Pro-163: scan speed

[topgun1986]

So I'm messing around with reprogramming some scanners for the near approaching winter storm and saw something odd.

I noticed one of my Pro 163 radios is scanning slower than my other and by slower I mean a lot more noticeable. I have used Win97 to upload the exact same file to both and sure enough, the questionable one is still scanning slower. Both have only Banks 1 thru 4 enabled with all conventional frequencies and corresponding PL/DPL tones. No trunked systems at all.
The one that is scanning faster is obviously catching a lot more action which is frustrating me. Both are roughly 4-5 years old, purchased used. Both are connected to the same multiswitch/coupler.

I've never had a problem before with either so hopefully there is a setting beyond Win97's capability that I have overlooked or perhaps the slower one is just past it's prime. Anyone else with (2) Pro 163s running simultaneously notice this?

 

[topgun1986]

Got it fixed. My squelch on the questionable Pro 163 was not set properly. All is good now.

 

[gmclam]

When you program CT/DC tones, the channels will be muted until the tone is present. If you have the squelch fully counter-clockwise, the scanner will stop on each frequency and attempt to decode the tone (because it essentially sees a signal present). That decoding takes time.

Here in California the CHP is on low band VHF. The frequencies are "re-used" across the state, so it's essential to program CT tones to know which region you're hearing. The often significant amount of atmospheric noise present in low band VHF makes the scanner scan slow, even with a properly set squelch (at least if you ever want to hear radio traffic).