Scanner / Handheld

[fsxadder]

Hi,

Im new to the whole radio frequency scanner and basically i am wanting to tune into my local area's Security frequency.

Its a security company that primarily responds to House Alarms only. Also amongst this i would like to liste to my local police station's frequency.

In order to do this, do i simply need to buy a HANDHELD radio, then turn the nob on the top until i find a frequency and listen until i am certain its the frequency i want? Will this work?

What do i need. Im looking for the cheapest and easiest route possible.

 

[Evert]

Hi fsxadder

First you will need to know what kind of system the security units and police are using. They could be using anything from a simple “conventional frequencies” to special “digital voice” to special ways to make it so you cannot make sense of what is being said (encrypted). Also there is a type that can be listened to only by special radios not available to the public.

If you identify your city, and the name of the security company it may be possible that someone here can tell you what kind of system they are using.

The cost will range widely, depending on type of system, from $50 for a used simple one to at least $400 for the more complex ones.

For most scanners you would not change frequencies by twisting a knob; you would press certain keys on the front of the scanner. That would work only after you found out the correct frequencies and type of system and put that into your scanner.

 

[ddoorman]

Re: Scanner/Handheld

First of all I would suggest that you go to your local public library and check out any books that it has on radio scanners. I good basic book would be from the "Dummie" series dealing with scanners. If the library does not have the book then you might want to purchase it from your local book store. A few dollars invested now will save you many dollars later on.

Read the book and study. Check out the wiki on this site and review the various scanner models that are on the market. See if any friends, neighbors, etc are into scanners and ask them questions. The more knowledge that you can obtain the better you will be. When you finally decide exactly what you need, then check out your local radio shops, e-bay, etc.