Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual
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Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual

Uniden BC246T Owner's Manual

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BC246T
OWNER'S
MANUAL
OWNER'S MANUAL

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  • Page 1 BC246T OWNER’S MANUAL OWNER’S MANUAL...
  • Page 2 Changes or modifications to this product not expressly approved by Uniden, or operation of this product in any way other than as detailed by this Operating Guide, could void your authority to operate this product.
  • Page 3 WARNING! Uniden does not represent this unit to be waterproof. To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. ® ® ® Motorola , SMARTNET , PL ® PRIVACY PLUS are registered trademarks of Motorola, Inc.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    LTR Trunking ... 25 Where To Get More Information ... 26 Information On The Internet ... 26 Using a Computer to Control Your BC246T ... 27 Included With Your Scanner ... 28 Setting Up Your Scanner ... 28 Using Internal Batteries ... 29 Using Rechargeable Batteries ...
  • Page 5 Priority Scan ... 45 Using the Backlight ... 46 Initializing the Scanner’s Memory ... 46 Using the Menu ... 47 Programming Radio Systems ... 49 Programming Conventional Systems ... 50 Entering/Editing Conventional Channel Groups ... 50 Entering/Editing Conventional Channels ... 51 Programming Motorola Systems ...
  • Page 6 Using the Close Call Feature ... 84 Setting the Close Call Mode ... 85 Search and Close Call Options ... 87 Managing Locked-Out Frequencies ... 87 Unlocking All Frequencies ... 87 Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies ... 87 Searching for Subaudible Tones ... 87 Screening Out Paging Systems ...

  • Page 7: The Fcc Wants You To Know

    The FCC Wants You to Know The FCC Wants You to Know This scanner has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a scanning receiver, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 8 According to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), you are subject to fines and possible imprisonment for intentionally listening to, using, or divulging the contents of such a conversation unless you have the consent of a party to the conversation (unless such activity is otherwise illegal).

  • Page 9: Introduction

    Introduction Introduction Your BC246T scanner is a state-of-the-art scanner radio with TrunkTracking™ and automatic scanning capabili- ties. You can store frequencies such as police, fire/emergency, marine, air, amateur, and other communications into the scanner. You can carry it with you wherever you go, use it at home as a base unit, or install it in your vehicle as a mobile unit.
  • Page 10 50.0-54.0 108.0- 136.9750 137.0- 143.995 144.0- 147.995 148.0- 161.995 162.0-174.0 12.5 216.0- 224.9950 400.0- 12.5 405.9875 406.0- 12.5 419.9875 420.0- 12.5 449.9875 450.0- 12.5 469.9875 470.0-512.0 12.5 806.0- 12.5 823.9875 849.0125- 12.5 868.9875 894.0125- 12.5 956.0000 1240.0000- 12.5 1300.0000 6 Meter Amateur Band Aircraft Band Military Band...

  • Page 11: Feature Highlights

    Feature Highlights Feature Highlights General Close Call RF Capture Technology - you can set the scanner so it detects and provides information about nearby radio transmissions. See “Using the Close Call Feature” on Page 83 for more information. Dynamically Allocated Channel Memory - your scanner’s memory is organized so that it more closely matches how radio systems actually work, making it easier to program and use your scanner and determine how...
  • Page 12 Dropout Delay – You can set whether the scanner pauses at the end of a transmission to wait for a reply. You can set the delay time for each system you scan, and while searching and using the Close Call feature. Attenuator –...

  • Page 13: Trunk Tracking

    21 Bands – Includes 21 bands, with Aircraft and 800 MHz. Note: The scanner’s frequency coverage is not continuous and does not include the cellular telephone band. Trunk Tracking Trunk Tracker ™ Operation – Follows conversations on analog Motorola, EDACS, EDACS SCAT, and LTR trunked radio systems.

  • Page 14: Auto Store

    Quick Search – Lets you search from the currently-tuned frequency if you are searching a conventional system, or from the currently-tuned trunk ID if you are searching a trunked system. Auto Store Frequency AutoStore – Automatically stores all active frequencies within a system you select. Talk Group ID AutoStore –...

  • Page 15: About This Manual

    Clone Mode – You can clone all programmed data, including the contents of the scanner’s memory, menu settings, and other parameters from one BC246T scanner to another BC246T scanner. About This Manual The screen displays used in this manual are representations of what might appear when you use your scanner.

  • Page 16: Entering Text

    are new to scanning or trunk tracking, be sure to read “Understanding Scanning” on Page 17 for a quick background on the technology. The first thing you’ll need to do is install batteries in the scanner. Then you need to connect the included antenna to the scanner.

  • Page 17: Understanding Scanning

    You don’t really need to know all of this to use your scanner, but some background knowledge will help you get the most from your BC246T. Understanding the Scanner’s Memory Your scanner’s memory is organized in an architecture called Dynamic Allocated Channel memory.

  • Page 18: What Is Searching

    What is Searching? The BC246T can search each of its 21 bands and up to 10 bands together to find active frequencies. This is different from scanning because you are searching for frequencies that have not been programmed into the scanner.
  • Page 19 might hear multiple communications at the same time. The stations might even interfere with each other to the point where it is impossible to clearly receive any of the stations. A scanner equipped with CTCSS and DCS (like your scanner) can code each received frequency with a specific CTCSS or DCS frequency.

  • Page 20: Conventional Scanning

    332 343 346 412 413 452 454 455 506 516 523 612 624 627 703 712 723 Conventional Scanning Conventional scanning is a relatively simple concept. Each group of users in a conventional system is assigned a single frequency (for simplex systems) or two frequencies (for repeater systems).

  • Page 21: Repeater Operation

    Typical repeater systems provide coverage out to about a 25-mile radius from the repeater location. What is Trunk Tracking? Your BC246T is designed to track the following types of trunking systems. • Motorola Type I, Type II, Type IIi, hybrid, SMARTNET,...

  • Page 22: Trunked Scanning

    • The frequencies for many of the 800 MHz public safety systems are listed in the National Public Safety Trunked System Frequency Guide included with your BC246T scanner. Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a frequency used by someone you want to monitor into your scanner’s memory.

  • Page 23: Types Of Trunking Systems

    Uniden’s invention of the Trunktracking scanner. Not only does your BC246T scan channels like a conven- tional scanner, it actually follows the users of a trunked radio system. Once you know a talk group’s ID, you won’t miss any of the action.

  • Page 24: Edacs Trunking

    Also, talk groups are assigned in an Agency-Fleet- Subfleet (AFS) hierarchy. Also, there is one variation of EDACS called SCAT that your BC246T can monitor. Logical Channel Numbers – each frequency used by the system is assigned an LCN. This information is pro- grammed into each user radio.

  • Page 25: Ltr Trunking

    Autonomous Trunking) systems operate on a single channel and alternate control data with analog voice traf- fic. While your BC246T cannot track ID’s in this system, it can eliminate the control data so that all you hear is the voice transmissions when you monitor this type of system.

  • Page 26: Where To Get More Information

    Users on an LTR system are assigned to specific talk groups, which are identified by the radio as six digit numbers. These numbers are in the form AHHUUU, where: A = Area code (0 or 1) H = Home repeater (01 through 20) U = User ID (000 through 254) When the scanner receives a transmission on a channel set to the LTR mode, it first decodes the LTR data included...
  • Page 27 National Communications. • svartifoss2.fcc.gov/reports/index.cfm frequency information on file with the US Government * - This web site is not affiliated with Uniden Corporation. To purchase another copy of the conventional or trunking frequency guide, contact your local dealer or:...

  • Page 28: Included With Your Scanner

    Owners Manual Frequency Guide If any of these items are missing or damaged, immediately contact your place of purchase or Uniden Customer Service at: (800) 297-1023, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central, Monday through Friday. Setting Up Your Scanner Included With Your Scanner...

  • Page 29: Using Internal Batteries

    Setting Up Your Scanner These guidelines will help you install and set up your new scanner: • If your scanner receives interference or electrical noise, move the scanner or its antenna away from the source. • To improve the scanner’s reception, use an optional external antenna designed for multi-band coverage.
  • Page 30 Before installing batteries, set the switch in the battery compartment to match the type of batteries you will use. Select ALKALINE for non-rechargeable battery types and RECHARGEABLE for rechargeable battery types. See also “Using Rechargeable Batteries” on Page 31 when you use rechargeable batteries. 1.

  • Page 31: Using Rechargeable Batteries

    3. Replace the cover. When flashes and the scanner beeps every 15 seconds, replace both batteries. Using Rechargeable Batteries You can also use two rechargeable batteries to power your scanner. Before you use rechargeable batteries, you must charge them. The scanner has a built-in circuit that lets you recharge batteries while they are in the scanner.

  • Page 32: Using Ac Power

    Before you use rechargeable batteries for the first time, charge them for 14 hours to bring them to a full charge. Discharged batteries take about 14 hours to fully recharge. Using AC Power You can power the scanner using the supplied 6V, 500 mA AC adapter.

  • Page 33: Connecting An Earphone/Headphone

    Connecting an Earphone/Headphone For private listening, you can plug a mini-plug earphone or headphones (not supplied) into the headphone jack on top of your scanner. This automati- cally disconnects the internal speaker. Connecting an Extension Speaker In a noisy area, an optional amplified extension speaker, positioned in the right place, might provide more comfort- able listening.

  • Page 34: Installing The Demo Software

    You must install the software to use the scanner with your computer. After you install the BC246T SS Install program, start it by double clicking on the desktop icon or by selecting it in the Start Programs list.

  • Page 35: A Look At The Keypad

    A Look At The Keypad Your scanner's keys have various functions labeled on the key tops and below the keys. To select the function labeled on a key, simply press the key. To select the function labeled below a key, hold down on the left side of the scanner then press the key.
  • Page 36 Key Name Description L/O – Lets you lock out a selected channel or skip a specified fre- quency. + L/O – Locks and unlocks a Func selected system in Scan or Scan Hold mode and reviews search lockout frequencies in Search or Search Hold mode.
  • Page 37 Key Name Description 4 – Enters a 4. Func acter to the left while editing data. 6 – Enters a 6. Func acter to the right while editing data. 7/Rcl 7 – Enters a 7. + Rcl – Displays a series of Func prompts to quickly select a specific channel in the scan hold mode.

  • Page 38: A Look At The Display

    A Look At The Display The display has indicators that show the scanner's cur- rent operating status. The display information helps you understand how your scanner operates. The dark area shown above the icons in this illustration is the text dis- play area.

  • Page 39: Using Menu

    Using Menu Menu Press on the left side of the scanner to enter the Menu menu. See “Using the Menu” on Page 47 for more information about the scanner’s menu options. Using Func Func To select the function labeled below a key on the front of the scanner, hold down on the left side of the Func...

  • Page 40: Basic Operation

    • The BC246T scans a system for the duration you set using the System Hold Time option (see “Setting the System Hold Time” on Page 63). For trunked sys-...

  • Page 41: Preprogrammed System Tips

    9 while scanning. You can scan preprogrammed systems more efficiently by preventing the BC246T from scanning systems that are not in your area. There are three ways to do this: • Lock out the faraway systems (see “Locking/Unlock- ing Systems”...

  • Page 42: Locking/Unlocking Systems

    1. Press to hold on the system (or hold Func rotate the scroll control to select the system). 2. Continue to hold and press the number key Func corresponding to the channel group you want to activate or deactivate. Locking/Unlocking Systems Follow these steps to lock out a system so that it does not scan even if its quick key is selected.

  • Page 43: Temporarily Holding On A System

    • ID Scan – the scanner only stops on talk group ID’s that you have programmed into the system • ID Search – the scanner stops on any unlocked talk group that becomes active. To toggle between ID Scan and ID Search, press Scan while the scanner is scanning the system.

  • Page 44: Quick-Storing Channels

    Quick-Storing Channels 1. Hold on an existing channel in any system. 2. Enter the frequency or talk group ID you want to store (press to enter hyphens in talk group ID’s). If you enter a frequency, the scanner stores it in the Qck Save Grp group in a system called Qck Save Cnv Sys.

  • Page 45: Other Settings

    Other Settings Other Settings Displaying System Information Viewing Memory Used See Scanner Info Menu % Memory Used A bar showing the percent of memory used appears. Press a key, to returns to the previous menu. Viewing the Firmware Version See Scanner Info Menu Firmware Version Press a key to return to the previous menu.

  • Page 46: Using The Backlight

    • Priority On: While scanning a conventional system, the scanner interrupts every 2 seconds and checks the priority channels in each unlocked conventional system. Priority channels in lower priority key num- bered systems (starting from 1) have highest priority. Pri appears when you select this mode. •...

  • Page 47: Using The Menu

    Using the Menu Using the Menu The scanner’s menu lets you select options that let you set up and use the scanner. To use the menu, press on the left side of the Menu scanner. In most cases, the current menu position appears on the upper line of the menu.
  • Page 48 Menu Item Lets You ... Set up priority options. -- M E N U -- Set Priority Set up weather -- M E N U -- options. WX Operation Set up backlight -- M E N U -- options. Set Backlight Set up key beep -- M E N U --...

  • Page 49: Programming Radio Systems

    Programming Radio Systems Programming Radio Systems Your BC246T comes preprogrammed with the major analog systems used in the 25 most populous counties in the US. However, to get the most enjoyment from your scanner (especially if you do not live near one of these counties), you must customize the programming for your area.

  • Page 50: Programming Conventional Systems

    Programming Conventional Systems Program SysteMS Menu New System Conventional Confirm? The scanner creates an empty conventional system, with a default name of System nnn as you add new systems. C indicates that this is a conven- tional system. Refer to the appropriate section to set system-wide options: •...

  • Page 51: Entering/Editing Conventional Channels

    Setting Up a Channel Group Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system. Refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: •...

  • Page 52: Programming Motorola Systems

    Programming Motorola Systems Program SysteMS Menu New System Next, rotate the scroll control to select the type of Motorola System you will program, then press E. • 800MHz Standard - Use for 800 MHz systems that use the standard band plan •...

  • Page 53: Setting System Frequencies

    • See “Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Sys- tems Only)” on Page 68 • See “Setting System Lockout” on Page 62 • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 86 • See “Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 68 •...

  • Page 54: Entering/Editing Motorola Channels

    Setting Up a Channel Group Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: •...

  • Page 55: Programming Edacs Systems

    • See “Setting Channel Lockout” on Page 76 • See “Deleting Channels” on Page 77 • See “Copying/Pasting Channels” on Page 77 To program another channel within the same group, press , then repeat the above. Menu To create another channel group and enter more channels, press twice, then proceed from “Entering/ Menu...

  • Page 56: Setting System Frequencies

    • See “Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 66 • ee “Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 67 • See “Setting the EDACS ID Format” on Page 67 • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 86 •...

  • Page 57: Entering/Editing Edacs Channels

    The scanner creates a group with a default name of GROUP nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: • See “Entering/Editing the Group Name” on Page 70 •...

  • Page 58: Programming Ltr Systems

    Programming LTR Systems Program SysteMS Menu New System Confirm? When the scanner prompts Confirm?, press E to accept the settings. The scanner creates an empty LTR system, with a default name of System nnN nNn increments as you add new systems. L indicates that this is an LTR system.

  • Page 59: Setting Up A Channel Group

    Input a system frequency, then press E. The scanner then prompts you to enter the LCN for the entered frequency. Enter the LCN, then press E. To enter additional frequencies, press control to select New Frequency, then repeat the above. Entering/Editing LTR Channel Groups To enter channels in a system, first set up a channel group (or groups) to hold the channels.
  • Page 60 Then, refer to the appropriate section to change a channel setting: • See “Editing the Channel Name” on Page 71 • See “Setting Channel Alert” on Page 73 • See “Setting Channel Lockout” on Page 76 • See “Deleting Channels” on Page 77 •...

  • Page 61: Programming/Editing Optional Settings

    Programming/Editing Optional Settings Programming/Editing Optional Settings This section details the instructions for each of the optional programming steps referred to in “Programming Radio Systems” on Page 49. Use the instructions in the appropriate section to enter or edit a setting. System-Level Settings These settings apply to the entire system.

  • Page 62: Editing The System Quick Key

    Editing the System Quick Key MENU Program SysteMS Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Quick Key After selecting this option, press 0-9 to assign the system to a quick key or press No to assign the system to no quick key, then press E.

  • Page 63: Setting The System Hold Time

    Setting the System Hold Time Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Hold Time This setting controls how many seconds the scanner scans a system before moving to the next unlocked system. Enter a value from 0-255, then press E to save the setting.

  • Page 64: Setting Id Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only)

    Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only) Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option ID SCAN/SEARCH This setting controls how the system will be scanned. Select your setting, then press E. ID Scan - the scanner only stops on channels you have programmed into the system.

  • Page 65: Editing The Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only)

    Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only) Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option Edit Fleet Map For Motorola Type I systems, you must enter a system fleet map in order for the scanner to properly track and display talk group ID's.

  • Page 66: Setting The End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only)

    status flags for the system. This setting determines how the scanner will handle ID's that are not multiples of 16. Select your setting then press E. Ignore - the scanner rounds all received ID's down to the next interval of 16. Yes - the scanner treats all received ID's as unique ID's.

  • Page 67: Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola And Edacs Systems Only)

    On - the scanner tracks I-calls Off - the scanner ignores I-calls Only - the scanner only tracks I-calls and ignores other radio traffic on the system. Note: The default setting is Off. Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) Program SysteMS Menu Select the system...

  • Page 68: Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only)

    • The scanner defaults to AFS (agency, fleet, subfleet) format - the format used in most EDACS systems. • See “EDACS Trunking” on Page 24 for more information about the AFS format. Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only) Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Sys Option...

  • Page 69: Deleting Systems

    interference and desensitization that strong signals create. • You can also turn this setting on or off by holding on a trunked system, then pressing Deleting Systems Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Delete System The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E.

  • Page 70: Group-Level Settings

    Group-Level Settings The settings in this section apply to all of the channels stored in the current group. Entering/Editing the Group Name Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Select the group Edit Name Follow these steps to enter/edit the group name. 1.

  • Page 71: Deleting Groups

    After selecting this option, press 0-9 to assign the group to a quick key or press No to assign the system to no quick key, then press E. Hints: • You can assign as many groups to the same quick key as you want.

  • Page 72: Setting Channel Priority (Conventional Channels Only)

    2. Press then rotate the scroll control once to Func select the next letter. 3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you have entered the channel name. Then press E or press down on the scroll control to accept the setting. Hints: •...

  • Page 73: Setting Channel Alert

    Off - the channel will not be treated with priority. Note: The default setting is Off. Setting Channel Alert Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set Alert This setting controls whether the scanner will alert you when the channel becomes active.

  • Page 74: Setting Channel Modulation (Conventional Channels Only)

    CTCSS - the scanner only opens squelch if the CTCSS tone you select is also present with the signal. The scanner then prompts you to enter or scroll to the desired tone. DCS - the scanner only opens squelch if the DCS tone you select is also present with the signal.

  • Page 75: Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)

    NFM - the scanner uses narrowband FM for the frequency. Note: The default setting is AUTO. Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only) Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set Attenuator This setting controls whether the scanner attenuates signals on this channel.

  • Page 76: Setting Channel Lockout

    Select the channel Set Step This setting selects the frequency step used for setting the channel's. Select your setting, then press E. Auto - the step is based on the band (see the table at the front of the manual) 5.0 kHz, 6.25 kHz, 7.5 kHz, 10.0 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 15.0 kHz, 25.0 kHz, 50.0 kHz, 100.0 kHz The scanner uses the selected step.

  • Page 77: Deleting Channels

    Deleting Channels Program SysteMS Menu Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Delete Channel The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press No. Note: Deleted channels cannot be restored. You must re- enter them.
  • Page 78 Select the channel Paste Channel Then, if necessary, edit the channel you copied to give it a unique name and other settings. Note: The paste option appears only if you have previ- ously copied a channel from a system of the same type you are currently editing.

  • Page 79: Searching

    Searching Searching Custom Search Custom Search lets you program and search 10 custom search ranges. You can search any of these ranges simultaneously and select each custom search range you set. During custom search, the scanner searches starting with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range.

  • Page 80: Editing A Custom Search Range

    Editing a Custom Search Range You can edit up to 10 custom search ranges. The names of the custom search ranges appear on the display. The default custom search range names appear as CUSTOM 1, CUSTOM 2, and so on. 1.

  • Page 81: Service Search

    Service Search Service Search lets you quickly select and search the scanner’s preprogrammed search ranges. During service search, the scanner searches starting with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range. 1. Press then turn the scroll control until Search Menu For .

  • Page 82: Quick Search

    Notes: • If all frequencies in the search band you selected are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scan- ner does not search the band. • If the service you select uses channels (such as CB radio or marine), the scanner displays the service channel number.

  • Page 83: Using The Close Call Feature

    Using the Close Call Feature Using the Close Call Feature Your scanner's Close Call feature lets you set the scanner so it detects, displays the frequency of, and lets you hear a nearby strong radio transmission. You can set the scanner so the Close Call feature works "in the background"...

  • Page 84: Using The Close Call Feature

    Setting Close Call Options 1. Press then turn scroll until Close Call appears. Menu Then press E. Close Call feature options appear. 2. Turn scroll to select the option you want to change. • Close Call Only: Lets you set the scanner only for Close Call searching.

  • Page 85: Close Call Hits

    appear for about 3 seconds. Press E when this appears to jump to and hold on the frequency. If this option is turned on, the scanner overrides the current channel and goes to the Close Call hit. The scanner displays CC Found! Press Any Key. When you press a key, the frequency is displayed.

  • Page 86: Search And Close Call Options

    Search and Close Call Options Search and Close Call Options The settings in this section affect custom searches, service searches, and Close Call operation. Managing Locked-Out Frequencies While searching or during Close Call operation, if you press L/O while the scanner is stopped on a frequency, this frequency is lockout out of these modes.

  • Page 87: Screening Out Paging Systems

    On The scanner searches for and displays any subaudible tone found. Note: This feature does not operate when the scanner is in AM modulation mode. Screening Out Paging Systems Srch/CloCall Opt Menu Pager Screen This setting determines whether the scanner automati- cally ignores transmissions found during searching or Close Call operation that are on common paging system frequencies.

  • Page 88: Setting The Maximum Auto Store Value

    On The scanner automatically applies repeater reverse to detected transmissions. If the scanner detects the trans- mission on the output frequency, it beeps and displays Repeater Found and remains on the output frequency until transmissions end. If it does not detect a transmission on the output frequency, it remains on the original frequency.

  • Page 89: Setting Attenuation

    Setting Attenuation Srch/CloCall Opt Menu Set Attenuation This setting controls the attenuator for quick search and Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. Off The attenuator is off. On Reception is attenuated by about 18 dB. Note: Turn on this setting if you are near other strong signal sources.

  • Page 90: Setting The Delay Time

    Setting the Delay Time Srch/CloCall Opt Menu Set Delay Time This setting determines how long the scanner waits after a transmission ends before resuming quick search or Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. The scanner resumes immediately when the transmission ends.

  • Page 91: Using Weather Alert (Same)

    Using Weather Alert (SAME) Using Weather Alert (SAME) Your scanner has been primarily designed to be a radio scanner. While it incorporates weather alert as one of its features, we strongly recommend that you not use the scanner as your sole means for receiving emergency alerts.

  • Page 92: Programming A Same Group

    WX Operation Menu Weather Alert This setting determines which types of signals will trigger an alert. Select your setting, then press E. Alert Only - the scanner alerts when it detects the 1050 Hz tone that accompanies all weather alerts. ALL FIPS - the scanner alerts and displays information about the weather alert when it receives any FIPS code (see “Programming a SAME Group”...

  • Page 93: Setting Wx Alert Priority

    For example, Tarrant County in Texas is assigned to FIPS code 048439. 0 indicates the entire county 48 indicates the state of Texas 439 indicates Tarrant County To get the FIPS code for your county, visit the National Weather Service web site at http://www.nws.noaa.gov and search for “FIPS Listing”.

  • Page 94: General Use

    Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance General Use • Turn the scanner off before disconnecting the power. • Always write down the programmed frequencies in the event of memory loss. • If memory is lost, simply reprogram each channel. • Always press each button firmly until you hear the entry tone for that key entry.

  • Page 95: Birdies

    Repairs Do not attempt any repair. The scanner contains no user serviceable parts. Contact the Uniden Customer Service Center or take it to a qualified repair technician. Birdies All radios can receive “birdies” (undesired signals). If your scanner stops during Scan mode and no sound is heard, it might be receiving a birdie.

  • Page 96: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If your BC246T is not performing properly, try the follow- ing steps. Problem Possible Cause The scanner scanner might not be doesn’t receiving any work. power. Improper The scanner’s reception. antenna might need to be adjusted. Scan The squelch won’t...
  • Page 97 Troubleshooting Scan The antenna won’t stop might need to (continued) be adjusted. One or more channels might be locked out. The channel’s frequency might not be stored in memory. The channel might not be active. Scan You must won’t press Scan to start.
  • Page 98 Weather The squelch scan might need to doesn’t be adjusted. work. The antenna might need to be adjusted. If you experience difficulty while in TrunkTracker™ mode, try the following steps. Problem Possible Cause Scanner The system won’t track a might not be trunked one your system.
  • Page 99 The system you are trying to scan might be LTR or EDACS. Scanner No ID’s have won’t stop been scanning a programmed. trunked system. The ID’s you have stored are not active. Scanner The squelch won’t acquire might need to the data be adjusted.
  • Page 100 If you still cannot get satisfactory results while using your scanner or if you want additional information, please call or write the Uniden Parts and Service Division. The address and phone number are listed in the Warranty at the end of this manual. If you would like immediate assis- tance, please call Customer Service at (800) 297-1023.

  • Page 101: Specifications

    Specifications Specifications Certified in accordance with FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15, Subpart C, as of date of manufacture. Dynamic Allocation Capacity: • With Name Assigned To Each System, Group, and Channel: Basic : 10 Systems, 100 Groups, 1500 Channels Minimum: 200 Systems, 500 Groups, 500 Channels •...
  • Page 102 VHF High Band 216.0–224.995 1.25 Meter Amateur Band Above bands in 5 kHz steps 28.0-29.690 10 Meter Amateur Band 29.7–49.990 VHF Low Band 50–54 6 Meter Amateur Band Above bands in 10 kHz steps 162.0–174.0 Federal Government 400.0-405.9875 Unknown 406.0–419.9875 Federal Land Mobile 420.0–449.9875 70 cm Amateur Band...
  • Page 103 1240.0–1300.0 25 cm Amateur Band Above bands in 12.5 kHz steps 108.0–136.9750 Aircraft Band Above band in 25 kHz steps Operating Temperature: –20°C to +60°C Scan Rate: 100 channels per second (conventional mode) Search Rate: 300 steps per second (5 kHz step only) Scan Delay: 0-5 seconds Audio Output: 2W nominal into 8 ohm internal speaker...

  • Page 104: Optional Accessories

    Optional Accessories Optional Accessories Contact your local Uniden Dealer or call the Uniden Parts Center at: (800)554-3988, 8:00AM to 5:00PM 246TEST, Monday through Friday, for information about ordering these optional accessories. fi Earphone External Amplified Speaker Betty Bearcat Frequency Directory/...

  • Page 105: Preset Fleet Maps

    Appendix Appendix Preset Fleet Maps Preset Map 1 Block Size Code Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Preset Map 3 Block Size Code Block Size Code 4 Size Code 4...
  • Page 106 Preset Map 9 Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Preset Map 11 Block Size Code Block Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0...

  • Page 107: User Defined Fleet Maps

    User Defined Fleet Maps Type I Programming Information When a Type I system is designed, the address informa- tion for all the ID’s is divided into 8 equal sized blocks, numbered 0–7. When you program your scanner to track a Type I system, you must select a size code for each of these blocks.

  • Page 108: Size Code Restrictions

    of the replies to the conversations with ID’s assigned to the block you just programmed, then you’ve probably selected the right size code and can work on the next block of the map. Finally, for most public safety systems there are some size codes which are more common.

  • Page 109: Collecting Information

    Collecting Information Getting your scanner programmed and scanning takes a few steps. This help guides you through these steps that will make it easier for you to start scanning. 1. Collect information about the system(s) you want to monitor. Do you want to listen to your local police and fire departments? How about the highway patrol, ambulance service, and aircraft? You might even want to listen to your local utility company as they...
  • Page 110 Page 114 to program your scanner. Tips: • Before you start, make as many copies of the work- sheets as you think you'll need. You can also go to the download section of http://www.uniden.com/productsupport.cfm and download the worksheets there. Appendix...

  • Page 111: Conventional Scanning Worksheet

    • All worksheet instructions assume that you have completed the critical Step 1 (collecting the system information). Don't skip this step. • Use a pencil to fill out the worksheets. This lets you change information if necessary. Filling Out The Conventional Scanning Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to cre-...

  • Page 112: Filling Out The Motorola Worksheet

    Filling Out The Motorola Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to cre- ate. For example, you can enter "Dallas Police" or "Ama- teur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed."...

  • Page 113: Group Name And Quick Key

    Fleet Map (Type I or Type I/Type II Hybrid Only) Fill in the fleet map used by this agency. Band Plan (VHF or UHF Only) A band plan is required so the scanner can correctly determine the voice channel frequency. Fill in the band plan used by this agency, consisting of: •...

  • Page 114: System Frequencies And Lcn

    Filling Out the LTR and EDACS Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to cre- ate. For example, you can enter "Dallas Police" or "Ama- teur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed."...
  • Page 115 Conve ntiona l Syste m W orkshe e t System Name System Quick Key Frequency Alpha Tag Group Name Group Quick Key Priority CTCSS/DCS Appendix...
  • Page 116 Motorola System Worksheet 1 System Name System Quick Key System Type I Frequencies Type II 800 MHz: Standard Splinter Type II UHF Type II VHF Fleet Map Block 0 Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4 Block 5 Block 6 Block 7 Band Plan A Base Frequency...
  • Page 117 Motorola Syste m W orkshee t 2 System Name Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Group Name Group Quick Key Priority Appendix...
  • Page 118 LTR/EDACS System Worksheet 1 System Name System Quick Key System Logical Frequency Channel Appendix...

  • Page 119: Preprogrammed Systems

    LTR/EDACS Syste m W orkshe e t 2 System Name Preprogrammed Systems System Quick Key Your scanner is preprogrammed with over 400 channels covering police, fire, and ambulance operations in the 25 most populated counties in the US. The following list Talk Group ID Alpha Tag details the preprogrammed information.
  • Page 120 • Data used for the preprogrammed information was supplied courtesy of http://www..radioreference.com, the Internet’s premier scanning resource (RadioReference is not affiliated with Uniden America Corporation). State County City Arizona Arizona Maricopa Avondale Arizona Maricopa Capitol Arizona Maricopa Chandler Arizona Maricopa...
  • Page 121 California Los Angeles Covina California Los Angeles Crescenta California Los Angeles Culver City California Los Angeles Downey California Los Angeles El Segundo California Los Angeles Gardena California Los Angeles Glendora California Los Angeles Hawthorn California Los Angeles Hermosa Beach California Los Angeles Huntington Park California Los Angeles Industry...
  • Page 122 California Orange Santa Ana California Riverside Banning California Riverside Beaumont California Riverside Blythe California Riverside Cathedral California Riverside Corona California Riverside Desert Hot Springs California Riverside Hemet California Riverside Murrietta California Riverside Palm Springs California Riverside Palm Springs California Riverside Riverside California Riverside...
  • Page 123 California Bernadino Upland California Bernadino Wrightwood California Bernadino Yucaipa California San Diego Camp Pendalton California San Diego Del Mar California San Diego Escondido California San Diego Inland California San Diego Monte Vista California San Diego National City California San Diego North County California San Diego...
  • Page 124 Florida Dade Intracostal Florida Dade Kendall Florida Dade Miami Florida Dade Miami Beach Florida Dade Miami Lakes Florida Dade Miccosokuee Florida Dade Municipal Florida Dade Northside Illinois Illinois Cook Alsip Illinois Cook Chicago Illinois Cook Englewood Illinois Cook Evergreen Park Illinois Cook Franklin Park...
  • Page 125 Nevada Clark Las Vegas Nevada Clark North Las Vegas New York New York New York Bronx New York New York Brooklyn New York New York Manhattan New York New York New York New York New York Queens New York New York Staten Island New York Suffolk...
  • Page 126 State County City Ohio Cuyahoga Glenwillow Ohio Cuyahoga Highland Heights Ohio Cuyahoga Highland Hills Ohio Cuyahoga Hunting Valley Ohio Cuyahoga Independence Ohio Cuyahoga Lakewood Ohio Cuyahoga Linndale Ohio Cuyahoga Lyndhurst Ohio Cuyahoga Maple Heights Ohio Cuyahoga Mayfield Ohio Cuyahoga Middleburg Heights Brook Park MOT Ohio Cuyahoga Middleburg Heights Cuyahoga Conv...
  • Page 127 State County City Texas Bexar Leon Valley Texas Bexar Live Oak Texas Bexar Shavano Park Texas Bexar Terrell Hills Texas Bexar Universal City Texas Bexar Windcrest Texas Dallas Addison Texas Dallas Carrolton Texas Dallas Cockrell Hill Texas Dallas Coppell Texas Dallas Dallas Texas...
  • Page 128 Texas Harris Pecan Grove State County City Texas Harris Richmond Texas Harris Rosehill Texas Harris Rosenberg Texas Harris Tomball Texas Harris Webster West University Texas Harris Place Texas Harris Willow Fork Texas Tarrant Arlington Texas Tarrant Azle Texas Tarrant Bedford Texas Tarrant Benbrook...
  • Page 129 Washington King Issaquah Washington King Kent State County City Washington King King County Washington King Kirkland Washington King Mercer Island Washington King Muckleshoot Washington King Normandy Park Washington King Port Washington King Redmond Washington King Seattle Washington King Snoqualmie Washington King Tukwilla Washington King Waterfront...

  • Page 130: One-Year Limited Warranty

    WARRANTOR: UNIDEN AMERICA CORPORATION (“Uniden”) ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants, for one year, to the original retail owner, this Uniden Product to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or exclusions set out below. WARRANTY DURATION: This warranty to the original user shall terminate and be of no further effect 12 months after the date of original retail sale.
  • Page 131 The Product should be shipped freight prepaid, by traceable means, or delivered, to warrantor at: Uniden America Corporation Parts and Service Division 4700 Amon Carter Boulevard Fort Worth, TX 76155 (800) 297-1023, 8:00 a.m.
  • Page 132 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 133 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 134 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 135 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 136 One-Year Limited Warranty One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 137 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 138 One-Year Limited Warranty...
  • Page 139 One-Year Limited Warranty...

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