Motorola BC796D, APCO25 manual Basic Operation, Turning On the Scanner, Setting the Squelch

Basic Operation

This section is your main reference for using the scanner once you have programmed conventional and trunked systems. Note that there are some slight differences to some functions depending on whether you are trying to affect conventional operation or trunked operation. Be sure to refer to the appropriate section depending on the mode you are using.

Turning On the Scanner

Turn the VOLUME control clockwise out of the detent position. The scanner automatically starts scanning. Since there are no frequencies programmed in your scanner initially, you may not receive any signals. Once you set the squelch and program some frequencies, you will begin hearing conversations regularly.

Setting the Squelch

To set the squelch, you must be in the hold mode, and you should not be receiving a signal on your scanner.

1.Press ▲/HOLD until you do not hear a signal.

2.Make sure that the VOLUME is set to a comfortable listening level.

3.Think of the Squelch Control as a gate. Turn the SQUELCH control fully counterclockwise. This raises the “Squelch Gate” so high that only very strong signals can get through.

4.Turn SQUELCH clockwise until you hear a hiss. This lowers the “Squelch Gate” so that everything gets through – noise, weak signals, medium signals and strong signals.

5.Turn SQUELCH back counter-clockwise just until the hiss stops. Now the “Squelch Gate” allows only clear signals through.

Note: For Trunk Scanning, a good squelch setting is critical. The recommended setting is midpoint. If you set the squelch too high, the scanner might not reliably stop on the control channel.

STRONG SIGNALS

MEDIUM SIGNALS

WEAK SIGNALS

NOISE

STRONG SIGNALS

MEDIUM SIGNALS

WEAK SIGNALS

NOISE

STRONG SIGNALS

MEDIUM SIGNALS

WEAK SIGNALS

NOISE

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