Uniden Bct 8 Radio Scanner Owners Manual

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PL1 (plan 1): This plan is the most common. Use Plan 1 if the last three digits of ALL the
frequencies in use end in one of the following three digits: 125, 375, 625, or 875 (example:
856.1125, 860.7375, 859.6625, 855.8875).
PL2 (plan 2): If the last three digits of frequencies are less than 860.000 and end in one of
the following three digits (125, 375, 625, or 875) and if ANY other frequencies end in (000,
250, 500, or 750) use Plan 2.
PL3 (plan 3): If the last three digits of ALL the frequencies in use end in one of the
following three digits (000, 250, 500, or 750) use Plan 3.
PL4 (plan 4): If the last three digits of frequencies are less than 866.0000 and end in one
of the following three digits (000, 250, 500, or 750) and if ANY other frequencies end in
(125, 375, 625, or 875) use Plan 4.
Of course you will know the Control Channel frequency itself so that will help you determine
the proper plan. If you try one plan and you receive errors (such as the scanner jumping to
channels that are obviously not part of the system), you should try an alternate Plan.
Note:•You can assign a Fleet Map to TYPE 1 or Hybrid systems scanned in Control
Channel Only mode by going into the Trunk Programming mode. You can also pro-
gram IDs, set a delay, and all the other parameters for systems scanned in this
mode. You can then either search the system to find new IDs or you can program
IDs into memory and then scan them.
•The Control Channel Only feature is an extremely powerful tool. You can use it to
determine if systems you are familiar with may have added new frequencies or you
can use it to discover new systems by simply finding active control channels (using
Search) and then programming them for Control Channel operation only.
Remember that this feature only applies to Motorola 800 systems, that you do have
to set the proper system type (800 MHz of Type 1 or Type 2) and you do have to
program the Control Channel frequency into memory and identify the frequency as
trunked in the Trunk Programming mode.
Disconnect Tone Detect Option (End Code)
When this function is disabled, the radio looks for squelch before returning to the Control
Channel instead of waiting for the Disconnect Tone. Only in rare instances will you need to
adjust the default settings. The condition to return to Control Channels depends on whether
the signal is present or not.
1.  Press and hold 
TRUNKfor 1.5 seconds and select the bank you want to change.
2. Use the 
or key to select  (Motorola TYPE2 800MHz),  (Motorola Type2
VHF) or  (Motorola Type2 UHF), then press 
E.
3. Use the 
or key to select  , then press E.
4. Use the 
or key to select  or  , then press E.
Note: Set the SQLcontrol so that you hear a hissing, and the scanner will remain on the
voice channel (even when a disconnect tone is transmitted or there is no signal at
all). 
						

							Remote Interface
You can communicate and program your BCT8 in numerous ways with peripheral devices
using a Remote Interface Cable port. This radio offers the following modes:
❖PC Control mode
Program and control your scanner from a PC using Uniden’s BCT8 Scanner Software.
❖Clone mode
Clone all the frequencies, trunking talkgroups, and fleet maps programmed into your
scanner to another BCT8 scanner or another BCT8.
PC Control Mode
To connect Scanner to PC:
Plug the scanner end of the RS232C straight cable into the remote port which is on the rear
of the scanner. Plug the other end of the cable (DB-9 serial connector) into a personal
computer’s serial port. A few PC’s may require an adapter, most will not. Of course, make
sure your PC is turned ON.
To program your scanner:
You can program and control your scanner remotely from a PC using Uniden’s BCT8
Scanner software.
After connecting the scanner to a PC, turn the scanner ON.
To use the Remote (PC Control) mode, you must install Uniden’s BCT8 Scanner software
and use as directed. Make sure that your scanner is connected to the serial port of the PC
using the RS232C straight cable.
ANT.EXT.
SP.DC  12V REMOTE
48 
						

							49
Start Remote Mode and Change Transfer Speed:
1.  Press and hold RMTfor 2 seconds to activate the Remote
mode.
2.  Select the transfer speed except for  , then press 
Eand
the scanner will start Remote mode. 
A unique feature of the BCT8 is that all the front panel keys on the radio remain operational
in Remote mode.
For information on purchasing BCT8 Scanner software to program and control your BCT8,
you can contact the following:
Uniden Parts Department (800) 554-3988 
(Hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time 
Monday through Friday)
scanner.uniden.com
PC Control Parameter
For your information:
Transfer speed : 9600/19200/38400/57600 bps (adjustable)
Start/Stop bit : 1 bit, 1 bit
Data Length : 8 bit
Parity Check : None
Code : ASCII code
Flow Control : None
Return Code : Carriage Return only
Clone Mode
You will need to purchase a RS232C straight cable a null modem adapter. RS232C straight
cables are available as male to male or male to female. Even if the RS232C straight cable
you buy already has the male to male connectors, you will still have to have the null modem
adapter. On the next page you will see the pin connections that are internal to a standard
device. (These items are available at your local electronics stores.) 
						

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To connect the Scanner to Scanner:
Plug the male end of the RS232C straight interface cable into the
remote port on the rear of one of the two scanners. Then connect the
DB-9 to DB-9 null modem adapter to the cable. Plug the other end of
the null modem adapter into the other scanner (DB9 Gender Changers
are also available at your local electronics store.).
You can clone all of the programming of one BCT8 into another, including frequencies,
talkgroup IDs, delay settings, etc. After connecting the two scanners, turn the radios ON.
Prepare each scanner for clone mode as follows.
After connecting the two scanners, make sure the scanners are turned off.
1.  While you press and hold 
E, turn the radio on for each scanner.
2. Determine the scanner which has the frequency data that you want to transfer. This one
must be set up as the First Unit, and the other must be set as the Clone Unit.
3. On the scanner that is the Clone Unit, use the 
or key
to select  , then press 
HOLD/RESUME.
4. On the scanner that is the First Unit, use the 
or key to
select  , then press 
HOLD/RESUME.
ANT.EXT.
SP.DC  12V REMOTEANT.EXT.
SP.DC  12V REMOTE
Female
DB9Male
DB9
14
23
32
46 & 1
55
64
78
87
9Not used
Null Modem Adapter 
Pin connections 
						

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5. The data transfer begins from the First Unit to the Clone Unit.
During the data transfer, both scanners show the following
displays.
When the data transfer is complete,  displays.
If the data transfer is not successful, the following error
message will appear.
Note:•To clear  , press  (decimal key).
Note•Once you have completed the cloning of the scanners, reset the scanners by
turning the scanners OFF and then ON again. This is particularly important to know
if you wish to clone another scanner right away.
.
send data
receive data 
						

							Care and Maintenance
General Use
•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. 
The display shows 000.0000 in all channels when there has been a memory loss.
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 may provide better reception.
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 may be receiving a birdie. Birdies are internally generated
signals inherent in the electronics of the receiver.
Press 
L/Oto lockout the channel, and then press HOLD/RESUMEto resume scanning.
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Troubleshooting
If your BCT8 is not performing properly, try the following steps.
Problem Suggestion
1. Make sure you are scanning in Highway Mode.
2. Check antenna connections.
3. Conditions to activate the alarm are variable and depend upon the timing of 
the dispatcher transmissions and proximity of patrol car to your vehicle. Also, 
terrain and other factors may be involved.
4. Officer has the ability to turn off the mobile extender when off-duty, or when 
going to court, etc., but will normally leave extender operating when on traffic 
duty.
5. If you’re monitoring user-programmed frequencies, switch to one of the 
preprogrammed frequency banks.
6. Check to see if MUTE and FLASH are both turned off.
7. Some priority frequencies may be locked out.
1. Check the connections at both ends of the AC Adapter.
2. Turn ON the wall switch of your room. You could be using an outlet 
controlled by the wall switch.
3. Move the AC Adapter to another wall outlet.
1. Check the antenna connection.
2. Move the scanner.
3. You may be in a remote area which could require an optional multi-band 
antenna. Check with your dealer or local electronics store.
1. Adjust squelch threshold - refer to page 15, Setting the Squelch.
2. Check the antenna connection.
3. Check to see if many of the channels are Locked Out. 
If so, the scanner has less chance of finding an active channel. 
4. Review each channels frequency to see if it is still stored in Memory and is 
correct.
5. Its possible that none of the programmed frequencies are currently active.
1. Press 
PVT key again.
2. Adjust the SQL control.
3. Check to see if all channels are Locked Out.
1. Adjust squelch threshold - refer to page 15, Setting the Squelch.
2. Check the antenna.
1. The priority system is checking for alarms. Use HOLD/RESUME to hold on 
a frequency without checking priority channels every two seconds.
2. Select Priority off mode or Priority only mode. Going by patrol cars and 
not receiving alarms.
Scanner wont work.
Improper reception.
Scan wont stop.
Scan wont start.
Weather Scan wont 
work.
Radio transmissions 
(conversations) are 
cutting in and out in 
Highway mode. 
						

							If you experience difficulty while in TrunkTracker mode, try the following steps.
If you still cannot get satisfactory results while using your scanner or if you want additional
information, please call or write the Uniden Parts and Service Division. The address and
phone number is listed in the warranty at the end of this manual. If you would like immediate
assistance, please call Customer Service at (800)297-1023.
If you have internet access, you can visit 
scanner.uniden.comfor additional information.       
Problem Suggestion
1. Missing the Data Frequency.
2. Change to a Type 1 Scanner setup. 
Review Fleet Map Programming on page 45.
1. No IDs have been programmed.
2. The IDs you have stored are not active.
1. Adjust the squelch for Trunking mode - refer to page 29.
2. Missing the frequency used for the data channel. 
Check your frequency list.
1. Change a Type 1 scanner setup. 
Review Fleet Map Programming on page 44.
2. Try another Preset Fleet Map or Program your own Fleet Map.
3. Check to see that all of the systems frequencies have been entered.
1. May be a telephone interconnect call, which are intentionally blocked by 
your scanner.
2. The ID on your display is not active.
1. Logical channel numbers (frequencies) for the system are not programmed 
in the correct order. Check frequency resources and reprogram.
2. Not all frequencies for the system are programmed. 
Check frequency resources. Scanner wont track.
Scanner wont stop 
during Scan List mode. 
Scanner will not acquire 
data channel.
Missing replies to 
conversations.
Channel Activity 
Indicators are flashing 
but no sound is heard.
Scanner not tracking an 
EDACS system properly.
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Specifications
Certified in accordance with FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15, Subpart C, as of date 
of manufacture.
Channel: 250
Banks: 5 (50 channels each)
Service Bands: 9 preprogrammed search bands
(including the NOAA and Canada Weather Service band)
Frequency Range: 25.0-28.0 MHz Petroleum Prod., CB Class D channels,
Business and Forest Products
28.0-30.0 MHz 10 Meter Amateur Band
30.0-50.0 MHz VHF Low Band
50.0-54.0 MHz 6 Meter Amateur Band
108-137 MHz Aircraft Band
137-144 MHz Military Land Mobile
144-148 MHz  2 Meter Amateur Band
148-174 MHz VHF High Band
400-420 MHz Federal Government
420-450 MHz 70 cm Amateur Band
450-470 MHz UHF Standard Band
470-512 MHz UHF T Band
806-956 MHz 800 Band
Operating Temperature:–20 °C to +60 °C (-4 °F to +140 °F)
Scan Rate: 100 channels per second (conventional mode)
Search Rate: 100 steps per second (Normal Search)
300 steps per second (Turbo Search)
Audio Output: Maximum 2.6W (2.2W normal @ 10% THD)
Internal Speaker: 8 ohms (57 mm outer diameter)
Power Requirements: AD140U AC Adapter (12V DC, 500mA)
Antenna: Telescopic Antenna (included)
Window Mount Antenna (included)
Antenna Jack: BNC type
External Jacks: External Speaker (EXT.SP.) (3.5 mm)
DC 12 V Power Jack, (center is positive)
Remote Control (REMOTE) Jack (DB-9)
Size: 7.06 in. (W) x 6.10 in. (D) x 2.44 in. (H)
176.5mm (W) x 152.5mm (D) x 50.8mm (H)
Weight: 1.1 kg (2 lbs 7 oz.)
Features and specifications are all subject to change without notice. 
						

							Appendix
State Code Order
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32AK
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AR
AZ
CA
CO
CT
DC
DE
FL
GA
IA
ID
IL
IN
KS
KY
LA
MA
MD
ME
MI
MN
MO
MS
MT
NC
ND
NE
NH
NJ
NMAlaska
Alabama
Arkansas
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Iowa
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Massachusetts
Maryland
Maine
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Mississippi
Montana
North Carolina
North Dakota
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
NO. Code State Name NO. Code State Name
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64NV
NY
OH
OK
OR
PA
RI
SC
SD
TN
TX
UT
VA
VT
WA
WI
WV
WYNevada
New York
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Vermont
Washington
Wisconsin
West Virginia
Wyoming
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