Dave,

You need to research some of the scanner websites for frequencies in
your area, wherever you are. Is your community now using conventional
UHF/VHF comms, or are they already EDACS or Motorola?

Some areas do not have digital transmissions yet; some may not have them
for some time. If you are in a large metro area, NYC, Chicago, LA,
Dallas etc, digital would be a good idea; TrunkTracking is mandatory.

I have both a base and a handheld. I am in the So Cal area that
experienced the wildfires last October. My handheld saved our lives and
some of my neighbors. So, both a base and a h/h have their benefits.
Most "high end" scanners are now programmable with software/shareware or
very affordable software that you can purchase. Dialing your scanner in
through the use of your computer is really great!

Just depends on what your area is using now, city/county plans for
updating their communications system[?] and how much you've want to
invest in the hobby!

Here is one of the best sites to get you up to speed on what's happening
in the industry:

http://www.strongsignals.net/


Alain...San Diego

Dave wrote:
Hello,

I'm interested in getting back into this hobby (after about a 25 year
break). When I last had a scanner, we had to buy "crystals" for each
frequency. Now, I see that there's a lot more choices.

I have started looking mostly at the Bearcat handhelds out there, but
would like to hear from folks on their opinions on what to look for.
I don't want to get something too complicated to learn to use. Is
Trunk Tracking important? Can you basically just turn those scanners
on and use them or is there a programming process to go through?

Also, of the Uniden models out there, are some becoming outdated (for
example, I see the BC245 around, but it appears it's 4-5 years old
now). Should I be looking to digital?

Thanks much for any and all tips. If any links to good scanner sites,
that would be most helpful!

Thanks!

--
MZ�