Scanner School - Everything you wanted to know about the Scanner Radio Hobby

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask This month, we are pulling questions that were asked via our Facebook Group. Questions answered on this week's podcast 1. Is this an issue with simulcast? 2. Can You Scan Brandmeister or TGIF Talk Groups? 3. Finding information about Lehigh PA's New TRS 4. What does AI mean for the Scanner Hobby? ====================================

Digital modes, like P25, NXDN, DMR and others will use FDMA, TDMA, or both allow multiple transmissions to share a single frequency at the same time. FDMA or Frequency Division Multiple Access divides a current carrier frequency into multiple parts, allowing for multiple users to operate on the same time on the same frequency. TDMA or Time Division Multiple Access divides a current transmission over time, allowing for 2 or more users to share a the same frequency at the same time, depending on the digital protocol that is used. The ability for these digital transmissions to place multiple users on the same frequency allows for better management of the limited radio spectrum resource. Not only does this allow for more frequencies to be distributed, but allows for end licenses to do more with a single radio license. Learn the differences between FDMA and TDMA in this week's podcast. ====================================

Do you program your scanner with FM or FM Narrowband?

Imagine knowing that your scanner radio has a full signal, but you can't hear anything. Maybe you're listening to a p25 trunk system,  but you can't listen to any of the activity.  You can see your scanner is trying to go to a voice channel. It's trying to work.   But you hear nothing.  How frustrating does this sound? For many, this is a common occurrence when they try to listen to a P25 Simulcast site on their scanner radios. Let's figure out why this is happening and some simple solutions you can try to overcome simulcast.   ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask This month, we are pulling questions that were asked via Facebook Messenger. ▶︎ How do I log P25 Radio IDs? ▶︎ Where can I find a manual for a Uniden BC950XLT? ▶︎ How can I fix a battery door on a SDS100 that will not close? ▶︎ Where can I find a list of Radio IDs for a Trunk system? ====================================

The Nextel Conundrum: Originally established as a convenient communication solution for small businesses, Nextel swiftly expanded its services to include cellular telephony.    However, the positioning of Nextel within the RF spectrum, sandwiched besides public safety frequencies, combined with its network built for capacity, led to unprecedented challenges.    The dense clustering of Nextel sites interfered with public safety radios, prompting the necessity for rebanding. Rebanding entailed a complex realignment of frequencies to mitigate interference issues. This intricate shuffle involved relocating Nextel closer to cellular carriers while carving out exclusive bands for public safety entities. This relocation of the 800Mhz public safety spectrum, known as rebanding, posed a significant problem for scanner enthusiasts who monitored many Motorola trunking systems in the 800Mhz band.   The impact of rebanding reverberated through the scanner radio community, rendering many radios obsolete overnight.    Today, we still need to be aware of systems that are operating in the rebanded spectrum and ensure our radios are programmed correctly to monitor these systems.   ====================================

Once upon a time, we only had analog trunked radio systems.   These systems all had analog voice talk groups. These systems included Motorola Type I, Motorola Type IIi, Motorola Type II, EDACS, and LTR systems. Today, we are living in a digital trunked environment, where there are no analog voice channels.  All voice is done using a form of digital modulation.   These systems include P25, DMR, and NXDN. But, we had an in between.  This is where we had digital talk groups on an analog trunked system.  On a Motorola Type II system, we could find P25 talk groups.  On EDACS systems, we'd find ProVoice talk groups. This podcast will discuss analog and digital systems, and explain why our older P25 scanners like a Uniden BC785D will not work on today's P25 Trunked systems. ====================================

  There are two distinct flavors of trunked radio systems that we need to be aware of when programming our scanners. There are systems that require that every frequency for each site be programmed into their pre-determined channel number, and those that do not. Systems that require every frequency be programmed into our scanners in their designated sequence are Logical Channel Numbered systems and include EDACS, LTR, and all flavors of DMR. Control channel only systems only require the control channels to be programmed into our scanners, as those systems have a predetermined channel mapping as part of their system protocol.   These systems include Motorola Type II systems and P25 Trunked systems. However, don't let "Control Channel Only" fool you.  There is a best practice that you should be aware of that most miss when programming your scanners.  We cover that and more in this week's podcast.   ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask Don't forget to join us on YouTube on the first Tuesday of every month for our live Q&A session.   Click here to Subscribe! Questions answered on this week's podcast 1. Jenny has a question about a strange signal she is hearing on her scanner 2. Garrett would like to know about picking up Low Band VHF with his SDR's antenna ====================================

Did you know that trunked radio systems are just like an orchestra? There are several parts in each that work in harmony.   In our latest podcast, we compare the two to make it easier for you to understand exactly how a trunked system works. We also dive into why trunked systems are an excellent way of utilizing the limited radio frequency resources. YOUTUBE LINK TBD ========= ===========================

Conventional is the "OG" when it comes to scanning. Every scanner radio that has ever been sold can receive conventional (analog) signals. This week's session of Scanner Radio University will break down several modes of conventional transmissions you can receive with your scanner radio.

Welcome to the first in a series of classes that we are calling "Scanner Radio University". Over the next several weeks and months, we will be covering topics that will not only be geared towards those just entering the hobby, but topics that maybe you needed to overlook because a lot of today scanners just work out of the box or with computer assisted programming. This week, we will cover the basics of what scanner radio is, who uses them, where to buy one, and where to get help.

Discover the incredible story behind my love for scanner radios. Join me as I reminisce about my first scanner radio and how it sparked my lifelong passion to helping others with the scanner radio hobby.

The Yaesu FT-60R has to be one of the longest radios available for purchase. First released in 2004, the FT-60R is still for sale, 20 years later! Yes, this is a Ham Radio, but this rugged two way radio has a wide enough receiver that it could be used as a conventional only scanner radio. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles that most scanner radios have, this radio has enough going for it that the losses can be overlooked. Today's review is broken down into 3 parts.   A general summary review, a amateur radio review, and a scanner radio review. ====================================

We've made it through another year. Here is a quick rundown of what we did in 2023 and what is planned for Scanner School in 2024. ====================================

Are you looking for a last minute Scanner Radio gift this holiday season? Do you need something for yourself or someone else? Here is a list of Scanner Radio accessories that you can have as a gift in just a few days. ====================================

How does the Radio Reference obtain the data that it publishes? Is it from Federal Licensed Databases or other online frequency repositories?   Nope! It comes from Scannerds like you and I.   In other words, the data that is inside the Radio Reference database is user contributed data that has been confirmed. We'll cover how you can find and submit data in this podcast episode, and cover the differences between paid and premium accounts. ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask Don't forget to join us on YouTube on the first Tuesday of every month for our live Q&A session.  Questions answered on this week's podcast Ralph is looking for help using DSD Plus and his Scanner Danny has a few questions about setting up a Software Defined Radio Terry would like to know what the best Apps for the Scanner Radio Hobby. ====================================

Garrett Farwell returns to the podcast this week to talk about his recent trip from California to Colorado aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr. How does a “Scannerd” occupy their time while on a multi-day and multi-state land cruise?   With their portable scanner of course! Garrett shares how he prepared for his trip using online resources to find frequencies he might be interested in monitoring on his journey and how one last minute surprise really helped him get his trip off on the right “track”. I always look forward to having Garrett on the podcast and would like to thank him again for sharing what he has learned on this trip with the “Scannerd” community. ====================================

David Vine returns to the podcast this week to share alternative uses to Ham Radios. Not only can you use VHF and UHF Ham Radios to talk and monitor amateur radio frequencies, but you can use most of them to monitor outside the amateur radio band.  This means many ham radios can also be used as basic scanner radios. Frequencies that can be monitored will vary by make and model, but for the most part, expect to be able to monitor the VHF and UHF public safety bands with a VHF or UHF ham radio. Setting up scan lists and alpha tagging frequencies are most likely different from what you are used to with your scanner, but if you learn how to use a radio within its limits, you may find that having a ham radio and using it as a receiver, could really add value to your radio collection. And yes, I do give Baofeng radios a virtual poke in the ribs, but if you can use a radio like that or something similar to monitor a single or short list of conventional analog channels, then that could free up your scanner to monitor other activity.   And the more radios you have monitoring less frequencies, then the more activity you'll hear and enjoy. ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting scannerschool.com/ask   Questions answered on this week's podcast Scott would like to know how to make his scanner scan faster Derek is looking for a scanner that has a display that is easy to see and will work well in his area. ====================================

Scanners and Receivers are more cousins than brothers and sisters. Both receive frequencies, both can scan frequencies, and both do not transmit. However, each has their own strong points and weaknesses when it comes to tuning, range, and features. Found out if you should buy a receiver for your radio arsenal in this podcast episode.   ====================================

Are you looking for a creative way to build a radio bond with your child? Have you tried to scan something they can relate to, such as their own school? When your child hears a teacher, faculty, or staff that they know and can recognize talking on the radio, it could spark an interest for scanning within them. Scanning your child's school can also be of interest during times where the school has engaged their own safety protocols and have locked down.   Or, it could be interesting to hear about late pickups, routine maintenance, or other day to day activities. Remember, there is more to scanning than just public safety, and the secrets are in the searches! ====================================

For many, you can't talk about scanning without mentioning Larry Van Horn. Larry has influenced many in the hobby when it comes to Military Monitoring.    He wrote for Monitoring Time Magazine for many years and continued to write for “The Spectrum Monitor” once MT ceased publication. Not only was Larry a wealth of information when it came to Military Monitoring, but his yearly airshow columns were second to none. Larry, N5FPW, spent many years monitoring and sharing information.  Larry was special, in that he never forgot anything, which helped when writing his many column and publications. This week's podcast is a conversation Larry and I had that originally aired as Podcast # 178. Larry's legacy will live on for decades to come and I know I'll miss his columns on future editions of TSM. Larry Van Horn, N5FPW, retired US Navy Chief Petty Officer, Author, Contributor, mentor, and friend.   You will be missed. ====================================

If you've ever wanted to create or build your own scanner accessories, 3D printing may be an exciting avenue to start exploring. Matt Neely has been bitten by the 3D Printing bug, and has already printed many scanner radio accessories for a fraction of what ‘store bought' products would cost. Imagine printing your own replacement parts.  This includes belt clips, channel, squelch, and volume control knobs.   Maybe even SDS100 battery door retainer clips or desk stands. Free plans for many parts and pieces are available right now on thingaverse.com And you might even be able to create these parts locally, even if you don't already own a 3D Printer of your own. Matt knows all the ins and outs of printing replacement parts at home, and will teach you how to create your own on today's podcast. ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting https://www.scannerschool.com/ask Don't forget to join us on YouTube on the first Tuesday of every month for our live Q&A session.  https://www.scannerschool.com/youtube Questions answered on this week's podcast Joe would like help understanding how trunked systems work and how they are programmed into a scanner Gary is traveling and would like help with GPS scanning and monitoring CB traffic ====================================

Icom recently displayed their newest receiver at the 2023 Tokyo Hamfest. This is being called the successor to the IC-R30, but I completely disagree.  It lacks most of the features that made the IC-R30 great.  To call it a successor, based on the released specs, is an insult to the former model. The IC-R15 looks to be a neutered receiver and does not include the frequency ranges commonly found on most of the Icom receivers that predated this new model. I, for one, am hopeful that these preliminary specs are incorrect and we will see a more robust version of this receiver come from Icom in the next few months. ====================================

300 Weekly Episodes!   12 Weeks shy of 6 years!   All I can say is WOW! Instead of spending a lot of time looking back at the last 300 episodes, let's talk about what the plans are for the next 6 years or 300 episodes of the podcast. Yes - the podcast will remain - but there is something new that is in the works that will make the podcast even better, and more enjoyable for you. Thank you all for your support over the last 300 episodes.     ====================================

Finally - after 20 years in my house I'm finally able to build my radio room the way I want it. I've had 2 temporary locations that always looked like a hodgepodge of radios, computers, and wires.  Frankly, each was an embarrassment in their own right. But - no matter how bad they looked in my opinion, they were functional. And that is the story here!   Whether you have a single radio on a desk, nightstand, or on your hip, whatever works best for you is perfectly fine!  We don't need perfect places to call home to our radios.   Will my new room be perfect?   I hope so, but I'm sure there will be things I'm going to want to change before I even start putting my radios back onto my desks. Follow me on my social media channels to get a glimpse of this new spot, what it means to the podcast, and what new topics this new room will allow me to create.   Links are at the bottom of this description.   ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask Don't forget to join us on YouTube on the first Tuesday of every month for our live Q&A session.   Click here to Subscribe! Questions answered on this week's podcast Rob would like to disable Zip Code scanning and enable his favorites lists on his scanner. David has a question about how well Zip Code scanning works   ====================================

Do you want to be known as your community's go to guy or gal for scanner radio help and programming? Luke Hartnett is known in his firehouse as being the point of contact for any radio issues other members may have.   And by word of mouth, he is quickly becoming known in his area for being a "Scanner Scholar". Hear how Luke built trust with those around him, networked with other radio users, and because known as "The Guru" in his community on today's podcast.   ====================================

Finally - not one, but TWO new scanners from Uniden. Should we be excited about these two new radios, or should we pass on them? That all depends on your location and your needs. See, these scanners break the mold and give us something we've never seen before A scanner radio, with no trunking, no P25, but supports DMR and NXDN. Who is this radio for? The answers are in this week's podcast.   ====================================

Looking to level-up your portable scanner radios? Today's podcast covers 10 must have accessories every user needs. A shortlist of what we cover (with affiliate links): Easier To Read Manuals https://www.scannermaster.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=500&Click=6262 Aftermarket Antennas http://www.scannermaster.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=27&Click=6262 Protective Cases http://www.scannermaster.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=41&Click=6262 ====================================

Scanner radios, with some small exceptions, come in two form factors.  Handheld for portable use, or desktop/mobile for single location installations. Which type of scanner is right for your needs?  If you are looking for your first or next scanner and can't decide between a handheld or desktop scanner, I have 5 reasons why you should consider a portable radio. ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask Don't forget to join us on YouTube on the first Tuesday of every month for our live Q&A session.   Click here to Subscribe! Questions answered on this week's podcast Rob would like to disable Zip Code scanning and enable his favorites lists on his scanner. David has a question about how well Zip Code scanning works   ====================================

Like it or not, digital is here to stay. Why are more agencies and licenses digital instead of analog? Should you upgrade right now or do you wait? And no... it always doesn't have to do with encryption. And this does not mean it's the end of the scanner radio hobby.  Not by a long shot! ====================================

Be part of the action! Hear breaking news reports directly from an eye in the sky. Receive your traffic updates every minute or two instead of when the local FM Radio Station wants to cycle the traffic reports every 10 minutes. Monitoring Traffic and News helicopters is usually something you can monitor with an analog only scanner.   But as is the case in some locations, what you can and cannot listen to may vary based on where you live. Using your favorite flight tracking app or website, you can also set up notification to alert you when media helicopter are airborne and possibly on the scene of breaking news.   ====================================

Patients who run out of patience. Missing kids, life saving alerts, and routine messages. Hospitals can be exciting to monitor!   You never know what might come next. And as many of you know, I had a short stay in a hospital a few months ago.   Finding those frequencies and talk groups were not as easy as looking at Radio Reference.   The hospital I was staying at was not in the database.  This podcast explains how I was able to find those frequencies and talkgroups. In addition, we had a few emergency room visits with no warning in the distand and recent past.  Having a radio already programmed for a local hospital could be handy to have. ====================================

Every month I answer your questions on the podcast. If you have a question you would like me to answer, please leave me a voicemail at 516-308-2885 or by visiting www.scannerschool.com/ask Don't forget to join us on YouTube on the first Tuesday of every month for our live Q&A session.   Click here to Subscribe! Questions answered on this week's podcast Bill wants to know about the placement of a transmitter antenna in relation to his scanner (receiving) antenna Jim wants to know why his SDS100 can hear a talk group but his BCT15X cannot   ====================================

This coming weekend, the 4th Saturday of June, Field Day.  An annual test of emergency preparedness in the amateur radio community and a contest to see how many other stations you can make contact with in 24 hours. Tom Dean, KC2SJM, joins us today to speak about how much fun he is having on amateur radio, without the need to advance beyond the technician class license. Tom speaks all over the word and is active in his local community.  Helping the Red Cross during drills, local races and hamfest, and enjoying the local ham radio community.  If you are interested in amateur radio and hear this podcast before the weekend, check out http://www.arrl.org/field-day-locator to find a local group in your area.  You don't need to be an active ham or licensed to stop by a club and check it out. Tom can be reached on twitter at https://www.twitter.com/kc2sjm   ====================================

I want to welcome a great radio friend, David Vine back to the podcast this week. David has a wealth of information when it comes to the radio hobby and has many presentations that he's prepared for multiple radio groups. David returns this week to share a presentation about how frequencies are distributed and organized here in the United States, and across the world. Frequency Allocation is important, because it not only helps vendors create RF Hardware for certain end users.  For example, transmitters, radios, antennas, and back end and interoperable equipment.   Allocation is also important so that adjacent countries can plan between each other and even satellite uplinks and downlinks can remain on spectrum that will not be interfered with. Allocation is important when it comes to global communication with both aviation and marine traffic. I love having David on the podcast, and I hope that he returns again soon to share another presentation. ====================================

I want to take a second away from the scanner radio hobby to talk about my battle with Prostate Cancer. I'd like to share my story as a warning. If you are one who skips yearly physicals, I hope this persuades you into going. Why?  Because it was a simple blood test at a physical that uncovered my Stage 3 Cancer. I had no symptoms.  There were no flashing lights or red flags.   And only a doctor's check box on a blood screen uncovered what was hidden and lurking inside of me. This is a story of my diagnosis and treatment to date (presurgery). We'll return to our normal scanner radio content next week.   ====================================

Did you know you can listen to the International Space Station or “Brazilian Pirates” from your backyard? With correct software, you can download weather images directly from satellites. Or, you may be able to receive Slow Scan TV images (SSTV) and earn certificates just for participating?

Amateur Radio Operators are very resourceful when it comes to surplus equipment. Did you know that there are P25, NXDN, and DMR amateur radio repeaters in most corners of the world?   These repeaters are easily linked, allowing world wide communications during emergencies, events, and day to day activities. There are also HAM specific digital voice networks, like DSTAR, YSF, and M17 that you can easily monitor. There is also a Scanner Radio Net on DMR you can check out.  Details are in the podcast. ====================================