Overview & Features
Quick take: Versatile handheld for conventional analog, DMR and NXDN. A manufacturer firmware update also enables P25 Phase I/II voice decoding on individually programmed channels, but it is not a trunk-tracking P25 scanner.
Uniden BCD160DN: Who is it for?
Here's a scanner with a plot twist. When the BCD160DN launched, its P25 answer was no. Uniden later added a firmware update that changes the story, but the important limitations still matter.
The BCD160DN is a keypad-driven handheld for people who enjoy conventional radio listening: railroads, aviation, racing, weather, analog channels and compatible DMR/NXDN digital voice. A firmware update extends that to P25 voice decoding without turning it into a full trunking receiver.
What makes this scanner useful?
- 1,000 alpha-tagged channels. Store and label conventional listening interests.
- DMR and NXDN included. Hear compatible conventional digital channels without separate paid format keys.
- P25 voice with updated firmware. Decode individually programmed Phase I/II digital voice frequencies, with no trunk tracking.
- Band Scope. See activity across a segment of the radio spectrum.
- Close Call and search features. Find strong nearby transmissions or explore specified frequencies.
- Windows PC programming. Use Uniden BCDx60DN SS software to manage channels and updates.
- Rechargeable AA batteries. Portable operation for airshows, track days and outdoor listening.
Critical distinction: This is not a full P25 trunk-tracking scanner. With updated firmware it can decode programmed individual P25 voice channels, but it does not follow talkgroup IDs or hop between voice frequencies in a trunked system. If your county relies on a P25 trunked network, choose a proper P25 trunk-tracking model.
Check your radio systems before ordering
Different agencies use very different networks. The correct model depends on what you want to hear and where you plan to listen.