Uniden Firmware Updates for 2025 Are Here!

By /

Great news for our radio scanning community! Uniden has rolled out fresh firmware updates in 2025 for some of their most popular scanner models, including the SDS100, SDS200, BCD325P2, and BCD996P2. These updates bring improved performance, new features, and bug fixes that’ll keep your scanners in top shape for monitoring police, fire, and other radio traffic across our region. Here’s the scoop—and a step-by-step guide to get your devices updated—so you can stay ahead of the airwaves.

What’s New in the Uniden Firmware Updates?

Uniden kicked off 2025 with firmware releases that tweak and enhance scanner functionality. The latest update, version 1.23.15 Main (released March 20, 2025) for the SDS100 and SDS200, dropped alongside sub-version 1.03.06 from mid-2024. Here’s what’s included:

  • DMR Tier 3 Enhancements: Improved support for DMR Tier 3 Multi-Block VCH Grant and better detection of Capacity Max late-entry messages. This means clearer tracking of digital systems—great for keeping tabs on modern fire and EMS comms in SoCal.
  • Weather Alerts Upgrade: New EAS event codes (SQW, BLU) were added, sharpening your scanner’s ability to pick up weather-related broadcasts—a must with our unpredictable fire seasons.
  • Performance Boosts: Past updates (like 1.23.07 from 2024) refined digital reception and signal accuracy, and these latest tweaks build on that, ensuring your scanner locks onto signals faster and more reliably.

For the BCD325P2 and BCD996P2, Uniden’s DMA scanners got their own love with a recent update via the BC_VUP3 tool. While the full changelog isn’t public yet, expect similar digital decoding improvements and stability fixes—perfect for catching LAPD’s arson busts or Cal Fire’s wildfire dispatches.

Why Update?

With Southern California’s wild 2025 so far—think the Eaton and Palisades fires and ongoing police activity—these updates ensure your scanner catches every critical transmission. Better digital decoding means less garble during chaotic fire responses, and updated weather codes keep you in the loop during La Niña-driven storms. Plus, who doesn’t love a smoother scanning experience?

How to Update Your Uniden Scanner

Updating your scanner is straightforward, whether you’ve got an SDS model or a DMA classic. Here’s how to do it: Grab your scanner, a USB cable, and a computer, and let’s get started!

For SDS100 and SDS200 (Using Sentinel Software):

  1. Download Sentinel: Head to Uniden’s support page, enter your model (SDS100 or SDS200), and grab the latest Sentinel software (version 2.03 or higher as of 2025).
  2. Install and Open: Install Sentinel on your computer, then launch it.
  3. Connect Your Scanner: Use the USB cable to connect your scanner to your PC. Ensure it’s powered on (use fresh batteries for the SDS100!).
  4. Check for Updates: In Sentinel, click “Update” in the top menu, then select “Update Firmware.” The software will check for the latest version (1.23.15 as of March 20).
  5. Backup First: Before updating, save your current settings—go to “File” > “Write to Scanner” to back up your favorites lists.
  6. Run the Update: If 1.23.15 is available, click “OK” to download and install it. It’ll take a few minutes—watch the progress bar.
  7. Finish Up: Once it says “Update Complete,” unplug your scanner, restart it, and test it out. If anything resets, you might need to tweak settings.

For BCD325P2 and BCD996P2 (Using BC_VUP3):

  1. Get the Tool: Visit Uniden’s support page, search for your model, and download the “BC_VUP3 Firmware Updater for DMA Scanners.”
  2. Install It: Unzip the file, run “Setup.exe” (not Setup.msi), and install the BC_VUP3 app.
  3. Hook Up Your Scanner: Connect your scanner to your PC via USB. Ensure it’s on and charged.
  4. Launch BC_VUP3: Open the app, and it’ll detect your scanner. Select your model from the list.
  5. Update Time: Click “Update Firmware” and follow the prompts to load the latest version. The wizard will guide you through the process.
  6. Wrap It Up: When done, disconnect, power cycle your scanner, and give it a spin.

Pro Tips:

  • Power Prep: To avoid interruptions, start with fully charged batteries for portable units like the SDS100 or BCD325P2.
  • Double-check: After updating, scan some local frequencies (LAFD, LASD, etc.) to confirm everything’s working.
  • Need Help? If you hit a snag, Uniden’s support site has detailed guides.

© 2025 Southern California Monitoring Association – All rights reserved

Scroll to Top