SDS100/SDS200: So you have just got your sds 100 , what is the first thing you do ?

[FoeHammer]

As the title says , I am finally giving in & will give the sds a go , Now with being a software radio , I would imagine it is a good idea before messing with it ,..to copy or clone the firmware & sd card it comes with ? I would assume the manual explains how to do this as well , then a screen protector of some sort ,..& I think I have a case that will allow cooling ,.Is there anything else I should know ? I know it is water resistant ,..but does anyone what kind of drops it is rated for ? water resistance is nice but how tough is it if it takes a tumble ? I am going to try to avoid charging within the radio , & using external antennas ,Im not sure if the external charger is smart charger or just a timer that should be monitored more closely , I just want to know the best care & feeding instructions to keep this thing alive

 

[doctordialtone]

Is there anything else I should know ?

I would find a way to put a "If Found, please call ..." message or label on it. Maybe inside the battery compartment?

SDS100 Hints, Tips and FAQ’s

 

[Hit_Factor]

First thing you do is plug it in and start charging. No reason to avoid charging in the radio.

Next is turn it on. Enter your zipcode. Select service types of interest.

For the most efficient scanning, start making favorite list.

Have fun, don't worry about breaking anything.

 

[hiegtx]

First thing I'd do (if buying one for the first time) would be to install Sentinel on my PC, and update the database. I'd do that right after placing the order. Then, when the scanner arrived, at least write the updated database to the scanner. Because, even if you tweak the service types to your satisfaction, and enter a location and range, you'll miss a lot if your scanning with an outdated version of the database. Favorites lists, of course, are the best way to target what you want to listen to. But location, range, and service types can, at least, give you a starting point to test drive the new radio if it has an updated database to work with. That way, you can get a feel for how it works, and also see where you may want to fine tune a Favorites list for your area.

And remember, you can't kill the scanner with a defective Favorites list or incorrect location. All of that can be painlessly remedied by correcting any error or omissions.

 

[VK3RX]

A screen protector was my first acquisition, followed by a carry case. I bought the nylon version, which I thought would be more breathable than leather, and it does also have ventilation holes.

I am going to try to avoid charging within the radio

When removing and replacing the battery pack (both small and large types), be careful with the battery door clip - see the thread in the Uniden Tavern forum.

https://forums.radioreference.com/t...r-clip-due-to-large-battery-tightness.380203/

 

[K2KOH]

First thing was charge it. Second was upload a file from Sentinel that I use on my 436. Loved it

 

[FoeHammer]

Well the plastic case seems to be quite thick , Im not sure how shockproof it would be , or how the internals are secured & shockproofed ,..but I also dont want to contribute to the heat situation , so Im thinking of seeing if it will fit in a case like this CQC Military Tactical Radio Pouch Holster Molle Walkie Talkie Holder Mag Bag | eBay

 

[phask]

Plug in, start Sentinel, update firmware, updateDatabase, Enjoy

 

[W5RGP]

Uniden SDS100 Screen Skins | Anti-fingerprint Protection | Best Skins Ever

Don’t get the matte version


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

[VK3RX]

Got that one myself - the Bestskinsever glossy version

About the easiest skin to apply I've encountered, and looks great.

 

[DaveNF2G]

1) Update firmware.
2) Update database.
3) Order hard leather carrying case.

 

[jjbond]

As the title says , I am finally giving in & will give the sds a go , Now with being a software radio , I would imagine it is a good idea before messing with it ,..to copy or clone the firmware & sd card it comes with ? I would assume the manual explains how to do this as well , then a screen protector of some sort ,..& I think I have a case that will allow cooling ,.Is there anything else I should know ? I know it is water resistant ,..but does anyone what kind of drops it is rated for ? water resistance is nice but how tough is it if it takes a tumble ? I am going to try to avoid charging within the radio , & using external antennas ,Im not sure if the external charger is smart charger or just a timer that should be monitored more closely , I just want to know the best care & feeding instructions to keep this thing alive

Get a screen protector, I'm super careful with mine and within a week it had a scuff on the cheap plastic screen, virtually every smart phone out there includes Gorilla glass on the screen now but no, not these... your display will scuff... be careful.

Disregard, I see others mentioned it already.

 

[FoeHammer]

Get a screen protector, I'm super careful with mine and within a week it had a scuff on the cheap plastic screen, virtually every smart phone out there includes Gorilla glass on the screen now but no, not these... your display will scuff... be careful.

Disregard, I see others mentioned it already.

Yes for the price , I thought it would be something like tempered gorilla glass made from diamonds ,..but I guess not ,..so screen protector it is

 

[rvacs]

Change to a High Durability 32gb SSD and then do the updates for Firmware and Database from Sentinel.

 

[jjbond]

Change to a High Durability 32gb SSD and then do the updates for Firmware and Database from Sentinel.

Agree 100%, here's a little test I did...

https://forums.radioreference.com/threads/dont-be-afraid-to-go-all-the-way-to-32gb.389426/

 

[eaf1956]

First thing is open the box.

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

 

[ka3jjz]

Keep this handy - this FAQ is slowly growing and has many links and issues/resolutions for you - including making the connection to your PC...

SDS100 and SDS200 FAQ Page - The RadioReference Wiki

wiki.radioreference.com

Mike

 

[trentbob]

The idea of putting your name and address and phone number on the radio is good but I would put it on the welcome screen

 

[Chronic]

Read the manual