SDS-100 CONFUSION

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Omanzz

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Want to buy my first scanner, but how is someone going to make 😫 a decision, all I seem to to read is what a great scanner it is and than I read how many problems people are having with it. While I'm a rant also buy from this dealer and then stay away from this dealer? This my not get posted, but at least I got it off my chest. I know in the end its my decision it's just hard to make that $700 leap of faith with such mixed messages.
Thanks for listening
omanzz
PS Great Forum
 

Omanzz

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Premium Subscriber
Joined
Aug 1, 2023
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57
Location
Massachusetts
Newbie
Want to buy my first scanner, but how is someone going to make 😫 a decision, all I seem to to read is what a great scanner it is and than I read how many problems people are having with it. While I'm a rant also buy from this dealer and then stay away from this dealer? This my not get posted, but at least I got it off my chest. I know in the end its my decision it's just hard to make that $700 leap of faith with such mixed messages.
Thanks for listening
omanzz
PS Great Forum
Edit: The problems I'm taking about are not how to use,,but defective issues like CSJ, MULTIFUNCTION KNOB PROBLEMS ETC.
Thanks omanzz

I purchased a SDS-100 a few months ago. I wasn’t very (if at all) familiar with digital scanners, scanning digital and trunked broadcasts etc.

There was and is a bit of learning curve, but I haven’t regretted purchasing it.

The main problem I'm talking about is not how to use but, the defect issues CSJ, ETC
Thanks omanzz
 
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hiegtx

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Edit: The problems I'm taking about are not how to use,,but defective issues like CSJ, MULTIFUNCTION KNOB PROBLEMS ETC.
Thanks omanzz
The CSJ (cold solder joint) issues were somewhat chronic in the early production models. That was an issue created because of using an improper procedure of assembling the scanners at the manufacturing facility. I have an early production unit, and have not had any issues, including the CSJ. Uniden made a change during the initial assembly (I think maybe a couple of years ago, if not even farther back). While there may have been a couple of similar issues with later production models, they have not been numerous. As far as the malfunction knob controls, that has been occasional issue with other models as well, just not chronic, nor limited to, only the SDS scanners.

Anything electronic, or mechanical, can at times have problems. Just look at all the recalls and other issues on automobiles, including the high-dollar models. Of course, here in the forums, you are more likely to see a complaint from one or two owners, often repeated in multiple other threads. Those that have not had issues are less likely to repeatedly post that fact.

As far as dealers go, Bearcat Warehouse, ScannerMaster, and HRO are solid dealers, with good customer service even after the initial sale. Zip Scanners can be very problematic. Sometimes, buyers have had very good responses to issues. At other times, the process has been, to say the least, unacceptable. Ignoring customer questions and concerns, taking orders saying the product is in stock, only to later inform the purchaser it will not ship right away (that's after processing the credit card payment). You can, of course, also purchase through Amazon, if you know exactly what you want and don't need a lot of hand-holding from the seller. Dealer MTC (Main Trading Company in Paris, TX), also has been a good source based on comments posted from various purchasers. They often have a sale on one or more models, either for a discounted price, or with other items included at no additional cost. For a recent thread on them, see this.

The programming process seems to scare some potential purchasers, but it's not nearly as foreboding that some people would have you believe, While there is somewhat of a learning curve, once the pieces come together it becomes second nature. In addition, there are a number of wiki pages, as well as threads here on the forums dealing with various aspects of the process. And there are also dozens of how-to videos on YouTube, and an online manual somewhat more readable than the factory version. Also remember that, other than features specific to the SDS scanners such as the filters & the ability to enter a NAC for trunk system sites, the nuts and bolts of programming Favorites lists, systems, departments, and sites is exactly the same for both the x36HP as well as SDS series scanners. So, that's an even larger set of applicable information regarding programming than the SDS scanners alone.
 

Ensnared

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4,511
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Waco, Texas
Newbie
Want to buy my first scanner, but how is someone going to make 😫 a decision, all I seem to to read is what a great scanner it is and than I read how many problems people are having with it. While I'm a rant also buy from this dealer and then stay away from this dealer? This my not get posted, but at least I got it off my chest. I know in the end its my decision it's just hard to make that $700 leap of faith with such mixed messages.
Thanks for listening
omanzz
PS Great Forum
I went ballistic when I bought my SDS 100 and it was slow as a snail on Librium. After I listened to some folks, learned the memory structure, and modified it to my liking, it is now working like an old banked scanner. I never ever give up.

It is worth the effort to learn how to work this radio. The SDS 200 is the ONLY other option if you want a radio to hang onto coding like a pit bull. G5 pagers are professional grade, and great on P25; however, they can only scan one system at a time.

I am not happy with the worthless proprietary batteries that swell like a penis on Viagra! But, I learned to live with them.

Remember, "The best fires are the ones that burn slow." Listen to those who try to help you. This is an amazing radio.
 

Omanzz

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Premium Subscriber
Joined
Aug 1, 2023
Messages
57
Location
Massachusetts
The CSJ (cold solder joint) issues were somewhat chronic in the early production models. That was an issue created because of using an improper procedure of assembling the scanners at the manufacturing facility. I have an early production unit, and have not had any issues, including the CSJ. Uniden made a change during the initial assembly (I think maybe a couple of years ago, if not even farther back). While there may have been a couple of similar issues with later production models, they have not been numerous. As far as the malfunction knob controls, that has been occasional issue with other models as well, just not chronic, nor limited to, only the SDS scanners.

Anything electronic, or mechanical, can at times have problems. Just look at all the recalls and other issues on automobiles, including the high-dollar models. Of course, here in the forums, you are more likely to see a complaint from one or two owners, often repeated in multiple other threads. Those that have not had issues are less likely to repeatedly post that fact.

As far as dealers go, Bearcat Warehouse, ScannerMaster, and HRO are solid dealers, with good customer service even after the initial sale. Zip Scanners can be very problematic. Sometimes, buyers have had very good responses to issues. At other times, the process has been, to say the least, unacceptable. Ignoring customer questions and concerns, taking orders saying the product is in stock, only to later inform the purchaser it will not ship right away (that's after processing the credit card payment). You can, of course, also purchase through Amazon, if you know exactly what you want and don't need a lot of hand-holding from the seller. Dealer MTC (Main Trading Company in Paris, TX), also has been a good source based on comments posted from various purchasers. They often have a sale on one or more models, either for a discounted price, or with other items included at no additional cost. For a recent thread on them, see this.

The programming process seems to scare some potential purchasers, but it's not nearly as foreboding that some people would have you believe, While there is somewhat of a learning curve, once the pieces come together it becomes second nature. In addition, there are a number of wiki pages, as well as threads here on the forums dealing with various aspects of the process. And there are also dozens of how-to videos on YouTube, and an online manual somewhat more readable than the factory version. Also remember that, other than features specific to the SDS scanners such as the filters & the ability to enter a NAC for trunk system sites, the nuts and bolts of programming Favorites lists, systems, departments, and sites is exactly the same for both the x36HP as well as SDS series scanners. So, that's an even larger set of applicable information regarding programming than the SDS scanners alone.
They need to do a recall on the SDS-100's, the issue of the CSJ started in 2018 and was supposed to be corrected in 2021 , we know the answer to that question. Their quality control sucks and so does their repair department look at all the redoes. I guess I answered my own question 🤷
 
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Omanzz

Member
Premium Subscriber
Joined
Aug 1, 2023
Messages
57
Location
Massachusetts
The CSJ (cold solder joint) issues were somewhat chronic in the early production models. That was an issue created because of using an improper procedure of assembling the scanners at the manufacturing facility. I have an early production unit, and have not had any issues, including the CSJ. Uniden made a change during the initial assembly (I think maybe a couple of years ago, if not even farther back). While there may have been a couple of similar issues with later production models, they have not been numerous. As far as the malfunction knob controls, that has been occasional issue with other models as well, just not chronic, nor limited to, only the SDS scanners.

Anything electronic, or mechanical, can at times have problems. Just look at all the recalls and other issues on automobiles, including the high-dollar models. Of course, here in the forums, you are more likely to see a complaint from one or two owners, often repeated in multiple other threads. Those that have not had issues are less likely to repeatedly post that fact.

As far as dealers go, Bearcat Warehouse, ScannerMaster, and HRO are solid dealers, with good customer service even after the initial sale. Zip Scanners can be very problematic. Sometimes, buyers have had very good responses to issues. At other times, the process has been, to say the least, unacceptable. Ignoring customer questions and concerns, taking orders saying the product is in stock, only to later inform the purchaser it will not ship right away (that's after processing the credit card payment). You can, of course, also purchase through Amazon, if you know exactly what you want and don't need a lot of hand-holding from the seller. Dealer MTC (Main Trading Company in Paris, TX), also has been a good source based on comments posted from various purchasers. They often have a sale on one or more models, either for a discounted price, or with other items included at no additional cost. For a recent thread on them, see this.

The programming process seems to scare some potential purchasers, but it's not nearly as foreboding that some people would have you believe, While there is somewhat of a learning curve, once the pieces come together it becomes second nature. In addition, there are a number of wiki pages, as well as threads here on the forums dealing with various aspects of the process. And there are also dozens of how-to videos on YouTube, and an online manual somewhat more readable than the factory version. Also remember that, other than features specific to the SDS scanners such as the filters & the ability to enter a NAC for trunk system sites, the nuts and bolts of programming Favorites lists, systems, departments, and sites is exactly the same for both the x36HP as well as SDS series scanners. So, that's an

Thanks omanzz

Interesting. The above quote from me never happened.
Sorry about that 😕
Thanks omanzz

Interesting. The above quote from me never happened.
Sorry about that 😕
Thanks omanzz

They need to do a recall on the SDS-100's, the issue of the CSJ started in 2018 and was supposed to be corrected in 2021 , we know the answer to that question. Their quality control sucks and so does their repair department look at all the redoes. I guess I answered my own question 🤷
I want to retract my statement, was posted in a fit of frustration and anger.
Thanks omanzz

Sorry posted twice

The CSJ (cold solder joint) issues were somewhat chronic in the early production models. That was an issue created because of using an improper procedure of assembling the scanners at the manufacturing facility. I have an early production unit, and have not had any issues, including the CSJ. Uniden made a change during the initial assembly (I think maybe a couple of years ago, if not even farther back). While there may have been a couple of similar issues with later production models, they have not been numerous. As far as the malfunction knob controls, that has been occasional issue with other models as well, just not chronic, nor limited to, only the SDS scanners.

Anything electronic, or mechanical, can at times have problems. Just look at all the recalls and other issues on automobiles, including the high-dollar models. Of course, here in the forums, you are more likely to see a complaint from one or two owners, often repeated in multiple other threads. Those that have not had issues are less likely to repeatedly post that fact.

As far as dealers go, Bearcat Warehouse, ScannerMaster, and HRO are solid dealers, with good customer service even after the initial sale. Zip Scanners can be very problematic. Sometimes, buyers have had very good responses to issues. At other times, the process has been, to say the least, unacceptable. Ignoring customer questions and concerns, taking orders saying the product is in stock, only to later inform the purchaser it will not ship right away (that's after processing the credit card payment). You can, of course, also purchase through Amazon, if you know exactly what you want and don't need a lot of hand-holding from the seller. Dealer MTC (Main Trading Company in Paris, TX), also has been a good source based on comments posted from various purchasers. They often have a sale on one or more models, either for a discounted price, or with other items included at no additional cost. For a recent thread on them, see this.

The programming process seems to scare some potential purchasers, but it's not nearly as foreboding that some people would have you believe, While there is somewhat of a learning curve, once the pieces come together it becomes second nature. In addition, there are a number of wiki pages, as well as threads here on the forums dealing with various aspects of the process. And there are also dozens of how-to videos on YouTube, and an online manual somewhat more readable than the factory version. Also remember that, other than features specific to the SDS scanners such as the filters & the ability to enter a NAC for trunk system sites, the nuts and bolts of programming Favorites lists, systems, departments, and sites is exactly the same for both the x36HP as well as SDS series scanners. So, that's an even larger set of applicable information regarding programming than the SDS scanners alone.

They need to do a recall on the SDS-100's, the issue of the CSJ started in 2018 and was supposed to be corrected in 2021 , we know the answer to that question. Their quality control sucks and so does their repair department look at all the redoes. I guess I answered my own question 🤷
I want to retract my statement was made in a fit of frustration and anger.
Thanks omanzz
 
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