An EDACS® Trunked system

This chart shows how talkgroups are organized within an EDACS system at the Agency level. The individual talkgroups cannot be shown at this scale because there are over 2000. However the chart can show the 16 Agencies in this example. The system is logical and easy to understand. EDACS systems are typically arranged in an outline structure.

The system users are given blocks of talkgroups. Sizes vary but most large cities and other agencies have blocks of 128 channels. Smaller cities have only 64 or 32 channels.

In this example, the County Sheriff is agency 01. The city of Sullivan is Agency 03. Adams Hill and Matthew Junction share Agency 08.

Your scanner shows EDACS talkgroups in AFS (Agency- Fleet-Subfleet) format. This helps you see, at a glance, who you are monitoring. And with the partial-entry feature you can easily include nearby, related channels in the same Fleet or Agency. You can just as easily exclude entire unwanted Fleets and Agencies.

When in Search mode, with the system frequencies programmed, and your scanner locked to the control channel, you can select a desired city by keying in the Agency part of the AFS talkgroup. For example, in Hold mode you can select the entire city of Sullivan with 4 key presses 0, 3,

. (decimal key), SRCH key.

When you hear an interesting talkgroup, in Hold mode capture it to your Scan List by pressing E during the transmission.

Or hold on it by pressing HOLD/RESUME.

If you want to monitor the Sullivan Police Dispatch channel

(which is talk group 03-062), press 0, 3, . (decimal key), 0, 6, 2, the key. Your scanner can also work in decimal format.

Talkgroup 03-62 in decimal format is 402. But decimal format does not give you any information about the system hierarchy.

For example Sullivan, in decimal, uses channels from 384 to 511. This is not as easy to remember as Agency 03. But decimal is useful if you need to work from decimal talkgroup lists.

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Uniden BCT-8 manual An Edacs Trunked system

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.