Uniden BCT-8 Terminology, What are Highway Patrol Alerts?, What is Scanning?, What is Searching?

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Terminology

What are Highway Patrol Alerts?

Most highway patrol vehicles on the road today are equipped with a secondary radio system known as a “mobile extender” or “vehicular repeater.” Whenever the dispatcher transmits to any vehicle in the district, “mobile extender” in every car within the district is activated.

Using a constant PRIORITY check of specific frequencies in each state, the BCT8 recognizes and alerts you to transmissions from “mobile extender” radios as well as from car-to-car, aircraft-to-car and other special-purpose frequencies. You receive an audible (beep tone) and visual (flashing Alert light) alert whenever you are within an approximate three-mile radius of Highway Patrol/ State Police units using a mobile extender unit.

What is Scanning?

Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most two-way communications do not transmit continuously. The BCT8 scans the Frequencies you have programmed into the Scanner’s channels until it finds an active frequency.

Scanning stops on an active frequency and remains on that channel as long as the transmission continues. When the transmission ends, the scanning cycle resumes until another transmission is received.

What is Searching?

The BCT8 can search each of its 13 bands to find active frequencies. This is different from scanning because you are searching for frequencies that have not been programmed into your Scanner’s channels. The scanner automatically chooses between two speeds while searching. During search mode the scanner will search 100 frequencies per second for band with 12.5 kHz steps and during Turbo SEARCH mode the scanner can achieve up to 300 frequencies per second for bands with 5 kHz steps.

What is Trunk Tracking?

Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a radio frequency in your scanner’s memory which is used by someone you want to monitor. For example, the police in your area may broadcast on 460.500 MHz, the fire department on 154.445 MHz, the highway department on 37.900 MHz, etc. So when your scanner stops on a frequency, you usually know who it is, and more importantly, you can stop on a channel and listen to an entire conversation. This type of scanning is easy and fun.

As the demand for public communications has increased, many public radio users don't have enough frequencies to meet their needs, and this has created a serious problem. Trunking radio systems have been implemented to solve this problem.

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Contents Page Precautions Contents Page Introduction LTRFront and Rear Views 8 9Icon Display What is Scanning? What is Searching?What is Trunk Tracking? TerminologyPage Feature Highlights Scanner.uniden.com Where to Obtain More InformationInformation on the Internet Optional Accessories Included with Your Scanner PackageFor Mobile Use In-Car Installation Installing the BCT8For Home Use Desktop Installation Connecting the Power Cord Installation for everyday use Attach the scanner to the mounting bracket using Typical Mounting MethodsMounting the Scanner in Your Vehicle Supplied mounting knobsApplying Power for Vehicle Installation DC power InstallationApplying Power Using Standard AC Power Connecting an External SpeakerConnecting the Clone Cable Listening SafelyScanning Overview Turn the Scanner OnSetting the Squelch How Squelch WorksScanning Highway Patrol Frequency Highway Patrol ScanningSelecting the State Alert Tone Volume Highway Patrol Scan HoldHighway Warning Alert Muting the Alert TonePriority 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 Setting a Search Band Band SearchFrequency Skip Search Hold FeatureData Skip Delay Storing Search FrequenciesTrunk Tracking Programming Trunking Frequencies Selecting Trunking System TypeProgramming Trunking Frequencies Programming Talk Group ID/Scan ListsTo enter a Type 2 Talk Group ID To enter a Type 1 IDTo enter a Full Edacs ID To enter a Partial Edacs IDID Scan Mode Receiving Trunked SystemsTo directly access a specific ID location ID Scan Hold FeatureID Search Mode ID Monitor Mode ID Search Hold and Direct Entry ID in Hold ModeProgramming Scan Lists During Search Deleting a Stored IDTo restore a single ID, follow these steps To restore all locked out IDs in a bank onceID Lockout Review ID LockoutSetting the Delay Mode for Trunking Mode Setting Priority in Trunking ModeTrunking Frequency Confirmation Moving between Scan List MemoriesMulti-Track Multi-Track Operational DetailsProgramming Edacs System Frequencies Edacs ReceptionEdacs Tracking An Edacs Trunked system Special Edacs Features Edacs ID Range SearchLTR Reception LTR TrackingMotorola Reception Motorola TrackingProgramming a User Fleet Map Selecting Preset Fleet MapFleet Map Programming Programming a Hybrid System Control Channel Only Mode Toggling the Status BitDisconnect Tone Detect Option End Code PC Control Mode Remote InterfaceTo connect Scanner to PC To program your scannerScanner.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 Care and Maintenance General UseTroubleshooting Not receiving alarms Check antenna connectionsAdjust the squelch for Trunking mode refer to Specifications Appendix State Code OrderPreset Fleet Maps E1P9 Block User Defined Fleet Maps Type I Programming InformationFleet Map Size Codes Memo Memo One Year Limited Warranty Uniden America Corporation

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.