Uniden SDS200

The Uniden SDS200 is a high-performance base/mobile digital scanner designed for radio enthusiasts, particularly those interested in monitoring public safety, amateur radio, and other communications. Below is a detailed overview of its specifications, release date, frequency coverage, and supported modes.

Release Date

The Uniden SDS200 was announced by Uniden America in the first quarter (Q1) of 2019 and became available for purchase shortly thereafter, with shipping starting around late April 2019. It was introduced as a flagship base/mobile counterpart to the handheld SDS100, incorporating advanced features tailored for stationary or vehicle use.

Specifications

  • Type: Base/Mobile Digital Scanner
  • Receiver Technology: True I/Q™ and Software Defined Radio (SDR)
    • The True I/Q receiver captures the complete signal waveform in three dimensions, enhancing digital performance, especially in challenging RF environments like simulcast systems.
  • Display: 3.5-inch customizable color LCD (147 user-selectable colors for text and background)
    • Allows customization of display fields and colors for a personalized user experience.
  • Programming: Uses Uniden Sentinel Software (free download) for firmware updates, database management, and custom programming.
    • Supports location-based scanning via ZIP code or GPS coordinates (GPS sold separately).
  • Memory: Stored on an 8 GB microSD card (included), with a complete USA/Canada radio database preloaded.
  • Connectivity:
    • Direct Ethernet port for streaming and remote control (no built-in Wi-Fi).
    • USB port for PC programming and power options.
  • Audio: Built-in speaker with an external speaker jack (3.5mm).
  • Power: 12V DC (includes AC adapter and 12V DC power cables).
  • Physical Features:
    • Mounting bracket included for mobile or desktop use.
    • BNC connector for the included telescopic antenna.
    • Backlit keypad for easy operation in low-light conditions.
  • Additional Features:
    • TrunkTracker X technology for tracking trunked radio systems.
    • Close Call™ RF Capture with Do Not Disturb mode.
    • S.A.M.E. Weather Alert support.
    • Recording capability for capturing transmissions.
    • Waterfall feature (added via firmware update) for visualizing spectrum activity.

Frequency Coverage

The SDS200 covers a wide range of frequencies, making it versatile for various applications:

  • 25–512 MHz (VHF Low, VHF High, UHF)
  • 758–824 MHz (Public Safety Bands)
  • 849–869 MHz (Public Safety Bands)
  • 895–960 MHz (Upper UHF)
  • 1240–1300 MHz (1.2 GHz Band)

This range includes VHF/UHF amateur radio bands, public safety channels, airband, marine frequencies, and more.

Modes Covered

The SDS200 supports both analog and digital modulation modes, with additional digital modes available via optional paid upgrades:

  • Standard Modes (Included):
    • AM: Amplitude Modulation (e.g., airband).
    • NFM: Narrowband FM (common for public safety and amateur radio).
    • FM: Frequency Modulation.
    • WFM: Wideband FM (broadcast radio).
    • FMB: FM Broadcast.
    • P25 Phase I and II: APCO Project 25 digital modes for public safety systems.
    • Motorola: Analog and mixed-mode trunking (Type I, Type II, X2-TDMA).
    • EDACS: Enhanced Digital Access Communication System (Narrow, Wide, SCAT).
    • LTR: Logic Trunked Radio.
  • Optional Paid Upgrades (via my.uniden.com registration):
    • DMR: Digital Mobile Radio (Tier I, II, III, including Single-Channel DMR and XPT).
    • NXDN: NXDN 4800 and 9600 (common in commercial and public safety systems).
    • ProVoice: EDACS ProVoice (used in some regions).
    • Capacity Plus and Connect Plus: Additional DMR trunking modes.

Step Sizes

The scanner supports various frequency step sizes for precise tuning, including:

  • 5, 6.25, 7.5, 8.33, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 50, or 100 kHz.
  • Firmware updates (e.g., version 1.23.15, released March 24, 2025) added 2.5 kHz and 3.125 kHz steps for Custom Search and Discovery modes.

Key Features and Performance

  • Simulcast Performance: The SDS200 excels at decoding Linear Simulcast Modulation (LSM) systems, a common challenge for scanners due to signal overlap, thanks to its I/Q and SDR technology.
  • Trunking Support: Tracks P25 One-Frequency Trunking and multi-site trunked systems with NAC (Network Access Code) and TGID (Talkgroup ID) support.
  • Ease of Use: Features like ZIP code entry and the HomePatrol database simplify setup, while manual programming is available via the front keypad or Sentinel software.
  • Ethernet Streaming: Allows users to stream audio to a PC or network using software like ProScan, making it ideal for remote monitoring.

Price

The introductory MSRP was $749 USD, though the street price typically stabilized around $699.99 from most retailers. Optional upgrades (e.g., DMR, NXDN) add approximately $50–$60 each.

Summary

The Uniden SDS200, released in 2019, remains a top-tier base/mobile scanner as of April 9, 2025, thanks to continuous firmware updates enhancing its capabilities. Its wide frequency coverage (25–1300 MHz with gaps), support for analog and multiple digital modes (expandable via upgrades), and advanced features like True I/Q reception and Ethernet connectivity make it a favorite among scanner enthusiasts. Whether monitoring public safety, amateur radio, or other services, the SDS200 offers robust performance and flexibility.

Scroll to Top