Why won’t Whistler release software protocols?

[k5xs]

I’ve been a big fan of Butel scanning software for years.

I note on their website they point out that Whistler refuses to release protocols for the TRX-1/2.

Does anyone know why?

I’m generally adept at scanners and at software, but I find EZ-Scan frustrating and cumbersome. Why won’t Whistler let Butel develop a third party package? In my experience, Butel software is easy to use.

Uniden allows Butel code for Uniden scanners. And it’s not like revenue is at risk for EZ-Scan (which is provided by Whistler for free).

Can anyone offer insight?

 

[RaleighGuy]

I've never been a fan of Butel, found it more complicated, but everyone has different preferences. While I'm not defending Whistler it is worth mentioning/asking a few things out of curiosity.

Whistler did release some protocols for remote control, audio and CC Dump which I've included. While they don't cover programming, maybe the reluctance has something to do with the free access to the RR database? I don't know. Another question which I'm wondering about now that you bring this up, but does the Butel software work for the new SDS scanners?

 

[GTO_04]

I've never been a fan of Butel, found it more complicated, but everyone has different preferences. While I'm not defending Whistler it is worth mentioning/asking a few things out of curiosity.

Whistler did release some protocols for remote control, audio and CC Dump which I've included. While they don't cover programming, maybe the reluctance has something to do with the free access to the RR database? I don't know. Another question which I'm wondering about now that you bring this up, but does the Butel software work for the new SDS scanners?

I do believe Butel has software that works with the SDS scanners.

GTO_04

 

[EricCottrell]

Hello,

GRE/Whistler took a different path with remote programming. What they published is basically what is supported. The only way to program GRE/Whistler scanners is to write the data files directly on the SD Card. The data is obfuscated, likely to prevent people from figuring out how to get around the cellular frequency block.

73 Eric

 

[k5xs]

Thanks for all the replies.

For reference, this is what is posted on the Butel website ( Software for Uniden Whistler HOME PATROL HP1 HP-1 PRO-700 BCD436HP BCD536HP Radioshack GRE GRECOM MFJ DSE AOR police scanner software BCD996XT BCD396XT BC346T BCT15X PRO-404 PRO-405 PRO-97 PRO-96 PRO-2096 PRO-106 PRO-197 PRO-164 PRO-160 PRO-162 psr500 psr600 psr300 psr400 psr100 psr200 BCD996T BCT15 BC246T UBC800XLT UBC785XLT PRO-433 PRO-528 BCD396T PSR-500 PSR-600 PSR500 PSR600 PSR300 PSR400 PRO160 PRO106 PRO162 PRO164 PRO-197 PRO-2055) regarding the TRX-1:

Programming software for the WS 1095 / WS 1080 / WS 1088 / WS 1098 / TRX-1 / TRX-2 :

Every day we get multiple requests for better programming software for the new Whistler scanners.
Unfortunately Whistler has officially stated to us that they will not release programming protocols for third party software development.
If you did not make a purchase yet we advise to look at Uniden's offerings instead since they do support us and other 3rd party software development for their scanners. And don't hesitate to send your complaints to info@whistergroup.com and tell them you bought a Uniden instead!

(And yes, Butel does provide software for the Uniden SDS scanners.)

73,
Bernie

 

[garys]

They do. The ARC536 software works quite well with the SDS radios. In addition, there is software for the Home Patrol.

I do believe Butel has software that works with the SDS scanners.

GTO_04