Scanner questions

[dsmoore11b3x]

I am new to scanners with the ability to tmonitor trunked systems and MARCS systems. I am in the market for a scanner with these abilities, however, my main interest is in monitoring a major city ( Columbus) police department that I live nowhere near. With my little bit of knowledge in the actual radio systems themselves, I understand that with the MARCS you are able to monitor agencies state wide. My question is, as stupid as it may be, will I be able to do the same on a scanner living 30 plus miles away from the city? Any insight, advice or even smart *** remarks welcome! Thanks!

 

[frazpo]

I am new to scanners with the ability to tmonitor trunked systems and MARCS systems. I am in the market for a scanner with these abilities, however, my main interest is in monitoring a major city ( Columbus) police department that I live nowhere near. With my little bit of knowledge in the actual radio systems themselves, I understand that with the MARCS you are able to monitor agencies state wide. My question is, as stupid as it may be, will I be able to do the same on a scanner living 30 plus miles away from the city? Any insight, advice or even smart *** remarks welcome! Thanks!

You most likely will need an external antenna. Nothing fancy. A cheap antenna in an attic will get you out 30 miles. If the cities are in one direction you may consider going with something directional.

Im sure you will have more comments.

 

[W8RMH]

You should be able to receive Columbus in Lancaster with any trunking scanner. I receive them when I am in Fairfield Co. on my BCD396XT. It may require an 800 Mhz or outdoor antenna depending on your location and geographical area. There is a transmitter just east of Scioto Downs which is not too far from you. Terrain in central Ohio is pretty flat which is a good thing.

With MARCS however you will only receive units using nearby sites. There is a site in Fairfield Co. and you should be able to receive the Columbus site. You can not monitor state wide.