Radio Shack 20-422 Understanding Banks and Bands, CHANNEL-STORAGE Banks, Monitor Memories

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UNDERSTANDING BANKS AND BANDS

You can store frequencies into either a programmable memory location called a channel, or a temporary memory loca- tion called a monitor memory. You can store a frequency in each of the scan- ner’s channels (up to 200) and up to 10 monitor memories.

Your scanner also has eight frequency bands, each covering a specific range of frequencies you can search.

CHANNEL-STORAGE BANKS

To make it easier to identify and select the frequencies you want to listen to, the scanner’s channels are divided into 10 channel-storage banks (1–9 and 0) of 20 channels each. You can use each channel-storage bank to group frequen- cies, such as those used by the police department, fire department, ambulance services, and amateur radio operators (see “Guide to the Action Bands” on Page 23).

For example, there might be three or four police departments in your area, each using several different frequencies. Additionally, there might be other law enforcement agencies such as state po- lice, county sheriffs, or SWAT teams that use their own frequencies. You could program all law enforcement fre- quencies starting with Channel 1 (the first channel in Bank 1), then program the fire department, paramedic, and oth- er public safety frequencies starting with Channel 21 (the first channel in Bank 2).

MONITOR MEMORIES

Monitor memories are temporary stor- age areas where you can store up to ten frequencies during a search while you decide whether to save them into chan- nels. You can manually select and listen to frequencies stored in monitor memo- ries.

FREQUENCY BANDS

Your scanner has eight frequency bands, each covering a specific range of frequencies. You can search these bands for specific broadcasts by repeat- edly pressing BAND until the scanner displays the band you want.

For example, you can search through all frequencies between 29.000 and 54.000 MHz for specific broadcasts by repeat- edly pressing BAND until 29-54ap- pears. The scanner then automatically searches the frequencies in that band.

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Contents 200CH VHF/Air/UHF Home Scanner Features Frequency Range MHz Step kHz FCC Notice Scanning LegallyContents Connecting AN Antenna Connecting the Supplied AntennaConnecting an Outdoor Antenna PreparationConnecting Power Connecting AN External Speaker Connecting AN Earphone or HeadphonesListening Safely Understanding Your Scanner Look AT the Front PanelLook AT the Display BankPRI Understanding Banks and Bands CHANNEL-STORAGE BanksMonitor Memories Frequency Bands29-54 Resetting Scanner OperationManually Storing Frequencies Into Channels Searching for and Temporarily Storing Active Frequencies Band SearchListening to Monitor Memories Direct SearchScanning Channels Moving a Frequency from a Monitor Memory to a ChannelManually Selecting a Channel Special Features DelayRemoving Skip from Frequencies Priority Removing Lockout from ChannelsTesting Alert Tone Listening to Weather BandTurning the KEY Tone on or OFF Weather AlertGeneral Guide to Scanning Guide to FrequenciesHam Radio Frequencies National Weather FrequenciesGuide to the Action Bands Typical Band UsageBand Allocation Very High Frequency VHF Ultra High Frequency UHF Frequency Conversion Troubleshooting Symptom SuggestionCare and Maintenance Specifications Ohms RadioShack Division of Tandy Corporation Fort Worth, Texas

20-422 specifications

The Radio Shack 20-422 is a versatile and compact handheld scanner that has garnered recognition among hobbyists and communication enthusiasts alike. This model is designed to provide users with an easy-to-use interface and advanced scanning capabilities, making it a popular choice for those looking to stay connected with public safety, aviation, and other radio communications.

One of the standout features of the Radio Shack 20-422 is its ability to scan a wide range of frequencies. With coverage from 30 MHz to 900 MHz, it allows users to access a diverse array of radio signals, including AM, FM, and analog transmissions. This broad frequency range ensures that operators can track vital communications from police departments, fire services, and emergency medical teams.

In addition to its expansive scanning capabilities, the 20-422 is equipped with 200 programmable channels. This enables users to store their favorite frequencies for quick access, thus enhancing the overall user experience. The unit is also compatible with commonly used trunking systems, which allows users to monitor communications from trunked radio systems, widely employed by public safety organizations.

The Radio Shack 20-422 comes with a customizable priority scanning feature, which allows users to set specific channels to scan more frequently. This ensures that important communications are not missed, adding a level of efficiency to the scanning process. Moreover, the scanner features a large LCD display that provides users with clear visibility of the frequency and other important information.

From a technological standpoint, the 20-422 is equipped with automatic frequency identification, which simplifies the process of discovering new radio signals. The built-in alert system notifies users when specific transmissions are detected, adding convenience to the scanning routine.

The ergonomic design of the Radio Shack 20-422 enhances ease of use, equipped with a comfortable grip and well-placed buttons for intuitive operation. The scanner is powered by a reliable battery system, ensuring long hours of dynamic scanning capabilities, whether you are in a stationary location or on the move.

In summary, the Radio Shack 20-422 stands out as a powerful tool for anyone interested in radio communications. With its extensive frequency coverage, programmable channels, and user-friendly design, this handheld scanner is perfect for hobbyists, emergency responders, and anyone else looking to stay connected with their community.