BCD160DN Uniden Police Scanner
Built for experienced listeners who want to configure & manage their own scanner channels.
Software & frequencies are not included, so setup requires programming knowledge.
Lifetime tech support for this model requires the purchase of expert programming.
Overview & Features
Quick take: Versatile handheld for conventional analog, DMR and NXDN. A manufacturer firmware update also enables P25 Phase I/II voice decoding on individually programmed channels, but it is not a trunk-tracking P25 scanner.
Uniden BCD160DN: Who is it for?
Here's a scanner with a plot twist. When the BCD160DN launched, its P25 answer was no. Uniden later added a firmware update that changes the story, but the important limitations still matter.
The BCD160DN is a keypad-driven handheld for people who enjoy conventional radio listening: railroads, aviation, racing, weather, analog channels and compatible DMR/NXDN digital voice. A firmware update extends that to P25 voice decoding without turning it into a full trunking receiver.
What makes this scanner useful?
- 1,000 alpha-tagged channels. Store and label conventional listening interests.
- DMR and NXDN included. Hear compatible conventional digital channels without separate paid format keys.
- P25 voice with updated firmware. Decode individually programmed Phase I/II digital voice frequencies, with no trunk tracking.
- Band Scope. See activity across a segment of the radio spectrum.
- Close Call and search features. Find strong nearby transmissions or explore specified frequencies.
- Windows PC programming. Use Uniden BCDx60DN SS software to manage channels and updates.
- Rechargeable AA batteries. Portable operation for airshows, track days and outdoor listening.
Critical distinction: This is not a full P25 trunk-tracking scanner. With updated firmware it can decode programmed individual P25 voice channels, but it does not follow talkgroup IDs or hop between voice frequencies in a trunked system. If your county relies on a P25 trunked network, choose a proper P25 trunk-tracking model.
Check your radio systems before ordering
Different agencies use very different networks. The correct model depends on what you want to hear and where you plan to listen.
What's in the Box
What's in the box?
- BCD160DN handheld scanner
- Rubber antenna
- Rechargeable NiMH AA batteries
- USB cable
- Hand strap
- User documentation
Update the firmware first
To enable P25 voice decoding, install Uniden's supported firmware using BC-VUP and manage the updated features with BCDx60DN SS version 2.00 or later.
No universal ZIP-code database
You must select and program frequencies relevant to your interests. It isn't the right model for someone expecting a ready-made national P25 trunking database.
Good for railfans and airshows
You can build separate banks for your favorite local analog and compatible digital conventional channels. The keypad and Band Scope will feel familiar to experienced listeners.
Need a power or antenna accessory?
Check compatibility for this exact model. Not every scanner uses the same power plug or antenna connector.
Common Questions
Common questions about the Uniden BCD160DN
Can the BCD160DN decode P25 now?
Yes, after applying the appropriate Uniden firmware update. It can decode non-encrypted P25 Phase I and Phase II voice on individual manually programmed frequencies.
Does that mean P25 trunk tracking is supported?
No. It does not follow talkgroup IDs or automatically chase calls across frequencies on a trunked P25 system. That distinction is crucial for many police and fire networks.
Is DMR and NXDN included?
Yes, compatible conventional DMR and NXDN voice reception is supported. Trunk tracking and encryption remain limitations.
Will it receive my county's police department?
Only if the county uses supported accessible channels. A P25 trunked system generally requires a different receiver. Get your agency checked before ordering.
Does it come with frequencies for my city?
No nationwide ZIP-code database is bundled for automatic local setup. You can program compatible channels manually or with Uniden's Windows software.
How many channels can I save?
Uniden advertises 1,000 alpha-tagged channels. Organize them by location or listening interest.
What software should I use?
Use Uniden BCDx60DN SS for channel management and BC-VUP for firmware updates. Install the current supported versions from the official Uniden downloads page.
Is it suitable for simulcast?
It has no True I/Q technology and no trunk tracking. If your main goal is monitoring a difficult simulcast P25 network, the SDS100 is a better fit.
Are rechargeable batteries included?
Yes, Uniden lists rechargeable NiMH batteries in the manufacturer's package contents. Check the manual for power and charging instructions.
Can I listen to aircraft and railroad channels?
Yes, compatible analog aviation and railroad frequencies are among the model's main strengths.
Will this handle DMR or NXDN trunked systems?
Do not assume so. The model is best understood as a conventional scanner with compatible digital voice decoding, not a general-purpose digital trunk-tracking unit.
Will it hear encrypted police traffic?
No consumer radio scanner decodes fully encrypted communications. Your local agencies may have unencrypted channels, but don't assume everything will be available.
What does reception range depend on?
Antenna height, terrain, nearby structures, transmission power and system design determine what reaches your scanner. No fixed mile radius can be promised.
Do I need Windows?
For PC programming and most manufacturer firmware utilities, a Windows computer is the standard supported option. You can still perform some configuration from the scanner itself.
Setup, Guides & Resources
Setup, guides and resources
Start here: Get the setup right
Don't skip the firmware version. Uniden's later update adds P25 Phase I/II voice decoding, but only on individual programmed channels. Start by updating the radio and BCDx60DN SS Windows software, then research the frequencies you want to monitor. If an agency uses digital trunking, choose a model designed to track that network.
Model-specific manuals, downloads and help
Scanner basics and owner communities
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