Setup, Guides & Resources

Setup, guides and resources

First steps

Start with simple analog listening. Install the supplied antenna, connect the appropriate power supply and use the scanner's service search banks. For favorite local services, confirm their analog frequencies in RadioReference and save them to memory. If you discover your sheriff uses P25, switch models rather than wasting time trying to force digital audio out of an analog scanner.

Manuals and model-specific help

Uniden BC355N SpecificationsCurrent manufacturer features, product details and accessories.
Official BC355N Manual DirectoryUniden owner's documentation and compatible model guides.
BC355N Technical DiscussionsHelpful owner questions and reception troubleshooting.
Uniden BC125AT HandheldA portable analog option with military aviation coverage.
Uniden SR30C HandheldAnother simple conventional analog scanner.
Uniden BCD996P2Traditional base/mobile option with P25 digital trunking.
Uniden HomePatrol-2Touchscreen alternative with digital P25 reception.
External Home AntennaA compatible antenna may improve reception with proper placement.

Scanner education and owner communities

Police Scanning 101A plain-English introduction to scanners and frequencies.
Ultimate Scanner Programming GuideUnderstanding how to set up conventional frequencies.
Can I Program This Scanner Myself?What the setup process involves.
Understanding SimulcastWhy modern digital radio can require a specialized scanner.
Police Radio EncryptionWhich communications ordinary scanners cannot monitor.
RadioReference Frequency DatabaseFind compatible local conventional frequencies.
RadioReference Discussion ForumsGet advice from other scanner listeners.
Uniden Manual DirectoryOfficial setup and operation instructions.
Scanner School PodcastExpand your understanding of radios and antennas.
BC125AT Analog HandheldAlternative with military aviation coverage and alpha-tagged channels.
Uniden BCD160DNConventional DMR/NXDN scanner with additional digital options.
SDS100 Digital HandheldDigital receiver for many complex public-safety networks.
Free Scanner RecommendationWe can check whether your local agencies are compatible.

Get the right radio

If you want to hear police or fire, please check the agency's actual radio format. Analog isn't interchangeable with digital.