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Difference between revisions of "Program your DMA Scanner"

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#Our [[Uniden DMA FAQ]] will fill you in on many topics the Easer to Read manual doesn't. It also has a brief article explaining systems, sites, groups and quick keys - key concepts to understanding how to program these DMA based radios
 
#Our [[Uniden DMA FAQ]] will fill you in on many topics the Easer to Read manual doesn't. It also has a brief article explaining systems, sites, groups and quick keys - key concepts to understanding how to program these DMA based radios
 
#While these radios can be programmed manually, you will need a boatload of patience with all the keystrokes that will be needed. Using software is the method many use, and we have a cross reference by model and software package of everything known to support these radios. The [[Uniden DMA Software Support]] article lists only those packages that support multiple models; click on the model number to be taken to that scanner's home page, where software that is specific for that radio will be listed
 
#While these radios can be programmed manually, you will need a boatload of patience with all the keystrokes that will be needed. Using software is the method many use, and we have a cross reference by model and software package of everything known to support these radios. The [[Uniden DMA Software Support]] article lists only those packages that support multiple models; click on the model number to be taken to that scanner's home page, where software that is specific for that radio will be listed
##[http://www.sixspotsoftware.com/products/freescan FreeScan] is a popular freeware package that works with all the DMA scanners. Its user guide can be found [[FreeScan User Guide|here]] or can be accessed from within FreeScan from the toolbar. Click on ''Help / Online Help''
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##[https://sites.google.com/site/sixspotsoftware/downloads FreeScan] is a popular freeware package that works with all the DMA scanners. Its user guide can be found [[FreeScan User Guide|here]] or can be accessed from within FreeScan from the toolbar. Click on ''Help / Online Help''
 
#Unless you're using an older PC, serial ports are a thing of the past. You will need a USB-serial converter to connect the PC and scanner. While Scanner Master sells the USB-1, there are several other off the shelf ones that are known to work. See the [[Connecting scanners via USB]] article for a list of examples, along with an explanation on how to use Windoze Device Manager to diagnose connection issues.
 
#Unless you're using an older PC, serial ports are a thing of the past. You will need a USB-serial converter to connect the PC and scanner. While Scanner Master sells the USB-1, there are several other off the shelf ones that are known to work. See the [[Connecting scanners via USB]] article for a list of examples, along with an explanation on how to use Windoze Device Manager to diagnose connection issues.
 
#Each scanner has a specific setup procedure to set the baud rate on the scanner's port(s) . This [[Freescan - Connecting Scanner to PC|article]] summarizes the steps necessary for all the DMA scanners. Be sure you do this before trying to use software, or you will get connection issues.  
 
#Each scanner has a specific setup procedure to set the baud rate on the scanner's port(s) . This [[Freescan - Connecting Scanner to PC|article]] summarizes the steps necessary for all the DMA scanners. Be sure you do this before trying to use software, or you will get connection issues.  

Revision as of 08:29, 10 August 2016

I got this Uniden DMA Scanner. I want to change the programming and I dont know how to do it

Whether you're a newcomer or experienced scannist with lots of bank-oriented scanners, the thought of moving to DMA can be rather daunting. We have a lot of resources to help you over the hump, but before we get to that, let's talk about some of the basics first. Let's get started; anything in blue is a link.


The Nuts and Bolts

  • If you're a newcomer, you've probably already discovered that there's a huge amount of terms that seem unfamiliar to you. Our Glossary has lots of these terms, along with definitions. Just click on the term you wish to view.
  • When looking at frequencies in our database, float your mouse over the column header, and you should get a balloon with a brief description of the terms and abbreviations that are used there.
  • The biggest hurdle for many is the concept of trunking. Our Trunking Basics article will get you started, as well as this PDF file written by UPMan. Note that you will need Adobe Acrobat or a compatible reader (such as Foxit) to read it.
  • This article by Paul Opitz of Uniden gives you a basic introduction into DMA programming, and some hints on using worksheets to plan your programming.

Onto the Real Question

  1. Go to the Easier to Read homepage and download the manual for your scanner. See the index below. Scanner Master also sells printed versions of these manuals. Before you go any further, read this - discard the manual that came with the scanner.
  2. Our Uniden DMA FAQ will fill you in on many topics the Easer to Read manual doesn't. It also has a brief article explaining systems, sites, groups and quick keys - key concepts to understanding how to program these DMA based radios
  3. While these radios can be programmed manually, you will need a boatload of patience with all the keystrokes that will be needed. Using software is the method many use, and we have a cross reference by model and software package of everything known to support these radios. The Uniden DMA Software Support article lists only those packages that support multiple models; click on the model number to be taken to that scanner's home page, where software that is specific for that radio will be listed
    1. FreeScan is a popular freeware package that works with all the DMA scanners. Its user guide can be found here or can be accessed from within FreeScan from the toolbar. Click on Help / Online Help
  4. Unless you're using an older PC, serial ports are a thing of the past. You will need a USB-serial converter to connect the PC and scanner. While Scanner Master sells the USB-1, there are several other off the shelf ones that are known to work. See the Connecting scanners via USB article for a list of examples, along with an explanation on how to use Windoze Device Manager to diagnose connection issues.
  5. Each scanner has a specific setup procedure to set the baud rate on the scanner's port(s) . This article summarizes the steps necessary for all the DMA scanners. Be sure you do this before trying to use software, or you will get connection issues.
  6. Lastly you need data. If you purchase a premium subscription you can download data from our database. Alternately you can go to your state's forum and ask for a file. Be specific as to what software you are using, as not all formats are compatible with one another.

Easier to Read Manuals Index

Analog Trunkers Digital Trunkers
SC230/USC230 1 BCD396T/UBCD396T 1,2
BC246 BCD996T/UBCD996T 1,2
BR330T BCD396XT2
BCT15 BCD996P2/XT3,2
BC346XT BCD325P2 3
BCT15X
UBC800XLT 1
UBC3500XLT 1


Notes
  1. Model numbers prefixed with 'U' are European/Asian models
  2. Digital trunktrackers can also trunk analog systems. However, these scanners cannot handle the new Phase 2 systems due to hardware limitations. This capability cannot be added with a firmware update. These systems are identified by Project 25 Phase II in the System Type in the database.
  3. The scanners with 'P2' in the model number can trunktrack Phase 2 systems