Uniden Bc785d Trunk Tracker Scanner Owners Manual

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Reverse Mode
This key will allow you to observe the reverse frequency of the repeater. While pressing
RVRS, the standard pair frequency will be displayed. For a list of the standard pair
frequencies, refer to the table Reverse List in the Appendix. If the frequency that you have
chosen does not have an offset frequency, the display will indicate ERRORand NO
REVERSE. This feature does not work in the Weather Search mode.
Channel Step Selection
You can set channel steps, 5 kHz - 100 kHz or Auto, in Conventional mode or Chain search
mode. The default receive mode should be the proper mode setting in almost all cases. You
may wish to set some VHF channels for NFM mode, depending on any adjacent channel
interference problems. WFM is typically only used for broadcast frequencies, such as TV
audio or FM radio.
See STEPSin Menu Description for details.
Mute On/Off
To manually turn ON the Mute function, press and hold MUTEuntil MUTE  ONis displayed. 
You will not hear any audio. This feature does not function in the WX Alert mode, because
the audio is already muted. To turn it OFF, press and hold MUTE again.
Receiving Mode Selection
You can also set the receiving mode, AM or FM etc., in Conventional mode or Chain Search
mode.
See MODEin Menu Description for details.
Frequency and Channel Tuning with the VFO Control
The VFOknob can be used for stepping frequencies or through memory channels (for
Conventional channels or Talkgroup ID Scan Lists).
To switch the setting for the VFOcontrol, press the VFO. This will change modes from
Channel to Frequency or Frequency to Channel.
1. In Conventional mode, when the setting for the VFOis channel, rotate the VFOto move
up (to step up through channels) or down (to step down through channels). If you are in
Trunk Manual mode, you will step through Scan List memory locations.
2. In Chain Search mode, when the setting for the VFOis frequency, rotate the VFOto move up
to step up through frequencies sequentially or to down to step down through frequencies. To
change the step, you will need to go into the Chain Search menu and adjust the step for the
desired memory location.
Remember! When you set Additional Features through the menu screen, you can also
use  or instead of rotating the VFO.
Also instead of pressing E, you can press the VFOcontrol.
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Care and Maintenance
General Use
•Turn the scanner OFF before disconnecting the power.
•Always write down the programmed frequencies in the event of memory loss.
•If memory is lost, simply reprogram each channel. 
The display shows 000.0000 in all channels when there has been a memory loss.
•Always press each button firmly until you hear the entry tone for that key entry, unless you
have turned 2:OFFthe 
3:KEY  BEEPin the menu system.
Location
•Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.
•Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight or near heating 
elements or vents.
•If the scanner receives strong interference or electrical noise, move it or its antenna away
from the source of the noise. If possible, a higher elevation, may provide better reception.
Cleaning
•Disconnect the power to the unit before cleaning.
•Clean the outside of the scanner with a mild detergent. 
To prevent scratches, do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Be careful not to rub the
LCD window.
•Do not use excessive amounts of water.
Repairs
•Do not attempt any repair. The scanner contains no user serviceable parts. Contact the
Uniden Customer Service Center or take it to a qualified repair technician.
Birdies
•All radios can receive birdies (undesired signals). If your scanner stops during Scan mode
and no sound is heard, it may be receiving a birdie. Birdies are internally generated
signals inherent in the electronics of the receiver.
Press L/Oto lockout the channel, and then press RSMto resume scanning.
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Troubleshooting
If your BC785D is not performing properly, try the following steps.
If you experience difficulty while in TrunkTracker mode, try the following steps.
Problem Suggestion
Scanner wont work. 1. Check the connections at both ends of the AC Adapter.
2. Turn ON the wall switch of your room. You could be
using an outlet controlled by the wall switch.
3. Move the AC Adapter to another wall outlet.
Improper reception. 1. Check the antenna connection.
2. Move the scanner.
3. You may be in a remote area which could require an
optional multi-band antenna. Check with your dealer or
local electronics store.
Scan wont stop. 1. Adjust squelch threshold - refer to page 17, Setting the
Squelch.
2. Check the antenna connection.
3. Check to see if many of the channels are Loc ked Out.
If so, the scanner has less chance of finding an 
active channel.
4. Review each channels frequency to see if it is still
stored in Memory and is correct.
5. Its possible that none of the programmed frequencies
are currently active.
Scan wont star t. 1. Press the 
SCAN key again.
2. Adjust the SQUELCH control.3. Check to see if all channels are Lock ed Out.
Weather Scan wont work. 1. Adjust squelch threshold - refer to page 17, Setting the
Squelch.
2. Check the antenna.
Problem Suggestion
Scanner wont track.1. Missing the Data Frequency.
2. Change to a Type 1 Scanner setup.
Review Fleet Map Programming on page 64.
Scanner wont stop  1. No IDs have been programmed.
during Scan List mode.
2. The IDs you have stored are not active.
Scanner will not acquire  1. Adjust the squelch for Tr unking mode.
data channel. See page 50.
2. Missing the frequency used for the data channel.
Check your frequency list.
Missing replies  1. Change to a Type 1 scanner setup .
to conversations. Review Fleet Map Programming on page 64.
2. Try another Preset Fleet Map or Program your own
Fleet Map.
3. Check to see that all of the systems frequencies
have been entered.
Channel Activity  1. May be a telephone interconnect call, which are
Indicators are flashing  intentionally blocked by your scanner.
but no sound is heard.
2. The ID on your display is not active .
Scanner not tracking  1. Logical channel numbers (frequencies) for the system
an EDACS system are not programmed in the correct order.
properly. Check frequency resources and reprogram.
2. Not all frequencies for the system are programmed.
Check frequency resources.
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If you still cannot get satisfactory results while using your scanner or if you want additional
information, please call or write the Uniden Parts and Service Division. The address and
phone number is listed in the warranty at the end of this manual. If you would like immediate
assistance, please call Customer Service at (800)297-1023.
If you have internet access, you can visit scanner.uniden.comfor additional information.       
Problem Suggestion
APCO  P25  CARD 
NOT  INSTALLED 
appear when the scanner 
is turned on.
Neither APCO  P25 
CARD  INSTALLED 
nor APCO  P25  CARD 
NOT  INSTALLED 
appear when the scanner 
is turned on.
Scratchy or robotic sound 
is heard during 
communications.
Digital communication is 
not heard.
DATA sound is heard at 
the beginning of digital 
communications.
Robotic sound is heard.
 
CARD  ERROR appears 
every 10 seconds while 
you are using P-25 card.1. Check to see if the P-25 card is properly installed.
 1. Check to see if the APCO CARD Mode is ENABLE 
or DISABLE in the Menu mode (See page 68-69).
1. Move to a location where the signal strength is 
strong.
1. Verify the accuracy of the frequencies of the P-25 
system you are trying to monitor.
2. You might be in a dead-spot for the P-25 system you 
are trying to monitor. Check other locations in the 
area.
1. APCO project 25 systems can send data before 
voice communication.
2. Data sound can be heard when signal strength is 
weak.
1. Check to see if the ENC message appears on the 
display.
The scanner doesn’t monitor encrypted voice 
communications.
 
1. Re-install the P-25 Card.
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							Specifications
Certified in accordance with FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15, Subpart C, as of date 
of manufacture.
Channel: 1000
Banks: 10 (100 channels each)
Service Bands: 12 preprogrammed search bands
(including the NOAA Weather Service band)
Frequency Range: 25.0-28.0 MHz Petroleum Prod., CB Class D channels,
Business and Forest Products
28.0-29.7 MHz 10 Meter Amateur Band
29.7-50.0 MHz VHF Low Band
50.0-54.0 MHz 6 Meter Amateur Band
54.0-108 MHz VHF TV, FM broadcast, Intersystem
and Astronomy
108-137 MHz Aircraft Band
137-144 MHz Military Land Mobile
144-148 MHz  2 Meter Amateur Band
148-174 MHz VHF High Band
174-406 MHz VHF TV, 1.25 Meter Amateur Band, UHF
Aircraft Band
406-420 MHz Federal Government
420-450 MHz 70 cm Amateur Band
450-470 MHz UHF Standard Band
470-512 MHz UHF TV Band
806-956 MHz 800 Band
1240-1300 MHz 25cm Amateur Band
Operating Temperature:–20 °C to +60 °C (-4 °F to +140)
Scan Rate: 100 channels per second (conventional mode)
Search Rate: 100 steps per second (Normal Search)
300 steps per second (Turbo Search)
Audio Output: Maximum 3.0W (2.3W normal @ 10% THD)
Internal Speaker: 8 ohms (56 mm outer diameter)
Power Requirements: AD580U AC Adapter (13.8V DC, 700mA)
Antenna: Telescopic Antenna (included)
Antenna Jack: BNC type
External Jacks: External Speaker (EXT.SP.) (3.5 mm)
DC 13.8 V Power Jack, (center is positive)
Remote Control (REMOTE) Jack (DB-9)
Tape Recorder Out (TAPE OUT) Jack (3.5 mm)
Digital Card Slot
Size: 6-15/16 in. (W) x 6-9/16 in. (D) x 2-3/8 in. (H)
176.5mm (W) x 167mm (D) x 61mm (H)
Weight: 1.44 kg (50.8 oz.)
Features and specifications are all subject to change without notice.
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Glossary of Terms
Alpha tag- This term refers to an alphanumeric text tag that you can enter to describe the
individual frequencies that you have programmed. Rather than having to associate a
specific frequency to the individuals that are using it, you can enter the actual name of the
group. This will eliminate the need for memorizing the group’s frequency.
Attenuator- This scanner comes with a feature to attenuate or reduce the signal strength.
The built-in attenuator can be turned on specific frequencies to prevent strong signals from
overloading the scanner input, possibly damaging the scanner or missing other
transmissions due to the repeated stopping on the stronger signal.
Clone- This term identifies the ability to set up a duplicate scanner. This function allows
you to clone all the programming information, including frequencies, talkgroups and alpha
tags as well as bank settings and other parameters from one BC785D to another or
BC785D.
Control Channel- This is the frequency within a trunking system that runs the system. On
Control Channels (sometimes called Data Channels) you will hear a buzz saw sound. For
the most part, it is the sound of the system’s central computer directing talkgroups to
particular voice (working) frequencies within the system.
CTCSS- (Continuous Tone Controlled Squelch System) refers to a system where the radio
receivers are equipped with tone responsive devices which allow audio signals to appear
at the audio output, select voice processing such as scrambling or control repeater
functions only when a carrier modulated with a specific tone is received. This method may
be used to restrict access to the repeater or receiver, or reduce interference where several
stations with output frequencies in close proximity of each other make it difficult to hear
the conversation you are interested in. With CTCSS squelching, you can eliminate the
possibility of hearing unwanted conversations by selecting one of the 38 standard
subaudible tones. You will only hear those transmissions that have been programmed on
specific frequencies with the specific subaudible tone that you have selected.
DCS- (Digital Controlled Squelch) refers to a system where the radio receivers are
equipped with data burst responsive devices which allow audio signals to appear at the
audio output, select voice processing such as scrambling or control repeater functions only
when a carrier modulated with specific data burst is received. This method may be used to
restrict access to the repeater or receiver, or reduce interference where several stations
with output frequencies in close proximity of each other make it difficult to hear the
conversation you are interested in. With DCS squelching, you can eliminate the possibility
of hearing unwanted conversations by selecting one of the 104 standard data burst
subaudible tones. You will only hear those transmissions that have been programmed on
specific frequencies with the specific subaudible tone that you have selected.
Enter Lock- This is the term used for locking the keypad. This prevents accidental 
re-programming of channels and talkgroups entered into memory. The default setting is
OFF.
When ENTER LOCK is enabled, the following functions will be disabled:
• Enter or modify the Memory Channel frequency
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• Enter or modify the Tone information
• Enter or modify the Trunking ID. ( this can be modified through the menu screen.)
FIPS codes- For the purpose of broadcasting weather information, the NWS (National
Weather Service) has divided the United States into regions by state and county (or
parish, where applicable) then assigned a 6 digit FIPS code to identify each county or
parish. The first digit represents the county subdivision, the next two represents the state,
and the last three digits represent the county or parish. Your scanner can receive all
SAME alert signals broadcasted within about a 50-mile radius of where you install it. So if
you only want to hear the counties that are nearest to your area, you can choose
specifically the FIPS code of areas that you want. This lets you avoid hearing warnings
that apply to an area within a 50-mile radius but not necessarily in your county or parish.
I-Call- Most communications within a trunked system are group calls where one unit (such
as a dispatcher) communicates with all the units within her group (all the patrol vehicles on
the east side of town, for example). The units within this group comprise what is typically
known as a talkgroup. There are some communications which are direct unit-to-unit
conversations where one individual converses with another individual. The call is initiated
by a radio and is directed to another single radio. Within the system, no one outside of
these two users hears the conversation. This call is referred to as I-Call.
Key Beep- This is another term for the tone you hear as a keypad acknowledgement beep.
The default setting is on. 
If you have turned the Key Beep off, you now have a silent keypad. You will not hear a
tone each time you press a key.
NWR S.A.M.E. Weather Alert- In 1994, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) began broadcasting coded signals called FIPS (Federal
Information Processing System) codes along with the standard weather broadcasts for
stations in your area. These codes identify an emergency and the specific geographic
area (such as your county) affected by the emergency. The scanner was developed with
SAME (Specific Area Messaging Encoding) technology. This allows you scanner to
receive, interpret, and display the information about the codes so you can determine if the
emergency might affect you area.Each FIPS code identifies a specific geographic area
(defined by the National Weather Service) so your scanner sounds an alert only when a
weather emergency is declared in those locations. This helps you more efficiently track the
weather conditions in and around your area.
PC Control- This term is associated with the ability to program frequencies and other
useful information via a computer by means of third party software. You can change the
transfer speed on the scanner needed to be compatible with your PC. (See page 72)
Scan List- When you designate a bank to be a trunking bank, your scanner sets up 10
Scan Lists, which are simply list of your favorite IDs. Each list can contain up to 10 IDs, so
you can store a total of 100 IDs for each trunk bank. These lists are designed to help you
organize the trunking system users into categories.
Screen Mask- Screen Mask reduces the amount of information that appears on the
display. Alpha tags that you have set for a channel along with a few function icons will
appear only on the display. This mode is particularly useful in public safety vehicles where
that are already overloaded with information. Screen Mask does not work in Search mode.
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							Status Bit- This term refers to Motorola Type II systems. There is a method by which
special types of communications utilize unique talk group numbers. For example, if all
emergency calls are set to occur on a specific talk group number then you will not miss
the transmission even if you have not programmed all the talk group numbers. With the
Status Bit on and you have programmed the unique number, then you don’t have to worry
what the rest of the groups numbers are. The topic of interest will be picked up.
Talkgroup- A group of users within a trunked system that communicates with one another.
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Appendix
Preset Fleet Maps
Preset Map 1
Size Code
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 2
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 3
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12) Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 5
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12)
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 7
Size Code
SIZE CODE 10
SIZE CODE 10
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 8
Size Code
SIZE CODE 1
SIZE CODE 1
SIZE CODE 2
SIZE CODE 2
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 6
Size Code
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 10
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12)
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12) Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Preset Map 4
Size Code
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12)
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
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Preset Map 9
Preset Map 11
Preset Map 13
Preset Map 15 Preset Map 16Preset Map 14 Preset Map 12 Preset Map  10
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7Size Code
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Size Code
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12) Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7Size Code
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 10
SIZE CODE 10
SIZE CODE 11
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12) Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Size Code
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 3
SIZE CODE 10
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 4
SIZE CODE 12
(SIZE CODE 12) Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
Size Code
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 0
SIZE CODE 4 Block
1 0
2
3
4
5
6
7
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