Setup

Connecting an Antenna

You must install an antenna before you can operate the scanner. You have been provided a standard telescopic antenna that works well with this scanner, but you may want to purchases another type to increase the range. To connect the telescopic antenna, simply connect it to the BNC type ANT. connector on the rear of the scanner. You can purchase a variety of scanner antennas for both mobile and base station available at a local electronics store. Choose the one that best meets your needs.

When deciding on a mobile or base station antenna and its location, consider these points.

The antenna should be as high as possible on a vehicle or a house.

The antenna and its cable should be as far as possible from sources of electrical noise (ignition systems, gauges, and so on).

The antenna should be vertical for the best performance.

Mounting an Antenna

Once you choose an antenna, follow the mounting instructions supplied with the antenna. Then route the antenna cable to the scanner.

The antenna connector on your scanner makes it easy to use the scanner with a variety of antennas, such as an external mobile antenna or an outdoor base station antenna.

Always use 50 ohm coaxial cable, such as RG-58 or RG-8, to connect an outdoor antenna. For lengths over 50 feet, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric coaxial cable. If your antenna’s cable does not have a BNC connector, you will also need a BNC adapter (available at a local electronics store).

Follow the Installation instructions supplied with the antenna, route the antenna cable to the scanner, then connect it to the ANT. jack.

Warning: Use extreme caution when you install or remove an outdoor antenna. If the antenna starts to fall, let it go! It could contact overhead power lines. If the antenna touches a power line, contact with the antenna, mast, cable, or guy wires can cause electrocution and death. Call the power company to remove the antenna. DO NOT attempt to do it yourself.

Optional Antenna

If you have chosen an optional mobile antenna, connect the antenna plug into the ANT connector on the rear of the scanner. (For more information on antenna installation, please refer to the instruction guide that came with your antenna.)

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Uniden BC780XLT manual Setup, Connecting an Antenna, Mounting an Antenna, Optional Antenna

BC780XLT specifications

The Uniden BC780XLT is a versatile and popular scanner that has made a name for itself among scanning enthusiasts and professionals alike. Released in the early 2000s, this model is known for its extensive feature set, allowing users to monitor a wide range of frequencies and communications.

One of the primary features of the BC780XLT is its capability to scan multiple frequency bands, including VHF, UHF, and 700/800 MHz frequencies. This makes it an ideal choice for monitoring public safety communications, utility services, and various other two-way radio frequencies. The scanner operates in an impressive frequency range of 25 MHz to 1.3 GHz, allowing users to enjoy a broad spectrum of signals.

The BC780XLT features TrunkTracker technology, which enables it to follow trunked radio systems. This is crucial for monitoring communications from agencies that operate on these complex frequency systems, like police and fire departments. The scanner can decode both Motorola and EDACS trunked systems, providing extensive coverage of public safety communications.

User-friendly controls and advanced features make the BC780XLT accessible for both beginners and experienced users. The numeric keypad allows for quick entry of frequencies, while the large LCD display provides easy visibility of channel information, including frequency and mode. The 10-channel pre-programmed memory allows users to store their favorite frequencies and easily scan between them.

In addition to its scanning capabilities, the BC780XLT also supports close call technology. This feature allows the scanner to automatically detect nearby signals, instantly alerting users to any active frequencies in their vicinity. This is particularly useful for users in urban areas, where multiple frequencies may be in use simultaneously.

The BC780XLT also has a robust battery-saving feature, making it an excellent option for those who need to scan on the go. This functionality, coupled with its ability to operate on AC or DC power, adds to its versatility, ensuring uninterrupted scanning during extended use or in field operations.

In conclusion, the Uniden BC780XLT Scanner stands out for its comprehensive feature set, including TrunkTracker technology, extensive frequency coverage, and user-friendly design. Whether for hobbyists, emergency responders, or professionals needing reliable communication, the BC780XLT continues to be a valuable tool in the world of scanning. Its enduring popularity speaks to its performance and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.