Program System E E Edit Name

E System Name

Select the system
To get the most from this manual, review the contents to become familiar with the basic functions available. If you are new to scanning or trunk tracking, be sure to
read Understanding Scanning on Page 18 for a quick background on the technology. The first thing youll need to do is install batteries in the scanner. Then you need to connect the included antenna to the scanner. See Setting Up Your Scanner on Page 30 if you need any help doing this.

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. To clear all characters, press No 3 times. To accept an entry, press E or press down on the scroll control.

Understanding Scanning

This section provides you with background on how Understanding Scanning scanning works. You dont 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 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, talk group IDs, 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. With a traditional scanner, when you program it to track a trunked system, you must first program the frequencies. Since you can only program one trunking system per bank in a traditional scanner, if there were (for example) 30 frequencies, the remaining 70 or so channels in the bank are not used and therefore wasted. Also, since some trunked systems might have hundreds of talk groups, you would have had to enter those types of systems into multiple banks in order to monitor and track all the IDs.

What is Scanning?

Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most two-way communications do not transmit continuously. Your BC246T 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 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. 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 two-way 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)

LTR Trunking

LTR (Logic Trunked Radio) systems are trunking systems used primarily by business or private communications service providers, such as taxicabs, delivery trucks, and repair services. These systems encode all control information as digital subaudible data that accompanies each transmission, so there is no separate control channel. Users on an LTR system are assigned to specific talk groups, which are identified by the radio as six digit numbers. These numbers are in the form AHHUUU, where: A = Area code (0 or 1) H = Home repeater (01 through 20) U = User ID (000 through 254)
When the scanner receives a transmission on a channel set to the LTR mode, it first decodes the LTR data included with the transmission. In the ID search mode, the scanner stops on the transmission and displays the talk group ID on the display. In the ID scan mode, the scanner only stops on the transmission if the LTR data matches a talk group ID that you have stored in the talk group ID list and have not locked out. LTR systems are frequently programmed so that each radio has a unique user ID.

I-Call (Motorola/EDACS)

I-calls are direct unit-to-unit transmissions that are not heard by other system users. Your BC246T can receive I-call transmissions. See Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) on Page 68 for more information about monitoring I-call transmissions.
Where To Get More Information
By itself, this manual really only provides part of what you need to know to have fun scanning how to program and use the scanner. TheInternet is a great source for current frequencies and information about scanning. Many web sites have lists of frequencies for your area. You can use a search engine to find and use them. Make a list of the agencies you want to listen to, then look up the frequencies and systems used by those agencies. Here are a few useful sites: http://www.scannermaster.com * - frequency resources and home of Police Call. You can also call them at 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.com/group/BC246T * - a group for people interested in discussing the BC246T.
* - These web sites are not affiliated with Uniden Corporation.
For more information about Uniden accessories or other products, visit http://www.uniden.com.
Included With Your Scanner

Sq l Vo l

Connection Cable

Wrist Strap Scanner

AC Adapter
Batteries Antenna Belt Clip
Owners Manual & 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 during regular business hours (Central time).

Setting Up Your Scanner

These guidelines will Scanner Setting Up Yourhelp 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 scanners reception, use an optional external antenna designed for multi-band coverage. (You can purchase this type of antenna at a local electronics store). If the optional antenna has no cable, use 50-70 coaxial cable for lead-in. A mating plug might be necessary for the optional antennas. Use an optional mono earphone or mono headset with proper impedance (32 ) for private listening. Read the precautions on the inside front cover of this Owners Manual. Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom. Avoid placing the scanner in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents.

Using Internal Batteries

You can power your scanner using two alkaline, or rechargeable AA batteries.
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 (+ -).
Set REG. ALK. BATT./NI-MH. BATT. to NI-MH. BATT. for use only with rechargeable batteries. Never attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries. Non-rechargeable batteries can get hot and can even burst if you try to recharge them.

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. inside the battery compartment to NI-MH. BATT., install the batteries in the scanner, and connect the supplied AC adapter to the scanner's DC 6V jack (see Using AC Power on Page 33). WARNING! Do not connect the AC adapter to the scanner if nonrechargeable batteries (such as alkaline batteries) are installed in the scanner and REG. ALK. BATT./NI-MH. BATT. is set to NI-MH. BATT., or if you are unsure of the switch's position. Non-rechargeable batteries can get hot and can even burst if you try to recharge them. Before you use rechargeable batteries for the first time, charge them for 14 hours to bring them to a full charge. Discharged batteries take about 14 hours to fully recharge.
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., the adapter powers the scanner and recharges the installed batteries at the same time.

Connecting the Antenna

To attach the supplied flexible antenna to the connector on the top of your scanner, align the slots around the antenna's connector with the tabs on the scanner's BNC connector. Then slide the antenna's connector down over the scanner's connector and rotate the antenna connector's outer ring clockwise until it locks into place.
Connecting an Optional Antenna
The scanner's BNC connector makes it easy to connect a variety of optional antennas, including an external mobile antenna or outdoor base station antenna. Note: Always use 50-ohm, RG-58, or RG-8, coaxial cable to connect an outdoor antenna. If the antenna is over 50 feet from the scanner, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric coaxial cable. You can get a BNC adapter at your local electronics store.
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.

Attaching the Belt Clip

To make your scanner easier to carry when you are on the go, use the supplied belt clip. Use a Phillips screwdriver and the supplied screws to attach the clip to the scanner.
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 www.uniden.com. Download the software, then double-click on the install package to begin installation. The BC246T SS Install program installs the software. You must install the software to use the scanner with your computer. After you install the BC246T SS Install program, start it by double clicking on the desktop icon or by selecting it in the Start Programs list. You can upgrade the included software to a full version by purchasing a registration key at www.uniden.com.

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 Description

Hold/ Hold Holds the scan or the frequency search when pressed. Resumes the scan or frequency search when pressed again.
Func + Quickly turns the Close Call feature on or off (see Setting Close Call Options on Page 87).

Scan/Srch

Scan Scans the stored channels.
Func + 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 lock all groups and channels in a system.

Monitoring Trunking Activity
To monitor trunking activity, press Hold then turn the scroll control to select the control channel frequency (for a Motorola or EDACS system) or any system frequency (for an LTR system). Active talk group IDs appear on the second line of the display.

Using the Menu

The scanners menu Using the Menulets you select options that let you 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. When the menu item you want to select appears, press E or press the scroll control down to select it. To back up a level or return to the previous level, press Menu. To exit the menu mode, press Scan. This table shows the available menu options and where you can find more information about how to use them. Menu Item
-- M E N U -Program System
Lets You. Set up the scanners scan options.
See. Programming Radio Systems on Page 51. Using the Close Call Feature on Page 86. Searching and Storing on Page 80.
-- M E N U -Srch/CloCall Opt
Set up the scanners Close Call option. Set up the scanners search option.

-- M E N U -Search for.

-- M E N U -Close Call
Set up the scanners Close Call operation.
Setting Close Call Options on Page 87.

Menu Item

-- M E N U -Set Priority
Lets You. Set up priority options.
See. Priority Scan on Page 47.

-- M E N U -WX Operation

Set up weather options.
Using Weather Alert (SAME) on Page 94. Using the Backlight on Page 48.
-- M E N U -Set Backlight
Set up backlight options.
-- M E N U -Adjust Key Beep

Set up key beep options.

Adjusting the Key Beep on Page 47.
-- M E N U -Set Battery Save
Set up battery save options.
Turning Power Save On or Off on Page 47. Displaying System Information on Page 47. Installing the Demo Software on Page 35.
-- M E N U -See Scanner Info
View information about your scanner. Transfer information between it and your personal computer.
-- M E N U -Xfer Information

Other Settings

Other Settings Displaying System Information

Connecting Your Scanner to a Personal Computer
To connect your scanner to a personal computer, you must first set the scanners baud rate (the rate at which data is transferred between the scanner and the computer, in bits per second or bps). Hint: If you have trouble transferring data between your scanner and your computer, try setting the baud rate to a slower setting.

Xfer Information E

PC Control
Off The baud rate is not set. 9600 bps The baud rate is set to 9600 bps.
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. Then you must set one scanner as the master (source) and the other as the slave (destination). Plug the smaller end of each of the included connection cables into Remote on the right side of each scanner. Then connect the other end of the cables together using the null modem connector and gender changer. Then set up both scanners.
Master This will be the master (source) scanner. Slave This will be the slave (destination) scanner. (Master scanner) Clone Master Press SCAN Key (Slave scanner) Clone Slave Press SCAN Key E E
When you are ready to clone the scanner, press Scan on the slave scanner first, then on the master scanner. The master scanner checks the connection between the two scanners, then transfers its data to the slave scanner. When the transfer is complete, Complete appears on both scanners. If the transfer did not work, Error appears on the master scanner.
Programming Radio Systems
Your BC246T comes preprogrammed with Programming Radio Systems the major analog systems used in the 25 most populous counties in the US. However, to get the most enjoyment from your scanner (especially if you do not live near one of these counties), you must customize the programming for your area. To edit an existing system, use the menu to navigate to the system setting you want to change. This section assumes you are programming a new system. Programming radio systems is completed in two major steps. Don't skip either step! 1. Plan the system. 2. Program the system into your scanner according to the plan you prepared in Step 1. To make planning easier, planning worksheets are included in the back of this manual for each system type. Copy the worksheets (or download this manual from the Uniden America Corporation website and print extra sheets), then use them to plan out how you will program the scanner Important! Before you start programming your scanner, make sure the batteries are fresh or fully charged. If the scanner loses power while you program it, its memory might be corrupted which will require you to reinitialize it (see Initializing the Scanners Memory on Page 48). All information prorammed in the scanner, including preprogrammed systems, might be lost. General Notes You can store up to 200 systems. Trunking systems can have up to 200 channels each. The number of conventional system channels you can have is limited only by the amount of scanner memory remaining. You can store up to 20 channel groups per system. Total channels are limited to about 2500. Channels that have text tags use more memory than those that do not. If you use a text tag for every channel, total channels are reduced from 2500 (1600 is typical).

Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value

Max Auto Store

This value sets how many hits the scanner will automatically store when it is in either Search and Store or Close Call Auto Store mode. Use the number keys to enter a value from 1 - 256, then press E. When the scanner reaches the maximum number of hits you set, it stops the auto-store operation.
Setting the Modulation Type

Set Modulation

This setting controls the modulation type used for quick search and Close Call operations. Select your setting, then press E. Auto Uses the default setting for the current frequency (see the table at the front of the manual) AM Uses AM (amplitude modulation) FM Uses FM (frequency modulation) NFM Uses narrowband FM

Setting Attenuation

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.

Setting Data Skip

Set Data Skip
This setting controls how the scanner behaves when it detects a constant-level transmission during quick search or Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. Off The scanner remains on the transmission until it ends. On The scanner quickly resumes searching or Close Call operation. Notes: If you are trying to test the Close Call feature with a nearby transmitter and you do not talk into the transmitter, the scanner will detect this as data and
will skip the frequency when Data Skip is on. Turn the feature off or talk into the transmitter. The default for this feature is On.

Setting the Delay Time

Set Delay Time
This setting determines how long the scanner waits after a transmission ends before resuming quick search or Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press E. 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.
Setting the Search Frequency Step

Set Step

This setting selects the frequency step used for setting the channels. 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.

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.

WX Operation E

PrograM SAME

SELECT SAME

select the SAME group to edit
Select the setting to change, then press E. Edit Name - enter the name you want to assign to the SAME group you selected (see Entering Text on Page 17). Edit County - select the position you want to store the FIPS code into, then press E, enter the FIPS code, and press E again.
Setting WX Alert Priority

WX ALT PRIIORITY

On - the scanner checks the weather channels every 5 seconds for a 1050 Hz weather alert signal. Press E to select. Off - the scanner does not check the weather channels. Press E to select.

Care and Maintenance

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

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

If your BC246T is not performing properly, try these steps. Troubleshooting Problem

The scanner doesnt work.

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 40. 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. Press Scan.

Optional Accessories

Contact your local Uniden Dealer or call the Uniden Parts Center at: (800) 554-3988 during regular business hours (CST) for information about ordering these optional accessories.

Earphone

External Amplified Speaker

Appendix

Appendix Preset Fleet Maps

Preset Map 1

Block Size Code Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

Preset Map 2

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 3

Block 6 7

Preset Map 4

Block Size Code Size Code 12 (Size Code 12) Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 5

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12) Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 6

Block Size Code Size Code 3 Size Code 10 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12) Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

Preset Map 7

Block Size Code Size Code 10 Size Code 10 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 8

Block Size Code Size Code 1 Size Code 1 Size Code 2 Size Code 2 Size Code 3 Size Code 3 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 9

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0

Preset Map 10

Block Size Code Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 11

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0

Preset Map 12

Block Size Code Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 4

Preset Map 13

Block Size Code Size Code 3 Size Code 3 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0

Preset Map 14

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 3 Size Code 10 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

Preset Map 15

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 0 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

Preset Map 16

Block Size Code Size Code 3 Size Code 10 Size Code 10 Size Code 11 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

User Defined Fleet Maps

Type I Programming Information
When a Type I system is designed, the address information for all the IDs is divided into 8 equal sized blocks, numbered 07. 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, youll have defined the fleet map for the system you are tracking. Each size code determines the number of fleets, subfleets, and IDs each block will have. For example, a size code of S-4 has one fleet, which is divided into 16 separate subfleets, and it has a total of 512 individual IDs. When a block is assigned a size code, the fleet or fleets created within the block are assigned a Type I ID. The way these IDs display on your scanner depend on the block number and the blocks size code. When a Type I ID appears, the leftmost digit represents the block which contains the ID. The next 2-3 digits identify which fleet is active, and the last digit(s) identifies the subfleet. The details concerning how the size codes are selected by a Type I System designer are highly dependent on the specific needs of the systems users. Some organizations might want many subfleets with only a few radios each, while another organization might want only a few subfleets with many radios each. Your task is to program your fleet map with the same size code assignments as the trunked system. If you do this accurately, youll track all the Fleet-Subfleet combinations used by the system. In other words, youll hear complete communications while monitoring a trunked system. If you dont already know the size codes used, youll have to guess at them. But since you dont have to figure out all the blocks at once, this isnt as hard as it seems. Select a size code for a block, and then press Scan. Now listen to the communications. If you decide you are receiving most
of the replies to the conversations with IDs assigned to the block you just programmed, then youve 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.

Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas
Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas
Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Harris Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant Tarrant
Brazoria County Cy-Fair Cypress Creek Fresno Ft Bend County Fulshar Galena Park Harris County Humble Jersey Village Katy Kendleton Meadows Needville Pasadena Pecan Grove Richmond Rosehill Rosenberg Tomball Webster West University Place Willow Fork Arlington Azle Bedford Benbrook Burleson Colleyville Crowley Dalworthington Gardens Eagle Mount Euless Forest Hill Forest Hills Fort Worth Grapevine Haltom City Haslet Hurst Keller Kennedale Lake Worth North Richland Hills Rendon Richland Hills Saginaw Southlake
Starnet MOT Harris Conv Harris Conv Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Harris Conv Starnet MOT Harris Conv Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Starnet MOT Arlington MOT Tarrant Conv NE Tarrant MOT Tarrant Conv Tarrant Conv NE Tarrant MOT Tarrant Conv Tarrant Conv Tarrant Conv NE Tarrant MOT Tarrant Conv Fort Worth MOT Fort Worth MOT NE Tarrant MOT Fort Worth MOT Tarrant Conv Tarrant Conv NE Tarrant MOT Fort Worth MOT Tarrant Conv Fort Worth MOT Tarrant Conv Fort Worth MOT Tarrant Conv Fort Worth MOT
Texas Texas Texas Texas Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington

Using the Menu... 46

Editing the Fleet Map (Motorola Systems Only). 66 Setting the Motorola Status Bit (Motorola Systems Only). 67 Setting the End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only). 67 Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only).. 68 Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola & EDACS Systems Only).68 Setting the EDACS ID Format (EDACS Systems Only). 69 Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only). 69 Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only).. 70 Deleting Systems.. 70 Copying Systems.. 71 Group-Level Settings... 71 Entering/Editing the Group Name.. 71 Setting the Group Quick Key.. 72 Setting Group Lockout... 72 Deleting Groups... 73 Channel-Level Settings... 73 Editing the Channel Name... 73 Setting Channel Priority (Conventional Channels Only). 74 Setting Channel Alert... 74 Setting CTCSS/DCS (Conventional Channels Only). 75 Setting Channel Modulation (Conventional Channels Only). 76 Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only). 76 Setting the Frequency Step (Conventional Channels Only). 77 Setting Channel Lockout... 78 Deleting Channels... 78 Copying/Pasting Channels.. 79 Searching and Storing... 80 Service Search... 80 Quick Search.... 81 CTCSS/DCS Search... 81 Custom Search... 81 Editing a Custom Search Range.. 82 Auto Search and Store.. 83 Selecting a System... 84 Storing a Conventional System.. 84 Storing a Trunked System... 85 Using the Close Call Feature... 86 Setting Close Call Options.. 87 Close Call Hits... 88 Search and Close Call Options.. 89 Managing Locked-Out Frequencies.. 89 Unlocking All Frequencies... 89 Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies.. 89 Searching for Subaudible Tones.. 89 Screening Out Paging Systems.. 90 Finding Repeater Output Frequencies.. 90 Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value.. 91 Setting the Modulation Type... 91 Setting Attenuation... 92
Setting Data Skip... Setting the Delay Time... Setting the Search Frequency Step.. Using Weather Alert (SAME)... Searching For a Weather Broadcast.. Turning Weather Alert On/Off... Programming a SAME Group... Setting WX Alert Priority... Care and Maintenance... General Use... Location.... Cleaning.... Repairs... Birdies....
Troubleshooting... 99 Specifications... 102 Optional Accessories... 104 Appendix.... 105 Preset Fleet Maps... 105 User Defined Fleet Maps.. 107 Type I Programming Information... 107 Size Code Restrictions... 108 Planning... 109 Collecting Information... 109 Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet.. 110 System Name and Quick Key.. 110 Group Name and Quick Key.. 111 Frequency-Alpha Tag-Priority-CTCSS/DCS.. 111 Filling Out The Motorola Worksheet.. 111 System Name and Quick Key.. 111 System Type... 111 System Frequencies... 112 Fleet Map (Type I or Type I/Type II Hybrid Only).. 112 Band Plan (VHF or UHF Only).. 112 Group Name and Quick Key.. 112 Talk Group ID-Alpha Tag-Alert.. 113 Filling Out the LTR and EDACS Worksheet.. 113 System Name and Quick Key.. 113 System Frequencies and LCN.. 113 Group Name and Quick Key.. 113 Talk Group ID-Alpha Tag-Alert.. 113 Conventional System Worksheet.. 114 Motorola System Worksheet.. 115 LTR/EDACS System Worksheet.. 117 Preprogrammed Systems... 119 One-Year Limited Warranty... 129

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. 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: Trunked public safety systems Police and fire departments (including rescue and paramedics) NOAA weather transmissions Business/Industrial radio Utilities Marine and amateur (ham radio) bands Air band Railroad This table lists the frequency ranges, default frequency step, default mode (AM or Narrowband FM), and type of transmissions you can hear for each range.

Frequency Range (MHz)

25.0-26.960 26.96527.405 27.41027.995 28.0-29.680

Step (kHz)

Transmission

AM AM AM NFM

Petroleum/ Broadcast Band Citizens Band Class D Business Band 10 Meter Amateur Band
29.7-49.990 50.0-54.0 108.0136.9750 137.0143.9875 144.0147.995 148.0150.7875 150.800161.995 162.0-174.0 216.0-224.98 400.0405.9875 406.0419.9875 420.0449.9875 450.0469.9875 470.0-512.0 806.0823.9875 849.0125868.9875 894.0125956.0000 1240.00001300.0000
25 12.12.12.12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 25
NFM NFM AM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM NFM
VHF Low Band 6 Meter Amateur Band Aircraft Band Military Band 2 Meter Amateur Band Military Land Mobile VHF High Band Federal Government 1.25 Meter Amateur Band Miscellaneous Federal Land Mobile 70 cm Amateur Band UHF Standard Band UHF TV Band Public Service Band Public Service Band Public Service Band 25 cm Amateur Band

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. Dynamically Allocated Channel Memory - your scanners memory is organized so that it more closely matches how radio systems actually work, making it easier to program and use your scanner and determine how much memory you have used and how much you have left. Preprogrammed Systems - your scanner is preprogrammed with over 400 channels covering police, fire, and ambulance operations in the 25 most populated counties in the US. A complete list of the scanners preprogrammed systems is in Preprogrammed Systems on Page 119. Quick Keys You can set the scanner so you can select systems and groups by pressing a single key. This makes it easy to listen to or quickly lock out those systems or groups you dont want to scan. Pager Screen You can set the scanner so it ignores hits generated by common pager frequencies while using the Close Call or search features. Ten Service Searches - frequencies are preset in separate public safety, news, amateur radio, marine, railroad, air, CB radio, FRS/GMRS, racing, and special searches, to make it easy to find specific transmissions. Lockout You can lock out any system, group, frequency, or channel while scanning. If you lock out a system or group, any channels belonging to that system or group are also locked out. You can lock out up to 200 frequencies. The scanner skips locked-out frequencies while using the Close Call feature or while searching. CTCSS and DCS Squelch Modes prevent interference from stations not using the mode you select.

Program System E E Edit Name

E System Name

Select the system
To get the most from this manual, review the contents to become familiar with the basic functions available. If you are new to scanning or trunk tracking, be sure to read Understanding Scanning on Page 18 for a quick background on the technology. The first thing youll need to do is install batteries in the scanner. Then you need to connect the included antenna to the scanner. See Setting Up Your Scanner on Page 30 if you need any help doing this.

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. To clear all characters, press No 3 times. To accept an entry, press E or press down on the scroll control.

Understanding Scanning

This section provides Scanning Understandingyou with background on how scanning works. You dont 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 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, talk group IDs, 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. With a traditional scanner, when you program it to track a trunked system, you must first program the frequencies. Since you can only program one trunking system per bank in a traditional scanner, if there were (for example) 30 frequencies, the remaining 70 or so channels in the bank are not used and therefore wasted. Also, since some trunked systems might have hundreds of talk groups, you would have had to enter those types of systems into multiple banks in order to monitor and track all the IDs.

What is Trunk Tracking?

Your BC246T is designed to track the following types of trunking systems. Motorola Type I, Type II, Type IIi hybrid, SMARTNET, and PRIVACYPLUS analog trunking systems, which are extensively used in 800 MHz communication systems. LTR trunking systems EDACS SCAT trunking systems EDACS trunking systems When tracking these types of systems, you might want to remember these important points: Your scanner can track more than one trunking system at a time and scan conventional and trunked systems at the same time. The frequencies for many of the 800 MHz public safety systems are listed in the National Public Safety Trunked System Frequency Guide included with your BC246T scanner. Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a frequency used by someone you want to monitor into
your scanners memory. For example, the police in your area might transmit on 460.500 MHz, the fire department on 154.445 MHz, the highway department on 37.900 MHz, etc. So when your scanner stops on a frequency, 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.

Trunked Scanning

While conventional scanning worked great while there were only a few groups wanting to use the frequencies, with the advent of smaller, lower-cost radios more and more agencies and businesses wanted to take advantage of the utility of 2-way radio. As a result, the bands that were used most became full, so new users were not able to take advantage of the technology as quickly as they wanted. Trunking solved this frequency shortage by allowing multiple groups to use the same set of frequencies in a very efficient way. While each type of trunking system operates a little differently (see the next few sections), they all work on the same basic premise: even in a system with a lot of users, only a few users are ever transmitting at any one time. Instead of being assigned a frequency, as with conventional systems, each group is assigned a talk group ID. A central computer controls the frequency each group operates on.and this frequency selection is made each time a user transmits. So, while on a conventional system queries, replies, and follow-ups are all on a single frequency, they could each be on completely different frequencies on a trunked system. This semi-random frequency assignment made monitoring such a system impossible prior to Unidens invention of the Trunktracking scanner.

Attaching the Belt Clip

To make your scanner easier to carry when you are on the go, use the supplied belt clip. Use a Phillips screwdriver and the supplied screws to attach the clip to the scanner.
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. Download the software, then double-click on the install package to begin installation. The BC246T SS Install program installs the software. You must install the software to use the scanner with your computer. After you install the BC246T SS Install program, start it by double clicking on the desktop icon or by selecting it in the Start Programs list. You can upgrade the included software to a full version by purchasing a registration key at http://www.uniden.com.

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

Description
Hold Holds the scan or the frequency search when pressed. Resumes the scan or the frequency search when pressed again.
Func + Quickly turns the Close Call feature on or off (see Setting Close Call Options on Page 87).

Scan/Srch

Scan Scans the stored channels.
Func + Srch Starts quick search or quickly accesses the search menu.
L/O Lets you lock out a selected channel or skip a specified frequency.
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. Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to lock all groups and channels in a system.
Turns the display backlight on or off.
Func + Locks and unlocks the keypad.

to select a

- appears when the scanner is set to a Close Call feature mode (see Using the Close Call Feature on Page 86).

Using 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 scanners menu options.

Using 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. To select a system in Scan or Scan Hold mode, hold down Func and rotate the scroll control.

Using the Scroll Control

Scroll Control
Turn the scroll control on top of the scanner to select a channel or frequency in Hold mode, select menu items in Menu mode, and to select a character while editing a name. You can also press the scroll control down instead of pressing E on the keypad to select an item.

Basic Operation

Basic Operation Scanner and Turning On the Setting the Squelch

Vol Sql

Vo l S q l
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.

Scanning Systems

To begin scanning programmed systems, press Scan. The BC246T scans all unlocked systems in all activated quick-key groups. Notes: If no systems are programmed, or all systems are locked out, an error message appears. Program a system or select a system to scan. When scanning multiple systems, the BC246T scans systems according to the assigned quick key. Systems assigned to quick key 1 are scanned first, then 2, 3, 4, etc. Systems not assigned to a quick key are scanned last. Within a quick key, systems are scanned in the order they were assigned. Within a system, channels are scanned according to the assigned channel group, with the same priority as described above for systems. The BC246T scans a system for the duration you set using the System Hold Time option (see Setting the System Hold Time on Page 64). For trunked systems, the scanner moves to the next system after the hold time expires, the current transmission ends, and the channel delay expires. Conventional systems
operate similarly, but all unlocked channels are scanned at least one time regardless of the hold time setting.

Other Settings Using the Backlight

Set Backlight

10 sec The backlight stays on for 10 seconds after you press. 30 sec The backlight stays on for 30 seconds after you press. Squelch The backlight turns on when the squelch opens then stays on for 5 seconds. Keypress The backlight turns on when any key is pressed then stays on for 10 seconds. Infinite The backlight turns on when you press then stays on until you press again. Pressing any key while the backlight is on extends the while the backlight is on backlight period. Pressing turns off the backlight.
Initializing the Scanners Memory
Important! This deletes all preprogrammed data. You cannot restore preprogrammed data that has been deleted.
To initialize the scanners 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.

Xfer Information

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. Clone Lets you set your scanner as a master or a slave, letting you transfer programming to or from another BC246T scanner. See Other Settings on Page 48.
Connecting Your Scanner to a Personal Computer
To connect your scanner to a personal computer, you must first set the scanners baud rate (the rate at which data is transferred between the scanner and the computer, in bits per second (bps)). Hint: If you have trouble transferring data between your scanner and your computer, try setting the baud rate to a slower setting.

Xfer Information E

PC Control
Off The baud rate is not set. 9600 bps The baud rate is set to 9600 bps.
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. Then you must set one scanner as the master (source) and the other as the slave (destination). Plug the smaller end of each of the included connection cables into Remote on the right side of each scanner. Then connect the other end of the cables together using the null modem connector and gender changer. Then set up both scanners.

Next, rotate the scroll control to select the type of EDACS system you will program, then press E. WIDE - Use for wideband EDACS systems NARROW - Use for narrowband EDACS systems SCAT - Use for EDACS SCAT (Single Channel Autonomous Trunking) When the scanner prompts Confirm?, press E to accept the settings. The scanner creates an empty EDACS system, with a default name of System nnN E. nnN increments as you add new systems. The E indicates that this is an EDACS 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. See Editing the System Name on Page 63 See Editing the System Quick Key on Page 63 See Setting System Lockout on Page 64 See Setting the System Hold Time on Page 64 See Setting the Channel Delay Time on Page 65 See Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only) on Page 65 See Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) on Page 68 See Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) on Page 69
See Setting the EDACS ID Format (EDACS Systems Only) on Page 69 See Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies on Page 89 See Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only) on Page 77 See Deleting Systems on Page 71 See Copying Systems on Page 71 See Setting System Frequencies on Page 59 See Entering/Editing EDACS Channel Groups on Page 59
SET FREQUENCIES E E NEW FREQUENCY
Input a system frequency, then press E. The scanner then prompts you to enter the LCN for the entered frequency. Enter the LCN, then press E. To enter additional frequencies, press Frequency, then repeat the above.

, scroll to New

Note: The scanner only accepts a single frequency and no LCN for SCAT systems.
Entering/Editing EDACS Channel Groups

EDIT GROUP NEW GROUP E 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. Next, 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 Editing the Channel Name on Page 73 See Setting Group Lockout on Page 72

Note: The default setting is AUTO.
Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)
Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Set Attenuator Select the channel
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. Notes: The default setting is Off. For trunked systems, the attenuation is a systemlevel setting. You can also toggle this setting by holding on the channel and pressing Func and E.
Setting the Frequency Step (Conventional Channels Only)
Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Set Step Select the channel
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.

Setting Channel Lockout

program system MENU Select the system E Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Set Lockout E E E Select the channel E E E
This setting determines whether the scanner will scan this channel when its system and group are enabled. Select your setting, then press E. Lockout - the channel is not scanned. Unlocked - the channel is scanned. Notes: The default setting is Unlocked. You can also lock or unlock a channel by selecting it while scanning or holding, then pressing L/O. See Basic Operation on Page 41.

Deleting Channels

Select the system Edit Group Select the group
Edit Channel Delete Channel

Select the 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.

Copying/Pasting Channels

To copy a channel including all settings:
Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Copy Channel Select the channel
The scanner copies the channel into a copy buffer. To paste the channel into the same or another system:

program system E E E E E

Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Paste Channel Select the channel

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. If you turn this option on, the scanner sets itself to its Close Call settings about once every 2 seconds. Turn the scroll control to display an option, then press E. You can also toggle this setting by pressing then
CC AutoStore: Lets you select whether the scanner automatically stores Close Call hits into channels. If you turn this option on, the scanner starts Close Call mode and stores any Close Call hits, up to the maximum you specified in the Max Auto Store setting. If the scanner stores more hits this setting, it stops Autostore operation. Turn the scroll control to display an option, then press E.

Close Call Hits

When the scanner detects a Close Call hit, it alerts you according to the Override and Alert settings in the previous section. While listening to a Close Call hit, you can press Hold to hold on the hit frequency, press E to quickly save the frequency into memory, press L/O to lock out the frequency from Close Call and Search operation, or wait for the transmission to end. If you are in Close Call Only or Close Call Override mode, and you do not press any key, the scanner returns to its previous operation after the transmission ends and the set delay time expires. If you are holding on the frequency, press Hold again to resume the previous operation.
Search and Close Call Options
The settings in Close Call Options Search and this section affect custom searches, service searches, and Close Call operation.
Managing Locked-Out Frequencies
While searching or during Close Call operation, if you press L/O while the scanner is stopped on a frequency, that frequency is locked out of these modes. You can lock out up to 200 frequencies. Note: Locking out a frequency does not lock out a channel that contains that frequency.
Unlocking All Frequencies

Srch/CloCall Opt E

Freq Lockouts

Unlock All

The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm and delete all locked-out frequencies, press E. Otherwise, to cancel, press No.
Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies

Rvw Search L/O

The scanner displays the first locked-out frequency and prompts you to unlock the frequency. Press E to unlock the frequency. Or, rotate the scroll control or press No to select a different frequency. To exit the review, press Menu.

Programming a SAME Group

You can edit any of the 5 SAME groups in your scanner. Each group can have up to 8 FIPS codes. SAME (Specific Area Messaging System) is a system developed by the National Weather Service to reduce the number of alerts received by consumers by allowing them to hear alerts only for the county(ies) they are interested in. Each alert contains information about the type and severity of the alert, as well as the specific geographic locations affected by the alert. The geographic locations are designated using FIPS codes. Each county or parish in the US and its territories are assigned a FIPS code. In addition, certain special regions and wildcard settings can be assigned. FIPS codes are in the format nSSCCC: n: A special subcounty designator. For an entire county, use 0. SS: The state code. CCC: The county code.
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.

WX Operation E

PrograM SAME

SELECT SAME

select the SAME group to edit
Select the setting to change, then press E. Edit Name - enter the name you want to assign to the SAME group you selected (see Entering Text on Page 17). Edit County - select the position you want to store the FIPS code into, then press E, enter the FIPS code, and press E again.
Setting WX Alert Priority

WX ALT PRIIORITY

On - the scanner checks the weather channels every 5 seconds for a 1050 Hz weather alert signal. Press E to select. Off - the scanner does not check the weather channels. Press E to select.

Care and Maintenance

Care scanner off Maintenance and before disconnecting the power. Turn the

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. 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 Possible Cause
The scanner doesnt work. The scanner might not be receiving any power.
If your BC246T is not performing properly, try these steps. 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 41. 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. Press Scan. Adjust the squelch threshold. See Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch on Page 41.

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.
Scan wont start (continued)
Weather scan doesnt work.
One or more channels might be locked out. The antenna might need to be adjusted. The squelch might need to be adjusted.
Make sure the channels you want to scan are not locked out. Check the antenna connection. Adjust the squelch threshold. See Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch on Page 41. Check the antenna connection. Move to an area with a NOAA weather broadcast.

Preset Map 10

Block Size Code Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 4 Size Code 4

Preset Map 11

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0

Preset Map 12

Block Size Code Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 4

Preset Map 13

Block Size Code Size Code 3 Size Code 3 Size Code 11 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0

Preset Map 14

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 3 Size Code 10 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

Preset Map 15

Block Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 0 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

Preset Map 16

Block Size Code Size Code 3 Size Code 10 Size Code 10 Size Code 11 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 12 (Size Code 12)

User Defined Fleet Maps

Type I Programming Information
When a Type I system is designed, the address information for all the IDs is divided into 8 equal sized blocks, numbered 07. 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, youll have defined the fleet map for the system you are tracking. Each size code determines the number of fleets, subfleets, and IDs each block will have. For example, a size code of S-4 has one fleet, which is divided into 16 separate subfleets, and it has a total of 512 individual IDs. When a block is assigned a size code, the fleet or fleets created within the block are assigned a Type I ID. The way these IDs display on your scanner depend on the block number and the blocks size code. When a Type I ID appears, the leftmost digit represents the block which contains the ID. The next 2-3 digits identify which fleet is active, and the last digit(s) identifies the subfleet. The details concerning how the size codes are selected by a Type I System designer are highly dependent on the specific needs of the systems users. Some organizations might want many subfleets with only a few radios each, while another organization might want only a few subfleets with many radios each. Your task is to program your fleet map with the same size code assignments as the trunked system. If you do this accurately, youll track all the Fleet-Subfleet combinations used by the system. In other words, youll hear complete communications while monitoring a trunked system. If you dont already know the size codes used, youll have to guess at them. But since you dont have to figure out all the blocks at once, this isnt as hard as it seems. Select a size code for a block, and then press Scan. Now listen to the communications. If you decide you are receiving most of the replies to the conversations with IDs assigned to