Uniden SDS200 Demo with ProScan Software

[@nickwarzy]

Thanks for this comprehensive review. I have been eyeing the SDS200 for a while, but I don't think I "need" another one :) I currently have three scanners in operation -- two are broadcast to the web to Broadcastify. I appreciate the time and effort to make this video. Scanning as a hobby has certainly changed in the last 25 years since I started.

[@jacobreich1280]

The police here in Australia have gone encrypted years ago. There are still tons of things to listen to, like ambulance, fire, emergency services that will still entertain you. You still do need a digital scanner with trunking otherwise, you cannot hear anything. These services will never go encrypted, so the hobby should stay around for those that love it.

[@EricLDC]

Heard it works here in marietta Georgia. May buy one its expensive but this hobby was never cheap

[@BE242_CH2]

Great Video on this scanner and the software. You have a new subscriber!

[@wannabetowasabe]

The PROSCAN software is definitely worth the $50. I have 3 scanners I can program with this software and it is capable of programming about a dozen or more scanner models. You can copy the memory from one scanner and paste it into another scanner, saving oodles of time. I even was able to copy from an entirely different software program into PROSCAN and save even more time. A lot of people use cheap software and I try to get the best for the money and it has helped greatly. With the PROSCAN software the only criticism I have is the lack of instructions. You have to be familiar with your scanner and do a little trial and error with the software to understand everything it has to offer, but this passes fairly quickly most of the time.

[@reelnautee]

Not one dislike! Great review and explanation of some features. Helpful.

[@anthonysaggio6551]

It's an awesome scanner i have 3 SDS 100 a 536 2 996p2. a. Home Patrol 2 a bcd 325p2 and Trx 1

[@markgriffin2285]

Montgomery County PA Police have encrypted. Trust me, I talked to a police department very close to where I work. And they have been encrypting for a while. The police told me, that most of the stuff they talk about is worthless. Do they need to encrypt? Probably not. But ever since 9/11 Motorola has sold their encryption crap as the standard. One drawback to 700 and 800 MHz systems is that they need a lot of repeaters so that they can communicate effectively. Plus, if one is able to get the encryption keys that are being used, one can hack into a system. It may be illegal, but you have to get caught first.

[@Pahrump]

"hey Google turn the scanner on" And KZbin immediately served me up a VRBO ad.

[@keithnoone9727]

Can you provide a link for the Ethernet cable you used? Looks like it bends 90* coming out the frot f the radio. Thanks

[@mikefish99]

Proscan has new version 18.1 which fixes a few bugs in the SDS200. You'll see the update list.

[@xjohn1970]

A lot goes through the car computer to that you will never hear. I was going to get that model scanner till you mentioned PD going encrypted. I didn't think public service could go encrypted.

[@JohnSpaulding]

I don’t know if you covered it, but I’d like to mount this in my Jeep and when I’m home have it broadcast to my computer. I read that it’s possible. I downloaded the Uniden software but it will not run on my desktop (Windows 11). I will try the Proscan, but I have tons of questions. 15:10

[@chuckleskie]

I agree with your comment that eventually all Public Service will be encrypted but I also believe that there will always be something to monitor n a scanner. It may not require a SDS-200 but it can still be used.. My brother still monitors aircraft calls on his 40 year old PRO-2005. I suspect that encryption will be mostly done with police. One local city near me has encrypted police calls but their fire department is still transmitting in the clear. Even so, there is always Maritime, Aircraft, car races, Airshows, local un-encrypted DMR, Un-encrypted NXDN, local security, private EMS, Ham Radio, Short Wave, ISS, CB, GMRS, Coast Guard, Civil air Patrol, and much more....

[@paulallred5426]

Excellent Review, especially wasn't familiar with the ProScan software. Thank you for making this.

[@DroneFarmer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKaxnadjatOkqqM

[@ffmedic1638]

I think that I heard you say that you can listen in remotely as long as you are in the general area? So, would I not be able to use this set-up if I was traveling out of state, lets say? Because, I think you said it would work as long as you have internet access. Also, what cable are you using? I would need a rather short cable; probably no longer than 36 inches, as my switch is very close.

[@HIBAW]

Greetings from Afton mountain :)

[@randydinglehopper62]

Thanks!

[@ericseagroves]

I’m a new user of the sds200 but I cant seem to get it programmed from RRDB any clue? Also I have a apple pro max 13 and I can’t seem to download proscan on that either.

[@lorichristensen6666]

Hi Brian, the info is great, i need more private help on this. What type of server do you use, the type of ethernet cable, how to setup a switch, and the tech info to get a server working for my radio. I am unable to find the app on my android phone. Lori

[@nonattrib5891]

Great overview Brian. Thank you! (I'm sold!) I'm on the fence SDS100 vs SdS200 and it's down to connectivity and "host" support. No matter which I go with, I expect to have both "out of sight" and use ProScan to to control and to stream from each. Since you've had both and are a ProScan users, I wonder if you'd share the differences in connecting one vs the other as I've outlined. I understand I'll need a dedicated PC connected via USB for the SDS100 but I'll need a dedicated PC if I'm to run ProScan too. Will I need a separate audio connection on the SDS100 as well or does that come over the USB? Once connected, do they both offer the same functionality? Thank you for your time to consider my question.

[@DroneFarmer]

@Non Attrib I believe with the sds100 you need a separate audio interface (ie using the headphone jack on the handset). I tried this with the bcd436hp and I found there was lots of 60hz hum introduced through the headphone cable. That is a problem with taking an analog audio cable and running it into a computer. Opposed to the SDS200 which offers true digital audio out through an Ethernet cable, you get crystal clear audio into the computer. If your only purpose is to set it up at a desk then I would highly recommend the SDS200 over the 100. Or, if money is short, the bcd536 with WiFi dongle (included) is also an excellent choice with almost as good functionality on simulcast systems.

[@nonattrib5891]

@@DroneFarmer Thanks Brian!

[@gorio01961]

Love your video! Quick question…the ethernet port is it Cat 5 or Cat 6? Does it matter?

[@DroneFarmer]

Doesn’t matter. Cat5e is probably fine.

[@lorichristensen6666]

Hi Brian, i an unable to find the proscan software for my phone app, not sure what to do.

[@DroneFarmer]

There is no app on the phone. And probably never will be. You access the scanner via a web browser.

[@lorichristensen6666]

@@DroneFarmer Hi Brian, thank you for your reply. What do you use for a server?

[@DroneFarmer]

@@lorichristensen6666 a cheap old PC running windows 10.

[@bleikrsound6127]

4/22 - latest batch of these are back in stores - and being returned to stores because of a screen fit / light bleed issue.

[@MrTommy001]

Gasp! I just ordered one! Hope it's not F'd up!

[@bleikrsound6127]

@@MrTommy001 I found the issue is merely a foam rubber ‘gasket’ that’s supposed to cushion the screen and block light. When these things aren’t stuck on correctly ( mine had been actually twisted), light escapes. This is a fix anyone can do. Another problem with these scanners is Uniden’s horrible updater. Their servers suck.

[@Captain-ku2rm]

I'm having a diffucult time connecting to the SDS200 via my Android cell phone. The scanner is fully controllable from my laptop, so I know everything is set up at the scanner and the laptop through Proscan. I have port forwarding setup on both the router and within Proscan (port 5000). I suspect there is some sort of port conflict going on with the router, or maybe something is incorrectly setup in Proscan that's blocking access to the "Outside IP Address" that Proscan assigns. Any chance you might be planning to make a video showing a detailed set up of the router and Proscan in order to access the scanner via cell phone? The cell phone feature is a huge advantage because it saves a ton of money not having to buy scanners for the car, handhelds, etc...

[@DroneFarmer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKaxnadjatOkqqM

[@MrTommy001]

I think as long as you don't live in a larger city, encryption will not be a problem. Maybe with some state police systems, maybe, if you live in a cash-rich state. How many states can claim that these days?

[@davidsnow7886]

I would be very interested in purchasing your SDS200

[@keithvernonlewis9403]

If all of us, Radio Hobbyists, Law Enforcement Hobbyists, Open Government/SunShine Open Government Regulations and Resources, ect..., everone must have and continue to push for Open and Completely Transparent laws, or Freedom dies in darkness..........yours Keith Vernon Lewis

[@awstott]

Found out tonight you can use the arrow keys to navigate menus. Click on the big wheel and so it gets the green ring around it and then you can use the arrow keys to navigate and then hit enter to select.

[@bobperkins8613]

Thanks for this tip.

[@diamondmafiamedia9100]

How do i use the record option on the BCD325P2?

[@harveyblodinger2032]

hi my my name is harvey i live here i cville i just got the sds200 like to see if you could help me with some things when it get here ???

[@mindo2008]

Any problems with the humming noise that was being reported with this scanner?

[@DroneFarmer]

No because the audio is digitally processed.

[@mindo2008]

What about when not using ProScan and just scanning normally?

[@lrobie123]

my area is all encrypted as a few years ago now. sold my Unidens in 2015 knowing that the area would be soon encrypted in a year or so

[@DroneFarmer]

Yeah I’m sure my area will do the same eventually. Richmond went encrypted only a few years ago but they left their fire channel open.

[@rabmccoll3994]

@@DroneFarmer hey there Drone Farmer thanks for the video. Here in the UK we've been dealing with Tetra airwave encryption for years. The blue light went encrypted long before the states. A true radio enthusiast will always find other things to listen to. Here we have made do with marine, airband and the odd business radio fire ground handheld DMR. OK its not too exciting like you guys had it for years. But at least the scanners active. As more and more users turn to mobile phone type comms this is just something we have to deal with. You can start tracking planes adsb, ships ais and monitoring the radio traffic between, Setup maps and plot. Tons of fun out there still bud. I'm still thinking of buying one of these despite a lack of digital.

[@MrTommy001]

@@rabmccoll3994 I'm sure down the line some genius-type hackers will figure out how to break encryption codes and we'll be back. It will be illegal of course, but more and more stuff becomes illegal every day - and we still get by. Have faith, brother.

[@seanhinds4100]

This don't work on my tablet or phone can you help me.

[@cygnusnj]

What is that Ethernet cable?

[@joe10117]

hello my state of connecticut is now enquipted Im returning my uniden scanner so far left new haven ct sufolk county long island nyc air traffic and police so zim returning my unit sadly not worth the $ 700 to keep though sensitive to recieve but not worth the excepense

[@petergore1972]

Peter Gore Seer, Are They Restricted To US/Canada, The Soft Ware Certainly Is As They May Be Illegal Here In The UK.GPS Is For US/Canada, Making Them Redundant.

[@ChiDraconis]

Anyone: I am looking at Uniden Bearcat SR30C · As replacement for my table-top which I use for WXK35 │ Uniden Bearcat SR30C looks like it might do well on NiMH of which I have copious supply; The plan is to avoid hail & tornadoes by driving around behind FRD ~ in lieu of the alarm feature I am using some conventional ○ funds are -extremely_ limited and so this way I can carry in the escape vehicle … any thoughts welcome

[@LouieNYI09]

Great video, can you please go over how you hooked up the audio connection and settings?

[@DroneFarmer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKaxnadjatOkqqM

[@jeffshort6766]

So do you hear anything? what about the fact that most departments have some sort of encryption on them?

[@DroneFarmer]

I hear a lot actually. My locality hasn’t gone encrypted yet. They have a few encrypted tac channels but 95% of the traffic in my area is unencrypted. But you’re right, most of the large areas are going encrypted which makes this worthless.

[@midwestscanner]

What app would i use to listen on my Android phone?

[@Cisco2023]

If you already setup the web server I found the Firefox web browser works best.

[@Charles-xe9xl]

I’ll stay with my commercial grade unication g4 out performs both of these radios

[@stevest.martin3940]

I’ve got a home patrol 2 is this that much better ?

[@MrTommy001]

I think it IS better, albeit a bit more complicated.

[@wannabetowasabe]

I disagree about not buying a scanner if the police are encrypted in your area. Listening to fire, EMS and many other services will normally be available in spite of law enforcement encryption. Still plenty to listen to.

[@mark12.31]

I know this is an older video and others have said something similar...but, no, everything isn't going encrypted. I think you meant police likely will but even with that some departments are choosing to stay in the clear on purpose (and others have turned off encryption after negative effects). But there are lots of other services to monitor, some not even public safety. So, no, the scanner won't be obsolete soon...but what we listen to may shift.

[@ЮраУсик-с3о]

Гарний апарат👍із задоволенням би попрацював із ним💂‍♀️

[@pkxdsisters7021]

Did you know if you put some crushed crystals in the battery slot you can hear encrypted frequencies?

[@elkabong6429]

Thanks for the demo, but I can tell you aren't a hard-core scanner head, or you wouldn't say that with police going encrypted "there's nothing to listen to." There is still a ton of stuff to listen to, even if your local gendarmes go encrypted, not even just the fire and emergency services. There are businesses, rail, military, aeronautical, marine traffic, all kinds of county, town and city services, etc. I know, many of you will disagree, but I have been monitoring public service frequencies since the early 1970s and yes, I am disappointed that I can no longer listen to the PD, but that is life. I also get a thrill out of finding new transmissions, whatever they may be, and identifying them. In fact, in many cases, the "chase" is often more fun than listening to what I have finally confirmed (again, whatever that may be). Besides, I grew up in NYC during the 1960s and 70s and after listening to the NYPD for decades, coming to the suburbs of Richmond, VA and monitoring the PD here was pretty boring, so I really don't miss it all that much since it went encrypted here in 2017. To each his or her own, I reckon.

[@anthonygallo3576]

Clearly, too much scanner for me, . Turn it on remotely from the car. , No thanks. I think i will stick with the home patrol. Now i know why it has such a high price tag . I do find it hard to believe that every program in the world is hackable but we have no way of listening to encrypted radio. Its out there , its just the best kept secret. Thank you for an informative vid

[@generalawareness101]

Let me guess the SDS stands for Software Defined Scanner?

[@DroneFarmer]

General Awareness yeah, I think so. Just like SDR is software defined radio. SDR allows for a lot of benefits with simulcast systems.

[@generalawareness101]

@@DroneFarmer I really wish they had a SDR scanner. I mean we have the ability now but in an actual scanner like they have for the ham radio operators. Of course those radios are cheaper to make but cost twice as much so go figure.

[@DroneFarmer]

General Awareness I mean it is an SDR scanner. That’s the only way it could really decode digital p25 phase 2 radio traffic. They also make some really cheap SDR usb devices that I’ve experimented with. Much more complicated to operate though.

[@generalawareness101]

@@DroneFarmer Yeah, I figured but will it let you scan any frequency from 100hz to 6ghz? It is lacking the controls I see on something like the ICOM sdr ham radio on its front panel. Of course 700 vs 1700 too but part of the 1700 is that it is more regulated and transmits as well.

[@JCourts2k23]

So you don’t have to connect the scanner itself directly to the computer

[@DroneFarmer]

JoshCourts the scanner is connected to your network like a local printer.

[@JCourts2k23]

Do I have to have a static IP address for it to work remotely away from home?

[@JCourts2k23]

Reason I ask is because I don’t believe I can change my router settings with my internet provider

[@DroneFarmer]

JoshCourts you should be able to but either way your ip shouldn’t change once it’s assigned. In fact you can set up the scanner to assign an IP address for itself bypassing the automatic dhcp of the router. The problem you are going to run into though is setting up your remote access outside of the network (for listening to the scanner from your phone for example) because that’s going to require port forwarding(a common router tool). But I know even with something like Comcast’s modem/router combo they let you control the router, you might just have to find a separate tutorial on that.

[@JCourts2k23]

Well let me ask you this, I can control smart plugs away from home, isn't this the same thing?

[@midwestguy3361]

Would like to know if uniden ever fix the sds200 popping and humming issues

[@DroneFarmer]

Car Buff yeah. I believe they did. They discovered it was a grounding issue with the screen and added a piece. There’s a free upgrade kit that they have for retrofitting existing units.

[@dougsmyth1226]

Sounds complicated

[@thomasdemers5478]

Great information and super informative BUT! Encryption is not an automatic death sentence to the SDS200, it's cable of produccing the same frequency enhancements for NON law enforcement agencies as well. I'm not sure how long you've been monitoring law enforcement via scanning receivers but for myself, it's been well over 40 years and I can remember CLEARLY the day the digital scanner evolution came to be and they said the same thing, analog scanners are DEAD in the water, period. That was well over 20 years ago and STILL!.....There are law enforcement departments today using analog transmission in one form or another. Bottom line? Switching a municipal system from analog to digital (which by no means includes encryption) costs millions (literally), Local and state governments need to justify spending that money to the tax payers. Oh, and with all the 'Defund the police' BS, I'd say those switch to digital/encryption dollars will be delayed even longer. Either way, the SDS200 will bring YEARS of enjoyment to any broadcast enthusiast.

[@DanKuches]

Agreed, having worked for Motorola on the West Coast, for the true AES encryption, there is a charge per radio to install a firmware board, then you need to purchase a license, and then, you need to pay a yearly renewal fee per radio.... Oh, and it's not hundreds per radio, it's thousands.

[@petergore1972]

Peter Gore Seer, The Scan Rates Are Useless, Over Price Gimmick.