UBCD396T Owner's Manual OWNER'S MANUAL
Precautions Before you use this scanner, please read and observe the following. EARPHONE WARNING! Be sure to use only a monaural earphone with this scanner. You can also use an optional 32 W stereo headset. Use of an incorrect earphone or stereo headset might be potentially hazardous to your hearing. The output of the phone jack is monaural, but you will hear it in both headphones of a stereo headset.
WARNING! Uniden does not represent this unit to be waterproof. To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. Astro ® , DPL ® , Digital Private Line ® , Motorola ® , PL ® , PRIVACY PLUS ® , Private Line ® , SMARTNET ® ,and SMARTZONE ® are registered trademarks of Motorola, Inc. LTR ® is a registered trademark of E.F. Johnson Co. EDACS ® is a registered trademark of M/A-COM Private Radio Systems Inc.
Contents Introduction ............................................................................................... 7 Feature Highlights .................................................................................. 8 About This Manual ............................................................................. 13 Using the Multifunction Scroll Control .............................................13 Entering Text .................................................................................
Other Settings ............................................................................................ 49 Displaying System Information ................................................................. 49 Viewing Memory Used ........................................................................... 49 Viewing the Firmware Version ................................................................ 49 Adjusting the Key Beep ............................................................................
Channel-Level Settings.............................................................................. 84 Editing the Channel Name...................................................................... 84 Editing Frequencies (Conventional Channels Only) ...............................85 Setting Channel Priority (Conventional Channels Only) .........................85 Setting Channel Alert ..............................................................................
Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 115 Specifications .......................................................................................... 119 Optional Accessories .............................................................................. 122 Appendix .................................................................................................. 123 Preset Fleet Maps .............................................................
Introduction Your UBCD396T scanner is a state-of-the-art scanner radio with TrunkTracker IV™ 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. You can use the scanner’s scroll control to quickly select channels and frequencies, and you can automatically program channels in a system using the AutoStore feature.
Feature Highlights General Close Call™ RF Capture Technology - You can set the scanner so it detects and provides information about nearby radio transmissions. See “Using the Close Call Feature” on Page 100 for more information. Dynamically Allocated Channel Memory - Your scanner’s memory is organized so that it more closely matches how radio systems actually work, making it easier to program and use your scanner and determine how much memory you have used and how much you have left.
Analog and Digital Audio AGC – Helps automatically balance the volume level between different radio systems. Fire Tone-Out Standby – Lets you set the scanner to alert you if a two-tone sequential page is transmitted. You can set up to 10 settings (transmit frequency, tone frequencies) then select one for standby monitoring. Broadcast Screen – Sets the scanner so it ignores Close Call ™ or search hits on known broadcast frequencies including pager frequencies.
Automatic Channel Step – Accepts frequencies on any valid channel step, even if it does not fall within the band plan’s 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 scanner’s 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.
Control Channel Only Scanning – If the scanner is set to scan Motorola trunking frequencies, you can set it so it scans using only control channel data. You do not have to program voice channel frequencies into memory in this mode as long as all possible control channels are programmed. Adaptive Digital Threshold – Automatically sets the digital decode threshold for APCO 25 systems. Search Service Search – Lets you quickly select and search the scanner’s preprogrammed frequencies.
Backlight and Power Display and Keypad Backlight – Makes the display and keypad easy to see in dim light. You can adjust the back light so it turns on when you press a key, when squelch breaks during a transmission, or manually. Low Battery Alert – The scanner alerts you if the batteries need to be recharged or replaced. Battery Save – You can set the scanner so it reduces the amount of power it needs if there are no transmissions.
About This Manual The screen displays used in this manual are representations of what might appear when you use your scanner. Since what you see depends on the frequencies and user IDs for your area and the settings you select, you might notice some differences between what is in this manual and what appears on your scanner.
How the Scanner’s Controls Are Represented in This Manual To help navigate the scanner’s menus, the steps shown in this manual show the displays you see and the keys you press or control you operate to get a desired result. This example shows you how to use the scanner’s menu to edit an existing system name. It shows you the key to press ( ) to select a menu option and the option you see ( Program System ) when you press .
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you have entered the system name. Then press down on the scroll control or press E to accept the setting. Hints: • Each system name can be up to 16 characters. Abbreviate as necessary to fit. • The default system names include the following letter in the 16th position to indicate the system type: M E L C = = = = Motorola EDACS LTR Conventional • Press twice to delete the current character. • Press three times to clear the entire alpha tag.
Understanding Scanning Understanding Scanning This section provides you with background on how scanning works. You don’t really need to know all of this to use your scanner, but some background knowledge will help you get the most from your UBCD396T. Understanding the Scanner’s Memory Your scanner’s memory is organized in an architecture called Dynamic Allocated Channel memory.
What is Searching? The UBCD396T can search 9 service search ranges 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.
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.
174 245 266 332 411 452 506 612 703 205 246 271 343 412 454 516 624 712 212 251 274 346 413 455 523 627 723 223 252 306 351 423 462 526 631 731 225 255 311 356 431 464 532 632 732 226 261 315 364 432 465 546 654 734 243 263 325 365 445 466 565 662 743 244 265 331 371 446 503 606 664 754 Conventional Scanning Conventional scanning is a relatively simple concept. Each group of users in a conventional system is assigned a single frequency (for simplex systems) or two frequencies (for repeater systems).
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 UHF/PRS radios. The range is typically 1-12 km, depending upon the terrain and many other factors.
When tracking these types of systems, you might want to remember that your scanner can track more than one trunking system at a time and scan conventional and trunked systems at the same time. Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a frequency used by someone you want to monitor into your scanner’s 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.
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 Uniden’s invention of the TrunkTracker scanner.
The computer then assigns that talk group to a specific voice channel and transmits that data over the control channel. All radios in that talk group switch over to the assigned voice channel and the user can begin speaking. This all typically takes place in about a second... the person transmitting hears a beep from their radio when the channel is assigned and then it is OK to start talking.
EDACS Trunking EDACS trunking works in much the same way as Motorola trunking with a couple of major differences. In an EDACS system, each frequency used by the system is assigned a Logical Channel Number (LCN) so that less data needs to be transmitted by the control channel. Also, talk groups are assigned in an Agency-Fleet-Subfleet (AFS) hierarchy. Also, there is one variation of EDACS called SCAT that your UBCD396T can monitor.
EDACS SCAT – EDACS SCAT (Single Channel Autonomous Trunking) systems operate on a single channel and alternate control data with analog voice traffic. While your UBCD396T cannot track ID’s in this system, it can eliminate the control data so that all you hear is the voice transmissions when you monitor this type of system.
I-Call (Motorola/EDACS) I-calls are direct unit-to-unit transmissions that are not heard by other system users. Your UBCD396T can receive I-call transmissions. See “Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 77 for more information about monitoring I-call transmissions. Where To Get More Information By itself, this manual only provides part of what you need to know to have fun scanning – how to program and use the scanner. Other sources provide additional information.
Included With Your Scanner Connection Cable Wrist Strap AC Adaptor Scanner (with antenna attached) Belt Clip BNC/SMA Adapto r Batteries UBCD396T Owners Manual OWNER'S MANUAL Owners Manual and other printed material If any of these items are missing or damaged, immediately contact your place of purchase.
Setting Up Your Scanner These guidelines will help you install and set up your new scanner: • If your scanner receives interference or electrical noise, move the scanner or its antenna away from the source. • To improve the scanner’s reception, use an optional external antenna designed for multi-band coverage. (You can purchase this type of antenna at a local electronics store). If the optional antenna has no cable, use 50-75W coaxial cable for lead-in.
2. Install 3 AA batteries, matching the polarity symbols (+ -). WARNING! Set ALKALINE/Ni-MH to Ni-MH 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 the batteries. Using Rechargeable Batteries You can also use three rechargeable batteries to power your scanner.
If an AC adaptor is connected to the scanner, the scanner checks the condition of the installed batteries. If the scanner is turned off and the batteries require a full charge, Pre-Charging appears on the display. Then, Normal Charging appears as the batteries are recharged. When the batteries are fully charged, Charge Complete appears. If no batteries are installed in the scanner, No Battery appears. If there is a problem with the installed batteries, Battery Error appears.
Connecting the Antenna To attach the supplied flexible antenna to the connector on the top of your scanner, simply screw it onto the scanner's SMA connector. Connecting an Optional Antenna The scanner's SMA 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- or 75-ohm, RG-58, or RG-8, coaxial cable and the supplied BNC/SMA adaptor to connect an outdoor antenna.
WARNING! 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.
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 the frequency search when pressed again. + – Quickly turns the Close Call feature on or off (see "Setting Close Call Options” on Page 101). Scan/srch Scan – Scans the stored channels. + srch – Starts quick search or quickly accesses the search menu.
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. + – Locks and unlocks the keypad. 1-9, 0 1-9, 0 – 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. + 1-9, 0 – Selects groups by quick key in scan mode. 1/pri 1 – Enters a 1. + pri – Selects the priority mode in scan hold mode.
Key Name Description 7/rcl 7 – Enters a 7. + rcl – Displays a series of prompts to quickly select a specific channel in the scan hold mode. no/rev – Enters a decimal point or dash in a frequency or talk group ID, enters or selects an extended 2-digit Quick Key, enters an “i” for I-Call input. At a prompt, answers “No.” + rev – Monitors the currently-tuned frequency’s reverse frequency.
ATT - appears when the attenuation feature is turned on. See “Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 81. PRI - appears when the priority feature is turned on (see “Priority Scan” on Page 50). - appears when you lock the keypad (see “Locking/Unlocking the Keypad and Scroll” on Page 49). - 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 ).
LNK - appears when data on a voice channel is being received. DAT - appears when data on a control channel is being received. ENC - appears when APCO P25 encrypted data is being received on a voice channel. Using Menu Press on the left side of the scanner to enter the menu. See “Using the Menu” on Page 45 for more information about the scanner’s menu options.
Basic Operation Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch Note: Make sure the scanner's antenna is connected before you turn it on. 1. Press and hold the scanner. for about 2 seconds to turn on 2. Briefly press the scroll control once. VOLUME LEVEL and a number appear on the display. Brisbane 3. While VOLUME LEVEL appears, rotate the scroll control to set the volume to a comfortable listening level.
Scanning Systems To begin scanning programmed systems, press Scan. The UBCD396T scans all unlocked systems in all activated quick-key groups and any searches unlocked for search and scan. 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 UBCD396T scans systems according to the assigned quick key. Systems assigned to quick key 1 are scanned first, then 2, 3, 4, etc.
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 key’s number. For quick keys 10-99, press then press the quick key’s 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 while you rotate the scroll control until the desired system is selected. Then, continue to hold 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 83). Follow these steps to activate or deactivate a channel group within a system while scanning. 1.
2. Release 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.
previous or next system. To resume scanning, press Scan. Quickly Storing an ID During ID Search To quickly store an active talk group ID during ID search, press E. You see: Quick TGID Save? To save the ID into a channel, press E. Otherwise, press . If you press E, the scanner stores the ID into a channel group called Qck Save Grp in the current system. Quick-Storing Channels or Talk Group ID’s 1. Hold on an existing channel in any system. 2.
If you pressed No in Step 3, the scanner prompts you to select the system and the group where you want to store the frequency or talk group ID. Quickly Recalling Channels 1. Press Hold to hold on any channel. 2. Press + Rcl. The scanner prompts you to select the system where the channel is stored. 3. Rotate the scroll control to select the system, then press E. The scanner prompts you to select the channel group where the channel is stored. 4. Rotate the scroll control to select the group, then press E.
Using The Menu The scanner’s menu lets you select options that let you set up and use the scanner. To use the menu, press on the left side of the scanner. To select a menu item, rotate the scroll control clockwise or counterclockwise. The currentlyselected menu item is highlighted with a bar on the display. When the menu item you want to select is highlighted, briefly press the scroll control to select it. To back up a level, press . To exit the menu mode, press again or the L/O key.
101 101 101 101 101 101 50 50 50 50 114 114 53 54 50 49 50 51 51 52 49 Using the Menu 46
Programming Systems Menu This table shows the scanner’s systems menu structure. This menu lets you program new systems or change existing systems. To find information about a particular menu setting in this manual, go to the page number shown under or next to the setting. To use the systems menu, press then briefly press the scroll control. To back up a level, press To exit the menu mode, press again or press [L/O]. . Note: Not all of the options shown in this table may appear at the same time.
70 71 67 61 80 67 81 81 Using the Menu 48
Other Settings Displaying System Information Viewing Memory Used Settings 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 Settings See Scanner Info Firmware Version Press any key to return to the previous menu. Adjusting the Key Beep Settings Adjust Key Beep Auto - the scanner automatically sets the key beep to match the master volume setting level you select.
Turning Power Save On or Off Settings Set Battery Save • On The scanner goes into low-power mode when you monitor a conventional channel that has no activity. • Off Power save is off. Priority Scan Set Priority Or, while holding on any channel, press to select one of these priority modes: + 1/Pri • Off Normal scanning • On While scanning a conventional system, the scanner interrupts every 2 seconds and checks the priority channels in each unlocked conventional system.
• 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 backlight period. Pressing while the backlight is on turns off the backlight. Setting the Audio AGC Settings Set Audio AGC This setting helps balance the audio level you hear as you listen to different radio sources so you can hear them at a similar volume.
This setting controls the display’s contrast (how light or dark it appears). Use this setting to change the contrast for different viewing conditions. There are 15 contrast settings. You see the change in contrast as you scroll through the settings. Initializing the Scanner’s Memory Important! This clears data you have entered. You cannot restore user programmed data that has been deleted. To initialize the scanner’s memory, turn off the scanner. Then, press 2, 9, and Hold while turning it on.
Use the included connection cable to connect your scanner to another UBCD396T scanner or your personal computer. Settings PC Control PC Control Lets you set the baud rate your scanner uses to communicate with a personal computer. • • • • • • 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. 115200 bps The baud rate is set to 115,200 bps.
Then set the scanner containing the programming you want to transfer as the master scanner, then set the other scanner as the slave scanner. (Master scanner) Clone Master Press SCAN Key (Slave scanner) Clone Slave Press SCAN Key When you are ready to clone the scanner, press 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.
When you are receiving the cloning broadcast and are ready to clone the scanner, select Start Cloning on the scanner. The scanner receives the data from the transmission When the transfer is complete, Complete appears. If the transfer did not work, Error appears.
Programming Radio Systems To get the most out of your UBCD396T you can organize frequencies into programmed radio systems. 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.
Programming Conventional Systems Program System New System Conventional Confirm? Yes=”E” / No=”.” The scanner creates an empty conventional system, C. with a default name of System n n is a number that increments as you add new systems. C indicates that this is a conventional system.
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.
Programming Motorola Systems Program System New System MOT Next, rotate the scroll control to select the type of Motorola system you want to program, then briefly press the scroll control to select it.
• See“Setting the Motorola Status Bit (Motorola Systems Only)” on Page 76 • See “Setting the End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only)” on Page 77 • See “Setting I-Call (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 77 • See “Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only)” on Page 78 • See “Adjusting the P25 Level (Motorola and Conventional Systems Only)” on Page 79 • See “Setting Control-Channel Only (Motorola Systems Only)” on Page 78 • See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 79 • See “Sett
the frequencies are the control channel frequencies. Otherwise, you must enter all of the frequencies. Setting Modulation Program System Select the system Set Modulation Auto - the scanner uses the default modulation for the frequency band. FM - the scanner uses FM (frequency modulation) for the frequency band. NFM - the scanner uses narrowband FM for the frequency band. Note: The default setting is Auto. This setting controls the modulation method used for the frequency band.
• You can also turn this setting on or off by holding on a trunked system, then pressing + E. Entering/Editing Motorola Channel Groups To enter channels in a 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 Program System Select the system Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system.
Enter a talk group ID then the Note: You can enter I-Calls by pressing I-Call number. You can enter the I-Call wild card by pressing then 0.
n is a number that increments as you add new systems. E indicates that this is an EDACS system. Next, refer to the appropriate section to set systemwide 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.
Input a system frequency, then press the scroll control. The scanner then prompts you to enter the LCN for the entered frequency. Enter the LCN, then press the scroll control. To enter additional frequencies, press , use the scroll control to select New Frequency, then repeat the above. Note: The scanner only accepts a single frequency and no LCN for SCAT systems. Entering/Editing EDACS Channel Groups To enter channels in a system, first set up a channel group (or groups) to hold the channels.
Select the group Edit Channel New Channel Enter a talk group ID then the Note: You can enter I-Calls by pressing I-Call number. You can enter the I-Call wild card by pressing then 0.
• • • • • • • • • • See “Setting the System Hold Time” on Page 72 See “Editing the System Quick Key” on Page 71 See “Setting the Channel Delay Time” on Page 72 See “Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only)” on Page 73 See “Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies” on Page 79 See “Setting Channel Attenuation (Conventional Channels Only)” on Page 88 See “Deleting Systems” on Page 81 See “Copying Systems” on Page 81 See “Setting System Frequencies” on Page 67 (below) See “Entering/Editing LTR Channel Groups” on
Setting Up a Channel Group Program System Select the system Edit Group New Group The scanner creates a group with a default name of Group nn. nn increments by one for each new group you create within a system.
To program another channel within the same group, press , then repeat the above. To create another channel group and enter more channels, press four times, then proceed from “Setting Up a Channel Group” on Page 68 . To direct-enter LTR talkgroups, follow the steps under “Quick-Storing Channels or Talk Group ID’s” on Page 43.
Programming/Editing Optional Settings This section details the instructions for each of the optional programming steps referred to in “Programming Radio Systems” on Page 56. Use the instructions in the appropriate section to enter or edit a setting. System-Level Settings These settings apply to the entire system. Editing the System Name Program System 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 .
Editing the System Quick Key Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Quick Key After selecting this option, select any number from 0-99 to assign the system to a quick key or press to assign the system to no quick key, then press E. Hints: • Access single-digit system Quick Keys by pressing the single digit on the keypad during scanning. Access two-digit system Quick Keys by pressing then both digits. • You can assign as many systems to the same quick key as you want.
Setting the System Hold Time Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Set Hold Time This setting controls how many seconds the scanner scans a system before moving to the next unlocked system. Enter a value from 0-255, then press E to save the setting. Notes: • This setting is available only when a control channel exists in a trunked system. • If you select 0, the scanner stays on the system for a minimal time (only long enough to check current system activity).
scanning. Enter a value from 1 - 5 or Off , then press E or the scroll control. Notes: • The default setting is 2 seconds for each system. • This setting applies to all channels within the system. Setting ID Scan/Search (Trunked Systems Only) Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option ID Scan/Search This setting controls how the system will be scanned. Select your setting, then press E. ID Scan - the scanner only stops on channels you have programmed into the system.
Setting the Band Plan (Motorola P25 and VHF/UHF Systems Only) Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Edit Band Plan For Motorola VHF/UHF system To properly track Motorola VHF and UHF trunked Systems, the user must enter what is known as the base, the spacing frequencies and offset channels for each System. Follow these steps: 1. Scroll to the Band Plan table entry you want to edit and press E. 2. Enter the base frequency and press E. 3. Select the step frequency and press E. 4.
1. Scroll to the Band Plan table entry you want to edit and press E. 2. Enter the base frequency for the table entry and press E. 3. Enter the spacing for the table entry (in kHz) and press E. Repeat 1-3 for additional table entries. Notes: · For Explicit mode systems, leave all entries blank. · There is no way to determine the correct entries using the scanner (other than trial and error). You must get this information from another source. Uniden Australia and Uniden NZ do not have this information.
Rotate the scroll control to select the fleet map: Preset - select from the 16 most common fleet maps (see “Preset Fleet Maps” on Page 123). Press E to select. Custom - allows you to enter a custom fleet map. Enter the size code for each block. Press E to select. Notes: • If you don't know the fleet map for your Motorola Type I system, check the Internet. This information is commonly posted on sites such as those we reference in “Where To Get More Information” on Page 26.
Setting the End Code Operation (Motorola Systems Only) Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Set End Code This setting determines how the scanner handles the transmission end code sent by most Motorola systems. Select your setting then press E. Yes - the scanner immediately returns to the control channel when it detects the end code. Ignore - the scanner does not return to the control channel until the carrier drops. Note: The default setting is Yes .
Setting Emergency Alert (Motorola and EDACS Systems Only) Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Emergency 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.
Reviewing Locked Out Frequencies Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Rvw ID: Srch 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 to select a different frequency. To exit the review, press . Clearing All Locked-Out IDs Program System Select the system Edit Sys Option Clr All L/O IDs The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion.
Auto - the scanner automatically adjusts the digital decode threshold to match the transmission you are hearing when it receives a strong signal and has a high decode rate. Manual - lets you manually adjust the digital decode threshold. To manually adjust the P25 level, select Manual . Default - sets the digital decode threshold to the default value. Use this setting to return to the value that usually provides adequate performance.
Setting System Attenuation (Trunked Systems Only) Program System Select the system Set Attenuator This setting controls whether the attenuator will be on or off for the current system. Select your setting then press E. Off - the attenuator is off. On - system frequencies are attenuated by about 18 dB. Notes: • Turn on this setting if you are near strong signal sources. Attenuation can help reduce interference and desensitization that strong signals create.
Program System Select the system Copy System New Sys Name? Enter a name for the copied system, then press E. Group-Level Settings The settings in this section apply to all of the channels stored in the current group. Entering/Editing the Group Name Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Name Follow these steps to enter/edit the group name. 1. Rotate the scroll control to select the first letter. 2.
Setting the Group Quick Key Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Set Quick Key After selecting this option, press 0-9 to assign the group to a quick key or press to assign the system to no quick key, then press E. Hints: • You can assign as many groups to the same quick key as you want. • A group’s quick key must be activated to be scanned.
Select the group Delete Group The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press . Note: Deleted groups cannot be restored. You must re-enter them. Channel-Level Settings These settings affect only the channel you are programming. Editing the Channel Name Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Edit Name Follow these steps to enter/edit the channel name. 1. Rotate the scroll control to select the first letter. 2.
or the talk group ID (for trunked systems) when it stops on a channel. • • • Press twice to delete the current character. Press three times to clear the entire alpha tag. Channel names take up extra memory. To maximize channels, use channel names only where necessary. Editing Frequencies (Conventional Channels Only) Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Input Frequency Input the frequency, then press the scroll control.
On - when you turn on the Priority feature, the channel will be scanned every 2 seconds. 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.
Select the talk group ID Edit TGID To edit the talk group ID, enter the talk group ID you want using the number keys on the keypad. Then press down on the scroll control to accept it. Setting CTCSS/DCS (Conventional Channels Only) 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.
• • The default setting is Off . See “What is CTCSS/DCS?” on Page 17 for a complete list of CTCSS and DCS tones. Setting the System Frequency Modulation Srch/CloCall Opt Set Modulation Auto - the scanner uses the default modulation for the frequency band. AM - the scanner uses AM (amplitude modulation) for the frequency band. FM - the scanner uses FM (frequency modulation) for the frequency band. NFM - the scanner uses narrowband FM for the frequency band.
Select the channel Set Attenuator This setting controls whether the scanner attenuates signals on this channel. Select your setting, then press E. On - the channel is attenuated by about 18 dB. Off - the channel is not attenuated. Notes: • The default setting is Off . • For trunked systems, the attenuation is a system-level setting. • You can also toggle this setting by holding on the channel and pressing and E.
Deleting Channels Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Delete Channel The scanner prompts you to confirm deletion. To confirm, press E. To cancel, press . Note: Deleted channels cannot be restored. You must re-enter them. Copying/Pasting Channels To copy a channel including all settings: Program System Select the system Edit Group Select the group Edit Channel Select the channel Copy Channel The scanner copies the channel into a copy buffer.
Searching And Storing Service Search Service Search lets you quickly select and search the scanner’s preprogrammed search ranges. During service search, the scanner searches starting with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range. Search for ... Service Search Select the service search type The following search bands appear.
• If all frequencies in the search band you selected are locked out, All Locked! appears and the scanner does not search the band. • If the service you select uses channels (such as TV Broadcast or Marine), the scanner displays the service channel number. Quick Search Quick Search lets you search from the currently-tuned frequency if you are scanning a conventional system or sets the system to ID search if you are scanning a trunked system.
Custom Search Custom Search lets you program and search 10 custom search ranges. You can search any of these ranges simultaneously and select each custom search range you set. During custom search, the scanner searches starting with the lowest frequency in the search range you select to the highest frequency in the range. Notes: • Search ranges are preset. See “Editing a Custom Search Range” on Page 94 to change the range. • You cannot turn off all custom search ranges. Search for ...
Editing a Custom Search Range You can edit up to 10 custom search ranges. The names of the custom search ranges appear on the display. The default custom search range names appear as Custom 1 , Custom 2 , and so on. OR Search for ... + Scan/Srch Edit Custom Select your setting, then press the scroll control. Edit Name - lets you edit the custom search range’s name. Edit Srch Limit - lets you view and select the frequency ranges to search. The scanner prompts you to enter the upper and lower search limits.
If unlocked, the scanner first scans all selected systems, then searches the selected service searches for the selected hold time (0-255 seconds). Editing a Service Search You can change the way service search works for each service. OR Search for ... + Scan/Srch 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.
• Set Lockout This setting controls whether the system is scanned when its quick key is enabled. Rotate the scroll control to select your setting, then press the scroll control. Locked - the system is not scanned Unlocked - the system is scanned Note: You can also lock or unlock a system by pressing , selecting the system, then pressing + L/O. • Set Hold Time This setting controls how many seconds the scanner scans a system before moving to the next unlocked system.
Selecting a System To store frequencies or talk group ID’s you find during Auto Store, you must first select a system where the frequencies or talk group ID’s will be stored. OR Search for ... + Scan/Srch Search and Store Select the system where you want to store the frequencies or talk group IDs If no systems are programmed, No System Stored appears. If you have already stored too many systems, Over Limit appears.
Storing a Trunked System You can store talk group ID’s into the system you selected in “Selecting a System”. Otherwise, the scanner stores talk group ID’s in a new group it creates.
Optimizing P25 Performance You can optimize the scanner’s performance with digital APCO 25 systems. Follow these steps for each system where you can hear APCO 25 traffic. Notes: • These steps work only when you can clearly receive the system. If you are in a weak-signal area or receive interference, these steps will not work. These steps do not compensate for weak signals or signals subject to interference.
Using The Close Call Feature Your scanner's Close Call ™ feature lets you set the scanner so it detects, displays the frequency of, and lets you hear a nearby strong radio transmission. You can set the scanner so the Close Call feature works "in the background" 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.
Setting Close Call Options Close Call Select your setting, then press the scroll control. Then turn the scroll control to select an option. • Close Call Only : Lets you set the scanner only for Close Call searching. The scanner does not scan frequencies or channels when this option is turned on. To select this option, press E. • CC Auto Store : Lets you select whether the scanner automatically stores Close Call hits into channels.
hit. The scanner displays CC Found! Press Any Key. When you press a key, the frequency appears. Turn the scroll control to display an option, then press the scroll control. • Set CC Alert : Lets you select how the scanner alerts you when it receives a Close Call signal. You can select any of the following options.
• Set CC Bands : Lets you select the Close Call band settings. You can turn the following bands on or off. VHF Low 1 VHF Low 2 Air Band VHF High1 VHF High2 UHF 800MHz + (25.0000-53.9900 MHz) (54.0000-107.9000 MHz) (108.0000 - 136.9875 MHz) (137.0000-224.9000 MHz) (225.0000-319.9500 MHz) (320.0000 - 512.0000 MHz) (764.0000 - 775.9875 MHz, 794.0000 - 956.0000 MHz, 1240.000 - 1300.
Search And Close Call Options The settings in this section affect custom searches, service searches, and Close Call operation. Managing Locked-Out Frequencies While searching or during Close Call operation, if you press L/O while the scanner is stopped on a frequency, 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.
Off The scanner does not search for subaudible tones. On The scanner searches for and displays any subaudible tone found. Note: This feature does not operate when the scanner is in AM/WFM modulation mode. Screening Out Broadcast Sources Srch/CloCall Opt Broadcast Screen This setting determines whether the scanner automatically ignores transmissions found during Custom Search, Service Search, or Close Call operation that are on common broadcasts, paging systems, and other annoyance radio sources.
• Band 1-10 - select the custom band where you want to screen out broadcast sources. Program Band - lets you program a custom frequency range for broadcast screen. Turn the scroll control to select an option then press the scroll control to change the setting. • Band 1-10 - select the group where you want to screen out broadcast sources. Set Lower Limit - turn the scroll control to enter the lower limit of the frequency range, then press the scroll control to set it.
Off The scanner does not try to find the output frequency. Setting the Maximum Auto Store Value Srch/CloCall Opt 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 the scroll control. When the scanner reaches the maximum number of hits you set, it stops the auto-store operation.
This setting controls the attenuator for quick search and Close Call operation. Select your setting, then press the scroll control. 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 the Delay Time Srch/CloCall Opt 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. Note: The default setting is 2 sec .
Using Tone-out Fire Tone-Out Introduction Your scanner can be set to respond to fire tone-outs that use standard two-tone sequential paging, short one-tone paging, and long group tone paging. You can save up to 10 settings. When you select a setting in standby mode, the scanner also monitors for any other setting that uses the same transmit frequency, modulation, and attenuation settings. You need tone-out setup information from the agency you wish to monitor.
• • Edit Name - Sets the name for the selected toneout setting. Set Frequency — Sets the tone-outs RF frequency parameters. Edit Frequency — Enter the desired frequency that the scanner should monitor for the tone-out. Set Modulation — Set the modulation type for the paging signal. Auto —The scanner uses the default modulation for the frequency band. If the default modulation is AM or WFM, the modulation operates as FM. FM — The scanner uses FM for the frequency band. This is the default setting.
• Set Delay Time — Sets the time the scanner remains in monitor mode after the scanner receives a page and the carrier drops. • 1-5 seconds: the scanner resumes standby mode after the carrier drops and the selected time expires. • Infinite: you must press HOLD after a page to resume standby mode. • Off: the scanner resumes standby as soon as the carrier drops after a page. • Set Alert — Sets the alert the scanner uses when it receives an alert .
Care And Maintenance General Use • Turn the scanner off before disconnecting the 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.
Repairs Do not attempt any repair. The scanner contains no user serviceable parts. Visit www.uniden.com.au (for Australia) or www.uniden.co.nz (for New Zealand) to contact customer support. 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 UBCD396T is not performing properly, try these steps. Pro blem Poss ible Cause The scanner might not be receiving any power. Make sure the AC adaptor 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 adaptor, make sure it is on. Improper reception. The antenna might need to be adjusted. Check the antenna connection or move or reposition the antenna. The scanner doesn’t work.
Scan won’t start. (continued) The squelch might need to be adjusted. Adjust the squelch threshold. See “Turning On the Scanner and Setting the Squelch” on Page 38. One or more channels might be locked out. Make sure the channels you want to scan are not locked out. The antenna might need to be adjusted. Check the antenna connection. If you experience difficulty while in TrunkTracker™ mode, try the following steps. Problem Scanner won’t track a trunked system.
Scanner won’t track a trunked system. The system you are trying to scan might be LTR or EDACS. Scanner won’t stop scanning a trunked system. No ID’s have been programmed. (continued) Scanner won’t acquire the data channel. Missing replies to conversations. The ID’s you have stored are not active. The squelch might need to be adjusted. The frequency used for the data channel might be missing. The scanner might need to be changed to a Type 1 scanner setup. The fleet map might be incorrect.
If you still cannot get satisfactory results while using your scanner or if you want additional information, please contact or write the Uniden Parts and Service Division. The address and contact number are listed in the Warranty at the end of this manual. If you have Internet access, you can visit www.uniden.com.au (Australia) or www.uniden.co.nz (New Zealand) for additional information.
Specifications Dynamic Allocation Capacity Systems: 400 max Groups: 20 per system Channels: up to 6000 (3000 typical) Channels per Trunked System: up to 200 Attenuation: 18 dB (nominal), 10 dB (limit) Frequency Range (MHz): 25.0 - 27.995 137.0 - 147.995 Above bands in 5 kHz steps 400.0 - 512.0 Above band in 6.25 kHz steps 28.0 - 69.990 Above band in 10 kHz steps 70.0 - 87.9875 108.0 - 136.9875 148.0 - 173.9875 764.0 - 775.9875 794.0 - 805.9875 806.0 - 956.0 “800” 1240.0 - 1300.0 Above bands in 12.
174.0 - 224.90 Above bands in 100 kHz steps Operating Temperature: Normal –20°C to +60°C Close Call –10°C to +60°C Scan Rate: 100 channels per second (conventional mode) Search Rate: 300 steps per second (5 kHz step only) Scan Delay: 0-5 seconds Audio Output: 400mW nominal into 24 W internal speaker 30 mW nominal into 32 W headphone 6 mW nominal into 64 W earphone Power Requirements: 3 AA Alkaline Batteries (4.5V DC), or 3 AA Rechargeable Ni-MH Batteries (3.
Weight: 260g (with batteries installed) 175g (without batteries installed) Features, specifications, and availability of optional accessories are all subject to change without notice.
Optional Accessories Visit www.uniden.com.au (for Australia) or www.uniden.co.nz (for New Zealand), for information about ordering these optional accessories.
Appendix Appendix Preset Map 1 Preset Fleet Maps Bloc k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Size Code Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Size Code 11 Preset Map 3 Bloc k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 S ize Code S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 12 (Size Code 12) Preset Map 5 Bloc k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 S ize Code S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 12 (Size Code 12) S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 S ize Code 4 Preset Map
Preset Map 9 Block 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Size Code Size Code 4 Size Code 4 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Size Code 0 Preset Map 11 Bloc k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 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 13 Bl oc k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 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 15 Bl oc k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Appendix Size Code Size Code 4 Size C
User Defined Fleet Maps Type I Programming Information When a Type I system is designed, the address information for all the ID’s is divided into 8 equal sized blocks, numbered 0–7. When you program your scanner to track a Type I system, you must select a size code for each of these blocks. When you have assigned a size code to all 8 blocks, you’ll have defined the fleet map for the system you are tracking. Each size code determines the number of fleets, subfleets, and ID’s each block will have.
conversations with ID’s assigned to the block you just programmed, then you’ve probably selected the right size code and can work on the next block of the map. Finally, for most public safety systems there are some size codes which are more common. S-3 and S-4 are probably the most common, followed by S-10, S-11, and S-12. Size Code Restrictions If you select size code S-12, S-13, or S-14, there are some restrictions as to which blocks can be used for these codes.
Planning Collecting Information Getting your scanner programmed and scanning takes a few steps. This helps guide you through these steps that will make it easier for you to start scanning. 1. Collect information about the system(s) you want to monitor. Do you want to listen to your local police and fire departments? How about the highway patrol, ambulance service, and aircraft? You might even want to listen to your local utility company as they track down a break in electrical service in your area.
• Use “Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet” on Page 129 to organize info about conventional frequencies. • Use “Filling Out The Motorola Worksheet” on Page 130 to organize information about Motorola frequencies. • Use “LTR/EDACS System Worksheet” on Page 136 to organize information about LTR and EDACS frequencies. 3.
Filling Out The Conventional System Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to create. For example, you can enter "Brisbane Police" or "Amateur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed." Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems.
Filling Out The Motorola Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to create. For example, you can enter "Brisbane Police" or "Amateur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed." Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems. System Type Circle in the type of Motorola system you are scanning. • Type 1.
System Frequencies Enter the frequencies used by the system. Motorola systems can use up to 28 frequencies. Place an asterisk or other mark next to frequencies identified as data channels. Fleet Map (Type I or Type I/Type II Hybrid Only) Fill in the fleet map used by this agency. Band Plan (VHF/UHF and P25 only) For Motorola VHF/UHF system A band plan is required so the scanner can correctly determine the voice channel frequency.
Filling Out the LTR and EDACS Worksheet System Name and Quick Key Fill in a name that describes the system you want to create. For example, you can enter "Brisbane Police" or "Amateur Radio" here. If you want to store more than one type of frequency, you can enter "Mixed." Fill in the key you want to press to quickly activate/ deactivate the system. You can assign the same quick key to multiple systems.
Conventional System Worksheet Conven tional S ystem Worksheet System Name Group Name System Quick Key Group Quick Key Frequency Priority CTCSS/DCS 133 Alpha Tag Planning
Motorola System Worksheet Motorola System Worksheet 1 System Name System Quick Key System Frequencies Type I Type II 800 MHz: Standard Splinter Type II UHF Type II VHF Type II 900MHz P25 Fleet Map Block 0 Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4 Block 5 Block 6 Block 7 Band Plan A Base Frequency Step Frequency Offset Band Plan B Base Frequency Step Frequency Offset Band Plan C Base Frequency Step Frequency Offset Planning 134
Motorola System W orksheet 2 System Name Group Name Group Quick Key Talk Group ID Alpha Tag 135 Alert Planning
LTR/EDACS System Worksheet LTR/EDACS System Worksheet 1 Syst em Name Syst em Quick Key Syst em Frequency Planning Logical Channel 136
LTR/EDACS System W orksheet 2 System Name Group Name Sys tem Quick Key Group Quick Key Talk Group ID Alpha Tag Alert 137 Planning
Warranty One Year Limited Warranty IMPORTANT: Evidence of the original purchase is required for warranty service. WARRANTOR: Uniden Australia Pty Ltd. ABN 58 001 865 498 Uniden New Zealand Limited. ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants to the original retail owner for the duration of this warranty its UBCD396T (hereinafter referred to as the Product), to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or exclusions set out below.
©2006 Uniden Australia Pty Limited, Uniden New Zealand Limited. Printed in China.
