SDS100/SDS200: SDS-100 adding frequencies

[safetypro79]

I am traveling next week and wanted to add some local frequencies of the area I’m going to visit.

questions:

1 if I use the zip code feature and add theses frequencies will this delete my already saved favorites?

2 Where would they be stored in the scanner database?

Thanks so much

 

[Whiskey3JMC]

1 if I use the zip code feature and add theses frequencies will this delete my already saved favorites?

No. Zip code scanning (full database) is a separate function and does not affect existing favorites lists

2 Where would they be stored in the scanner database?

Where would what be stored? The favorites list for the area you're visiting?

 

[nessnet]

Zip code scanning just uses the 'built in' database and the location control data in the database for each individual entry, (zip code = the lat/long of the approx. center of the zip code entered).

Zip code scanning stores nothing.

If you want, open Sentinel, and build a seperate favorites list for the are you are going to be in....(?)

 

[safetypro79]

Ok, Thanks so much I had never tried to do that in the past.

I just need to set up a new favorites list for those frequencies.

 

[nessnet]

Ok, Thanks so much I had never tried to do that in the past.

I just need to set up a new favorites list for those frequencies.

Just be aware that IF you are not using a GPS, you cannot have location control set to ON for the new favorite list.
If you do (have location control on) and don't have the proper location set, the radio will scan nothing.

Get a GPS - the very best feature of these Uniden radios.

 

[hazrat8990]

Just be aware that IF you are not using a GPS, you cannot have location control set to ON for the new favorite list.
If you do (have location control on) and don't have the proper location set, the radio will scan nothing.

Get a GPS - the very best feature of these Uniden radios.

This is false. Location control and ZIP works just fine with a favorites list. When you enter the ZIP, it will tell you that the full database is off, and ask if you wish to turn it on. Just select no, and the location will update the same as it would with a GPS. Sure it's not pinpoint accurate, but a few key presses at various points during a road trip will accomplish the same thing. Auto locate works also, but takes longer.

GPS is a wonderful feature, but isn't a requirement.

 

[nessnet]

This is false. Location control and ZIP works just fine with a favorites list. When you enter the ZIP, it will tell you that the full database is off, and ask if you wish to turn it on. Just select no, and the location will update the same as it would with a GPS. Sure it's not pinpoint accurate, but a few key presses at various points during a road trip will accomplish the same thing. Auto locate works also, but takes longer.

GPS is a wonderful feature, but isn't a requirement.

In post #3 above:
"zip code = the lat/long of the approx. center of the zip code entered".

I should have been clearer.
hasrat is correct:

Location control and ZIP works just fine with a favorites list

....
However, I've seen many a newb get frustrated because they got the "nothing to scan" error.
The radio has to have accurate location data for a favorite list to operate while location control is on.
Either by a GPS module, manually entering the lat/long, or (yes) entering a (correct) zip code.
And, if location changes, one of the above 3 need to be updated.

Note: Auto locate is practically worthless.
All it does is look for the strongest control channels.
It actually does not "locate" diddly squat.
And, if out in the boonies, it is worthless...
SDS100/SDS200: - Auto locate

 

[Ubbe]

Auto locate looks at what frequencies it can receive and compares to a huge list that comes with the database and I believe it needs three hits to say that a zip code in that list are a match and enters that zip code for you. Those three frequencies can be a match at several locations so it isn't fool proof and I don't know if anyone are actually using that feature without issues.

/Ubbe

 

[richardbritt]

Auto locate works fine in the boonies in NC. It really depends on your proximity to a trunked radio tower. In NC each of the 100 counties has 1 or more VIPER towers. Now if you are out in an area with no trunked systems, you would have to use zip code, lat and long location, or GPS. GPS works great when mobile. I bought one and went halfway across the state and it's quite impressive. Turn on the main database, select your types of transmission, plug in the GPS. It's well worth the money.

Regards Richard in Northeastern NC

 

[ofd8001]

I would not place too much reliance on Auto Locate. It only functions on certain types of systems and not all.

Rather, I would use my smart phone and use any of the apps to find the zip code for your current location.

1 if I use the zip code feature and add theses frequencies will this delete my already saved favorites?

2 Where would they be stored in the scanner database?

Thanks so much

1. No, nothing is deleted until you affirmatively delete it. (If it was me, I'd create a new Favorites List for my destination. Be sure you set the Download and Monitor to ON in the profile editor.)

2. These new frequencies would be in two places. One in your computer wherever you have assigned your Sentinel data files to be. The second place would be on the SD card for your scanner once you have written the newly created file to your scanner.

I also suggest doing an Update Master Database. While you can leave the Monitor Full Database Off and just scan the Favorites List, if "things" don't seem to be working out, you can turn the Full Database On and scan that as a fallback option.