Setup, Guides & Resources
Get your BCD436HP programmed the right way
The BCD436HP has a huge radio database. That's useful, but it doesn't automatically know which agencies and conversations you're actually interested in. If you're spending hundreds of dollars on a scanner, it's worth getting the setup right.
Option 1: Have Zip Scanners program it for you
Our recommendation for most buyers. Tell us your city, county, state and which police, fire, EMS or other departments you'd like to monitor.
Our technicians research the available systems, select compatible channels and organize the relevant departments into Favorites Lists before shipping.
We can also flag areas where a True I/Q SDS model would be a better fit because of simulcast, so you don't end up with a scanner that struggles on the channels you care about.
Add Expert Programming. We do this every day. You don't have to become a radio engineer to hear the local fire department.
Already own a BCD436HP? We can help with programming separately.
Programming cannot decode encrypted channels, overcome every reception limitation or create coverage where usable signals aren't available.
Option 2: Program it yourself
You can use a Windows PC and Uniden's free Sentinel software to build Favorites Lists, adjust settings and manage the radio database.
You'll need reliable local system information and patience with frequencies, sites, departments and talkgroups. The upside is complete control once you've learned the workflow.
Try Uniden Sentinel for free. If the learning curve starts to resemble a mountain, our technicians can take care of it.
Official Uniden resources
Manufacturer manuals, free software, firmware history and technical help.
Zip Scanners guides & tutorials
Helpful instructions without requiring a degree in radio engineering.
Watch & learn
Sometimes it's easier to watch the scanner in action than read another 30 pages of instructions. These two tutorials play right here without leaving the product page.
More videos from our library:
Mark's Scanners: Save these guides
This website looks like it was designed when everyone still had AOL email addresses. But the information is outstanding. Mark breaks down Quick Keys, Favorites Lists, menus and tricky settings into practical detail.
Bookmark the first two. They're among the best references for this model.
RadioReference: Technical help from owners
The RadioReference community has spent years testing these scanners and troubleshooting reception, software and firmware problems.
BCD436HP owner discussions
Find frequencies in your area
Reddit: What actual owners say
Want to hear from people who have used the BCD436HP for years? These owner discussions can help show what it's good at and what it struggles with.
Advanced software & troubleshooting
For owners who want more control, logging, recording or more technical background.