Trunk Tracking

Your BCT8 is tracks three major types of trunked radio systems. These systems are described here.

❖MOTOROLA - Including Type I, Type II, Hybrid, SMARTNET, and Privacy Plus. Motorola systems are widely used by public safety and business users. Most are on the 800 MHz band, and recent systems are appearing on other bands. (see page 43).

❖EDACS - Including "Wideband" 9600 baud and SCAT. "Wideband" systems are mostly on the 800 MHz band, and are used by public safety, utilities, and business users. Some systems are used on the VHF and UHF bands. (see page 39). SCAT systems are single-channel EDACS systems, and are mainly used in the Midwestern United States.

❖LTR - These systems are mostly for business users, and found on the UHF, 800 and 900 MHz bands. (See page 42).

For details on the operation and programming for all of these systems, see pages 29-47.

When tracking these types of systems, remember these important points:

•Your scanner defaults to monitor Motorola Type II 800; however, you can change this if the system in your area is different. (The types of systems are discussed below.)

•The frequencies for many of the trunked public safety systems are listed in the TrunkTracker Frequency Guide included with your BCT8 scanner. Frequencies sometimes change, check with www.trunktracker.com.

•If you have internet access, you can visit scanner.uniden.com or www.trunktracker.com for additional information, for current news and frequency information, about Trunk Tracking Scanning.

*Motorola, SMARTNET, and PRIVACY PLUS are trademarks of Motorola Inc. EDACS is a registered trademark of the M/A - COM Inc. LTR is a registered trademark of E.F. Johnson Company.

Setting the Squelch

For trunked reception, a good setting for the SQL control is in the center of the range with the color marker pointing up. See the illustration.

If it is set too high, it could prevent your scanner from locking to the Control Channel reliably. If it is set too low, it will slightly delay finding the Control Channel. The best setting is the same as for conventional reception, and is critical for monitoring trunked systems.

SQL

push

FLASH

 

ALERT

MUTE

29

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Uniden BCT-8 manual Trunk Tracking, Setting the Squelch
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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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