EDACS Trunking

EDACS trunking works in much the same way as Motorola trunking with a couple of major differences. In an EDACS system, each frequency used by the system is assigned a Logical Channel Number (LCN) so that less data needs to be transmitted by the control channel. Also, talk groups are assigned in an Agency-Fleet-Subfleet (AFS) hierarchy. Also, there is one variation of EDACS called SCAT that your UBCD396T can monitor.

Logical Channel Numbers – each frequency used by the system is assigned an LCN. This information is programmed into each user radio. When a user presses PTT, their radio sends their AFS information to the control channel. The computer then assigns that talk group to a channel and sends the LCN so that all other radios in that talk group will switch to the correct channel. To program an EDACS system in your scanner, you will need to know both the frequencies used by the system and the LCN for each frequency.

Agency-Fleet-Subfleettalk group ID’s for EDACS systems are assigned in a way that makes it easy to see at a glance the affiliation of the user. Each radio is assigned a 2-digit agency identifier from 00 – 15.

For example, 01 might be used by the police, 02 by the ambulance service, 03 by the fire department, and so on. Each agency is then subdivided up to 16 times to provide fleet identification, and then 8 more times to identify subfleets.

For example, the complete AFS for the Police Department West District’s dispatch channel might be 01-062. 01 identifies the agency as the police department, 06 identifies the fleet as the West district, and 2 identifies the subfleet as the dispatch channel. While these assignments are somewhat arbitrary and vary from system to system, there are many resources on the web for finding the assignments for most systems. Because of the logical hierarchy of the AFS system, your UBCD396T lets you assign wildcard ID’s that let you, for example, use only one ID memory to identify all units in either an agency or a

Understanding Scanning

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Uniden UBCD396T owner manual Edacs Trunking

UBCD396T specifications

The Uniden UBCD396T is a highly versatile and compact digital scanner that has gained a reputation among enthusiasts and professionals alike for its impressive features and capabilities. Designed primarily for public safety scanning, this portable scanner allows users to stay informed about local emergency services, including police, fire, and medical operations.

One of the key features of the UBCD396T is its ability to receive a wide range of frequencies. It covers VHF, UHF, and 700/800 MHz bands, which are commonly used by various agencies. With support for both analog and digital modes, users can enjoy clear audio and access to multiple communication protocols.

The scanner is equipped with Uniden's advanced APCO-25 digital decoding technology, enabling it to receive and accurately decode P25 digital signals. This is particularly beneficial for users in areas where digital trunking systems are in use, ensuring they can access critical communications without the hassle of missing important information.

A standout characteristic of the UBCD396T is its Dynamic Memory Management system, which allows users to create and manage multiple scanning banks efficiently. With 1000 channels and the ability to store additional frequencies, users can customize their scanning experience based on their preferences and needs. The scanner also supports GPS connectivity, enabling location-based scanning that automatically alters the frequency range based on the user's position.

Another notable feature is the scanner's customizable display and backlight options. Users can adjust the brightness and color settings to suit their preferences, making it easy to operate even in low-light conditions. The UBCD396T also boasts a built-in rechargeable battery, providing hours of continuous operation, ideal for users on the go.

Furthermore, the UBCD396T includes features such as a dedicated search mode, allowing users to scan unprogrammed frequencies, and a close call function that detects nearby transmissions instantly. The USB connectivity enables easy software updates, ensuring users can keep their devices up to date with the latest technologies.

In summary, the Uniden UBCD396T is a powerful and flexible digital scanner that offers a suite of features suited for both casual users and serious enthusiasts. Its ability to decode various communication types, along with user-friendly customization options, makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to stay connected to the world around them.