Thinking about a new scanner

[Chris0516]

Time to start learning.

Easier to Read BCD436/536HP Digital Scanner Manual

That is both, welcome, and a given.

 

[captainmax1]

If you're not in a city, the 436 is great. I have both and when I'm in a city like Miami, the 436 can be 100% deaf while my SDS100 is receiving nonstop. Have fun with your new 436. Both are great radios.

 

[mshumeyk]

Time to start learning.

If you have created custom frequency files for your 325P2, there are ways to import them into your 436. I had been using Butel ARC XT for programming my Unidens and purchased ARC536 which allowed to import files from ARCXT and upload them into my 436. Then, when I downloaded the scanner files into Sentinel they became part of a Sentinel Favorite List. You may be able to do the same with other programming software in the event you would prefer those 325PD files rather than those created by Sentinel.

 

[Chris0516]

Also, download sentinel now to get a feel for the software. Once you get the radio, start off with using zip code and 10 miles distance to test it out. Shut off most services. When you’re ready to make favorites, go for it. One of the draw backs of using zip code scanning is it scans frequencies not turned on in your services you turned on making it scan slower. Feel free to ask questions if you get stuck.

I am staying with Proscan. That also works with the 436HP, or SDS100. But, I will definitely scan you on the technical details, lol

 

[Chris0516]

If you're not in a city, the 436 is great. I have both and when I'm in a city like Miami, the 436 can be 100% deaf while my SDS100 is receiving nonstop. Have fun with your new 436. Both are great radios.

IF the SDS100 was not shaped like it is, didn't use a proprietary battery and charger, the purchase cost was prohibitive both before, and after tax. Then I might have gone for it.

 

[WRQS621]

SDS100. The gps/cable is compatible with your 325.

 

[Chris0516]

SDS100. The gps/cable is compatible with your 325.

I will note that for next time.

 

[mshumeyk]

I am staying with Proscan. That also works with the 436HP, or SDS100.

Even if you plan to do all programming via Proscan, you still need Sentinel for Firmware updates. You also need Sentinel to download the latest update to the Master Database if you plan to ever use the zip code option for scanning nearby communications. I agree with the suggestion to download and familiarize yourself with Sentinel now even if you do not plan on using it as your primary programming software.

 

[Chris0516]

Even if you plan to do all programming via Proscan, you still need Sentinel for Firmware updates. You also need Sentinel to download the latest update to the Master Database if you plan to ever use the zip code option for scanning nearby communications. I agree with the suggestion to download and familiarize yourself with Sentinel now even if you do not plan on using it as your primary programming software.

I d/l'ded Sentinel. So, I will have to run both(basically), for the sake of the firmware n' database?

 

[GadgetGeek]

Best feature in my opinion of the 436 is it takes common AA batteries. Wish my SDS100 took common batteries too. When I hear a call and go out to investigate I grab one of my 436.

 

[Chris0516]

Best feature in my opinion of the 436 is it takes common AA batteries. Wish my SDS100 took common batteries too. When I hear a call and go out to investigate I grab one of my 436.

That is a major reason why I went with the 436.

 

[Chris0516]

Also, download sentinel now to get a feel for the software. Once you get the radio, start off with using zip code and 10 miles distance to test it out. Shut off most services. When you’re ready to make favorites, go for it. One of the draw backs of using zip code scanning is it scans frequencies not turned on in your services you turned on making it scan slower. Feel free to ask questions if you get stuck.

D/l'ded Sentinel. I did a bunch of personal programming. In the Scan choice. I turned on the nationwide database, and my personal programming. Admittedly, It is partially redundant. By which, part of the nationwide database may cancel out part of my personal programming. But, I have noticed other things the database hasn't cancelled. Then, There are things from the database. That are just 'Huh, What?'. Like a jail almost 200mi. from me.

 

[bearcatrp]

If your using zip code scanning, stay at 5 miles or less to stop the long distance receiving.