Setup, Guides & Resources

Get the most out of your HomePatrol-2

The HomePatrol-2 is made to simplify scanning. Even so, you'll get better results from an up-to-date database and Favorites Lists matched to the agencies you actually care about.

Option 1: Let Zip Scanners handle the setup

Best if you want a customized scanner without learning the software. Tell us the city, county, state and agencies you want to monitor.

Our technicians research compatible systems, organize relevant departments into Favorites Lists and tell you if encryption or simulcast would make a different scanner a better fit.

The goal is simple: less configuration, more listening. Add Expert Programming or choose it in the options above.

Programming cannot bypass encryption, unlock unsupported digital formats or guarantee reception if usable signals aren't available.

Option 2: Use the touchscreen and do it yourself

Enter your ZIP code, choose service types and start scanning compatible local systems. For more control, use Uniden's HomePatrol Sentinel software to update the database and manage Favorites Lists.

Download HomePatrol Sentinel for free and explore the settings.

Official Uniden HomePatrol-2 resources

Start with the owner's manual and the correct version of Sentinel.

HomePatrol-2 Owner's Manual (PDF)Complete instructions for touchscreen, batteries, Favorites Lists, GPS and recording.
HomePatrol Sentinel Software & DownloadsFree Windows software identified by the orange shield icon.
Uniden HomePatrol-2 Product InformationManufacturer specifications and product details.
Uniden HomePatrol Extreme UpgradeOptional advanced controls and radio-system analysis tools.
Check Firmware & Database VersionFind installed versions before updating.

Zip Scanners guides and tutorials

Helpful explanations for people who don't want to spend their weekends becoming radio engineers.

Ultimate Police Scanner Programming GuideThe basics of digital systems, frequencies and databases.
How to Program a Uniden ScannerUnderstand programming and Favorites Lists; HomePatrol menus differ.
Can I Program My Scanner Myself?Decide whether to learn the software or let us handle it.
Police Scanning 101Plain-English explanations of common scanner terms.
Understanding Simulcast DistortionWhen an SDS receiver is the right choice instead.
Police Scanner Encryption ExplainedWhy some digital communications can't be heard.
Programming Help CenterMore help with setup, programming and troubleshooting.

Watch and learn

These two tutorials play inside this page, so you can watch without leaving the scanner listing.

More HomePatrol-2 videos

HomePatrol-2 IntroductionSee the touchscreen and scanner operation.
HomePatrol-2 UnboxingIncluded batteries, stand and other accessories.
Replacing the microSD CardHow to replace the card if needed.
TRX-1 vs HomePatrol-2Compare a conventional handheld with touchscreen scanning.

Mark's Scanners: The detailed guide worth bookmarking

Mark's website looks like it has survived every version of Windows since the 1990s. The instructions are excellent.

If you decide to explore the advanced menus, his guide explains the HomePatrol interface and settings in more detail than most owners will ever need.

Easier to Read HomePatrol ManualA comprehensive breakdown of scanner operation, settings and programming.
Mark's Scanners HomeMore scanner manuals and technical reference guides.

RadioReference: Technical help from experienced owners

Years of discussions about local radio networks, Favorites Lists and HomePatrol reception.

HomePatrol Owner DiscussionsModel-specific owner questions and solutions.
Uniden Technical ForumBroader technical discussions about Uniden scanners.
RadioReference Frequency DatabaseFind systems, frequencies and talkgroups in your area.
RadioReference Programming HelpUnderstand radio-system listings and terminology.

Owner opinions and community

Specs tell you what a scanner can do. Owner conversations tell you what it's like actually using one.

HomePatrol-2 Reddit DiscussionsOwner impressions, reception and scanner comparisons.
Police Scanner CommunityMore scanner questions and experiences.
Scanner School PodcastAntennas, radio systems and getting more from scanners.

Still comparing scanners?

Uniden SDS200Base/mobile receiver with specialized True I/Q for difficult simulcast.
Uniden SDS100Portable True I/Q scanner for challenging simulcast.
Uniden BCD436HPTraditional handheld with direct button controls.
Uniden BCD536HPFixed base/mobile Uniden with Wi-Fi dongle support.
Whistler TRX-1Handheld alternative with DMR and NXDN included.

Still not sure? Ask our scanner experts. We'll help match the radio to the agencies you want to hear.