Review of Uniden UBC-3500XLT by Kevin Paterson With all the chatter on the news groups about Close Call scanners, I could not wait until I got my hands on my own Bearcat 3500xlt. As soon as I opened the box, I noticed the radio had a good, sturdy feel to it and it was clear that these units are well assembled. The rubber grip strips found on the side of the unit ensure that a good secure grip can be maintained with ease. The specifications listed by Uniden are, to say the least, impressive. Boasting a huge frequency range and including functions that even the most serous of radio enthusiasts would appreciate, it will not be long before this hand-held is a common sight in shacks around the country. Out of the Box The silver and black exterior of the 3500 is instantly striking and the complete kit includes: a wrist strap, an AC adapter, rechargeable batteries, an owner's manual, an SMA/BNC adapter and a belt clip. In the past, I have been somewhat disappointed with the quality of the belt clips that come with many radios but the 3500 belt clip is in a league of its own. Once clicked into place, the radio can swivel through 360 degrees when secured to a belt or backpack. It has a similar look and feel to the clips used on the new police tetra radio sets! Although I have only used the radio in the field once since its arrival, I can report that the belt clip is an extremely convenient addition allowing for a secure fit and also easy access via its swivel joint. The standard antenna is a screw-on SMA rubber duck and Uniden have thoughtfully included an adapter for those wanting to replace it with an external antenna with a BNC connector. While using the scanner locally, I have found the supplied antenna to be very sensitive and have had no trouble picking up signals in the vicinity. Turn on. tune in Once the batteries were installed, I couldn't wait to fire it up and start scanning the bands. Initially, it is a good idea to have the manual handy as the 3500 comes with some unusual features that are not found on many scanners. One in particular, the system called dynamic memory allocation, took me a little while to get used to. It was worth the effort, though, because it has the huge benefit of ensuring no memory space is wasted. Most scanners use memory banks with a set number of channels assigned to each bank. For example, one of my base scanners has 50 channels per bank and each bank is currently assigned to various areas of radio such as airband, local affairs, retail, etc. The problem with this arrangement, however, is that the retail bank only has 7 frequencies in it, which leaves 43 channels in that bank going to waste. The 3500 uses dynamic memory allocation to solve this problem by not having a setnumber of channels assigned to each bank. In fact, the 3500 does not actually have banks at all, it has groups. Instead of assigning existing banks to a certain areas of interest, the 3500 allows users to create new groups for those areas. Each group is individually configured so that it only uses enough channels for the stored frequencies. This allows, for example, your airband group to have 46 channels, your retail group to have 7 channels and your fire and rescue group to have 14 channels. No space is wasted and each group can be added to as required. The 3500 also comes with three predefined band plans with default step sizes. This allows for easier operation if travelling around other countries in Europe. The radio includes 6.25kHz and 8.33kHz step sizes. The 6.25kHz step is something that is being introduced to the PMR world and more and more radios are being made available as these frequencies become more popular. For the airband listeners amongst us, the addition of the 8.33kHz step is essential as this step is slowly being phased into the civil airband area of operations. As with the latest series of Uniden radios, all frequencies can be assigned an Alpha tag, making it easier to identify the station being listened to. This can be done by the entering the details manually through the keypad or by using computer control. The 3500 is fully capable of being controlled by a home computer. Unlike the US version, the data cable and software required are not provided and have to be purchased separately. As I have just recently got my hands on the 3500, I have yet to buy these, although I have spoken to many people who use their computer to control and upload frequencies onto their radio and I have been told it is definitely the way forward. The computer software makes creating groups, inputting frequencies and assigning alpha tags an absolute breeze, so it's on my list of things to buy this month. A couple of the other key features that I feel I should mention are the scan speeds and the tone alert. The scanning speed of the 3500 is off the scale as it Just rattles through the stored frequencies. With some older radio models, I was always frustrated by the scan speed, :Jt not with the 3500 - it's incredibly fast. The alert feature iS something that I've been told has been carried over from the Uniden 396 (the US equivalent of the 3500). The unit has nine different alert tones that can be assigned to individual channels or frequencies, so you can be alerted when something you are particularly interested in is picked up. A fantastic feature that I am sure will be of great use in the coming months of exercises and airshows.

Close Call The main reason I took the plunge and purchased yet another radio was the new Close Call function. Many radio enthusiasts enjoy spending hours scanning through frequency ranges looking for new and interesting frequencies. I personally, do not
have the time or the patience for this and can not recall the last time I actually scanned through frequency ranges looking for a new station. When I first read about and then experienced Close Call, it was the answer to my scanning dreams and I knew it would not be long before I spent some money. My first experience with Close Call was when a friend showed me her new Uniden 396 imported from the USA at the International Air Tattoo back in 2006. I was amazed, within seconds of activating the Close Call facility, it was picking up ground operations, air to air frequencies and air traffic control. For me, Close Call is the best radio function ever to be devised by Uniden. I am anxiously waiting for the next military exercise to really put it through its paces but operating the Close Call feature from my shack proved to be very successful too. With just the standard antenna, Close Call instantly picked up my local retail ShopWatch from the town centre 1.5 miles away. Outstanding! Close Call resembles a frequency counter in a sense because it looks for active frequencies within range of the unit. The difference is that frequency counters have a very limited range and only display the frequencies they find. The super sensitive 3500 not only finds frequencies, it also automatically tunes to the active frequency, allowing you to listen in straight away. For example, when you're walking down your high street using Close Call, the 3500 might tune straight into ShopWatch radio systems, store detectives or an ambulance passing by on its way to an emergency call out. You no longer need to have huge memory banks full of frequencies or to search frantically through the bands trying to find a specific transmission. The Close Call options are excellent and allow particular bands to be identified or blocked out. If you are sitting at your local airport, you can specifically target the VHF airband to avoid radio transmissions from the local town centre, or if watching a military exercise, you can target the UHF military band and avoid anything else in the area. The potential for finding new frequencies and to really monitor a developing situation has never been more accessible to the radio hobbyist. Conclusions Despite my limited time so far with the 3500, I have totally fallen in love with it. It is clear that Uniden have thought through this radio and given the radio user as much as possible - ranging from the unique belt clip, the high quality rechargeable batteries and, of course, Close Call. With so many features in one radio and with a price tag of just under 150, you truly cannot go wrong. My advice, buy one! Reproduced from Radio User magazine March 2007. With kind permission of PW Publishing.

Using the Cloning Options... 41 Wired Cloning.... 42 Programming Radio Systems... Programming Conventional Systems.. Entering/Editing Conventional Channel Groups.. Entering/Editing Conventional Channels... Programming/Editing Optional Settings.. System-Level Settings.... Editing the System Name... Editing the System Quick Key.. Setting System Lockout.. Setting the System Hold Time.. Setting the Channel Delay Time... Setting the Data Skip... Deleting Systems.... Copying Systems.... Group-Level Settings... Entering/Editing the Group Name.. Setting the Group Quick Key... Setting Group Lockout... Deleting Groups... Channel-Level Settings... Editing the Channel Name... Editing Frequencies... Setting Channel Priority.. Setting Channel Alert... Setting CTCSS/DCS.... Setting the Channel Frequency Modulation.. Setting Channel Attenuation... Setting Channel Lockout... Deleting Channels... Copying/Pasting Channels.. Searching and Storing.... Service Search... Changing the step of Air Band... Quick Search... Custom Search... Editing a Custom Search Range... Editing a Service Search... Auto Search and Store... Selecting a System... 64
Using the Close Call Feature.. 65 Setting Close Call Options... 66 Close Call Hits.... 69 Search and Close Call Options... Managing Locked-Out Frequencies.. Unlocking All Frequencies... Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies... Searching for Subaudible Tones... Screening Out Broadcast Sources... Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value... Setting the Modulation Type... Setting Attenuation.... Setting Data Skip... Setting the Delay Time... Setting the Search Frequency Step.. Setting Air Band Step... 75
Using Tone-Out.... 76 Fire Tone-Out Introduction... 76
Setting Tone-Out Standby... 76 Setting Up Tone-Out.... 76 Care and Maintenance... General Use... Location.... Cleaning.... Repairs.... Birdies.... 79 80
Troubleshooting.... 81 Specifications... 83 Optional Accessories... 85 Appendix.... 86 Planning.... Collecting Information... Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet. System Name and Quick Key... Group Name and Quick Key... Frequency-Alpha Tag-Priority-CTCSS/DCS... 90 91
Conventional System Worksheet.. 92 Declaration of Conformiry... 93

Introduction

Your Bearcat UBC3500XLT scanning receiver is a state-ofthe-art scanner radio with extended frequency. 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. You can use the scanners scroll control to quickly select channels and frequencies, and you can automatically program channels in a system using the AutoStore feature. Use your scanner to monitor: Police and fire departments (including rescue and paramedics) Business/Industrial radio and utilities Marine and amateur (ham radio) bands Air band Railroad
The chart below identifies the scanner band numbers, the frequency range, the modulation mode and the default step size settings. To change the band plan: 1. Maker sure the power is turned off. 2. While holding down 1, 2 or 3 (corresponding number of the band plan), turn on the scanner. Band Plan 1

Broadcast Screen Sets the scanner so it ignores Close CallTM or search hits on known broadcast frequencies. Custom Screen Lets you input up to 10 frequency ranges that the scanner will ignore during Close CallTM or search operation. 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 CallTM feature. Attenuator You can set the scanners attenuator to reduce the input strength of strong signals by about 25 dB. Repeater Reverse You can set the scanner so it switches to the input frequency on a conventional repeater system. Channel Alert You can set the scanner so it alerts you when there is activity on any channel you specify. Memory Check Lets you see at a glance how much total memory is left. Scan and Search Operation Lets you include service search or custom search ranges during normal scan operation. Custom Alerts For each alert in the scanner (such as channel alert, Close Call alert, emergency alert), you can select from 9 different tone patterns and also set the alert volume level independently from the main volume level. Automatic Channel Step Accepts frequencies on any valid channel step, even if it does not fall within the band plans default step. Frequency Step Lets you select a frequency step (5, 6.25, 7.5, 8.33, 10, 12.5,15, 20, 25, 50 or 100 kHz) for manual mode and chain search mode. The scanners auto step feature lets you set the scanner so it automatically chooses the correct step.
Quick Recall Lets you quickly select a specific channel by choosing the system, group, and channel. Scan/Search Delay You can set the scanner so it remains on a frequency up to 5 seconds after the last transmission to wait for a possible reply. Text Tagging You can name each system, group, channel and custom search range using up to 16 characters per name. Unique Data Skip Allows your scanner to skip unwanted data transmissions and reduces birdies. Duplicate Frequency Alert Alerts you if you try to enter a duplicate name or frequency already stored in a system. Memory Backup If power is lost or disconnected, the scanner retains the frequencies you programmed in its memory. Note: The scanners frequency coverage is not continuous.

Search

Air Service Search Lets you search the scanners preprogrammed frequencies. Custom Search Lets you program up to 10 custom search ranges. You can search any of these ranges simultaneously. CTCSS/DCS Search Lets the scanner search for CTCSS or DCS tones. You can identify up to 50 CTCSS tones and 104 DCS tones. Quick Search Lets you search from the currently-tuned frequency if you are searching a conventional system.

Understanding the Scanners Memory
Your scanners memory is organized in an architecture called Dynamic Allocated Channel memory. This type of memory is organized differently and more efficiently than the bank/channel architecture used by traditional scanners. Dynamic Allocated design matches how radio systems actually work much more closely, making it easier to program and use your scanner and determine how much memory you have used and how much you have left. Instead of being organized into separate banks and channels, your scanners memory is contained in a pool. You simply use as much memory as you need in the pool to store as many frequencies and alpha tags as you need. No memory space is wasted, and you can tell at a glance how much memory you have used and how much remains.

What is Scanning?

Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most twoway communications do not transmit continuously. Your UBC3500XLT scans programmed channels until it finds an active frequency, then stops on that frequency and remains on that channel as long as the transmission continues. When the transmission ends, the scanning cycle resumes until the scanner receives another transmission.

What is Searching?

The UBC3500XLT can search each of its 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. When the scanner finds an active frequency, it stops on that frequency as long as the transmission lasts. If you think the frequency is interesting, you can program it into the scanners memory. If not, you can continue to search.

What is CTCSS/DCS?

Your scanner can monitor systems using a Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and Digital Coded Squelch (DCS) system, which allow squelch to open only when the tone you have programmed with a specific frequency is received along with a transmission. CTCSS and DCS are subaudible tone signaling systems sometimes referred to as PL or DPL (Motorolas trademarked terms for Private Line and Digital Private Line respectively). CTCSS and DCS are used only for FM signals and are usually associated with both amateur and commercial twoway frequencies. These systems make use of a special subaudible tone that accompanies a transmitted signal. CTCSS and DCS are used for many purposes. In many cases, CTCSS and DCS are used to restrict access to a commercial repeater, so that only those units which transmit the correct tone along with their signal can talk to the repeater. CTCSS and DCS are also used in areas that receive interference where there are several stations with output frequencies close to each other. When this occurs, you might hear multiple communications on the same 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. If you do not receive the correct tone with a signal, the scanners squelch remains closed and you hear nothing. You can search for the following CTCSS frequencies and DCS codes. CTCSS Frequencies (Hz)
67.0 82.5 100.0 123.0 151.4 171.3 189.9 210.7
69.3 85.4 103.5 127.3 156.7 173.8 192.8 218.1
71.9 88.5 107.2 131.8 159.8 177.3 196.6 225.7 250.3
74.4 91.5 110.9 136.5 162.2 179.9 199.5 229.1 254.1
77.0 94.8 114.8 141.3 165.5 183.5 203.5 233.6
79.7 97.4 118.8 146.2 167.9 186.2 206.5 241.8

DCS Codes (Octal)

612 703

624 712

627 723

631 731

632 732

654 734

662 743

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. Today there are still many 2-way radio users who operate using a conventional system: Aircraft Amateur radio LPD/PMR users Broadcast AM/FM/TV stations Many business radio users
When you want to store a conventional system, all you need to know is the frequencies they operate on. When you are scanning a conventional system, the scanner stops very briefly on each channel to see if there is activity. If there isnt, the scanner quickly moves to the next channel. If there is, then the scanner pauses on the transmission until it is over.

Simplex Operation

Simplex systems use a single frequency for both transmit and receive. Most radios using this type of operation are limited to line-of-sight operation. This type of radio is frequently used at construction job sites, and with inexpensive consumer radios such as LPD/PMR radios. The range is typically 1-5 km, depending upon the terrain and many other factors.

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 repeater-based 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. When a user transmits (on an input frequency), the signal is picked up by the repeater and retransmitted (on an output frequency). The users radios always listen for activity on the output frequency and transmit on the input frequency. Since the repeater is located very high, there is a very large line of sight.

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.
Connecting an Extension Speaker
In a noisy area, an optional amplified extension speaker, positioned in the right place, might provide more comfortable listening. Plug the speaker cable's 1 /8-inch (3.5-mm) mini-plug into your scanner's jack.
Never connect anything other than an earphone or the recommended amplified extension speaker to the scanners headphone jack. This might damage the scanner.
Never connect any part of the headphone jack to the antenna jack or connect the radio to an installation where the antenna and audio connection are grounded. This might damage the scanner.

Attaching the Belt Clip

To make your scanner easier to carry when you are on the go, use the supplied belt clip. Rotate the scanner upside down to remove it from the clip.
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.

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. Key Name Hold/ Description Hold Holds the scan or the frequency search when pressed. Resumes the scan or the frequency search when pressed again. Release the mute when pressed in Tone-Out Standby mode.
Func + Quickly turns the Close Call feature on or off (see Setting Close Call Options on Page 66).

Scan/srch

Scan Scans the stored channels. + srch Starts quick search or quickly accesses the search menu.
L/O Lets you lock out a selected
channel or skip a specified frequency. Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to unlock all channels in a system or all frequencies in a Search mode and Close Call mode. Also use to exit a menu.

+ 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.

Key Name / /

Description Turns the display backlight on or off. Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to turn the scanner on or off.
Func + Locks and unlocks the keypad.
0-9 Enters a frequency, enters quick key numbers, and selects a custom search range in Custom Search mode. Selects systems by quick key in scan mode.
Func + 0-9 Selects groups by quick key in scan mode.

1 Enters a 1.

Func + pri Selects the priority mode in scan hold mode.

4 Enters a 4.

Func + Moves the active character to the left while editing data.

6 Enters a 6.

Func + Moves the active character to the right while editing data.

7 Enters a 7.

Func + rcl Displays a series of prompts to quickly select a specific channel in the scan hold mode.

Key Name /no/rev

Description Enters a decimal point or dash in a frequency, enters or selects an extended 2-digit Quick Key. At a prompt, answers No. + rev Monitors the currently-tuned frequencys reverse frequency.

E/yes/att

E Press to select input and menu items, to quickly edit a channel in Scan Hold Mode, and store a frequency into memory in Search Hold mode. At a prompt, answers Yes.
Func + att Turns the scanners attenuator on or off for the current channel or frequency.

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. Sn: - appears with a number to show the currentlyselected System Quick Key number. n appears to show the first digit of the Quick Key number. For example, if System Quick Key 75 is selected, S7: appears. The currently active system indicator flashes. ATT - appears when the attenuation feature is turned on. See Setting Attenuation on Page 73, and Setting Channel Attenuation on Page 56. PRI - appears when the priority feature is turned on (see Priority Scan on Page 39).
- appears when you lock the keypad (see Locking/Unlocking the Keypad and Scroll on Page 38). - alerts you when the battery power gets low. GRP - shows the currently activated group or selected group Quick Key number, appears with numbers (0-9). The currently active group indicator flashes. AM/FM/NFM/WFM/FMB - appears to show the type of reception mode. L/O - appears when you manually select a channel you locked out or a skip frequency. F - appears when you hold down function.

to select a

- appears when the scanner is set to CC Pri Mode (see Using the Close Call Feature on Page 65). - appears when the scanner is set to Close Call DND Mode. (see Using the Close Call Feature on Page 65). SCAN - scrolls while the scanner is scanning. DSKP - appears when data skip is turned on. HOLD - appears while the scanner is set to scan or search hold mode. P - appears if priority is turned on SCR - appears when one or more broadcast screen bands are turned on. - appears to show signal strength (0 to 5).

Selecting Systems to Scan
To select systems to scan, press Scan then press the quick key assigned to the system or systems you want to scan. For quick keys 0-9, press the quick keys number. For quick keys 10-99, press then press the
quick keys 2-digit number. To stop scanning the system(s), press (if the quick key is a 2-digit quick key) then the number button or buttons again. The Sx: (system) indicators on the display show the systems that are currently selected. To select or lock out a system that is not assigned to a key, press and hold Func while you rotate the scroll control until the desired system is selected. Then, 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 50). 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 down Func then rotate the scroll control to select the system). 2. Continue to hold Func and press the number key 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. 1. While holding down Func , rotate the scroll control to select the system. 2. Continue to hold down Func and press L/O to lock out the system. System Locked appears. 3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to unlock a system you have previously locked. System Unlocked appears.
Locking/Unlocking Channels
Follow these steps to lock out a channel so that it does not scan even if its system and channel group are selected. 1. While holding down Func , rotate the scroll control to select the system where the channel is stored. 2. Release Func then press Hold within 2 seconds to hold on the system. 3. Rotate the scroll control to select the channel you want to lock or unlock. 4. Press L/O to lock or unlock the channel. You can also lock out an active channel by pressing L/O while the scanner is stopped on the channel.
Temporarily Holding On a System
To temporarily hold on a system, press and hold Func. To hold on a different system, continue to hold Func and rotate the scroll control to select the system. Normal scanning resumes 2 seconds after you release Func.

Holding On a Channel

Submenu

Select System New System (32)
Srch/CloCall Opt Freq Lockouts Broadcast Screen CTCSS/DCS Search Srch/CloCall Opt Max Auto Store Set Delay Time Set Modulation Set Attenuator Set Data Skip Set Step Air Band Step Search for. Service Search Edit Service Custom SearchOpt Srch/CloCall Edit Custom Search and Store
(70) (71) (16) (72) (74) (55) (72) (73) (73) (74) (75)

(59) (62) (60) (61) (63)

Menu Item
-- M E N U -Srch/CloCall Opt Search for. Close Call
Close Call Close Call Only CC Auto Store Set CC Mode Set CC Override Set CC Alert Set CC Bands Set Priority Off On Plus On Srch/CloCall Opt (66) (66) (66) (67) (67) (68) (39) (39) (39) (39)
-- M E N U -Search for. Close Call Set Priority
-- M E N U -Set Priority Tone-Out for. Wired Clone
Tone-Out for. Tone-Out Standby Tone-Out Setup h/ l ll

(76) (76)

Wired Clone Master Slave Srch/CloCall Opt

(42) (42)

-- M E N U -Tone-Out for. Wired Clone Settings
Settings Set Backlight Adjust Key Beep Set Battery Save Srch/CloCall Opt Set Audio AGC Adjust Contrast PC Control See Scanner Info
(39) (38) (39) (40) (40) (40) (38)

Settings

Settings System Information Displaying

Viewing Memory Used

See Scanner Info % Memory Used A bar showing the percent of memory used appears. Press any key to return to the previous menu.
Viewing the Firmware Version
See Scanner Info Firmware Version Press any key to return to the previous menu.

Adjusting the Key Beep

Adjust Key Beep Auto - the scanner automatically sets the key beep to match the master volume setting level you select. Level 1 - 15 the scanner lets you select a key beep level. You can choose any of 15 different key beep levels. Off - the scanner turns the key beep off.
Locking/Unlocking the Keypad and Scroll
Press and hold down Func then press / / to lock or unlock the keypad. Keypad Lock and On (if the keypad is locked) or Off (if the keypad is unlocked) appears. This does not affect the volume setting. The scroll control still controls the volume when you lock the controls.

Programming Conventional Systems

Program System

New System The scanner creates an empty conventional system, with a default name of System n. n is a number that increments as you add new systems.
Refer to the appropriate section to set system-wide options: See Editing the System Name on Page 46 See Editing the System Quick Key on Page 46 See Setting System Lockout on Page 47 See Setting the System Hold Time on Page 47 See Setting the Channel Delay Time on Page 48 See Setting the Data Skip on Page 48 See Deleting Systems on Page 49 See Copying Systems on Page 49 See Entering/Editing Conventional Channel Groups on Page 44
Entering/Editing Conventional Channel Groups
To enter channels in a conventional system, first set up a channel group (or groups) to hold the channels. Then, enter the channel and channel parameters in the group(s).
Setting Up a Channel Group
Select the system Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group n. n increments by one for each new group you create within a system. Refer to the appropriate section to set group-wide options: See Entering/Editing the Group Name on Page 49 See Setting the Group Quick Key on Page 50 See Deleting Groups on Page 51 See Setting Group Lockout on Page 51 See Entering/Editing Conventional Channels on Page 45
Entering/Editing Conventional Channels
Program System Edit Group
Select the system Select the group Edit Channel New Channel Refer to the appropriate section to change a channel setting: See Editing the Channel Name on Page 51 See Editing Frequencies on Page 52 See Setting Channel Priority on Page 53 See Deleting Channels on Page 57 See Copying/Pasting Channels on Page 57
Note: The scanner automatically sets the step to match the input frequency.
Programming/Editing Optional Settings
This section details the instructions for each of the tings Programming/Editing Optional Setoptional programming steps referred to in Programming Radio Systems on Page 43. Use the instructions in the appropriate section to enter or edit a setting.

System-Level Settings

Editing the System Name
Select the system Edit Name To enter a letter, turn the scroll control until the character you want appears. To enter a decimal point, press. To move the cursor to the left, press /4 or hold Func and rotate the scroll control to the left. To move the cursor to the right, press 6/ or hold Func and rotate the scroll control to the right. To clear a character, press twice. To clear all characters, press 3 times. To accept an entry, press E or press down on the scroll control. Hints: Each system name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit.
Editing the System Quick Key
Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Quick Key After selecting this option, select any number from 1-99 to assign the system to a quick key or press to assign the system to no quick key, then press E.

Select the channel Input Frequency
Input the frequency, then press the scroll control. To change the frequency you entered, turn the scroll control to select Edit Frequency, then press the scroll control.

Setting Channel Priority

Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set Priority
This setting controls whether the scanner treats the channel as a priority channel while scanning. Select your setting, then press E. On - when you turn on the Priority feature, the channel will be scanned every 2 seconds. P appears. Off - the channel will not be treated with priority. Note: The default setting is Off.

Setting Channel Alert

Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set Alert
Off - the scanner does not alert you to emergency transmissions.
Alert 1 - 9 - the scanner sounds an alert beep to notify you of the emergency transmission. You can choose any of 9 different beep types. Set Level Auto - the scanner automatically sets the emergency alert beep to the master volume level. Level 1 - 15 - the scanner adjusts the volume you hear to the level you select.

Setting CTCSS/DCS

Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Set CTCSS/DCS
This setting controls how a subaudible CTCSS or DCS is used for the channel. Select your setting, then press E. Off - any signal opens squelch. Search - the scanner searches for and displays any CTCSS or DCS tone that accompanies the transmission. 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. The scanner prompts you to select a CTCSS or DCS tone.

custom search range to lock or unlock by rotating the scroll control with pressing Func. Set Hold Time - lets you set the amount of time to hold the custom search range during scanning. You can set Hold time from 0 to 255 seconds. Notes: If you select 0, the scanner then searches the entire range one time. The default setting is 2 seconds for each search range. The scanner moves to the next system or search range after the hold time expires, any current transmission ends, and the channel delay time expires.

Editing a Service Search

You can change the way service search works for each service.

Search for. Edit Service

Select your setting, then press the scroll control. 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 the scroll control. 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. Set Attenuator This setting controls the attenuator for search operation. Select your setting, then press the scroll control.
Off The attenuator is off. On Reception is attenuated by about 25 dB. Notes: Turn on this setting if you are near other strong signal sources. Attenuation sometimes helps to reduce interference and desensitization that strong signals create. Search with Scan - sets whether the scanner includes the service search during scanning. If unlocked, the scanner first scans all selected systems, then searches the air service searches for the selected hold time (0-255 seconds). Notes: You can also lock and unlock a search range by pressing Func , selecting the search range then pressing Func + L/O. If you select 0, the scanner searches the entire range one time. The default setting is 2 seconds for each search range. The scanner moves to the next system or search range after the hold time expires, any current transmission ends, and the channel delay time expires.

Auto Search and Store

Your scanners Auto Store feature lets you search for new frequencies in custom search ranges or within a service search range and stores the frequency into a conventional system automatically.

Selecting a System

To store frequencies which is found during Auto Store, you must first select a system where the frequencies will be stored.
Search for. Search and Store
Select the system where you want to store the frequencies Select the range from Custom Search or Air Notes: If no system is programmed, No System Stored appears. Over Limit appears when you select the system which has already stored 20 channel groups, or when the total channels has been already 2500. If all the frequencies of the selected search range is locked out, All Locked! appears. When you select a search range, the scanner looks for active frequencies within that range and SEARCH AND STORE appears on the displays lower line and the system name and search range name appear on the displays upper line. When the scanner finds an active transmission, it checks to see if the frequency has already been stored in the system. If the frequency has already been stored, the scanner continues to search. If the frequency has not been stored, it stores the frequency into a group named Found Channels, then resumes searching. The scanner creates this group if it doesnt already exist.
Using the Close Call Feature
Your scanner's Close CallTM feature lets Using the Close Call Feature 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" while you are scanning other frequencies, turn off normal scanning while the Close Call feature is working, or turn off the Close Call feature and use the scanner normally. You can set the scanner so it alerts you when the Close Call feature finds a frequency. You can also set the frequency band where you want the scanner to look for transmissions. To turn Close Call detection on (CC DND, CC PRI) or off, press Func then. When CC DND is on, appears on the display. When CC PRI is on, appears on the display and normal operation is briefly interrupted about every 2 seconds. Notes: CC DND (Do Not Disturb) - The scanner checks for a Close Call hit every 2 seconds only if the scanner is not currently stopped on a transmission. If the scanner is on a transmission the scanner waits until the signal ends to perform a Close Call check. This prevents breaks in audio during Close Call checks. CC PRI - Close Call works even if there is a transmission. Checks for a Close Call hit every 2 seconds. The Close Call feature works well for locating the source of strong local transmissions such as mobile and handheld two-way radios in areas with no other strong transmission sources. Several factors affect Close Call performance, however. Performance is increased with higher transmit power, receive antenna tuned to the target band, and a low background RF level. Other than the antenna, you have no control over these factors, but they explain why performance might vary by both location and time.

Care and Maintenance

nance Care scanner off Mainte- the and before disconnecting Turn the

General Use

power. 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. Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents. If the scanner receives strong interference or electrical noise, move it or its antenna away from the source of the noise. If possible, a higher elevation might provide better reception. Also try changing the height or angle of the antenna.

Cleaning

Disconnect the power to the unit before cleaning. Clean the outside of the scanner with a mild detergent. To prevent scratches, do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Be careful not to rub the LCD window. Do not use excessive amounts of water.

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. Press L/O to lock out the channel.

Troubleshooting

Problem

The scanner doesnt work.

If your UBC3500XLT is not performing properly, try these steps. Possible Cause
The scanner might not be receiving any power.

Suggestion

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. Check the antenna connection or move or reposition the antenna. Move the scanner. You might be in a remote area that could require an optional multi-band antenna. Check with your dealer or local electronics store. Adjust the squelch threshold. See Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch on Page 31. Check the antenna connection. Make sure the channels you want to scan are not locked out. Make sure the channels frequency is stored in the scanners memory. Wait for a transmission on the channel.

Improper reception.

The antenna might need to be adjusted.

Scan wont stop.

The squelch might need to be adjusted.
The antenna might need to be adjusted. One or more channels might be locked out. The channels frequency might not be stored in memory. The channel might not be active.

Scan wont start.

You must press Scan to scan. The squelch might need to be adjusted.
Press Scan. Adjust the squelch threshold. See Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch on Page 31. Make sure the channels you want to scan are not locked out. Check the antenna connection. Initialize the memory. See Initializing the Scanners Memory on Page 40.