[PCR-1000] PROBE1K - new software for PCR-1000

[ed]

i just purchased this new PCR-1000 software, and am interested in hearing 
others' experiences with it.  has anyone else on the list tried it yet?

-ed


>Date: Thu, 01 May 2003 10:09:14 -0400
>To: pcr-1000@mailman.qth.net
>From: ed <bernies@netaxs.com>
>Subject: Re: [PCR-1000] RDS with PCR1000?
>
>this should interest many on the list.  it's especially interesting that 
>so much increased PCR-1000 capability can be achieved on an old DOS 
>computer that many people would consider useless junk.
>
>i personally use PROBE7 from this author with my Optocom, and it's an 
>exceptionally well thought-out and powerful piece of software.
>
>-ed
>
>http://www.probe1k.com/
>
>PROBE1K - Software developed exclusively for scanning 25 to 1300 MHz with
>the Icom IC-PCR1000 Computer Controlled Receiver / Scanner.
>
>Faster scanning speed and CTCSS tone squelch.
>
>Loaded with unique scanning features like SmartScan, TacScan and
>Hyperbanks.
>
>Hear more of what you want to hear as it happens with your Icom PCR1000.
>
>Utilizes a true database engine for fast, easy and efficient data
>management.
>
>Large data capacity - 4000 groups, each with 99 banks, 1000 frequencies
>per bank.
>
>PROBE1K runs well on low cost computer hardware.
>
>Dependable and stable long term non-stop operations with the PCR1000.
>
>PROBE1K leads the way in "virtual computer controlled scanning" by
>providing new, innovative and versatile features. Compare PROBE1K's
>features with any other software and you'll see why PROBE1K is the best
>scanning software for the Icom IC-PCR1000.
>
>
>Overview
>
>FASTEST Scanning Software Available for Icom IC-PCR1000 - PROBE1K is
>specifically coded for "scanning" 25 - 1300 MHz in order to achieve high
>speed frequency acquisition and CTCSS tone detection with the Icom
>PCR1000. Unlike other PCR1000 compatible programs, PROBE1K can detect tone
>squelch without seriously impacting scanning speed - even when multiple
>CTCSS tones need to be checked for the same frequency! The frequency is
>tuned just once when multiple tones need to be checked for the same
>frequency. Scanning speeds in excess of 40 frequencies per second have
>been achieved with PROBE1K. Scanning speed results are displayed directly
>on the scanning screen. "Filter" and "ATT" settings are provided for each
>frequency record for better reception and control.
>
>Powerful, Intuitive and Easy to Use - Mnemonics are used throughout the
>program making functions easier to remember while providing immediate
>control over the PCR1000. Single specific keystrokes provide a true
>"control panel" feel. No need to look at a monitor screen to control the
>receiver.
>
>Versatile - Works on virtually all IBM compatible computers, both DOS and
>most Windows based operating systems. You can use older and inexpensive
>PCs for dedicated "terminal based" computer controlled scanning. No need
>for extra memory, special graphics, annoying device drivers, or
>complicated operating system setups. PROBE1K provides a very stable
>operating environment for long term non-stop operations. Check out some of
>the laptops and monitors we enjoy using with PROBE1K.
>
>Data Driven - PROBE1K uses a high speed database engine (dBASE format) for
>"virtual computer controlled scanning". Provides large capacity data
>management (4000 groups, each with 99 banks, 1000 frequencies per bank)
>while attaining maximum scanning performance without demands for extra
>memory or processing power.
>
>Specifically Designed for Scanning - Features like TacScantm, SmartScantm,
>Hyperbanks and Hypersettings provide functionality beyond the common scope
>of "manual tuning" programs primarily designed for Shortwave and HF
>reception. These, and other functions, provide more continuity and control
>of what you hear. Hear more of what you want to hear as it happens!
>
>Summary - Look closely at the features and benefits of PROBE1K. Compare
>them carefully with other PCR1000 compatible programs. Then consider
>PROBE1K runs extremely well on low cost computers. If having fast and easy
>control of the PCR1000 is important, you won't find anything more capable
>than PROBE1K. When you're controlling your PCR1000 with PROBE1K, you'll
>feel like you're getting instant results - the same as if you were
>pressing the buttons directly on a scanner - no "delays" or feeling
>"disconnected" from the radio. Best of all, you will get maximum possible
>scanning speed and performance - something the others just can't promise.
>
>
>Features
>
>Exceptional Bank and Frequency Management - Select up to 99 banks to scan
>at one time, containing up to 1000 frequencies each, quickly, easily, and
>without having to leave scanning screen. Banks include descriptive fields
>up to 25 characters for each bank, incremental search and tagging of banks
>for easy identification, lookup and selection.
>
>Group File Management - Provides up to 4000 groups of 99 banks, each group
>with separate and customizable configurations including frequency, bank,
>logs, radio service codes, VFO keys, Hyperbanks, Hypersettings and alarm
>files.
>
>SmartScantm - Allows you to instantly and automatically focus on changing
>events! Key frequencies are assigned as triggers. When activity is
>detected on one of these key frequencies, PROBE1K activates an assigned
>bank of frequencies, called a "SmartBank", for a specified amount of dwell
>time. A SmartBank can be any bank of a few frequencies or as many as 1000.
>For each key frequency, you can choose whether the SmartBank is the only
>bank scanned (exclusive mode), or is added to current banks scanned
>(non-exclusive mode). The length of dwell time spent in either mode can be
>tailored to your own situation. If activity is detected within the
>SmartBank of frequencies during the dwell time, the dwell timer is reset
>so you can continue to monitor the action.
>
>For example, you can designate the air emergency frequency 121.5000 as a
>key frequency. When it becomes active, you can have your scanner
>exclusively scan just those frequencies related to the air emergency
>frequency, like the local tower, ground control, rescue squad and air port
>security, or you can include them with the other frequencies being scanned
>in the non-exclusive mode. Once the actions settles down, normal scanning
>resumes. This is just one of many uses for SmartScan.
>
>TacScantm - The benefit of TacScan is quite noticeable, particularly when
>you are scanning a large number of frequencies. While you can use the
>standard "delay" features on a normal scanner, they are usually too short
>to be effective. You could use PROBE1K's extended delay features, but
>applying a lengthy delay can result in hearing less traffic. With TacScan,
>your odds of hearing a "response" to a dispatch are greatly improved. When
>you are searching a large number of frequencies, you will hear more
>activity, less dead air and enjoy better continuity. Find, identify and
>log those "new" frequencies quickly!
>
>TacScan assigns an active frequency to a priority position in the scanning
>list for a specified period of time. When and how the frequency is
>assigned as a TacScan frequency is based on the settings for TacScan. You
>can set TacScan on "auto", or use PROBE1K's logging features, as a trigger
>so a frequency found active is assigned to the TacScan scanning list. You
>can also manually assign an active, or last active frequency to the
>TacScan list right from the scanning screen. You will definately "hear the
>difference" with TacScan.
>
>Hyperbankstm - "Imagine having ten scanners sitting on your desk." reports
>John McColman from AOSC Journal. With just one simple keystroke, this new
>feature immediately activates any combination of 99 scanning banks. Each
>of the ten available Hyperbanks can be customized with a description so
>you can easily remember what each Hyperbank is designed to monitor.
>Hyperbanks allows the PCR1000 to become a tactical system, where it is
>quickly and easily reconfigured to the needs of the moment. Rather than
>switching through various screens, or deactivating and activating banks,
>you only have to press one function key and go. Thus, with the ten
>function keys having separate bank selections, it is like having ten
>scanners available, all at the touch of one key.
>
>Let's say you have any number of banks setup to suit your interests.
>There's a bank for fire, another for media and another for local
>government. You can configure the "F1" key to activate these three banks
>and describe it as "Fire" . Other banks could include your favorite
>frequency banks such as federal law enforcement, local and state law
>enforcement. Configure the "F10" key with these banks and describe it as
>"Favorite Frequencies". When a major event occurs, press "F1" and the
>fire, media and local government banks are immediately activated. When
>everything is finished, press "F10" and you are back to your normal
>configuration.
>
>Hypersettingstm - In addition to PROBE1K's ability to "memorize" (save)
>various bank selections to one "Hyperbank key", PROBE1K provides the
>option of memorizing PROBE1K's "Settings" into the same key. A Hyperbank
>key not only controls bank selections, but controls most of the scanning
>operations, features and functions instantly.
>
>Hypergroupstm - Switch between any 10 "Groups" on the fly directly from
>the scanning screen! Assign any of the "F1" through "F10" keys to your 10
>favorite groups. Once scanning, pressing "Alt-H" provides a pick list of
>groups. Or you can use the key combination of <Alt> and any of the
>preassigned "F" keys to go directly to a group.
>
>VFO Keys - This feature provides immediate access for those most important
>frequencies from the scanning screen or the manual tuner. Up to 10
>individual frequencies can be assigned to the "F1" through "F10" keys -
>called "VFO Keys". In addition to a frequency, each VFO key can store the
>mode, tone, step rate and a description for each frequency. There's also a
>handy VFO key pick list. Once a VFO key is pressed, the associated
>frequency is immediately tuned in the "Manual Tuner" where it can be
>changed, or stepped up or down based on the step rate you programmed into
>the VFO key. Tone squelch control is also provided.
>
>Automark and Autolock - These features provide a method for easily
>identifying which frequencies are in use in your area. An excellent tool
>for professional users responsible for frequency coordination and spectrum
>analysis. "Automark" automatically highlights (marks) frequency records on
>file based on the number of "hits" recorded in the log file. Coupled with
>enhanced functions in the frequency viewer, you can copy or move either
>the marked or unmarked frequency records from a specific bank, or from the
>entire frequency file, to a different bank or group. Like "Automark",
>"Autolock" locks out active frequencies based on the number of "hits"
>allowing the program to concentrate more time checking on the remaining
>frequencies for activity.
>
>Extensive Frequency Management Tools Built In - Frequency file viewer and
>editor provides expanding, contracting and locking columns for easy
>viewing. Column order of frequency data can be customized to suit your
>needs. Provides multiple sorting options for different ordering of data.
>Incremental searching for fast lookups. Create subsets and print frequency
>data. Speed entry and instant duplication check for new frequency data.
>Direct access to frequency file and full screen frequency data editor
>accessible right from the scanning screen!
>
>One of the many unique frequency management tools is the "Compare / Copy"
>function. This feature allows you to copy selected frequency data from one
>group into another. After the selected records are copied, they are
>compared to the other records in the current group. Those which are
>duplicated elsewhere in the group are "marked" (highlighted) and those
>which are new are unmarked. You can easily delete the marked records if
>you only want to view the new records, or delete the unmarked records to
>see the duplicates. For those new records you wish to keep, you can
>reassign them to their appropriate banks. This make sharing frequency
>files with others a snap. You can "Copy / Compare" their frequency files
>with yours making it easier to update and synchronize frequency files.
>Another benefit is being able to combine one group with another while
>eliminating unnecessary duplication.
>
>Imports PCR1000 "MCH" Files - PROBE1K allows you to import existing
>frequency data from Icom's software as well as the free data available for
>the Icom PCR1000 from Icom's free online "Frequency Finder" website.
>Import routine allows you to assign incoming data to specific banks within
>PROBE1K. Bank assignments can be left intact or frequency data can be
>consolidated into one bank.
>
>Imports FCC Data - PROBE1K utilizes FCC data better than any other
>software by importing more of it. Works with FCC Data from National
>Communications' "Mr. Scanner" CD ROM or any other FCC data that conforms
>to "UFDBF" standards. Built-in FCC radio service descriptions and codes
>provided. Breaks down FCC data by putting each service type into an
>individual bank. Automatically fills in bank descriptions with FCC radio
>service descriptions (when available) for easy selection of which radio
>services to scan. Uses latitude and longitude data (when available) for
>calculating distance from monitoring location to transmitter. Built-in
>radius search function allows you to import just those frequencies in your
>area. Frequencies which can't be tuned or are out of the tuning range of
>the scanner are automatically eliminated. Duplicate frequencies are only
>tuned once when scanning. Duplicate licensee records can be deleted by
>using a special "Dupecheck" function while scanning.
>
>Imports CSV Data - CSV data, a common data format, can be imported
>directly into PROBE1K. You control what data goes where. Also allows
>importing frequencies from a regular text file where frequencies are
>delimited by carriage returns and line feeds.
>
>Log all or specific frequencies / tones / DTMF data - Log is readily
>viewed and printed during scan session. Logging includes time and date
>stamp and options for logging individual or cumulative transmissions of
>DTMF data. Accumulated air time and average signal strength included.
>Immediate access tot he log directly from the scanning screen and
>instantly tune a logged frequency. A "Minimum Airtime" setting eliminates
>logging frequencies due to short squelch openings and repeater delays that
>may otherwise hold the frequency open.
>
>More on-line data for active frequencies - Scanning screen includes
>licensee name, address, city, state, county, radio service type and
>description, callsign, transmitter latitude, longitude, group name, log
>file name, bank number and bank description.
>
>More on-line status indicators - Status indicators and data include
>scanning speed, current active frequency, CTCSS / DTMF codes, signal
>strength, log, alarms, priority, delays, current time, SmartScan,
>SmartBank, and an active log of the most recent frequency activity.
>
>Unique "Lite Bar" and "Manual" tuning Functions - "Direct access on-line
>tuning" from both the frequency and log file viewers provide immediate
>tuning of highlighted frequency or log record. Manual mode provides
>variable tuning directly from scan screen; acts like a "tuning knob". Tone
>control, signal strength, and DTMF readout included. You can even toggle
>the PCR1000's "ATT" switch for deattenuating the signal.
>
>These are just a few of the many features PROBE1K has to offer. Other
>features include:
>
>Individual "Filter" and "ATT" settings can selected for each frequency
>record
>
>
>"Templock" for nuisance transmissions with variable time control selected
>on the fly while scanning
>
>
>"Templock Monitor" temporarily locks out a frequency that may be the
>result of "stuck key" or otherwise is interfering with the regular
>scanning process
>
>
>Variable monitoring time limit
>
>
>Selectable priority bank including a variable sample rate for focusing on
>the most important frequencies
>
>
>Dual delay "global" timers as well as a "Custom Delay" for an individual
>frequency
>
>
>Export frequency or log data to ASCII text file, CSV file, mapping file
>(frequency data only) and "UFDBF" file
>
>
>Visual Alarmstm allows you to assign a frequency with any one of nine
>customized visual and audio alarms. When an "alarmed" frequency goes
>active, the name appears in the activity window in its specially assigned
>color?
>
>
>Delete duplicates function allows you to automatically create search files
>for a specified range of frequencies while leaving out any frequencies
>which are already in a selected group's frequency file
>
>
>Enhanced "Frequency Dupe Check" allows you to view a duplicate frequency
>record when adding new ones
>
>
>"Total Frequency Count" provides a total count of all frequencies being
>scanned and frequencies per bank
>
>
>Display colors can be changed and monochrome is also supported
>
>
>Display up to 50 lines of data on screen at once for larger frequency, log
>and history lists
>
>
>Four different types of scan indicators including a "scan speed" indicator
>
>
>Signal strength display provides actual readings from receiver giving you
>a wider range of numbers
>
>
>Compare all these features with any other software and you'll see why
>PROBE1K is the best scanning software for the Icom PCR1000.