How to program scanner for police?

How to Program a Scanner for Police

As a police scanner enthusiast, you might be wondering how to program a scanner to receive police frequencies. Programming a scanner can be a bit technical, but with the right guidance, you can get started in no time. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to program a scanner for police frequencies.

What You Need to Get Started

Before we dive into the programming process, make sure you have the following:

• A police scanner (also known as a radio scanner or surveillance receiver)
• A frequency list or database for police frequencies in your area
• A programming cable (if your scanner requires one)
• A computer with internet access (optional)

Understanding Police Frequencies

Police frequencies are the channels used by law enforcement agencies to communicate with each other. These frequencies are divided into two main categories: VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency). VHF frequencies range from 30 to 300 MHz, while UHF frequencies range from 300 to 3000 MHz.

Here are some common police frequency ranges:

• VHF: 155.040 MHz (police department frequency)
• UHF: 460.0375 MHz (police department frequency)
• Trunked frequencies: 800 MHz (used for digital trunked systems)

Programming Your Scanner

Now that you have the necessary equipment and understanding of police frequencies, it’s time to program your scanner. The programming process may vary depending on your scanner model, so refer to your scanner’s manual or online documentation for specific instructions.

Step 1: Set the Scanner to the Correct Mode

Your scanner may have different modes, such as Simplex, Repeat, or Trunktrack. Set your scanner to the correct mode depending on the type of police frequencies you want to receive.

• Simplex: Use this mode for single-frequency reception.
• Repeat: Use this mode for receiving frequencies with repeaters.
• Trunktrack: Use this mode for receiving trunked frequencies.

Step 2: Enter the Frequencies

Enter the police frequencies you want to receive into your scanner. You can do this using the following methods:

• Frequency List: Use a frequency list or database to input the frequencies. You can find these lists online or in your scanner’s manual.
• Manual Entry: Enter the frequencies manually using your scanner’s keypad or menu.

Step 3: Set the Channel Spacing

Channel spacing refers to the distance between two frequencies. Set your scanner to the correct channel spacing depending on the type of police frequencies you’re receiving.

• 5 kHz: Use this channel spacing for VHF frequencies.
• 12.5 kHz: Use this channel spacing for UHF frequencies.

Step 4: Set the Squelch

Squelch is a feature that reduces noise and interference on your scanner. Set your squelch level to a low setting (usually around 3-5) to receive weak signals.

Step 5: Set the Scan Delay

Scan delay refers to the time your scanner waits before scanning to the next frequency. Set your scan delay to a low setting (usually around 1-2 seconds) to receive timely updates.

Programming Tables

Here are some examples of programming tables for different police frequencies:

Troubleshooting Tips

• Frequency Not Found: Check your frequency list or database for errors or incorrect frequencies.
• Poor Reception: Adjust your antenna or squelch level to improve reception.
• Interference: Move to a different location or adjust your scanner’s sensitivity to reduce interference.

Conclusion

Programming a scanner for police frequencies requires some technical knowledge, but with the right guidance, you can get started in no time. Remember to set your scanner to the correct mode, enter the frequencies, set the channel spacing, set the squelch, and set the scan delay. With practice and patience, you’ll be receiving police frequencies in no time. Happy scanning!