Posted: 1/10/2009 7:02:20 PM EDT
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I'm looking for any information from folks whose local emergency services radio systems have gone to the APCO P25 digital radio system and who use a Uniden BCD396T scanner.
It looks like the big trunked system for my home county in TX is going to an Astro P25 system sometime this year and I'd like to know if switching over from my BC246T to Uniden's digital offering seems like a winner or if another scanner is recommended. Thanks. |
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Pro 96 owner here, my very first scanner was a Uniden some time back. Most reviews seem to be positive-HOWEVER GRE has just introduced a new digital scanner sold under their name called the PSR 500. Rat shack sells their version of this under the Pro 106 name.
GRE claims that this scanner is upgradeable to a very high degree compared to older models, and it also includes coverage in the 700 mhz band. I am saving my pennies and may even sell my pro 96 to get into the rat shack model. My advice is to hold off a bit and let the system that you want to scan actually come online. There are rumors that p25 is getting more difficult to scan in the future, your system might be one of those. The solution to that is to buy an actual radio (disabling the transmit side) from moto and get it programmed-$$$$$. |
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I have heard that getting a trunked radio programmed when you are not a system user is big trouble. Also, any changes in talkgroups will require another trip to the radio shop and more money. The scanner will be easier and the latest scanners can take firmware upgrades to keep up with developements. There is also software to log talkgroups onto your computer and track changes, talkgroup activity, etc. that is out of the capability of an digital trunked radio.
RS |
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The Uniden 396/996 and GRE 500/600 are the best performers. I have no reservations about the GRE digitals I've owned; so I've stuck with them for P25 systems and have no experience with Unidens. Several software options out there for both.
As you may know already, RadioReference.com is an excellent resource, and the Database there may have info on your new system. |