Common Questions

Will the BCD436HP work where I live?

That depends on the agencies you want to monitor and the radio systems they use. The BCD436HP supports many analog and digital formats, including P25 Phase I and II, but encrypted channels can't be heard and difficult simulcast networks can cause problems.

Have our experts check your area for free. Tell us your location and which police, fire or EMS agencies matter to you, and we'll help choose a compatible scanner.

Is this scanner good for simulcast systems?

This is its biggest limitation. Unlike the SDS100 and SDS150, the BCD436HP has no specialized True I/Q receiver. On difficult simulcast networks, you may miss part of a conversation or hear choppy audio despite a strong signal indicator.

Some owners have good results depending on their location. Others don't. If simulcast is a major issue where you live, we'd strongly recommend the SDS100 or SDS150.

Does it already receive P25 Phase II?

Yes. Standard P25 Phase I and Phase II reception comes with the BCD436HP. No additional software purchase is needed for those formats.

Some agencies use other specialized digital systems that require optional DMR, NXDN or ProVoice upgrades. See the Uniden software upgrades. Before buying one, ask us which formats are actually used nearby.

Why buy programming when it already scans by ZIP code?

Finding nearby radio systems and finding the specific conversations you care about are two different jobs.

The ZIP code database is handy for getting started, but it might also scan local utilities, municipal maintenance, campus security or departments you're not interested in.

With Expert Programming, you tell us your priorities, whether that's county dispatch, local fire, state patrol, aviation or something else. Our team researches the supported systems and organizes the relevant channels into Favorites Lists.

The difference is a useful scanner ready for your listening habits, not another project to wrestle with. Add Expert Programming or choose it in the options above.

Can I program a BCD436HP myself?

Absolutely, if you like technical projects. You'll need a Windows computer, Uniden Sentinel and some time to understand Favorites Lists, sites, service types and talkgroups. It isn't as simple as entering three frequencies and calling it done.

Download free Sentinel to see what you're getting into. If you prefer to start listening instead of learning all the menus, have us program it.

Will it hear encrypted police radio?

No. Fully encrypted transmissions are off limits to consumer police scanners. That includes the BCD436HP and every SDS model.

Encryption doesn't necessarily affect every department or channel. Read our plain-English encryption guide to understand the limitations.

Can I charge the batteries while listening?

The scanner can run from USB power while switched on, but its rechargeable AA batteries won't charge until you turn the scanner off. Owners who listen for long stretches often keep another set of three AAs charged and ready.

Pick up spare rechargeable batteries and an external AA charger so you can swap them without interrupting your day.

Is there a better antenna for the BCD436HP?

Yes. The BCD436HP uses an SMA connector and compatible replacement antennas can help on some bands. The Remtronix 920S is popular with customers listening to 700/800 MHz systems.

Actual results depend on local frequencies and conditions. No antenna can bypass encryption or guarantee a fix for simulcast distortion. Explore our Remtronix antenna or choose a compatible one above.

Does it have GPS, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?

GPS location-based scanning works with a separately purchased receiver; GPS isn't built in. See the Uniden Universal GPS.

The BCD436HP doesn't have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, either. If wireless connectivity or built-in GPS is important, we'll help you compare your options.

Can I listen to aviation, railroads and weather?

Yes. Beyond police and fire, the BCD436HP can monitor compatible conventional analog communications commonly used in aviation, railroad, weather and other services. Our programming team can include supported channels that match your interests.