trunking ??

[BloodandRoses]

I got my new 536 uniden. Love it so far just don't understand how to program it for trunking..

Thanks in advance

Bobby

 

[troymail]

With a 536 (and most scanners with on-board system databases), you really don't need to know much about programming - at least not at the start.

Things you will want to do - if you haven't already:

1. Install Sentinel on your PC
2. Connect your radio to the PC and check for both FIRMWARE updates and DATABASE updates.
3. Disconnect your radio from the PC.

On the radio (after it boots up):

1. Press the SERV button and select the types of things you might want to hear
2. Press the ZIP button and set your zip code
3. Optionally: Press the RANG button to reduce the distance out from your location to try and scan (I think the default is 20 - you may want to experiment with smaller ranges).

Scan for a bit...

If you hear things not of interest or things that the radio "sticks" on, simply press the AVOID button.

You can get into more specific and detailed programming after this is done.

 

[troymail]

Oh - and the most import thing -- start looking through this...

Easier to Read BCD436/536HP Digital Scanner Manual

 

[BloodandRoses]

Thank you very much!!!

 

[BloodandRoses]

Think im getting this scanner figured out.. Note to self read the manual!!!

 

[troymail]

Note to self read the manual!!!

That ALWAYS helps...

It won't answer all of your questions but since the manuals and even programming software are readily available without purchase, I highly recommend using both and learning as much as possible even before receiving (or even buying) a radio.

 

[BloodandRoses]

What software do you recommend ?

 

[troymail]

I use the provided Sentinel software.

 

[BloodandRoses]

What software do you recommend ? anything besides sentinel?

 

[troymail]

What software do you recommend ? anything besides sentinel?

I haven't found a reason to pay for other software. I just don't see it doing anything for me more than what the "free" stuff does (that I need or care about).

 

[KE5MC]

What software do you recommend ? anything besides sentinel?

I find Proscan has some functionality not in Sentinel. That works both ways.

Use sentinel until you get comfortable with it. Proscan has a full function 30 day trial. Then you can decide for yourself if the $50 onetime fee for Proscan is worth it.

I used Proscan the other day for the first time in several weeks to manipulate data in a Favorite that Sentinel would not.

Good Luck,
Mike