Uniden BCD536HP

The Uniden BCD536HP is a flagship base/mobile digital scanner from Uniden, part of the HomePatrol series, known for its ease of use and advanced features. Below is a detailed breakdown of its specifications, release information, frequency coverage, and supported modes based on available data and Uniden’s product history.

Release Date

The Uniden BCD536HP was introduced to the market in early 2014. It was launched alongside its handheld counterpart, the BCD436HP, marking a significant update to Uniden’s scanner lineup with the inclusion of HomePatrol-style programming and Wi-Fi connectivity, which were innovative features at the time.

Specifications

  • Type: Base/Mobile Digital Scanner
  • Display: Backlit LCD with keypad illumination, multi-level brightness control
  • Memory: 4GB microSD card (included) preloaded with the entire USA and Canada radio system database from RadioReference; supports user-created Favorites Lists and audio recording
  • Power Requirements:
    • AC/DC Adapter: 13.8V DC, 750mA (regulated)
    • DC: 11V to 16.6V (for mobile use)
  • Connectivity:
    • USB Mini B port (front panel) for PC connectivity and firmware/database updates
    • Wi-Fi dongle (included) for remote control via smartphone/tablet using the Uniden Siren app
    • Serial (DB-9) GPS input for location-based scanning
  • Antenna Connector: BNC
  • Audio: Built-in speaker; headphone jack available
  • Mounting: DIN-E and ISO vehicle-mountable with optional sleeve
  • Additional Features:
    • Close Call RF Capture with Do Not Disturb mode
    • Instant Replay (up to 240 seconds of recent transmissions)
    • Audio Recording with timestamping to microSD
    • S.A.M.E. Weather Alert for NOAA weather channels
    • Custom Alerts for specific channels or events
    • Range Control for location-based scanning (adjustable radius in miles)
    • Sentinel Software (free) for database and firmware updates, Favorites List management

Frequency Coverage

The BCD536HP covers a wide range of frequencies, making it versatile for monitoring various services:

  • 25–512 MHz: Continuous coverage for VHF low/high and UHF bands
  • 758–824 MHz: Public safety and trunked system bands
  • 849–869 MHz: Additional public safety and commercial bands
  • 894–960 MHz: UHF business and trunked systems
  • 1240–1300 MHz: 1.2 GHz amateur and other services

Modes Covered

The scanner supports both analog and digital modulation modes, with optional paid upgrades for certain digital protocols:

  • Analog Modes:
    • AM (Amplitude Modulation)
    • FM (Frequency Modulation)
    • NFM (Narrowband FM)
    • WFM (Wideband FM)
    • FMB (FM Broadcast)
  • Digital Modes (TrunkTracker V Technology):
    • APCO P25 Phase 1 and Phase 2 (standard)
    • Motorola trunked systems
    • EDACS (Enhanced Digital Access Communication System)
    • LTR (Logic Trunked Radio)
  • Optional Paid Upgrades (via my.uniden.com):
    • DMR/MOTOTRBO: Adds support for Digital Mobile Radio systems
    • NXDN: Adds support for NXDN digital systems
    • EDACS ProVoice: Adds support for ProVoice digital protocol (introduced post-launch)

Step Sizes

The scanner supports multiple frequency step sizes for precise tuning:

  • 5, 6.25, 7.5, 8.33, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 50, or 100 kHz (user-selectable or auto-adjusted based on band defaults)

Key Features and Functionality

  • HomePatrol Programming: Simplifies setup by allowing users to enter a ZIP code or GPS coordinates to automatically load nearby systems from the preloaded database.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: A market first at launch, enabling remote control and audio streaming via the Uniden Siren app over a local network or ad-hoc connection.
  • TrunkTracker V: Tracks advanced trunked systems, including multi-site trunking and control-channel-only scanning for Motorola systems.
  • Search and Scan: Includes Quick Search, Custom Search (up to 10 ranges), and Search with Scan capabilities; supports temporary and permanent frequency avoids.
  • GPS Compatibility: When paired with an optional GPS receiver, enables location-based scanning that adjusts channels based on the user’s position and set range.

Notes on Usage

  • The scanner does not require manual programming for basic operation, thanks to the HomePatrol database, which is updated weekly via Sentinel software.
  • While it excels at public safety monitoring (police, fire, EMS), it can also pick up aircraft, marine, amateur radio, and other services within its frequency range, though it cannot decode digital TV audio.

The Uniden BCD536HP remains a powerful tool for scanner enthusiasts, combining ease of use with robust digital capabilities. Its release in 2014 introduced features like Wi-Fi that were ahead of their time, and subsequent firmware updates and optional upgrades have kept it relevant for monitoring modern communication systems.

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