BC 895 XLT

CONTENTS
Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
BC895XLT Controls and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Important Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
About this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
What is Scanning? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
What is Searching? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
What is CTCSS? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
What is Trunk Tracking? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Feature Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Where to Obtain More Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Information on the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Computer Control of Your BC895XLT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Included with Your Scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Installing Your BC895XLT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
For Home Use (Desktop Installation) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Adapter Safety Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
For Mobile Use (In-Car Installation). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Setting the Squelch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Using the VFO Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Programming using Manual Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Programming using the Rotary Tuner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Programming using AutoStore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Transferring a Programmed Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Duplicate Frequency Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Deleting a Stored Frequency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Preventing Accidental Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Programming Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Scanning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Setting the Delay Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Channel Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Lockout in Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Lockout in Scanning Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Lockout Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Restoring a Locked Out Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Restoring All Locked-Out Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Priority Scan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Changing the Priority Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Tape Recording Channel Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Weather Channel Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Weather Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Testing the Weather Alert Siren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Searching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Setting a Search Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Search Hold Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Data Skip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Channel Skip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Storing Search Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
CTCSS Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Searching for CTCSS Tones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Changing a CTCSS Tone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Erasing a CTCSS Tone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
CTCSS Tone Frequencies (Hz) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Trunk Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Types of Trunking Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Setting the Squelch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Programming Trunking Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Searching a Trunked Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
ID Hold Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
ID Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Restoring a Single ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Restoring all IDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Searching Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Channel Activity Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Scan Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Deleting a Stored ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Fleet Map Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Selecting Trunking Programming Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Selecting a Preset Fleet Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Programming a Fleet Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Restoring Default Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Programming a Hybrid System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
General Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Birdies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Appendix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Preset Fleet Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
User Defined Fleet Maps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
One Year Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
2
Introduction
The BC895XLT is a brand new state-of-the-art radio with TrunkTracking™ and automatic
scanning capabilities. You can store frequencies such as police, fire/emergency, marine, air,
amateur, and other communications into 10 banks of 30 channels each. Use it at home as a base
unit, or install it in your vehicle as a mobile unit. The Rotary Tuner enables rapid and easy selection
of channels and frequencies, and with AutoStore, you can automatically program channels in an
available bank. In addition, your new scanner has AutoSort, which is an automatic frequency-sorting
feature which provides faster scanning within each bank.
Use your new scanner to monitor:
800 MHz Trunked Public Safety Systems

Police and Fire Departments (including rescue and paramedics)
NOAA Weather Broadcasts
Business/Industrial Radio
Utilities
Marine and amateur (ham radio) bands
Air band
Frequency Range Steps Transmission

29.0-29.7 MHz 5 kHz 10 Meter Amateur Band
29.7-50.0 MHz 5 kHz VHF Low Band
50.0-54.0 MHz 5 kHz 6 Meter Amateur Band
108-137 MHz 12.5 kHz Aircraft Band
137-144 MHz 5 kHz Military Land Mobile
144-148 MHz 5 kHz 2 Meter Amateur Band
148-174 MHz 5 kHz VHF High Band
216-225 MHz 5 kHz VHF High Band
225-400 MHz 12.5 kHz UHF Air Band
406-420 MHz 12.5 kHz Federal Land Mobile
420-450 MHz 12.5 kHz 70cm Amateur Band
450-470 MHz 12.5 kHz UHF Standard Band
470-512 MHz 12.5 kHz UHF “T” Band
806-956 MHz 12.5 kHz Public Service “800”
Band
3
Important Notice
This scanning radio has been manufactured so that it will not tune to the radio frequencies
assigned by the FCC for cellular telephone usage. The Electronic Communications Privacy
Act of 1986, as amended, makes it a federal crime to intentionally intercept cellular or
cordless telephone transmissions or to market this radio when altered to receive them.
The installation, possession, or use of this scanning radio in a motor vehicle may be
prohibited, regulated, or require a permit in certain states, cities, and/or local jurisdictions.
Your local law enforcement officials should be able to provide you with information
regarding the laws in your community.
Changes or modifications to this product not expressly approved by Uniden, or operation of
this product in any way other than as detailed by this Operating Guide, could void your
authority to operate this product.
About this Manual

The screen displays used in this manual are representations of what might appear when
you use your scanner. Since the actual displays depend on the frequencies and user ID’s
for your area, as well as the settings you select, you may notice some differences between
what is in this manual and what your scanner displays.
4
Terminology
What is Scanning?
Unlike standard AM or FM radio stations, most two-way communications do not transmit
continuously. The BC895XLT scans programmed channels until it finds an active frequency.
Scanning stops on an active frequency and remains on that channel as long as the transmission
continues. When the transmission ends, the scanning cycle resumes until another transmission is
received.
SCAN
CHANNELS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Frequency Frequency not
Locked Out entered
(L/O)
What is Searching?
The BC895XLT can search each of its 14 bands to find active frequencies. This is different from
scanning because you are searching for frequencies that have not been programmed into your
scanner. When you select a frequency band to search, the scanner searches for any active
frequency within the lower and upper limits specified. When an active frequency is found, the
scanner stops on that frequency as long as the transmission lasts. If the frequency is interesting,
you can program it into one of the banks. If not, you can continue your search.
What is CTCSS?
Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) is a subaudible tone signaling system
sometimes referred to as PL (Motorola’s trademark term standing for Private Line). CTCSS is
usable only for FM signals and is usually associated with both amateur and commercial two-way
repeaters. This system makes use of a special subaudible tone which accompanies a transmitted
signal. A set of 38 standard tones has been established by the the Electronics Industry Association.
CTCSS is used for many purposes. In many cases, CTCSS is used to restrict access to a
commercial repeater, so that only those units which transmit the correct tone along with their signal
can “talk to the repeater.” You may also need to have your scanner coded correctly to “hear” the
repeater.
CTCSS is also used in areas of high interference where there are several stations with output
frequencies in close proximity with one another. When this occurs, you may hear multiple
communications at the same time. The stations could even interfere with each other to the point
where it is impossible to clearly receive either one. When your receiver, in this case a scanner, is
equipped for CTCSS, you can code each received frequency with a specific CTCSS frequency.
Then, when multiple signals are broadcast, you will only hear the transmission with the CTCSS tone
you have programmed. If you do not receive the correct tone with a signal, the squelch of your
scanner remains closed and you will not hear anything.
Establishment of the CTCSS tone for each transmitter (or repeater) is usually done through the
cooperative setting of standards by local frequency allocation groups.
5
What is Trunk Tracking?
Conventional scanning is a simple concept. You enter a radio frequency in your scanner’s memory
which is used by someone you want to monitor. For example, the police in your area may broadcast
on 460.500 MHz , the fire department on 154.445 MHz, the highway department on 37.900 MHz,
etc. So when your scanner stops on a frequency, you usually know who it is, and more importantly,
you can stop on a channel and listen to an entire conversation. This type of scanning is easy and
fun.
As the demand for public communications has increased, many public radio users don’t have
enough frequencies to meet their needs, and this has created a serious problem. Trunking radio
systems solve this problem.
In a trunked radio system, which contains up to 29 different frequencies, radio users are divided into
groups, often called talk groups, and these talk groups are assigned specific IDs. When someone in
a talk group uses their radio, a brief burst of data is broadcast before each transmission. The
trunking system computer uses this data to temporarily assign each radio in a talk group to an
available frequency. If the group using a frequency stops broadcasting or pauses between replies
for a few seconds, they are removed from the frequency so another talk group can use it.
Sharing of the available public service frequencies, or trunking, allows cities, counties, or other
agencies to accommodate hundreds of users with relatively few frequencies. On the other hand,
following a conversation on a trunked system is difficult, if not impossible, because when there’s a
short break during the conversation you’re monitoring, it’s possible that the talk group will be
assigned to a completely different frequency in the trunked system. This type of scanning is difficult
and frustrating.
TrunkTracker™ changes this! Not only does your new BC895XLT scan channels like a
conventional scanner, it actually follows the users of a trunked radio system. Once you know a talk
group’s ID, you won’t miss any of the action.
If you’re a new scanner enthusiast, you may want to read the first part of this manual and use your
scanner in conventional mode before you begin trunk tracking. Understanding scanning
fundamentals and terminology will make trunk tracking much easier. If you’re already a
sophisticated scanner operator, you may want to go to Trunk Tracking on page 38 now.
6
Feature Highlights
Trunk Tracking – Follow 800 MHz trunked public safety and public service systems just as
if conventional two-way communications were used.
300 Channels – Program one frequency into each channel. You must have at least one
channel programmed to use the Scan mode.
10 Banks – Each bank contains 30 channels, large enough for even the largest trunked
systems or useful for storing similar frequencies to maintain faster scanning cycles.
Signal Strength Meter – Your scanner has a signal strength meter, which displays the
relative strength of an active transmission, using up to five separate indicators.
CTCSS – (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) When activated, your scanner will
only tune to a frequency if the associated CTCSS tone you have programmed is included
with the transmission. You can also use this feature to search for a CTCSS tone when
monitoring a transmission.
14 Bands – Includes 14 bands, with Aircraft and 800 MHz.
29 MHz-956 MHz – Your scanner covers an extensive frequency range so that you can
monitor most of the transmissions in your area.
Note: The frequency coverage is not continuous and excludes the cellular band.
10 Priority Channels – You can assign one priority channel in each bank. Assigning a
priority channel allows you to keep track of activity on your most important channel(s) while
monitoring other channels for transmissions.
VFO Control – (Variable Frequency Oscillator) Turn the large Rotary Tuner to select a
desired frequency or channel.
AutoStore – Automatically stores all active frequencies within the specified bank(s).
Weather Alert – Lets your scanner function as a severe weather warning radio.
AutoSort – Programmed frequencies are automatically sorted within each bank for faster
scanning.
Unique Data Skip – Allows your scanner to skip unwanted data transmissions and reduces
birdies.
Memory Backup – If power is lost or disconnected, the frequencies programmed in your
scanner are retained in memory.
LCD Back Light – Use M to select one of three different settings for the display
backlight.
Auto Recording — Automatically record channel activity during scanning onto a tape
recorder.
Scan/Search Delay – In the Scan or Search Modes, Y causes the scanner to remain
on the frequency two seconds after the last transmission to wait for a possible reply.
7
Where to Obtain More Information
Before using your scanner, you must program frequencies into available channels. The Betty
Bearcat Frequency Guide lists frequencies used around the U.S.A. and Canada that you may
program into your new scanner.
To order a copy of the frequency guide, call the enclosed Mr. Scanner (800) Number. A Uniden
representative should be able to order you a copy of Betty Bearcat for your area and provide you
with sample frequencies. You can also use the enclosed order form to purchase a local frequency
list.
The Bearcat Radio Club, and other similar hobby clubs, have publications, information on computer
bulletin boards, and even contests for the radio enthusiast. Also, your local library has more
information.
Information on the Internet

For more information about Uniden and our other products, visit www.uniden.com.
Computer Control of Your BC895XLT

Your scanner can be operated using a personal computer and specialized scanner-control software
available through third-party vendors. Uniden America Corporation does not provide support for the
software or cables offered through these third-party vendors.
8
Included with Your Scanner
If any of these items are missing or damaged, immediately contact your place of purchase or
Uniden Customer Service at: (800) 297-1023, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central, Monday through
Friday.
STEP AUX DIAL BC895XLT

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Trunking Frequency Starter Frequency Guide

Guide and Other Printed
Material
9
Installing Your BC895XLT
These are helpful guidelines when using your new scanner:
If your scanner receives interference or electrical noise, move the scanner or its antenna
away from the source. You might also try changing the height or angle of the telescoping
antenna.
If you need to improve reception, use an optional antenna designed for multi-band
coverage. (You can purchase this type of antenna at a local electronics store.) If the
optional antenna has no cable, use 50-70 ohm coaxial cable for lead-in. A mating plug may
be necessary for the optional antennas.
Use the included earphone or an optional stereo headset with proper impedance for private
listening. Read the precautions on the inside front cover of this Guide.
Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.
Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents.
For Home Use (Desktop Installation)
Off-On/
Antenna Enter-Lock
Jack Switch
DC 13.8V Auxiliary Remote
Telescoping Power Jack Jack Jack
Antenna
OFF ON
ANT DC12V ENTER AUX REMOTE

LOCK
Plug
1. Insert the DC plug end of the AC Adapter into the DC 13.8V jack on the rear panel.
2. Plug the AC Adapter into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
3. Plug the Telescoping Antenna into the ANT connector. Extend the antenna to its full height.
For frequencies higher than 406 MHz, shortening the antenna may improve the reception.
4. Use the desktop stand for a better viewing and operating angle.
10
Adapter Safety Feature
The AC Adapter included with this scanner may be equipped with a polarized line plug — a plug
with one blade wider than the other. This plug will fit into a power outlet only one way. If you are
unable to insert the adapter’s plug into an outlet, try reversing the plug.
For use with an optional external speaker:
Plug the external speaker into the EXT SP jack located on the
front of the scanner. HOLD
SRC AUTO
LIMIT
LINE EXT SP
For use with an optional tape recorder:
Your tape recorder must have both a microphone and remote input jacks to work with your scanner.
To connect the recorder to the scanner, follow these steps:
Remote
2 OFF ON
Ear DC12V ENTER

LOCK
AUX
REMOTE
Mic
STEP AUX DIM
WX ALRT/RMT SEND
HOLD TRUNKTRACKER
SCAN MANUAL
SRC AUTO
1 LIMIT
PRI
L/O
TRUNK
DELAY
DATA
CTCSS
LINE EXT SP
1. Connect a cable from the LINE jack on the front of your scanner to the microphone input of
the tape recorder.
2. Connect a cable from the RCA-type AUX jack on the back of your scanner to the tape
recorder’s remote jack.
For use with optional computer controlled software:
Your scanner can be operated using a personal computer and specialized scanner-control software.
To use the computer controlled feature, press and hold r until you hear two short beeps, then refer
to the information provided with your optional computer controlled software.
Press r again to cancel the computer controlled feature.
11
For Mobile Use (In-Car Installation)
Mounting the Radio

1. Select a location in your vehicle to mount your BC895XLT. Avoid a location that could
interfere with your driving. In a passenger car, the ideal location is underneath the dashboard
on the passenger side.
2. Use the optional mounting bracket as a template for marking the location for the mounting
screws.
Note: If there are screws already holding the dashboard, you can use the same screw holes
to mount the bracket.
3. Drill the necessary holes and secure the mounting bracket in place using the screws provided
with the bracket.
4. Mount the radio to the bracket only after the wiring has been connected to the rear panel.
Connecting the Antenna Plug
Connect the optional mobile antenna plug into the ANT connector on the rear panel. (For more
information on antenna installation, please refer to the instruction guide that came with your
antenna.)
Connecting the DC Power Cord
If you are not experienced in connecting accessories to the vehicle fuse box, please see your
automotive dealer for advice on proper installation before completing the steps below.
Temporary Power Cord Installation:
Warning: Do not use the cigarette lighter power cord in a positive ground vehicle.
Use the optional Cigarette Lighter Power Cord for an easy, temporary installation.
Plug one end of the Cigarette Lighter Power Cord into the cigarette lighter jack, and the other end
into the DC 13.8V jack on the back of the scanner.
Permanent Power Cord Installation:
1. Check the vehicle battery connections to determine which battery terminal (positive or
negative) is grounded to the engine block or chassis. Most of today’s vehicles use a negative
ground. If your vehicle has a negative ground, follow the steps below. Otherwise, please see
your automotive dealer for advice on installing negative ground accessories in your vehicle.
2. Connect the RED wire of the optional DC power cord to the accessory contact in your
vehicle’s +13.8 VDC fuse box.
3. Connect the BLACK wire of the DC power cord to the negative side of the vehicle (usually the
chassis).
4. Insert the DC plug into the DC 13.8V jack on the back of the scanner.
12
Basic Operation
Note: You can fold out the Front Cover to see the Controls and Indicators while reading this
Guide.
Setting the Squelch

To set the squelch, you must be in the Manual mode, and you should not be receiving a signal on
your scanner.
1. Press m until you do not hear a signal.
2. Adjust VOLUME to a comfortable listening

level.
VOLUME
3. Think of the Squelch Control as a gate. Turn SQUELCH fully counter-clockwise. This raises the
“Squelch Gate” so high that only very strong signals can get through.
SQUELCH
STRONG SIGNALS
MEDIUM SIGNALS
WEAK SIGNALS
VOLUME NOISE
4. Turn SQUELCH fully clockwise until you hear a hiss. This lowers the “Squelch Gate” so that
everything gets through—noise, weak signals, and strong signals.
SQUELCH STRONG SIGNALS
MEDIUM SIGNALS
WEAK SIGNALS
NOISE
VOLUME
13
5. Turn SQUELCH back counter-clockwise just until the hiss stops. Now the “Squelch Gate”
allows only clearer signals through.
SQUELCH STRONG SIGNALS
MEDIUM SIGNALS
WEAK SIGNALS
VOLUME NOISE
Using the VFO Control
Frequency LED
FREQ CHAN
Channel LED
Mode Selector
LOCK Rotary Tuner
Lock LED
Lock Key
Rotary Tuner
Use the Rotary Tuner for the following:
Rapidly and precisely selecting either frequencies or channels

Selecting a CTCSS tone during CTCSS Programming
Scrolling through Scan and Lockout Lists in the Trunking Mode.
Frequency/Channel Mode Selector
Press to switch between channel or frequency mode. When the CHAN LED is on, you can step
rapidly through channels with the Rotary Tuner. When the FREQ LED is on, you can tune quickly
and accurately through frequencies with the Rotary Tuner.
Lock Key/LED
Press the LOCK key to enable or disable the Rotary Tuner. When the LOCK LED is on, the Rotary
Tuner is locked. This prevents accidentally changing the displayed channel and frequency when
monitoring a broadcast.
14
Programming
The BC895XLT has 300 memory channels, each of which can be programmed to store one
frequency. The channels are divided into ten 30-channel banks, useful for storing similar
frequencies in order to maintain faster scanning cycles.
Each time you store a frequency, the list of scanning frequencies in the bank is automatically sorted
by frequency number. This unique Auto Sort feature enables faster scanning. When you manually
step through a bank, however, frequencies are sorted according to channel number.
Select one of the following ways to program your scanner:
Manually select a channel and frequency, using your numeric keypad

Use the Rotary Tuner to select a channel and frequency
Use the Auto Store feature to automatically program the channels
Transfer a programmed frequency from another channel
Programming using Manual Entry

1. Select frequencies from your starter guide.
2. Press m to stop scanning.
3. Select a channel.
a. Enter the channel number. b
SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
b. Then press m.
PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
a
0 E
15
4. Enter the frequency.
a. Enter the frequency number. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
b. Then press e.
a
0b E
Note: To clear a mistake while entering the frequency, press . twice, and start over.
If you enter a frequency which is outside
the scanner’s frequency bands, a
distinctive beep sounds.
The display will flash for a moment and

then reset itself, or you can press .
and go back to the previous step.
See the Table on page 3 for information

concerning the frequency bands covered
by your scanner.
Programming using the Rotary Tuner

If the green LOCK LED is on, press LOCK to unlock the Rotary Tuner.
2. Press FREQ/CHAN until the green CHAN LED lights.
3. Use the Rotary Tuner to select the

channel you want to program.
4. Press FREQ/CHAN until the red FREQ LED

lights.
5. Use the Rotary Tuner to select the

frequency you want to program
Note: You can also enter the frequency

on your keypad.
16
6. Press e to program the frequency into
the channel you selected. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
0 E
Programming using AutoStore

To use this feature, you must set up a search range. Once the search begins, AutoStore will
automatically program active frequencies into the available channels of the bank(s) you select. For
more information about your scanner’s search feature, see Searching on page 30.
2. Using your keypad, enter the lower

frequency of your search range. For
example, enter 155.000 MHz.
3. Press i.
4. Using your keypad, enter the higher

5. Press i.
6. Press U.
All the banks begin flashing and AUTO

displays.
7. Select the bank(s) you want programmed

during AutoStore.
The bank indicators selected will stop

flashing.
If you select a bank with no available
channels, FULL displays for two seconds
before your scanner resets. You must
either delete frequencies in the bank or
select a different bank.
17
8. Press S to start AutoStore.
You can press P to change the step

increment during AutoStore.
Press P until you select the increment you

want. If you select the default step
increment for the frequency band you’re
searching, the indicator stops flashing.
AutoStore stops automatically when all
available channels in the selected bank(s)
have been programmed.
9. Press m to exit AutoStore and return

to the manual mode.
Note: If you want to exit AutoStore before all the available channels are programmed, you must
press m twice.
Transferring a Programmed Frequency

Except for frequencies stored in priority channels, you can send any frequency to another channel
by following these steps.
You cannot transfer a frequency which is

stored in a priority channel. Error will flash
for two seconds and then your scanner
resets. If you want to transfer the P
frequency stored in a priority channel, you
must designate another channel in the
bank as the priority channel. For more
information about Changing a Priority
Channel, see page 26.
1. Select the channel with a frequency you
want to assign to a different channel.
18
2. Press N.
All the bank indicators start flashing. If

you have programmed CTCSS tones,
they also display when you press N.
Use these steps to transfer to the first available channel in another bank:
3. Select the bank where you want to send
the frequency.
For example, press D.
The bank’s lowest available channel

begins flashing, waiting to be
programmed.
4. Press e to transfer the frequency to
the new channel.
The old channel is now empty.
5. To cancel the transfer before it’s complete, press either N or m.
Use these steps to transfer to a specific channel:
3. Using your keypad, enter the channel

where you want to send the frequency. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
For example, press 94. PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
0 E
4. Press h.
The display will alternate between the

frequency you’re transferring and the
frequency in the new channel. If the
channel you select is not programmed, AND
then only the new channel number will
flash.
19
5. Press e to complete the transfer.
The frequency is now stored in the new

channel, and the old channel is empty.
6. To cancel the transfer before it’s complete, press either N or m.
Duplicate Frequency Alert

If you enter a frequency which is stored in
another channel, you hear a beep and the
other channel displays.
Press . to start again
— or—
Press e again to store the frequency in

both channels.
Deleting a Stored Frequency

To delete a stored frequency:
a. Press 0. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
b. Then press e.
Channels with no frequencies are
b
automatically locked out.
0 E
Preventing Accidental Programming

You can prevent the accidental programming of your scanner by setting the Lock feature. To
prevent the programming of your scanner, follow these steps:
1. Set the switch labeled ENTER LOCK on the

rear panel of your scanner to the ON
position.
2. When lock is set, the e and U keys

are disabled. If these keys are pressed,
an error message flashes for two
seconds, and your scanner resets.
3. To return to normal operation, set the

switch to the OFF position.
20
Programming Tips
Do not program a weather frequency into one of the channels, since weather channels
transmit continuously.
Use W to select the weather information band.
Group similar frequencies into adjacent channels.
For example, program police frequencies in channels 1 through 10 and fire/emergency into
channels 11 through 20, and so on.
Put the frequency that you listen to the most or the most important frequency into a Priority
channel.
To quickly program a series of channels, start with the lowest number channel.
For example, when you are programming five new frequencies into Channels 4 through 8,
start with Channel 4. After you finish programming a channel, press m or h to go to
the next higher channel.
Record channels and frequencies in some convenient place in case the scanner memory is
lost.
21
Scanning
1. After programming frequencies, simply
press s to begin scanning.
2. The bank indicators, A – J, selected for scanning appear in the display, while the bank being
currently monitored flashes. You can deselect banks from active scanning by pressing their
number on your keypad. The indicator for each deselected bank turns off, and the bank’s
channels are not scanned.
Note: One Bank must always be active. You cannot deactivate all ten banks at the same
time. If you try to turn all the banks off, the first bank is automatically selected.
To restore a bank to active scanning, press the bank’s number on your keypad. The bank’s
indicator will display again.
3. During normal scanning the scanner SCAN

skips unprogrammed or locked out
channels.
CHANNELS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Frequency Frequency not
Locked Out entered
(L/O)
4. When a transmission is received, the

Scanner stops on that channel. When the
transmission ends, scanning resumes
automatically.
5. Press m to stop on a channel during

scanning.
6. Press s to resume scanning.
22
To directly access a specific channel:
1. Press m.
2. Use your keypad to enter the channel number you want.
3. Press m again.
Setting the Delay Mode

A delay can be set for each programmed channel so that when Scan or Search stops on a channel
there is a brief pause before the scanning cycle resumes. Delay must be set for each programmed
channel, and it can be set when your scanner pauses during a scan or when manual mode is
selected.
To set Delay in Scan or Search Mode:
1. Press s or set a search range and

press S.
2. When your scanner stops on a channel,

press Y.
DELAY displays and scanning will resume

two seconds after the transmission ends.
To set Delay in Manual Mode:
1. Press m.
2. Select the channel you want using your

keypad or Rotary Tuner.
3. Press Y.
DELAY displays indicating the scanner will

pause on the channel when a
transmission is received.
23
Channel Lockout
You can lockout any channel so it is not reviewed during normal scanning. You can restore the
channel to scanning whenever you wish.
Lockout in Manual Mode

1. Press m.
2. Select a channel.
SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
b. Then press m again.
a
0 E
3. Press L to lockout the channel.
Lockout in Scanning Mode

If the scanner keeps stopping on a particular channel due to noise or too frequent transmissions,
you may want to keep that channel from scanning.
1. Wait until the scanner stops at the

channel.
2. Then press L .
3. The scanner immediately resumes

scanning because the locked out channel
is no longer in the scanning sequence.
24
Lockout Tips
To quickly lockout a series of channels, start with the lowest number channel.
For example, if you are locking out channels 4, 7, 8, 12, and 15, start with Channel 4. After
selecting channel 4, press L. Then press m one or more times to step up to the
next channel to be locked out.
Record the locked-out channels in some convenient place so you can restore them.
Restoring a Locked Out Channel

1. Press m.
2. Select a locked out channel.

SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
a
0 E
3. Press L to unlock the channel.
Restoring All Locked-Out Channels

You can restore all locked-out channels in a bank only when a bank is selected for scan. If you have
deselected a bank and you want to restore all of its locked-out channels using the steps below, you
must press s and then press the number of the bank on your keypad.
1. Press m.
Note: You must be in Manual mode

before restoring all locked-out channels.
2. Press and hold L for about two
seconds. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
You will hear two beeps when all the PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
channels have been restored. 7 8 9
L/O DELAY CTCSS
0 E
25
Priority Scan
When Priority Scan is turned on, your scanner checks the priority channel every two seconds for
activity. If a signal is present on the priority channel, your scanner monitors the channel until the
transmission ends, then resumes normal scanning. You can designate one channel in each bank as
a Priority Channel.
To activate Priority Scan (in either the Manual or Scan Mode):
1. Press p.
Note: If you have locked out the priority

channel, this message appears when you
select Priority mode.
P
2. Press p again at anytime to

deactivate Priority Scan.
Changing the Priority Channel

You cannot eliminate the Priority Channel, but you can change it to any of the 30 available channels
in each bank.
1. Press m.
2. Select a new Priority Channel.

SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
a
0 E
26
3. Press and hold p for two seconds to
designate this channel as your new SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
Priority Channel.
0 E
Two beeps indicate that the Priority

Channel is changed.
Tape Recording Channel Communication

You can set any channel for recording while scanning. Then, if your scanner stops on a channel you
have designated for recording, the transmission and its time, as well as the channel number and
frequency, are all recorded.
However, before you can use this feature, you must connect a tape recorder to your scanner. For
information about attaching a recorder to your scanner, see For use with an optional tape recorder
on page 11.
To program a channel for tape recording:

1. Use your keypad or Rotary Tuner to
select the channel you want recorded.
2. Press x.
LINE displays indicating that the channel

will be recorded if you’ve connected a
tape recorder to your scanner.
Repeat these steps to select other channels for recording.
To record a channel, press s. When your scanner stops on a channel which displays LINE, the
channel is recorded.
To turn the record feature off for a channel:
1. Use your keypad or Rotary Tuner to

select the channel you do not want to
record anymore.
2. Press x.
LINE turns off and the channel will not be

recorded.
27
Weather Channel Scanning
The BC895XLT allows you to search for your local NOAA weather channel.
1. Press W to find an active weather

channel in your area.
WX displays.
2. Press s or m to exit the Weather

Mode.
WX turns off.
It is possible that you will receive more than one weather station in your area. When you press
W, your scanner finds the first active broadcast. If a broadcast seems weak or distant, press
W again to find another station which is clearer.
Note: Weather scan does not resume automatically. You must press W again to start the
weather scan again. In some parts of the country, you may not be able to monitor
weather broadcasts, such as in low-lying areas. Normally a higher location will improve
the reception.
Weather Alert
In Weather Alert Mode, your scanner functions as a severe weather warning radio. This is
especially useful when your area is expecting severe weather conditions late at night. When you set
the scanner to Weather Alert Mode, it emits a loud siren whenever your local NOAA weather station
broadcasts a severe weather emergency tone.
To use Weather Alert:
1. Press W to find your local weather

broadcasting station.
2. Press a.
Your scanner’s volume is muted until the

warning tone sounds.
Your scanner now functions as a Weather Alert radio, waiting to receive a severe weather
emergency tone. When your scanner receives the emergency tone from your local NOAA weather
station, it responds with a loud siren at maximum volume (regardless of the volume control setting).
The siren will continue until the emergency tone stops transmitting.
To cancel the siren, press either a or W.
28
Testing the Weather Alert Siren
To test the Weather Alert siren to ensure it’s working or to hear how it sounds, follow these steps:
1. Press W.
2. Press a
ALERT displays and your scanner’s

volume is muted.
3. Press and hold p for 2 seconds.
You will hear two short beeps, and then

the test siren will begin to sound.
4. To cancel the siren, press either a or
W.
ALERT turns off and you will hear the

weather broadcast for your area.
Note: If you use W to cancel the siren,

then HOLD does not display.
29
Searching
Setting a Search Range

The BC895XLT can search a specific frequency range to find frequencies if you don’t have a
frequency guide available or if new stations have been added since your guide was published.

3. Press i.

5. Press i.
6. Press S.
You can press P to change the step

increment during a Search.
Press P until you select the increment you

want. If you select the default step
increment for the frequency band you’re
searching, the indicator stops flashing.
Search Hold Feature

1. Press h at anytime to stop the
search.
30
2. Press h to move to the next higher
frequency
— or —
3. Press i to move down to the

previous frequency.
Note: You can also use the Rotary Tuner to move to other frequencies, just make sure that FREQ
is selected before turning the dial.
4. Press S to resume searching.
Data Skip
A scanner will normally stop on any transmission it receives. This means the BC895XLT will stop
on data signals and unmodulated transmissions. You can automatically skip many of these types of
transmissions during searches.
1. Press d to activate the data skip

feature.
The d indicator appears on the

display.
2. Press d again to cancel the data skip
feature.
The d indicator disappears

from the display.
When data skip is active, your scanner may pause momentarily on an unwanted signal but will
resume searching in 2 or 3 seconds.
Channel Skip
If a particular channel continues to interrupt search scanning, it is possible to set your scanner to
skip the frequency.
To skip a frequency, press L.

SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
Note: You can program up to 20 skip
frequencies. The 21st skip frequency PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
entered causes the first skipped 7 8 9
L/O DELAY CTCSS
frequency to unlock.
0 E
31
Storing Search Frequencies
You can quickly store any frequency you find during Search.
1. Press m.

3. Press i.

5. Press i.
6. Press S.
7. Press h when the scanner stops at

the frequency you want.
Note: You can press h to step up a frequency, or press i to step down a frequency.
Press and hold either key to rapidly step through the frequencies. You can also use the
Rotary Tuner to step through frequencies, just make sure FREQ is selected before turning
the dial.
8. Press e to store the frequency in the
channel flashing on your display
— or —
Send the frequency to another channel.
For information about sending a

frequency to another channel, see
on page 18.
9. Press m or s to cancel Search.
10. Repeat steps 6 through 8 for all the

Search frequencies you want to store.
32
CTCSS Operation
Your scanner is equipped with a Continuous Tone Control Squelch System (CTCSS) which allows
squelch to open only when the tone you have programmed with a specific frequency is received
along with a transmission. When using CTCSS, consider the following:
You do not have to use CTCSS tones while scanning.

You cannot enter CTCSS tones in the AM Air Band.
If you have more questions about CTCSS, see What is CTCSS on page 5.
Programming a Channel with a CTCSS Tone

1. Select a channel you want to program.
2. Enter a frequency.
a. Use your keypad to enter the SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
frequency you want.
b. Then press e. PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
a
0b E
3. Press K, and then press e.
If CTCSS Mode is already selected, then

only press e.
4. Enter a tone.
a. Use your keypad, Rotary Tuner, or
h and i to select the tone.
b. Then press e.
Note: If you make a mistake while entering a tone with you keypad, press . twice and enter the
tone again. If you’re using the Rotary Tuner, make sure that FREQ is selected.
5. Press K to cancel the CTCSS Mode.
The CTCSS indicator and displayed tones

are turned off but not deleted.
33
Searching for CTCSS Tones
You can use the CTCSS Tone Search Mode to determine if the frequencies in your area are
broadcast with associated tones. You may find frequencies which do not have a tone associated
with them. This may be because CTCSS tones are not being transmitted or because digital
encoded tones, sometimes called DCS, are used and your scanner does not recognize these.
Using CTCSS Tone Search While Scanning

1. Press s.
2. To determine if a stored frequency has an

associated CTCSS tone, press m
when your scanner stops on a channel.
3. Press and hold K until you hear two

short beeps. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
CTCSS displays and begins flashing, and PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
the scanner starts searching for an 7 8 9
L/O DELAY CTCSS
associated CTCSS tone. All 38 tones are
checked if the transmission is long 0 E
enough. If there is a break before a tone
is identified, then your scanner starts
searching where it left off when the
transmission begins again.
If a CTCSS tone is found, the tone begins

flashing in the display.
4. Press e to program the tone with the

frequency stored in the channel.
5. Repeat Steps 1 – 4 to search for tones

associated with other stored frequencies.
34
If you want to program tones for several stored frequencies, follow these steps:
After you program a CTCSS tone with a stored frequency, the CTCSS Tone Search Mode
is canceled. The CTCSS indicator remains on but does not flash. To activate the CTCSS
Tone Search Mode again, press and hold K until you hear two short beeps.
If you decide to cancel the CTCSS Tone Search Mode while scanning, press and hold
K until you hear two short beeps and the CTCSS indicator turns off.
You can select the CTCSS Search Mode before pressing s. Simply, press and hold
K until the CTCSS indicator begins flashing, and then press s.
When your scanner stops, the CTCSS Tone Search begins immediately. If a tone is found
before the transmission ends, press e to program the tone with the frequency stored in
the channel.
Using CTCSS Tone Search While Searching

1. Set a Search Range.
For information about setting a search

range, see Setting a Search Range on
page 30.
2. Press S.
3. Press and hold K until you hear two

short beeps. SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
CTCSS begins flashing in display. PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
0 E
The scanner starts searching for an

associated CTCSS tone when it stops on
a transmission. All 38 tones are checked
if the transmission is long enough.
However, if you press h, and there is
break before a tone is identified, the tone
search starts where it left off when the
transmission begins again.
35
4. If a CTCSS tone is found, the tone begins
flashing in the display.
5. Press e to program the tone with the

frequency stored in the channel.
— or —
Send the frequency with its associated

tone to another channel.
For information about sending a

frequency to another channel, see
on page 18.
6. Repeat Steps 2 – 4 to search for tones
associated with other frequencies in the
search range you set in Step 1.
If you want to program tones for several frequencies during your search, follow these steps:
After you program a frequency and a CTCSS tone into a channel, the CTCSS Tone Search
Mode is canceled. To activate the CTCSS Tone Search Mode again, press and hold K
until you hear two short beeps.
If you decide to cancel the CTCSS Tone Search Mode while you are searching for
frequencies, press and hold K until you hear two short beeps and the CTCSS indicator
turns off.
Changing a CTCSS Tone

1. Press K to activate the CTCSS mode.
2. Select the channel you want to change.
3. Press e.
The CTCSS tone begins flashing.
36
4. Enter the new CTCSS tone using your
keypad or the Rotary Tuner.
If you make a mistake while using your

keypad, press . twice and enter the
tone again, or if you’re using your Rotary
Tuner, make sure FREQ is selected.
5. Press e to change the CTCSS tone.
Erasing a CTCSS Tone

1. Press K to activate the CTCSS mode.
2. Select the channel with the CTCSS tone

you want to erase.
3. Press e.
The CTCSS tone begins flashing.
4. Press 0 or use your Rotary Tuner to

select 000.0
If you choose the wrong key, press .

twice, or if you’re using your Rotary
Tuner, make sure FREQ is selected.
5. Press e to erase the CTCSS tone.
The CTCSS tone is removed, and the

CTCSS icon remains on.
CTCSS Tone Frequencies (Hz)
000.0 ⇒ 67.0 71.9 74.4 77.0 79.7 82.5 85.4 88.5 91.5
94.8 97.4 100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9 114.8 118.8 123.0 127.3 131.8
136.5 141.3 146.2 151.4 156.7 162.2 167.9 173.8 179.9 186.2 192.8
203.5 210.7 218.1 225.7 233.6 241.8 250.3 ⇐ 000.0
37
Trunk Tracking
Your BC895XLT is designed to track Motorola Type I, Type II, Type IIi, Hybrid, SMARTNET™, and
PRIVACY PLUS™ analog trunking systems*, which are extensively used in 800 MHz communication
systems. When tracking these types of systems, you may want to remember these important points:
Your scanner defaults to monitor Type II systems; however, you can change this if the
system in your area is different. (The types of systems are discussed below.)
Your scanner cannot track an 800 MHz trunked system and scan frequencies in
conventional mode at the same time.
The frequencies for many of the 800 MHz public safety systems are listed in the
TrunkTracker™: National Public Safety Trunked System Frequency Guide included with
your BC895XLT scanner.
* Motorola, SMARTNET, and PRIVACY PLUS are trademarks of Motorola Inc.
Types of Trunking Systems

Trunking systems divide a few frequencies among many different users, but the way that each
system does this is slightly different. There are really two basic types which are important when
using your TrunkTracker™ scanner. These are usually referred to as Type I and Type II systems.
One important distinction between these two systems is the amount of data transmitted by each
radio when its push-to-talk button (PTT) is pressed. Every radio in a trunked system is assigned a
unique ID so the central site computer can identify it when it’s used. Both Type I and Type II
systems place radios (or radio users) into groups, called talk groups, and these talk groups are also
assigned unique IDs. Some radios have access to only one talk group, while others have access to
many talk groups. Which talk group(s) each radio can access is called the radio’s affiliation(s).
In a Type II system, when someone uses their radio, only the radio ID is transmitted when PTT is
pressed, whereas in a Type I system the radio ID and its current affiliation are both transmitted
when PTT is pressed.
Why the difference? Type II systems are slightly more advanced because the central computer
maintains a database which is used to determine each radio’s affiliation(s). Changes to a Type II
system are easier than Type I because the system manager only need update the database instead
of reprogramming individual radios.
Another difference between the systems is that Type I systems are arranged in a Fleet-Subfleet
hierarchy. For example, it’s possible for a city using a Type I system to designate 4 Fleets, each
with 8 Subfleets. Their fleets might be the Police Department, the Fire Department, Utilities, and
Administration. The Police may decide to further divide their fleet into subfleets such as Dispatch,
Tactical Operations, Detectives, North, South, East and West Side Patrols, and Supervisors. All the
available police radios would then be assigned to one of the police subfleets. Determining the exact
Fleet-Subfleet hierarchy for a particular area is referred to as Fleet Map Programming.
The disadvantage of a Type I system is that when PTT is pressed, the brief burst of data must
contain the radio’s ID and its Fleet and Subfleet. This is three times the amount of data a Type II
system radio sends, and as a result Type I systems usually accommodate fewer users than Type II
systems.
Even though there are many Type II systems, Type I systems are still in use. There are also Hybrid
systems which are a combination of both Type I and Type II. Your scanner defaults to monitor
Type II systems, but it’s possible to select a Preprogrammed Fleet Map or create a Custom Fleet
Map for your area.
38
Setting the Squelch
Since Squelch is automatically adjusted in trunking mode, it isn’t necessary to manually adjust the
squelch control while trunk tracking. However, the squelch setting you select before you begin trunk
tracking can affect how fast your scanner acquires the data channel, and, in some instances, the
squelch setting can prevent your scanner from acquiring the data channel at all.
Set SQUELCH in this position before

SQUELCH
selecting a trunking bank.
Note: You can change this recommended

setting, if necessary, to provide better
performance in your area.
VOLUME
Programming Trunking Frequencies

Before you start programming your scanner to track a trunked system, consider the following:
You can only program one trunking system in each bank of your scanner.
Trunking frequencies must be entered while in the Trunking Programming mode.
If you’re in the Trunking Programming mode, you cannot select channels in other banks.
For example, if you are programming Bank D, you can only select channels 91-120 with the
Rotary Tuner or using the h or i keys.
The first step in tracking a trunked system is storing the frequencies in one of the 10 available banks
in your scanner.
1. Press and hold t.

SCAN MANUAL
1 2 3
You will hear two beeps, and BANK and
TRUNK will begin to flash in the display. PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6
0 E
2. Choose the bank you want to trunk track.

For example, press B.
3. Use the keypad to enter a frequency for

the trunked system.
For example, enter 856.2625, or enter a

frequency of the system you’re going to
track.
Then press e.
Note: To clear a mistake while entering a frequency, press . twice, and start over.
39
If you enter a non-800 MHz trunked
repeater output frequency, an error
message displays for two seconds and
then the scanner resets.
4. Press either m or h to select the

next channel in the bank.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all frequencies

have been entered.
6. Press S to begin searching the bank

you’ve programmed.
Note: You will see the frequencies

quickly displaying as your scanner looks
for the data channel which controls the
system.
Searching a Trunked Bank

Before you Search a Trunked Bank with your scanner, consider the following:
You can only trunk track one bank at a time.

Use t to toggle between the conventional and the trunk tracking modes.
Press d while in the Trunk Tracking mode to review which bank is currently in use. The
appropriate bank icon will flash at the top of the display for 5 seconds.
If you have programmed frequencies for a trunked system in one or more of the 10 available banks
and you are in conventional mode, follow these steps to begin trunk searching:
1. Press t.
The bank indicators begin to flash.
2. Use the alpha keys to select the trunked

bank you want.
For example press B.
Note: You will see the frequencies

quickly displaying as your scanner looks
for the data channel which controls the
system.
40
Once the data channel is acquired, the
scanner begins trunk tracking. Talk group
ID’s, which represent different service
groups, begin to display.
3. Press t again to return to

conventional scanning mode.
While searching, you won’t know exactly who the IDs are assigned to until you listen awhile or until
ID lists are available in frequency guides or on internet sites. However, it usually only takes a few
minutes to figure out police, fire, and emergency medical personnel. Other IDs may take some time,
but determining who each ID represents is half the fun of TrunkTracker™.
ID Hold Mode
During Search mode, you can hold on an ID without entering it into memory.
1. Press h while in Search mode.
2. Use the keypad to enter the ID you want.
3. Press h again.
HOLD flashes in the display.
4. Press S to return to Search mode.
Note: The ID Hold mode works in Scan List mode, and the steps are the same; however, SEARCH
doesn’t appear in the display.
41
ID Lockout
Like conventional scanning, it’s possible to lockout unwanted traffic. This is particularly important in
trunked systems because in many areas water meters, door alarms, traffic signals, and other
mechanical devices are assigned IDs just like other users. Also some departments scramble or
encrypt their communications, and you may want to lock out these unintelligible broadcasts.
To lockout an ID, press L when the

ID displays.
The ID is locked out, and the next active

ID displays. You can lockout up to 100
IDs.
Note: If you lockout an ID in Search mode, it is also locked out in Scan List mode. Conversely, if
you lockout an ID while in Scan List mode, it is locked out in Search mode. For
information about Scan Lists, see page 45.
Restoring a Single ID
To unlock a single ID, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold L until you hear two

short beeps.
2. Use either the Rotary Tuner or the h

or i to select the ID you want to
unlock.
3. Press L.
The ID is unlocked and the next locked ID

displays.
4. Press S to return to the Search mode.
42
Restoring all IDs
To unlock all locked out IDs at once, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold L until you hear two

short beeps.
2. Press e to unlock all the IDs at once.
Note: If you unlock all the IDs, then the Scan List Memory mode displays. Press s to
scan the IDs stored in your Scan Lists or press S to return to the Search mode. For
information about Scan Lists, see page 45.
3. Press S to return to the Search mode.
Searching Tips
ID Delay Mode
Use the Y key to select the Delay mode if it’s not active. This mode holds an ID for 5
seconds while you wait for a reply. Other groups may use the system, but your scanner will
only look for the ID in the display.
Note: If you consistently miss responses while in ID Delay mode, you may need to change
the default system type or change the fleet map you’re using.
Hold Mode
Press h to hold on a particular ID in the display. This is where the trunk tracking effect
is really noticeable. You can hold a specific talk group, such as fire department on-scene
operations, no matter which frequency the group uses.
43
ID Monitor Mode
If you press and hold S until you hear two short beeps, you will select the ID Monitor
mode. SEARCH begins flashing in the display, and all active talk group IDs begin to display in
succession. You won’t hear conversations in this mode, but this is an excellent way to
determine which talk groups are the most active.
Note: Locked out IDs display during ID Monitor mode with the L/0 icon turned on.
Channel Activity Indicators

The BC895XLT has 30 Channel Activity Indicators to visually display a trunked system’s activity
when you select delay, hold, scan etc. You’ll always know which frequencies are in use and how
much communication traffic is occurring.
Each frequency you program in a trunking bank corresponds to an activity indicator on your
scanner’s display. The way in which the Activity Indicators display provide you with information
about the system you’re tracking.
■ The indicator which remains on, even
when there is no traffic, represents the
frequency being used as the data channel.
■ If an indicator turns on and you don’t hear

a conversation, then the channel is
probably being used for a telephone
interconnect call or a private call. These
calls are not monitored by your scanner.
■ The indicator which flashes when an ID
displays represents the frequency being
used by the talk group.
■ If you’re holding on an ID which isn’t

active, the activity indicators will turn on
and off as other groups use the system.
44
Scan Lists
Each bank of your BC895XLT can be a trunk tracking bank, or it can be a conventional scanning
bank. When you designate a bank as a trunking bank, your scanner sets up 5 Scan Lists (A –E),
which are simply lists used to store your favorite IDs. Each list can contain up to 10 IDs, so you can
store a total of 50 IDs for each trunk tracking bank (500 if you use all banks as trunking banks!).
Scan Lists help you organize the trunking system users into categories. For example, you might use
List A for police IDs, List B for fire department IDs, List C for emergency medical service IDs, etc.
Once IDs are stored in lists, you can scan them like you scan conventional frequencies. You can
program your scan lists either manually or during trunking search mode.
You can use the VFO Tuner to scroll through the IDs in your scan lists.
Programming Scan Lists Manually

1. Select the Trunking bank you want.
2. After the scanner begins trunk tracking,

press m.

and i to select the Scan List location
you want to program. For example, select
the second memory location in the first
scan list.
4. Enter the Type II ID you want to store,

and press e.
—or—
To enter a Type I ID:

a. Enter the fleet number.
b. Press ..
c. Enter the subfleet number, and
press e.
Note: If the trunking bank is set to monitor Type II systems, you cannot enter Type I IDs. To
clear a mistake while entering an ID, press . twice, and start over.
5. Press m or h to select the next
Scan List location.
45
6. Press s to begin scanning the lists
you have programmed.
If you haven’t programmed any IDs, SCAN

displays but your scanner cannot stop on
an active conversation.
7. To remove a Scan List from active
scanning, press the number of the Scan
List on your keypad.
The Scan List indicator turns off, and the

IDs in that list are not scanned.
Note: One Scan List must always be active. If you try and deactivate all the Scan Lists,
Scan List A will automatically be active.
8. To restore a Scan List to active scanning,
press its number again.
9. Press S to return to Trunk Tracking

Search mode.
Programming Scan Lists During Search
To select a Scan List location and store an ID during Search mode, follow these steps:
1. When your scanner stops on an ID you

want to store, press p.

or i to select the Scan List memory
location you want, then press e.

Search mode.
46
To let your scanner automatically store an ID in an available Scan List location, follow these steps:
1. Press e when your scanner stops on

an ID you want to store.

Search mode.
Deleting a Stored ID
To delete a stored ID:
a. Press 0.
b. Then press e.
47
Fleet Map Programming
If you have programmed a trunk tracking bank and select S, you will see user IDs display on
your screen. Since your scanner defaults to monitor Type II systems, most if not all IDs appear as
even numbers. However, if you notice an even mix of odd and even user IDs, for example 6477,
2560, 6481, 6144, 1167, etc., then you are probably monitoring either a Type I or Hybrid system.
See Types of Trunking Systems on page 38.
You may also notice that you’re missing responses when you hold on an active ID. Unlike Type II
systems, Type I/IIi systems require a Fleet Map that sets specific Fleet-Subfleet parameters. It’s
easy to select a Fleet Map for your scanner; what isn’t always easy is selecting or programming a
map that matches your particular area.
There are 16 preset Fleet Maps listed in the appendix that you can choose, and these are usually a
good place to start when setting up a Type I/IIi trunk tracking bank. If you choose a preset map and
still have difficulty following complete conversations, then you’ll have to program your own Fleet
Map.
Selecting Trunking Programming Mode

To change the system type which your scanner monitors, you must be in the Trunking Programming
mode. To select this mode, follow these steps:
If you are in Conventional Scan mode:
1. Press and hold t.
You’ll hear two short beeps and BANK

and TRUNK will begin to flash in the
display.
2. Select the trunking bank you want to
program.
If you are in Trunking Scan mode:
1. Press t to return to conventional

mode if you have been monitoring a
trunking bank.
2. Press and hold t until you hear two

short beeps.
You’ll hear two short beeps, and BANK

and TRUNK will begin to flash in the
display.
3. Select the trunking bank you want to
program.
48
Selecting a Preset Fleet Map
1. Select the Trunking Programming mode
and the bank you want to change.
2. Press d.
3. Use h or i to choose E1.
4. Press d.
5. Use h or i to choose the map

you want. For example, E1P2.
6. Press e.
The scanner exits the Trunking

Programming mode, acquires the data
channel, and begins searching using the
preset map you chose.
Note: You will now begin to see Type I Fleet-Subfleet IDs. For example, 100-12, 100-9,
000-12, 400-8, etc. See User Defined Fleet Maps in the Appendix for more information
about Type I IDs.
How do you know if the preset map is correct? You’ll have to listen to see if you’re following
complete conversations. If not, you should try another preset map.
Programming a Fleet Map

You may want to read User Defined Fleet Maps in the Appendix before programming a fleet map. It
contains a detailed explanation of Scanner Fleet Map Programming, as well as a table listing the
Fleet Map Size Codes.

49
2. Press d.
4. Press d.
5. Use h or i to choose USr.
6. Press d.
7. Use h or i to select the size

code for the first block.
8. Press e.
The next available block displays.
9. Repeat Steps 7 and 8 until you have

selected a size code for each block.
For specifics about each size code, see

Fleet Map Size Codes in the Appendix.
10. Press S.

channel, and begins searching using the
map you’ve programmed.
50
Restoring Default Tracking
Your scanner is set to monitor Type II systems as its default. However, if you select a preset fleet
map or program your own fleet map, then you’ll change the default setting. To reset the Type II
default for a trunking bank, follow these steps:

2. Press d.
4. Press e.

channel, and begins searching.
Note: Your scanner saves the setting for the preset map you selected or the Type I fleet map you
programmed. If you decide to select E1 for the bank again, the last settings used will
display.
Programming a Hybrid System

A Hybrid system is simply a Type I system with some blocks designated as Type II blocks. To
program a Hybrid system, follow the steps listed in Programming a Fleet Map in the previous
section. However, if you want a block to be Type II, select Size Code S-0.
When you begin searching a trunking bank with a Hybrid Fleet Map, you will see both types of
system IDs. That is, Type II IDs usually appear as an even number without a dash; Type I IDs
appear as a three or four digit number, followed by a hyphen, followed by a one or two digit number.
See page 58 for more information.
51
Care and Maintenance
General Use
Turn the scanner off before disconnecting the power or replacing the batteries.
Always write down the programmed frequencies in the event of memory loss.
If memory is lost, simply reprogram each channel. The display shows 000.000 in all
channels when there has been a memory loss.
Always press each button firmly until you hear the entry tone for that key entry.
Location
Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.
Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents.
If the scanner receives strong interference or electrical noise, move it or its antenna away
from the source of the noise. If possible, a higher elevation may provide better reception.
Also try changing the height or angle of the antenna.
Cleaning
Disconnect the power to the unit before cleaning.
Clean the outside of the scanner with a mild detergent. To prevent scratches, do not use
abrasive cleaners or solvents. Be careful not to rub the LCD window.
Do not use excessive amounts of water.
Repairs
Do not attempt any repair. The scanner contains no user serviceable parts. Contact the
Uniden Customer Service Center or take it to a qualified repair technician.
Birdies
All radios can receive “birdies” (undesired signals). If your scanner stops during Scan mode
and no sound is heard, it may be receiving a birdie. Birdies are internally generated signals
inherent in the electronics of the receiver.
Press L to lockout the channel, and then press s to resume scanning.
52
Troubleshooting
If your BC895XLT is not performing properly, try the following steps.
Problem Suggestion
Scanner won’t work. 1. Check the connections at both ends of the AC Adapter.
2. Turn on the wall switch of your room. You could be using an outlet controlled by
the wall switch.
3. Move the AC Adapter to another wall outlet or replace the battery pack.
Improper reception. 1. Check the antenna connection or move
and reposition the antenna.
2. Move the scanner.
3. You may be in a remote area which could require an optional multi-band antenna.
Check with your dealer or local electronics store.
Scan won’t stop. 1. Adjust squelch threshold — refer to Setting the Squelch on page 13,
2. Check the antenna connection.
3. Check to see if many of the channels are locked out. If so, the scanner has less
chance of finding an active channel.
4. Review each channel’s frequency to see if it is still stored in memory and is correct.
5. It’s possible that none of the programmed frequencies are currently active.
Scan won’t start. 1. Press the s key again.
2. Adjust the SQUELCH control.
3. Check to see if all channels are locked out.
Weather Scan won’t 1. Adjust squelch threshold – refer to page 13, Setting the Squelch.
work. 2. Check the antenna.
53
If you experience difficulty while in TrunkTracker™ mode, try the following steps.
Problem Suggestion
Scanner won’t track the 1. May not be a system which can be tracked by your scanner.
trunked system. 2. Missing the data frequency.
3. Change to a Type 1 Scanner setup. Review Fleet Map Programming on page 48.
Scanner won’t stop 1. No IDs have been programmed.
during Scan List mode. 2. The IDs you have stored are not active.
Scanner will not 1. Adjust the squelch for trunking mode. See page 39.
acquire data channel. 2. Missing the frequency used for the data channel. Check your frequency list.
Missing replies to 1. Change to a Type 1 Scanner setup. Review Fleet Map Programming on page 48.
conversations. 2. Try another Preset Fleet Map or Program your own Fleet Map.
3. Check to see that all of the systems frequencies have been entered.
Channel Activity 1. May be a private or telephone interconnect call, which are intentionally blocked
Indicators are flashing by your scanner.
but no sound is heard. 2. The ID in your display is not active.
If you still cannot get satisfactory results while using your scanner or if you want additional
information, please call or write the Uniden Parts and Service Division. The address and phone
number are listed in the Warranty at the end of this manual. If you would like immediate assistance,
please call Customer Service at (800) 297-1023.
If you have internet access, you can visit www.uniden.com for additional information.
54
Specifications
Certified in accordance with FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15, Subpart C, as of date of
manufacture.
Channels: 300
Banks: 10 (30 channels each)
Service Bands: 7 – preprogrammed search bands (including the NOAA
Weather Service band)
Frequency Range: 29.0–29.7 MHz 10 Meter Amateur Band
29.7–50.0 MHzVHF Low Band
50.0–54.0 MHz 6 Meter Amateur Band
137–144 MHz Military Land Mobile
144–148 MHz 2 Meter Amateur Band
148–174 MHzVHF High Band
216–225 MHz VHF High Band
Above bands in 5 kHz steps
108–137 MHz Aircraft Band

225–400 MHzUHF Air Band
400–420 MHz Federal Government
420–450 MHz 70 cm Amateur Band
450–470 MHz UHF Standard Band
470–512 MHz UHF “T” Band
806–956 MHz “800” Band
Above bands in 12.5 kHz steps
Operating Temperature: –20°C to +60°C
Scan Rate: 100 channels per second (conventional mode)
Search Rate: 300 steps per second
Scan Delay: 2 seconds
Audio Output: 1.8W nominal into 8Ω internal speaker
Power Requirements: 12 VDC 500mAh (internal battery or
AD140U AC Adapter)
Antenna: 50 ohms (Impedance)
External Jacks: Antenna Jack BNC Type
Ext. Speaker Jack 3.5mm
Line Out Jack 3.5mm
AUX Jack RCA Type
DC Power Jack 5.5mm
Remote Jack 5 Pins
Size: 101/2 in. (W) x 73/8 in. (D) x 31/2 in. (H)
Weight: 3.8 lbs
Features, Specifications, and Availability of optional accessories are all subject to change without
notice.
55
Optional Accessories
Contact your local Uniden Dealer or call the Uniden Parts Center at: (800) 554-3988, 8:00 AM to
5:00 PM EST, Monday through Friday, for information about ordering these optional accessories.
DC Power Cord Cigarette Lighter Power

Cord
External Speaker Earphone
Mobile Mounting Bracket Betty Bearcat Frequency

with Hardware (MB001) Directory/Local Directories
56
Appendix
Preset Fleet Maps

Preset Map E1P1 Preset Map E1P2 Preset Map E1P3
Block Size Code Block Size Code Block Size Code
0 S11 0 S4 0 S4
1 S11 1 S4 1 S4
2 S11 2 S4 2 S4
3 S11 3 S4 3 S4
4 S11 4 S4 4 S4
5 S11 5 S4 5 S4
6 S11 6 S4 6 S12
7 S11 7 S4 7 --

0 S12 0 S4 0 S3
1 -- 1 S4 1 S10
2 S4 2 S12 2 S4
3 S4 3 -- 3 S4
4 S4 4 S4 4 S12
5 S4 5 S4 5 --
6 S4 6 S4 6 S12
7 S4 7 S4 7 --

0 S10 0 S1 0 S4
1 S10 1 S1 1 S4
2 S11 2 S2 2 S0
3 S4 3 S2 3 S0
4 S4 4 S3 4 S0
5 S4 5 S3 5 S0
6 S4 6 S4 6 S0
7 S4 7 S4 7 S0

0 S0 0 S4 0 S0
1 S0 1 S0 1 S0
2 S0 2 S0 2 S0
3 S0 3 S0 3 S0
4 S0 4 S0 4 S0
5 S0 5 S0 5 S0
6 S4 6 S0 6 S0
7 S4 7 S0 7 S4
57
0 S3 0 S4 0 S4
1 S3 1 S3 1 S4
2 S11 2 S10 2 S4
3 S4 3 S4 3 S11
4 S4 4 S4 4 S11
5 S0 5 S4 5 S0
6 S0 6 S12 6 S12
7 S0 7 -- 7 --
Preset Map E1P16

Block Size Code
0 S3
1 S10
2 S10
3 S11
4 S0
5 S0
6 S12
7 --
User Defined Fleet Maps
Type I Programming Information
When a Type I system is designed, the address information for all the IDs is divided into 8 equal
sized blocks, numbered 0–7. When you program your scanner to track a Type I system, you must
select a size code for each of these blocks. When you have assigned a size code to all 8 blocks,
you’ll have defined the Fleet Map for the system you’re tracking. Each size code determines the
number of Fleets, Subfleets, and IDs each block will have. For example, a size code of S-4 has one
Fleet, which is divided into 16 separate Subfleets, and it has a total of 512 individual IDs.
When a block is assigned a size code, the Fleet or Fleets created within the block are assigned a
Type I ID. The way these IDs display on your scanner depend on the block number and the block’s
size code. When a Type I ID displays, the leftmost digit represents the block which contains the ID.
The next two digits identify which Fleet is active, and the last digit(s) identifies the Subfleet.
4 05-12
Block Subfleet
(1 digit) (1 or 2 digits)
Which Fleet
within the Block
(2 digits)
The details concerning how the size codes are selected by a Type I System designer are highly
dependent on the specific needs of the system’s users. Some organizations may want many
subfleets with only a few radios each, while another organization may want only a few subfleets with
many radios each. Your task is to program your fleet map with the same size code assignments as
the trunked system. If you do this accurately, you’ll track all the Fleet-Subfleet combinations used by
the system. In other words, you’ll hear complete communications while monitoring a trunked system.
58
If you don’t already know the size codes used, you’ll have to guess at them. But since you don’t
have to figure out all the blocks at once, this isn’t as hard as it seems. Select a size code for a
block, and then press S. Now listen to the communications. If you decide you are receiving most
of the replies to the conversations with IDs assigned to the block you just programmed, then you’ve
probably selected the right size code and can work on the next block of the map.
Finally, for most public safety systems there are some size codes which are more common. S-3 and
S-4 are probably the most common, followed by S-10, S-11, and S-12.
Fleet Map Size Codes
Size Fleets Subfleets IDs Blocks Used

S–0 Reserves block for Type II IDs
S–1 128 4 16 1
S–2 16 8 64 1
S–3 8 8 128 1
S–4 1 16 512 1
S–5 64 4 32 1
S–6 32 8 32 1
S–7 32 4 64 1
S–8 16 4 128 1
S–9 8 4 256 1
S–10 4 8 256 1
S–11 2 16 256 1
S–12 1 16 1024 2
S–13 1 16 2048 4
S–14 1 16 4096 8
Size Code Restrictions
If you select size code S-12, S-13, or S-14, there are some restrictions as to which blocks can be
used for these codes.
S-12 can only be assigned to Blocks 0, 2, 4, or 6.

S-13 can only be assigned to Blocks 0 and 4.
S-14 can only be assigned to Block 0.
Since these size codes require multiple blocks, you will be prompted for the next available block
when programming a Fleet Map. For example, if you assign Block 0 as an S-12, you will be
prompted for b2, the next block available, instead of b1. And if you assign Block 0 as an S-14, you
would not see another prompt because it uses all available blocks.
59
Precautions
Before you use this scanner, please read and observe the following:
IMPORTANT!
The installation, possession, or use of this scanning radio in a motor vehicle may be prohibited,
regulated, or require a permit in certain states, cities, and/or local jurisdiction. Your local law
enforcement officials should be able to provide you with information regarding the laws in your
community.
EARPHONE WARNING!
Be sure to use only the recommended optional monaural earphone (EP009). You may also use
a 32Ω stereo headset. Use of an incorrect earphone or stereo headset may be potentially
hazardous to your hearing. The output of the phone jack is monaural, but you will hear it in both
headphones of a stereo headset.
Set the volume to a comfortable audio level coming from the speaker before plugging in the
monaural earphone or a stereo headset of the proper impedance (32Ω). Otherwise, you might
experience some discomfort or possible hearing damage if the volume suddenly becomes too
loud because of the Volume Control or Squelch Control setting. This may be particularly true of
the type of earphone that is placed in the ear canal.
WARNING!
Uniden does not represent this unit to be waterproof. To reduce the risk of fire or electrical
shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
Uniden® and Bearcat® are registered trademarks of Uniden America Corporation.

BC895XLT Controls and Display
1 2 3 4
STEP AUX DIM BC895XLT

BA NK A B C DE F G H I J 1 2.5K Hz AM FM
TRUNK SCAN PRIORITY AUTO SEARCH DATA
A 1-30 B 31-60 C 61-90 D 91-120 E 121-150
888.888 5
WX ALRT/RMT SEND
P 88 888.8 Hz
RMT
Mhz F 151-180 G181-210 H 211-240 I 241-270 J 271-300
S HOLD L/O LINE DELAY WX ALERT CTCSS
FREQ CHAN
SQUELCH
HOLD
SCAN MANUAL 1 2 3
SRC AUTO FREQ/CHAN
PRI TRUNK DATA 4 5 6 VOLUME
LOCK
LIMIT
LINE EXT SP
0 E
10 9 8 7 6 5
1. Programming and Status Keys 6. Numeric Keypad

2. Display 7. Scan/Manual Keys
3. Bank Keys 8. Mode Keys
4. Squelch/Volume Controls 9. Search Keys
5. Rotary Tuning Control 10. External Speaker/Line Jacks
One Year Limited Warranty
Important: Evidence of original purchase is required for warranty service.
WARRANTOR: UNIDEN AMERICA CORPORATION (“Uniden”)

ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants, for one year, to the original retail owner, this
Uniden Product to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or
exclusions set out below.
WARRANTY DURATION: This warranty to the original user shall terminate and be of no further
effect 12 months after the date of original retail sale. The warranty is invalid if the Product is (A)
damaged or not maintained as reasonable or necessary, (B) modified, altered, or used as part of
any conversion kits, subassemblies, or any configurations not sold by Uniden, (C) improperly
installed, (D) serviced or repaired by someone other than an authorized Uniden service center for a
defect or malfunction covered by this warranty, (E) used in any conjunction with equipment or parts
or as part of any system not manufactured by Uniden, or (F) installed or programmed by anyone
other than as detailed by the Operating Guide for this product.
STATEMENT OF REMEDY: In the event that the product does not conform to this warranty at any
time while this warranty is in effect, warrantor will repair the defect and return it to you without
charge for parts, service, or any other cost (except shipping and handling) incurred by warrantor or
its representatives in connection with the performance of this warranty. THE LIMITED WARRANTY
SET FORTH ABOVE IS THE SOLE AND ENTIRE WARRANTY PERTAINING TO THE PRODUCT
AND IS IN LIEU OF AND EXCLUDES ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY NATURE
WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR ARISING BY OPERATION OF LAW,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER OR PROVIDE
FOR THE REIMBURSEMENT OR PAYMENT OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES. Some states do not allow this exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
LEGAL REMEDIES: This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state. This warranty is void outside the United States of America.
PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING PERFORMANCE OF WARRANTY: If, after following the
instructions in this Operating Guide you are certain that the Product is defective, pack the Product
carefully (preferably in its original packaging). Include evidence of original purchase and a note
describing the defect that has caused you to return it. The Product should be shipped freight
prepaid, by traceable means, or delivered, to warrantor at:
Uniden America Corporation
Parts and Service Division
4700 Amon Carter Boulevard
Fort Worth, TX 76155
(800) 297-1023, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central, Monday through Friday
Covered under one or more of the following U.S. patents:
RE31,523 4,057,760 4,092,594 4,100,497 4,114,103
4,156,193 4,157,505 4,179,662 4,219,821 4,270,217
4,398,304 4,409,688 4,455,679 4,461,036 4,521,915
4,597,104 4,627,100 4,841,302 4,888,815 4,932,074
4,947,456 5,014,348 5,199,109 5,408,692 5,428,826
5,438,688 5,448,256 5,465,402 5,471,660 5,483,684
5,548,832 5,551,071
and other patents pending.
©1997 Uniden America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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CONTENTS

Use your new scanner to monitor:

800 MHz Trunked Public Safety Systems

Frequency Range Steps Transmission

About this Manual

Information on the Internet

Computer Control of Your BC895XLT

STEP AUX DIAL BC895XLT

Telescoping Antenna AC Adapter Owner’s Manual

com is ert ofconall bro

the y cei th n wal

yeas qui cre

oveo our all

cre positiall l. bro equ

and nat MANUAL

Trunking Frequency Starter Frequency Guide

For Home Use (Desktop Installation)

ANT DC12V ENTER AUX REMOTE

2. Plug the AC Adapter into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.

For use with an optional external speaker:

For use with an optional tape recorder:

Ear DC12V ENTER

STEP AUX DIM

For use with optional computer controlled software:

Press r again to cancel the computer controlled feature.

Mounting the Radio

Connecting the Antenna Plug

Connecting the DC Power Cord

Temporary Power Cord Installation:

Permanent Power Cord Installation:

Setting the Squelch

1. Press m until you do not hear a signal.

2. Adjust VOLUME to a comfortable listening

SQUELCH STRONG SIGNALS

SQUELCH STRONG SIGNALS

Using the VFO Control

Use the Rotary Tuner for the following:

Rapidly and precisely selecting either frequencies or channels

Frequency/Channel Mode Selector

Select one of the following ways to program your scanner:

Manually select a channel and frequency, using your numeric keypad

Programming using Manual Entry

2. Press m to stop scanning.

The display will flash for a moment and

See the Table on page 3 for information

Programming using the Rotary Tuner

3. Use the Rotary Tuner to select the

4. Press FREQ/CHAN until the red FREQ LED

5. Use the Rotary Tuner to select the

Note: You can also enter the frequency

Programming using AutoStore

1. Press m to stop scanning.

2. Using your keypad, enter the lower

4. Using your keypad, enter the higher

All the banks begin flashing and AUTO

7. Select the bank(s) you want programmed

The bank indicators selected will stop

You can press P to change the step

Press P until you select the increment you