Uniden BCD996P2 Digital Mobile TrunkTracker V Scanner, 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels, Close Call RF Capture Technology, 4-Line Alpha display, Base/Mobile Design, Phase 2, Location-Based Scanning

I basically had to use 3rd party software to program this. I primarily got it to listen to local fire depts. It does have a tone-out feature, but I didnt find that feature particularly impressive or useful since it is basically necessary to sit on the main dispatch frequency (rather than scanning multiple frequencies). So, I was basically forced to either use it on only one frequency, or give up the tone-out feature to make use of the scanner as a scanner. Additionally, my attempts at contacting customer service/tech support were a waste of time. They did respond to my initial email telling me theyd get back to me with an answer, which they never did. Even more than a month later, I still have not received any follow-up from them about my issue. Ultimately, I returned the item for a refund. Its just too pricey and hard to program for its own good.

This scanner is great. Its easy to program once you figure out, without any help from the manufacturer, that you need to use a windows 7 computer and not windows 10 to program it if you want to use pc software to do it. You can program this scanner from the unit itself if you really want to. Its one of the easier scanners Ive programmed for conventional anyways. I havent had a chance to try out the trunking of p25 capabilities yet as my area is building out their p25 p2 network at the moment.

When I got this I thought it would be hard to program, but with a little reading and trying ..... its pretty easy!!!!

a little hard to program if your not used to radio.s,their are youtube vidio.s that can help,once you learn how it is easy,i love this scanner.

Got for 90 yr old dad. Keeps his mind interested.

I have spent hours (adding up to days) trying to program this scanner. I have been able to hear State Highway Patrol, so it seems to function. I have yet to hear county or city law enforcement. I spent hours more watching videos and reading forums. All the experts agree it is easy to program, just download freescan. Except not if you own a MAC. I went to the Uniden website, which did not appear to admit they ever made this model. . There was an advertisement flyer in the box with a list of expensive upgrades I could get, but I dont know what they do or if they would help. Personally, I think it should be sold in working condition. If it needs a $90.00 DMR upgrade to operate, it should have it already. Why would I spend more without knowing what that even does. Im sure the P25 system is probably designed to be difficult to monitor. But dont claim your product can do it unless it can.

Excellent performance on most systems even with the small, cheap antenna that comes with it. I can receive many transmissions from dozens of miles away and in my basement. Programming with software is a must, a subscription to radioreference and programming software will get you running very quickly. Very satisfied with this radio even though I havent completely mastered using it. Using it is difficult to understand at first so if you want a simple scanner (if such a thing exists) get something else...otherwise its probably the best mobile scanner you can buy.

There is a learning curve in programming it. However, it is much easier to program with the Computer and upload the information. I bought ARC-XT Pro to program it, and a Radio Reference subscription. I am happy with both. This scanner is very sensitive, has good quality audio and enables you to listen to almost everything the Police and Fire use. I am also receiving commercial and military aircraft, trains and HAM Radio. With the included antenna I could hear the local police and fire easily in my basement. With an outside antenna I now hear the state.

Scanner works well. Does not come with cloneing cable though. Must know someone that can program it for you.

I gave the scanner 5 stars for easy to use but I warn you, I have been using scanners for 30+ years. If this is your first scanner, it may take a bit of time to get used to it. The days of crystals and two knobs is over. There are dozens of settings to use, many you will never touch. I think this is a great scanner for the price. If you are new to the hobby, give this scanner some time and you too will enjoy it.