Uniden BCT-8 manual Motorola Reception, Motorola Tracking

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Motorola Reception

Motorola Tracking

There are really two types of Motorola trunking systems. These are usually referred to as Type I and Type II systems. Type I only occurs on some 800 MHz systems. All VHF and UHF trunking systems use Type II.

One important distinction between these two systems is the amount of data transmitted by each radio when its push-to-talk button (PTT) is pressed. Every radio in a trunked system is assigned a unique ID so the central site computer can identify it when it’s used. Both Type I and Type II systems place radios (or radio users) into groups, called talkgroups, and these talkgroups are also assigned unique IDs. Some radios have access to only one talkgroup, while others have access to many talkgroups. The talkgroup(s) each radio can access is called the radio’s affiliation(s).

In a Type II system, when someone uses their radio, only the radio ID is transmitted when PTT is pressed, whereas in a Type I system the radio ID and its current affiliation are both transmitted when PTT is pressed.

Why the difference? Type II systems are slightly more advanced because the central computer maintains a database which is used to determine each radio’s affiliation(s).

Changes to a Type II system are easier than Type I because the system manager only needs to update the database instead of reprogramming individual radios.

Another difference between the systems is that Type I systems are arranged in a Fleet- Subfleet hierarchy. For example, its possible for a city using a Type I system to designate 4 Fleets, each with 8 Subfleets. Their fleets might be the Police Department, the Fire Department, Utilities, and Administration. The Police may decide to further divide their fleet into subfleets such as Dispatch, Tactical Operations, Detectives, North, South, East and West Side Patrols, and Supervisors. All the available police radios would then be assigned to one of the police subfleets. Determining the exact Fleet-Subfleet hierarchy for a particular area is referred to as Fleet Map Programming, which is discussed further in this manual.

The disadvantage of a Type I system is that when PTT is pressed, the brief burst of data must contain the radio’s ID and its Fleet and Subfleet. This is three times the amount of data a Type II system radio sends, and as a result Type I systems usually accommodate fewer users than Type II systems.

Even though there are many Type II systems, Type I systems are still in use. There are also Hybrid systems which are a combination of both Type I and Type II. Your scanner defaults to monitor Type II systems, but its possible to select a Preprogrammed Fleet Map or create a Custom Fleet Map for your area.

For VHF and UHF Type II trunking systems, you will need to know the base, spacing frequencies and offset channels. See page 45 for details.

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Contents Page Precautions Contents Page LTR Introduction8 9 Front and Rear ViewsIcon Display Terminology What is Scanning?What is Searching? What is Trunk Tracking?Page Feature Highlights Scanner.uniden.com Where to Obtain More InformationInformation on the Internet Included with Your Scanner Package Optional AccessoriesFor Mobile Use In-Car Installation Installing the BCT8For Home Use Desktop Installation Connecting the Power Cord Installation for everyday use Supplied mounting knobs Attach the scanner to the mounting bracket usingTypical Mounting Methods Mounting the Scanner in Your VehicleDC power Installation Applying Power for Vehicle InstallationListening Safely Applying Power Using Standard AC PowerConnecting an External Speaker Connecting the Clone CableTurn the Scanner On Scanning OverviewHow Squelch Works Setting the SquelchScanning Highway Patrol Frequency Highway Patrol ScanningSelecting the State Muting the Alert Tone Alert Tone VolumeHighway Patrol Scan Hold Highway Warning AlertPriority Channels Alert Light AdjustmentSkip Frequencies Florida Trunked Highway Frequency Deleting a Stored Frequency Private Bank ScanningProgramming Frequencies into Channels Scanning Private Bank Duplicate Frequency AlertMemory Lock Channel Lockout Restoring a Locked-out Channel in Hold ModeHold/Resume Changing the Priority Channel Restoring All Locked-out ChannelsPriority Scan Service Scanning Band Search Setting a Search BandFrequency Skip Search Hold FeatureData Skip Storing Search Frequencies DelayTrunk Tracking Selecting Trunking System Type Programming Trunking FrequenciesProgramming Talk Group ID/Scan Lists Programming Trunking FrequenciesTo enter a Partial Edacs ID To enter a Type 2 Talk Group IDTo enter a Type 1 ID To enter a Full Edacs IDReceiving Trunked Systems ID Scan ModeTo directly access a specific ID location ID Scan Hold FeatureID Search Mode Deleting a Stored ID ID Monitor ModeID Search Hold and Direct Entry ID in Hold Mode Programming Scan Lists During SearchReview ID Lockout To restore a single ID, follow these stepsTo restore all locked out IDs in a bank once ID LockoutMoving between Scan List Memories Setting the Delay Mode for Trunking ModeSetting Priority in Trunking Mode Trunking Frequency ConfirmationMulti-Track Operational Details Multi-TrackProgramming Edacs System Frequencies Edacs ReceptionEdacs Tracking An Edacs Trunked system Edacs ID Range Search Special Edacs FeaturesLTR Tracking LTR ReceptionMotorola Tracking Motorola ReceptionProgramming a User Fleet Map Selecting Preset Fleet MapFleet Map Programming Programming a Hybrid System Toggling the Status Bit Control Channel Only ModeDisconnect Tone Detect Option End Code To program your scanner PC Control ModeRemote Interface To connect Scanner to PCScanner.uniden.com PC Control Parameter Clone ModeStart Remote Mode and Change Transfer Speed To connect the Scanner to Scanner If you wish to clone another scanner right away General Use Care and MaintenanceNot receiving alarms Check antenna connections TroubleshootingAdjust the squelch for Trunking mode refer to Specifications State Code Order AppendixPreset Fleet Maps E1P9 Block Type I Programming Information User Defined Fleet MapsFleet Map Size Codes Memo Memo Uniden America Corporation One Year Limited Warranty

BCT-8 specifications

The Uniden BCT-8 is a portable scanner that has made a significant impact in the world of communications monitoring. Designed for both amateur enthusiasts and professional users, this device provides a robust set of features, making it an essential tool for anyone interested in receiving and decoding a wide range of radio frequencies.

One of the standout features of the BCT-8 is its ability to scan both conventional and trunked radio systems. This versatility allows users to listen to everything from local police and fire department communications to amateur radio operations and even aviation channels. The scanner operates between 25 MHz and 1300 MHz, covering a wide array of frequencies that cater to diverse listening interests.

The BCT-8 is equipped with a user-friendly interface, featuring an LCD screen that displays clearly readable information such as channel frequencies and descriptions. Additionally, it utilizes a programmable scan feature, enabling users to store frequencies in memory for quick access. This functionality is particularly useful for those who regularly monitor specific channels, saving time and simplifying the scanning process.

Another notable technology in the BCT-8 is its capability to decode CTCSS and DCS tones, allowing users to filter out unwanted signals and focus on the conversations that matter most to them. This feature is particularly beneficial for monitoring crowded frequencies, ensuring that listeners can hone in on their desired transmissions without interference.

The battery life of the Uniden BCT-8 is also impressive, providing extended use for those on the go. It can operate on AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack, giving users flexibility depending on their listening habits and requirements.

In terms of build quality, the BCT-8 is sturdy yet compact, making it portable enough to carry during outdoor activities or while traveling. This is complemented by an included belt clip, allowing for hands-free operations, perfect for fieldwork or public safety applications.

Overall, the Uniden BCT-8 stands out for its extensive feature set and reliable performance, making it an ideal choice for individuals who wish to explore the rich world of radio communications. Its combination of advanced scanning capabilities, ease of use, and portability makes it a valuable addition to any scanner enthusiast's toolkit. Whether for personal use or professional monitoring, the BCT-8 excels in delivering comprehensive reception of diverse radio signals.
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