BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 2 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Precautions Before you use this scanner, please read and observe the Precautions following. IMPORTANT! This scanning radio has been manufactured so that it will not tune to the radio frequencies assigned by the FCC for cellular telephone usage.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 3 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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®, Private Line®, DPL®, Digital Private Line®, and PRIVACY PLUS® are registered trademarks of Motorola, Inc. LTR® is a registered trademark of E.F. Johnson Co. EDACS® is a registered trademark of M/A-COM Private Radio Systems, Inc.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 4 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Contents Contents The FCC Wants You to Know ............................................................ 8 Scanning Legally .............................................................................. 8 Introduction ....................................................................................... 10 Feature Highlights ............................................................................ 12 About This Manual ...................
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 5 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Locking/Unlocking Channels .......................................................... ID Scan/ID Search Mode ................................................................ Temporarily Holding On a System .................................................. Holding On a Channel ................................................................... Quickly Storing an ID During ID Search ........................................
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 6 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only) ........................ 67 Setting the Motorola Status Bit (Motorola Systems Only) ........... 67 Setting the End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only) ......... 68 Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) ................. 68 Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola & EDACS Systems Only) ....69 Setting the EDACS ID Format (EDACS Systems Only) .............
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 7 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Setting Data Skip ........................................................................... 92 Setting the Delay Time .................................................................. 92 Setting the Search Frequency Step ............................................... 93 Using Weather Alert (SAME) ........................................................... Searching For a Weather Broadcast .............................................
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 8 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM The FCC Wants You to Know This has been and found to comply with The scanner FCC Wants Youtested to Know 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 9 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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). This scanner has been designed to prevent the reception of cellular telephone transmissions and the decoding of scrambled transmissions.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 10 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Introduction Introduction Your BC246T scanner is a state-of-the-art scanner radio with TrunkTracking™ and automatic scanning capabilities. 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 11 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 29.7-49.990 10 NFM VHF Low Band 50.0-54.0 20 NFM 6 Meter Amateur Band 108.0136.9750 25 AM Aircraft Band 137.0143.9875 12.5 NFM Military Band 144.0147.995 5 NFM 2 Meter Amateur Band 148.0150.7875 12.5 NFM Military Land Mobile 150.800161.995 5 NFM VHF High Band 162.0-174.0 12.5 NFM Federal Government 216.0-224.98 20 NFM 1.25 Meter Amateur Band 400.0405.9875 12.5 NFM Miscellaneous 406.0419.9875 12.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 12 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Feature Highlights Feature Highlights General Close CallTM 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 86 for more information.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 13 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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 – You can set the scanner’s attenuator to reduce the input strength of strong signals by about 18 dB received by the scanner.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 14 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. The scanner can scan both conventional and trunked systems at the same time.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 15 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Auto Store Frequency AutoStore – Automatically stores all active frequencies within a system you select. Talk Group ID AutoStore – Automatically stores all new talk group ID’s into a system you select. Priority Priority Scan – Priority channels let you keep track of activity on your most important channel(s) while monitoring other channels for transmissions.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 16 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 17 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Entering Text To enter a letter, turn the scroll control until the character you want appears, To enter a number, press a number key. To enter a decimal point, press . To move the cursor to the left, hold Func then press /4 or rotate the scroll control to the left. To move the cursor to the right, hold Func then press 6/ or rotate the scroll control to the right. To clear a character, press No twice.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 18 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Understanding Scanning This section provides you with background on how Understanding Scanning scanning works. 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 19 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM cycle resumes until the scanner receives another transmission. 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. When you select frequency bands to search, the scanner searches for any active frequency within the lower and upper limits you specify.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 20 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM frequency. 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. Then, when you receive multiple signals, you only hear the transmission with the CTCSS or DCS tone you programmed.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 21 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 452 506 612 703 454 516 624 712 455 523 627 723 462 526 631 731 464 532 632 732 465 546 654 734 466 565 662 743 503 606 664 754 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). Any time one of them transmits, their transmission always goes out on the same frequency.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 22 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Repeater Operation Repeater systems use two frequencies: one transmits from the radio to a central repeater; the other transmits from the repeater to other radios in the system. With a repeaterbased system, the repeater is located on top of a tall building or on a radio tower that provides great visibility to the area of operation.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 23 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM you usually know who it is, and more importantly, you can stop on a channel and listen to an entire conversation. This type of scanning is easy and fun. However, as the demand for public communications has increased, many public radio users do not have enough frequencies to meet their needs, creating a serious problem. Trunking radio systems help solve this problem.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 24 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM trunked radio system. Once you know a talk group’s ID, you won’t miss any of the action. If you are a new scanner enthusiast, you might want to read the first part of this manual and use your scanner in conventional mode before you begin trunk tracking. Understanding scanning fundamentals and terminology will make trunk tracking much easier.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 25 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM maps are included in “Preset Fleet Maps” on Page 105. You can also find fleet map resources on the web. Motorola Type II – the radios only send the radio ID and radio channel code to the control channel. The central computer keeps a database of radio ID’s and which talk group is assigned to which channel code for each radio, so with this system the user’s radio sends only about 1/3 the data as a Type I system with each transmission.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 26 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM For example, 01 might be used by the police, 02 by 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 27 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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 with the transmission. In the ID search mode, the scanner stops on the transmission and displays the talk group ID on the display.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 28 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM You can also call them at 1 800 SCANNER (hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday). • http://www.radioreference.com * - the Internet's premier source for user-supported radio system information. • http://www.bearcat1.com - frequency information from National Communications. • http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/reports/index.cfm * conventional frequency information on file with the US Government • http://groups.yahoo.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 29 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Included With Your Scanner Included With Your Scanner Sq l l Vo Connection Cable Wrist Strap AC Adapter Scanner Batteries Antenna Belt Clip Owners Manual and other printed material 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 30 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. (You can purchase this type of antenna at a local electronics store).
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 31 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Before installing batteries, set the switch in the battery compartment to match the type of batteries you will use. Select REG. ALK. BATT. for non-rechargeable battery types and NI-MH. BATT. for rechargeable battery types. See also “Using Rechargeable Batteries” on Page 32 when you use rechargeable batteries. 1. Remove the battery cover and set the battery switch. 2. Install 2 AA batteries, matching the polarity symbols (+ -).
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 32 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. To charge the batteries, set REG. ALK. BATT./NI-MH. BATT.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 33 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Removing the Display Sticker Before you use the scanner, use your thumb and forefinger to remove the protective plastic sticker over the display. Using AC Power You can power the scanner using the supplied 6V, 500 mA AC adapter. To use the scanner on AC power, plug the AC adapter into a standard AC outlet. If rechargeable batteries are installed and REG. ALK. BATT./NI-MH. BATT. is set to NI-MH. BATT.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 34 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Connecting an Earphone/Headphone For private listening, you can plug a 1/8-inch (3.5 mm) mini-plug earphone or headphones (not supplied) into the headphone jack on top of your scanner. This automatically disconnects the internal speaker. See “Earphone Warning” at the front of the manual for important information about using an earphone/ headphone.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 35 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Attaching the Wrist Strap To keep your scanner safely close at hand, use the supplied wrist strap. Push the small loop on one end of the wrist strap through the lug on the right side of the scanner, then thread the other end of the wrist strap back through the small loop to secure it. Installing the Demo Software You can operate your scanner using a personal computer and the free demo software available at http://www.uniden.com.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 36 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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 Func on the left side of the scanner then press the key. F appears on the display. If your scanner's keys seem confusing at first, the following information should help you understand each key's function.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 37 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Key Name Description L/O L/O – Lets you lock out a selected channel or skip a specified frequency. Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to lock all groups and channels in a system. Func + L/O – Press quickly to lock and unlock a selected system in Scan or Scan Hold mode and review search lockout frequencies in Search or Search Hold mode. / – Turns the display backlight on or off. Func + – Locks and unlocks the keypad.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 38 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Key Name Description 2/Wx 2 – Enters a 2. Func + WX – Selects the weather function in the menu in the Hold mode. /4 4 – Enters a 4. Func + – Moves the active character to the left while editing data. 6/ 6 – Enters a 6. Func + – Moves the active character to the right while editing data. 7/Rcl 7 – Enters a 7. Func + Rcl – Displays a series of prompts to quickly select a specific channel in the scan hold mode.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 39 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM A Look At The Display The display has indicators that show the scanner's current 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 display area. Information about the currently tuned frequency appears here. SYS - shows the currently activated system, appears with numbers (0-9). The currently active system indicator flashes.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 40 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Using Menu Menu Press Menu on the left side of the scanner to enter the menu. See “Using the Menu” on Page 46 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 Func on the left side of the scanner, then press that key. To hold on a system while scanning or temporarily stop on a channel while searching, press Func .
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 41 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Basic Operation Basic Operation Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch Scroll Control Vo l S q l Vol Sql Note: Make sure the scanner's antenna is connected before you turn it on. 1. Turn Sql fully counterclockwise. 2. Press and hold for about 2 seconds to turn on the scanner, then turn Vol clockwise until you hear a hissing sound. 3. Turn Sql clockwise until the hissing stops.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 42 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM operate similarly, but all unlocked channels are scanned at least one time regardless of the hold time setting. Preprogrammed System Tips All systems preprogrammed into the scanner are assigned to quick key 9. To turn the preprogrammed systems on or off, simply press 9 while scanning. Notes: • The systems preprogrammed into the scanner are located primarily in major metropolitan areas.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 43 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM continue to hold FUNC and press L/O to either lock out or unlock the system. Selecting System Channel Groups Within a system, you can assign groups of channels to a group quick key (see “Setting the Group Quick Key” on Page 72). Follow these steps to activate or deactivate a channel group within a system while scanning. 1. Press Func to hold on the system (or hold Func and rotate the scroll control to select the system). 2.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 44 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM You can also lock out an active channel by pressing L/O while the scanner is stopped on the channel. ID Scan/ID Search Mode While you are scanning a trunked system, the scanner can be in either ID Scan or ID Search mode: • 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 45 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 3. To quick-store the channel or talk group ID, press E. Otherwise, press No. If you enter a frequency then press E, the scanner stores it in the Qck Save Grp group in a system called Qck Save Cnv Sys. These are created if they do not exist. Then, the scanner prompts you to save other channel settings.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 46 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Using the Menu The scanner’s menu lets you select options that let you Using the Menu set up and use the scanner. To use the menu, press Menu on the left side of the scanner. In most cases, the current menu position appears on the upper line of the menu. Menu items and a place to input information appear on the lower line of the menu. To select a menu item, turn the scroll control on top of the scanner clockwise or counterclockwise.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 47 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Menu Item -- M E N U -- Lets You ... See ... Set up priority options. “Priority Scan” on Page 48. Set up weather options. “Using Weather Alert (SAME)” on Page 94. Set up backlight options. “Using the Backlight” on Page 49. Set up key beep options. “Adjusting the Key Beep” on Page 48. Set up battery save options. “Turning Power Save On or Off” on Page 48. View information about your scanner.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 48 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Other Settings Other Settings Displaying System Information Viewing Memory Used Menu See Scanner Info % Memory Used E E A bar showing the percent of memory used appears. Press any key to return to the previous menu, then press Scan or Hold. Viewing the Firmware Version Menu See Scanner Info Firmware Version E E Press any key to return to the previous menu, then press Scan or Hold.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 49 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Or, while holding on any channel, press select one of these priority modes: Func + 1/Pri to • Priority Off: Normal scanning • 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 numbered systems (starting from 1) have highest priority. Pri appears when you select this mode.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 50 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM To initialize the scanner’s memory, turn off the scanner. Then, press 2, 9, and Hold while turning it on. Using the PC Control and Cloning Options Use the included connection cable to connect your scanner to another BC246T scanner or your personal computer. Menu Xfer Information E • PC Control Lets you set the baud rate your scanner uses to communicate with a personal computer. See “Connecting Your Scanner to a Personal Computer”.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 51 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM • 19200 bps The baud rate is set to 19,200 bps. • 38400 bps The baud rate is set to 38,400 bps. • 57600 bps The baud rate is set to 57,600 bps. Cloning the Scanner To clone (copy) data from one BC246T scanner to another BC246T scanner, you must first connect the scanners to each other using the included connection cables and a DB9 null modem adapter and DB9 gender changer (neither included), available at most computer stores.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 52 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Programming Radio Systems Your BC246T comesRadio preprogrammed with the major Programming Systems 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. To edit an existing system, use the menu to navigate to the system setting you want to change.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 53 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Programming Conventional Systems Menu E Program SysteM New System E E E Confirm? Conventional The scanner creates an empty conventional system, with a default name of System nnn C. nnn increments as you add new systems. C indicates that this is a conventional system.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 54 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: • See “Entering/Editing the Group Name” on Page 71 • See “Setting the Group Quick Key” on Page 72 • See “Deleting Groups” on Page 73 • See “Setting System Lockout” on Page 64 • See “Entering/Editing Conventional Channels” on Page 54 Entering/Editing Conventional Channels Edit Channel Input Frequency E New Channel E Enter the frequency for the channel, then press E.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 55 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM • 800MHz Standard - Use for 800 MHz systems that use the standard band plan • 800MHz Splinter - Use for 800 MHz systems that use the splinter band plan (typically near international borders) • 900MHz Band - Use for 900 MHz systems • VHF Band - Use for VHF systems • UHF Band - Use for UHF systems Next, refer to the appropriate section to set system-wide options. For most settings, you can accept the default.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 56 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 89 • See “Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 70 • See “Deleting Systems” on Page 71 • See “Copying Systems” on Page 71 • See “Setting System Frequencies” on Page 56 • See “Entering/Editing Motorola Channel Groups” on Page 56 Setting System Frequencies E SET FREQUENCIES E New FREQUENCY Input a system frequency, then press E.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 58 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM To program another channel within the same group, press Menu , then repeat the above. To create another channel group and enter more channels, press Menu three times, then proceed from “Entering/Editing Motorola Channel Groups” on Page 56. Programming EDACS Systems Menu E Program SysteM New System E EDCS E Next, rotate the scroll control to select the type of EDACS system you will program, then press E.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 60 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM • • • • • See “Entering/Editing the Group Name” on Page 71 See “Setting the Group Quick Key” on Page 72 See “Deleting Groups” on Page 73 See “Editing the Channel Name” on Page 73 See “Setting Group Lockout” on Page 72 Entering/Editing EDACS Channels Edit Channel NEW Channel E E Input TGID Enter the talk group ID for the channel, then press E.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 61 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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 L. nNn increments as you add new systems. L indicates that this is an LTR system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set system-wide options. For most settings, you can accept the default. However, for the items in bold, you must enter information in order for your scanner to scan the system.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 62 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Setting Up a Channel Group EDIT GROUP E NEW GROUP E 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 63 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Programming/Editing Optional Settings This section details the instructions for eachSettings of the Programming/Editing Optional optional programming steps referred to in “Programming Radio Systems” on Page 52. Use the instructions in the appropriate section to enter or edit a setting. System-Level Settings These settings apply to the entire system.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 64 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM E Edit Sys Option E 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. Hints: • You can assign as many systems to the same quick key as you want. • Preprogrammed systems are set to quick key 9. • To be scanned, a system’s quick key must be activated and the system must be unlocked.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 65 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Notes: • If you select 0, the scanner stays on the system for a minimal time (only long enough to check current system activity). • The default setting is 2 seconds for each system. • For conventional systems, all unlocked channels will be scanned at least once regardless of this setting. • The scanner moves to the next system after the hold time expires, any current transmission ends, and the channel delay time expires.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 66 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM ID Search - the scanner stops on any transmission for unlocked talk group ID's. Note: You can also change this setting by pressing Scan while scanning the system. Setting the Base Frequency/Step/Offset (Motorola UHF/VHF Systems Only) Menu E program system Select the system E Edit Sys Option E Edit Band Plan E Select Plan Select a band plan (1, 2, or 3) E Input the base frequency E Input Base Freq Select Step (5 kHz, 12.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 67 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Notes: • This setting is ignored for AM channels. • The default setting for this feature is On. Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only) Menu E program system Select the system E E Edit Sys Option Edit Fleet Map E 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 68 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Motorola systems use talk group ID's in multiples of 16. ID numbers that fall between these ID's indicate special 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. Note: The default setting is Ignore.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 69 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM On - the scanner tracks I-calls. Press E to select. Off - the scanner ignores I-calls. Press E to select. Only - the scanner only tracks I-calls and ignores other radio traffic on the system. Press E to select. Note: The default setting is Off.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 70 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Notes: • The scanner defaults to AFS (agency, fleet, subfleet) format - the format used in most EDACS systems. • See “EDACS Trunking” on Page 25 for more information about the AFS format. Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only) Menu E program system Select the system E E Edit Sys Option Set C-CH Only E This setting determines the frequencies you need to enter for Motorola systems. Select your setting, then press E.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 71 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Deleting Systems Menu E program system Select the system E E Delete System The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press No. Notes: • Deleted systems cannot be restored. You must re-enter them. • You cannot restore preloaded systems.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 72 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you have entered the system name. Then press E or press down on the scroll control to accept the setting. Hints: • Each group name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. • The group and system name alternate in the top line of the display when the scanner stops on a channel. • Press twice to delete the current character. • Press three times to clear the entire alpha tag.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 73 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Lockout - the group is not scanned. Unlocked - the group is scanned. Note: The default setting is Unlocked. Deleting Groups Menu E program system Select the system E E Edit Group Select the group E E Delete Group The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press No. Note: Deleted groups cannot be restored. You must re-enter them.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 74 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Hints: • Each channel name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. • The channel name appears on the second line of the display when the scanner stops on a channel. • If you do not enter a channel name, the scanner displays the frequency (for conventional systems) or the talk group ID (for trunked systems) when it stops on a channel. • Press twice to delete the current character.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 75 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Setting Channel Alert E Menu program system Select the system E Edit Group E Select the group E Edit Channel E Select the channel E Set Alert E This setting controls whether the scanner will alert you when the channel becomes active. Select your setting, then press E. On - the scanner beeps when the channel becomes active. Off - no alert sounds. Notes: • Channel alert does not work if key beep is turned off.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 76 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. The scanner then prompts you to enter or scroll to the desired tone. Set Lockout - the scanner does not stop on the channel if the tone you select is present.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 77 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Note: The default setting is AUTO. Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only) Menu E program system Select the system E E Edit Group Select the group E E Edit Channel Select the channel E E Set Attenuator This setting controls whether the scanner attenuates signals on this channel. Select your setting, then press E. On - the channel is attenuated by about 18 dB. Off - the channel is not attenuated.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 78 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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, 20.0 kHz, 25.0 kHz, 50.0 kHz, 100.0 kHz - The scanner uses the selected step. Note: The scanner defaults to Auto.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 79 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM E Edit Channel Select the channel E E 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 80 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Searching and Storing SearchingSearch and Storing Service 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 Menu then turn the scroll control until Search For . . . appears. Then press E. Or press Func and Srch, then No.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 81 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM • If the service you select uses channels (such as CB radio or marine), the scanner displays the service channel number. Quick Search Quick Search lets you search from the currently-tuned frequency if you are scanning a conventional system or sets the system to ID search if you are scanning a trunked system. If you are on a conventional system or channel, press Func and Scan/Srch to start quick search. QUICK Search YES = E / NO = ”.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 82 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range. Notes: • Search ranges are preset. See “Editing a Custom Search Range” on Page 82 to change the range. • You cannot turn off all custom search ranges. 1. Press Menu then turn the scroll control until Search For ... appears. Then press E. Or, press Func + Scan/Srch, then select No. One of the search feature options appear. 2.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 83 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 1. Press Menu then turn the scroll control until Search For ... appears. Then press E. Or press Func and Srch, then No. One of the search feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control until EDIT CUSTOM appears, then press E to select it. 3. Turn the scroll control until the name of the custom search range you want to edit appears, then press E to select it. The following options appear as you turn the scroll control.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 84 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Selecting a System To store frequencies or talk group ID’s you find during Auto Store, you must first select a system where the frequencies or talk group ID’s will be stored. 1. Press Menu then turn the scroll control until Search For ... appears. Then press E. One of the search feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control until Search and Store appears, then press E to select it. 3.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 85 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM searching. The scanner creates this group if it does not already exist. Storing a Trunked System You can store talk group ID’s into the system you selected in “Selecting a System”. Otherwise, the scanner stores talk group ID’s in a new group it creates.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 86 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Using the Close Call Feature Your scanner's Close Call CallTM Feature feature lets you set the Using the Close scanner so it detects, displays the frequency of, and lets you hear a nearby strong radio transmission.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 87 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Setting Close Call Options 1. Press Menu then turn the scroll control until Close Call appears. Then press E. Close Call feature options appear. 2. Turn the scroll control to select an option. • Close Call Only: Lets you set the scanner only for Close Call searching. The scanner does not scan frequencies or channels when this option is turned on. To select this option, press E. • Set CC Bands: Lets you select the Close Call band settings.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 88 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. Turn the scroll control to display an option, then press E. • Set CC Mode: Lets you select the Close Call mode.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 89 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Search and Close Call Options The settings in this section affect custom searches, Search and Close Call Options 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, that frequency is locked out of these modes. You can lock out up to 200 frequencies.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 90 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Note: This feature does not operate when the scanner is in AM modulation mode. Screening Out Paging Systems Menu Pager Screen Srch/CloCall Opt E E This setting determines whether the scanner automatically ignores transmissions found during searching or Close Call operation that are on common paging system frequencies. On The scanner skips known paging system frequencies.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 91 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM On The scanner automatically applies repeater reverse to detected transmissions. If the scanner detects the transmission on the output frequency, it beeps, REPEATER FIND appears, and it 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. Off The scanner does not try to find the output frequency.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 92 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Setting Attenuation Menu Srch/CloCall Opt E E 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. Attenuation sometimes helps to reduce interference and desensitization that strong signals create.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 93 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. Off The scanner resumes immediately when the transmission ends. 1-5 sec The scanner waits the set amount of time after the transmission ends before resuming. Note: The default setting is 2 seconds.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 94 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. Your local electronics retailer carries several weather radios specifically designed for this function.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 95 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Menu WX Operation E 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” on Page 95).
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 96 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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”. Menu PrograM SAME WX Operation E E SELECT SAME select the SAME group to edit E Select the setting to change, then press E.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 97 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance • Turn the scanner off before disconnecting the power. General Use • 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. Location • Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 98 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. Birdies are internally generated signals inherent in the electronics of the scanner.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 99 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Troubleshooting Troubleshooting If your BC246T is not performing properly, try these steps. Problem Possible Cause Suggestion The scanner doesn’t work. The scanner might not be receiving any power. Make sure the AC adapter is connected to an AC outlet and the scanner. If there is a wall switch that controls power to the AC outlet where you connected the AC adapter, make sure it is on. Improper reception.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 100 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Scan won’t start (continued) Weather scan doesn’t work. One or more channels might be locked out. Make sure the channels you want to scan are not locked out. The antenna might need to be adjusted. Check the antenna connection. The squelch might need to be adjusted. Adjust the squelch threshold. See “Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch” on Page 41. The antenna might need to be adjusted. Check the antenna connection.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 101 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Scanner won’t stop scanning a trunked system. Scanner won’t acquire the data channel. Missing replies to conversations. No ID’s have been programmed. Program one or more ID’s or use the ID Search mode. The ID’s you have stored are not active. The squelch might need to be adjusted. Wait for the ID’s to become active or scan another system. Adjust the squelch threshold. See “Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch” on Page 41.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 102 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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): Systems: .......................................................... 200 max Groups: ................................................... 20 per system Channels: ....................................................
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 103 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Operating Temperature: Normal ................................................–20°C to +60°C Close Call ............................................–10°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: ..
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 104 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Optional Accessories Optional Accessories Contact your local Uniden Dealer or call the Uniden Parts Center at: (800) 554-3988, 8:00AM to 5:00PM EST, Monday through Friday, for information about ordering these optional accessories.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 107 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM User Defined Fleet Maps Type I Programming Information When a Type I system is designed, the address information 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. When you have assigned a size code to all 8 blocks, you’ll have defined the fleet map for the system you are tracking.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 108 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM 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. S-3 and S-4 are probably the most common, followed by S-10, S-11, and S-12. Size Code Restrictions If you select size code S-12, S-13, or S-14, there are some restrictions as to which blocks can be used for these codes.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 109 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Planning Planning Getting your scanner programmed and scanning takes a Collecting Information few steps. This helps guide 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 110 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM geographic location (east, north, south, west, central, etc), while others are best organized by agency (police, sheriff, ambulance, fire, etc.). You might even find it easier to organize a mixture of frequencies (north, southeast, and west for police but fire all in one group for example). 2. Organize the system information using these system worksheets included in this appendix.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 111 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems. Group Name and Quick Key Each worksheet documents the settings for one channel group within a system. If you have fewer channels in the group than fits on the page, you can skip a line and enter an additional group of channels (enter the group info in the line you skipped).
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 112 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM • Type 2 UHF. The supplied frequencies are between 406 MHz and 512 MHz. No fleet map is supplied for this type of system. • Type 2 VHF. The supplied frequencies are between 136 MHz and 174 MHz. No fleet map is supplied for this type of system. System Frequencies Enter the frequencies used by the system. Motorola systems can use up to 28 frequencies. Place an asterisk or other mark next to frequencies identified as data channels.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 113 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Talk Group ID-Alpha Tag-Alert Fill in the details for each channel you want to store in this channel group. Filling Out the LTR and EDACS Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to create. For example, you can enter "Dallas Police" or "Amateur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 119 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM Preprogrammed Systems Preprogrammed Systems with over 400 channels Your scanner is preprogrammed covering police, fire, and ambulance operations in the 25 most populated counties in the US. The following list details the preprogrammed information. By default, all of the preprogrammed systems are unlocked, and your scanner begins to scan them when you turn it on.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 120 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM .
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 129 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM One-Year Limited Warranty Important: Evidence ofLimited original purchase is required ranty One-Year Warfor warranty service. 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.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 130 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM BURSEMENT OR PAYMENT OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow this exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages so the above limitation or exclusion might not apply to you. LEGAL REMEDIES: This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you might also have other rights which vary from state to state. This warranty is void outside the United States of America.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.
BC246T Paper OM 062405.fm Page 132 Tuesday, June 28, 2005 10:12 AM , S E M R RI & O O F SO NE .C N S LI E E C ON I D C N A O .U G W W W REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! THANK YOU FOR BUYING A UNIDEN PRODUCT. May be covered under one or more of the following U.S. patents.
