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Edited by TJ, Emachuu, Tiagoroth, Chris and 1 other

Program a Police Scanner

Programming a police scanner is a simple process. In addition to emergency personnel communications, scanners can also be programmed with frequencies to a variety of other public communication offices. Once you have successfully added a frequency, you can easily customize your scanner to include the frequencies for all police departments within your county. Here's how to program a police scanner.

Edit Steps

  1. 1
    Read the manufacturer's information that came with the police scanner you purchased at a local electronics or hobby store.
    • Each scanner will be set up a bit differently, so it's a good idea to follow individual directions.
  2. 2
    Find the scanner frequencies for the agencies you would like to follow in your area.
    • A frequency is the number you will need to program in your scanner to listen to the specific service provider you would like to hear.
    • To find the local frequencies, search online for the information, or inquire at the retailer where you purchased your scanner.
    • The National Communications website is a good source of information for links to frequency websites and other questions you may have regarding your scanner.
    • Many scanners include a list of commonly used frequencies.
  3. 3
    Write a list the local frequencies you plan to program in your scanner, and then place the list where you can see it.
  4. 4
    Locate the PGM button on your scanner.
    • This button may be located in a variety of places on different scanner models.
    • Ask your retailer to show you the location if it is difficult to find.
  5. 5
    Press the PGM button.
    • Look at the top of the screen.
    • The channel spot should be flashing, which means it is ready to program information.
  6. 6
    Insert the channel number.
    • The channel number is a 3-digit number used to store your frequencies.
  7. 7
    Enter one of your frequency numbers after you have entered your channel number.
    • Choose the frequency you wish to be entered into the channel, which can be organized as best suits your needs.
  8. 8
    Press "Enter."
    • Now the frequency you entered is in that channel.
  9. 9
    Verify the process was successful by going to another frequency and enter "MAN, 110, MAN."
    • After entering the MAN, 110, MAN sequence, your channel and frequency should appear.
  10. 10
    Re-program the scanner if the test was unsuccessful.
  11. 11
    Repeat the process with all frequencies you would like programmed in your scanner until you have the frequencies organized among the channels to your liking.

Edit Tips

  • Today's scanner radios allow listeners to also hear taxicab companies, utility companies, aircraft, military, amateur radio and family radio service.
  • Most scanners pick up frequencies in "line of sight," so you shouldn't expect to pick up a frequency beyond the horizon.
  • There are many types of scanners, including basic scanners that sit on a flat tabletop, mobile scanners designed to be mounted in a vehicle, handheld scanners, and computer scanners.
  • Frequencies do occasionally change, so you may have to reprogram at a later date.
  • Scanners can pick up signals as far away as several thousand miles.

Edit Things You'll Need

  • Police scanner
  • Frequencies list
  • Manufacturer's instructions


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Edit Sources and Citations

Article Info

Categories: Computers and Electronics

Recent edits by: Chris, Tiagoroth, Emachuu

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