found in the database). Or not.

 

[lebrunmn]

Hey folks--under the heading of newbie question 46...

bcradio's reply seems to indicate that you can import RR Database info into WIN96 in some other way than the way I've been doing it: cutting and pasting each cell into the program. If there's some of importing more info from the RR Database than one cell at a time, could you help me out with a brief explanation?

Many thanks,

-Mark

EDIT: Please disregard--I've upgraded my WIN96 to the latest version, and undstand what bcradio was referring to...