Scanner question

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My new BC346XT arrived in the mail yesterday, and now I'm having a blast programming this thing. I've found almost all the frequencies I need on scannewengland.net, but have a question. When a frequency is listed, sometimes it's followed by "using a PL of 136.5". What does that mean, and is it something I input into the scanner?
 
A PL is usually a short-hand for CTCSS squelch code. Its simply a 136.5 Hz "sub-audible" tone that instructs the squelch to open up. Its optional if you want to use it, but it helps to eliminate interfering signals from getting through the squelch. Basically any scanner made in the last 20 years should support PLs.
 
Here is an easier to read on line manual for the scanner you have. http://marksscanners.com/346XT/346xt.shtml

It sounds as if you have the PL search function turned on. maee is correct in his description of how it works, it can be a big help when you get 2 or more dept's on the same frequency. I have several Uniden scanners and still need to use the manual, also some programming software can be a huge help. Go here http://forums.radioreference.com/ or here http://www.scannewengland.net/forums/content.php for helpful forums.
 
Thanks guys! It's really impressive to see all the options these scanners have now. I've got it running, but I'm not sure if my trunking systems are programmed properly or not. So far the MSP in my area have been silent. I'll keep trying.

Bolt, thanks for the links. That on-line manual is 100 times easier to use than the one that came with the scanner!
 
Are you using programming software. I use ARCXT ( http://www.butel.nl/ ) if you have it I can do a file for you.

Currently I'm just manually programing the scanner. It's tedious but I can only tinker with it when the kids are sleeping and I'm not working. I'll have to give the software a shot when I get back in town. Thanks for the offer, I'll probably take you up on it in the next week or so.
 
Ok, bringing back and old one here, but I've had absolutely no luck with the MSP. I've tried everything that looks like it would work, but I'm hearing nothing. Anyone willing or able to give me a step by step on programing the Central MA MSP trunking system. I've figured the rest of them out, just not the SP. Thanks in advance!
 
Give me an idea where in central you are in a pm and I'll send you what you need to program it. You do have a programming cable, right ?

I do have the programming cable, but it fits my old CP and not my laptop. The old computer works but is wicked slow. I should have time over the holiday to mess with it though. PM sent.
 
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