[Scan-DC] i-calls on Digital systems - Howard and Montgomery counties

[Doug K.]

Rick, for what it's worth in choosing between the two - I have recently 
purchased a BC 796 - some non-technical friends have a Pro that they bought 
in the RS store (not online) and I suspect that the Pro is more 
user-friendly - apparently it was pre-programmed.  I'm hearing what I want 
to on the 796, but am still having a time figuring out how to use and 
program it, and am sure that I'm not yet using it to anywhere near its full 
capability.

The other side of the coin is that the Uniden radios may be a little more 
versatile (or "customizable", maybe - although I guess the Pro can be 
reprogrammed too), and I believe that it covers one military or government 
band that the Pro does not pick up (not sure about this tho).

My point is that the 796 is not at all a plug-and play or turn-key operation 
by any means.  If you enjoy fiddling with this stuff, then it's great (by 
the way it appears to be very well made).  If you want immediate plug and 
play,check the radio shack one.  I've had my 796 for about 3 weeks now, and 
I found the first week or so extremely frustrating, especially because I 
don't have a lot of time to play around with the thing.  Am getting better 
with it, but haven't fiddled with it in about 10 days now - am about due for 
another round with the software.

Incidentally, some of the guys on this list have been very helpful and 
supportive (Y'all know who you are, thanks!)

Hope you and others find this useful!

Regards,

Doug



>From: "Rick Hansen" <Rick.Hansen at Arctic.com>

>I'm trying to choose a scanner (pro 96 or bc296d) as a "gift" suggestion.