Setup, Guides & Resources

Programming the SDS150

The SDS150 is an incredible scanner. Setting it up for exactly what you want to hear? That's where things get interesting.

Option 1: Let our scanner experts handle it

This is what we recommend. Tell us your city, county, state or province and the police, fire, EMS or other agencies you want to monitor. Our experts research the available radio systems and organize supported channels into Favorites Lists before shipping.

We do this all day. You don't have to.

Add Expert Programming. Already bought a scanner somewhere else? We can help with that too.

Programming cannot bypass encryption or guarantee reception where signals are unavailable.

Option 2: Program it yourself

You can do it, but don't confuse owning a powerful scanner with knowing how to configure one. You'll need a Windows computer, accurate local system details and patience. For new owners, several hours is common.

Our recommendation? Download free Sentinel before you buy. If you enjoy the software, great. If it makes you want to throw your computer out the window, that's why we're here.

Official Uniden resources

Manufacturer information, current software and technical documentation.

SDS150 Owner's Manual (PDF)Complete operation, menus, controls and settings.
Sentinel Software & DownloadsFree Windows software, downloads and updates.
SDS150 Firmware UpdatesChanges, fixes and improvements from Uniden.
U/AWARE for iPhoneOfficial iOS companion app.
U/AWARE for AndroidOfficial Android companion app.

Zip Scanners guides & tutorials

Scanner information without the engineering degree.

Ultimate Programming GuideUnderstand the software and common programming steps.
How to Program a Uniden ScannerInstructions and programming walkthroughs.
Can I Program a Scanner Myself?Decide whether DIY setup is right for you.
Understanding Simulcast DistortionWhy digital radio can sound garbled in metro areas.
Police Scanner Encryption ExplainedUnderstand what scanners can and cannot hear.
Programming Help CenterAdditional support articles and instructions.

Watch & learn

Sometimes watching somebody do it beats another 20 pages of instructions.

SDS150 UnboxingSee what's in the box.
SDS150 Accessory OverviewA closer look at useful extras.
Programming VideosZip Scanners' scanner programming playlist.
Scanner Video PlaylistAdditional product demos and guidance.

Mark's Scanners: The manuals we actually recommend

This website looks like it hasn't changed since dial-up internet. But the information? Outstanding. Mark explains scanning menus, settings and programming in remarkable detail.

Easier to Read SDS100/SDS200 ManualDetailed scanner settings, Favorites Lists and operation.
Easier to Read Sentinel ManualA deep walkthrough of Sentinel software.
Mark's Scanners HomeMore guides, charts and scanner reference material.

Mark hasn't published a dedicated SDS150 manual. The SDS100/SDS200 programming guides cover much of the same logic, but use Uniden's official SDS150 manual for model-specific features.

RadioReference: Buying advice & owner discussions

Some members are helpful, some are opinionated, and most know more about radio systems than anyone has a right to.

Technical help & troubleshooting

Official SDS150 Technical DiscussionOwner troubleshooting, firmware and Uniden input.
SDS150 General DiscussionOwner reports, technical questions and fixes.
Uniden Technical ForumBroader Uniden hardware and programming discussions.

Buying advice & comparisons

Is the SDS150 Worth the Price?Is the upgrade over SDS100 worth it?
Do You Have the New SDS150?Owner impressions and first-hand experiences.

Frequencies & systems

RadioReference Frequency DatabaseSearch local frequencies, agencies and radio systems.
RadioReference Programming HelpHow to find relevant system information.

Reddit: What owners really think

The good, the bad and the occasional rant about spending nearly a grand on a radio.

Is the SDS150 Worth It?Owners discuss value and real-world reception.
SDS100 or SDS150 for a Beginner?Advice for new buyers.
I Said I Wasn't Buying One...A new owner's first impressions.

Facebook & other communities

Scanner Community on FacebookJoin the community; Facebook sign-in may be required.
ProScan SoftwareAdvanced remote control, logging and recording tools.
Scanner School PodcastScanning, programming, antennas and radio systems.
RadioReference WikiCommunity reference articles and scanner terminology.

Still comparing scanners?

SDS150 vs SDS100 Buying GuideFull comparison and buying advice.
Uniden SDS100Less expensive handheld alternative.
Uniden SDS200Digital base/mobile scanner for home or vehicle use.