I have so many computers doing various police scanner programs such as SDRTrunk and OP25 that I started running out of computers and Raspberry Pi’s. I’m really enjoying listening to the police scanner much like my father did many years ago with his Radio Shack scanner. I decided to reclaim some computers so I went out and bought a Uniden SDS100 Scanner from Bearcat Warehouse. I had some questions regarding shipping and the scanner and the guy on the phone was super helpful and even called me back to let me know when my SDS100 shipped.
First impression is the cost. Youzah! $650 but this thing does all the digital modes however sadly you have to pay for additional modes if you want them. Not sure that impresses me but I think there is a licensing fee involved with DMR or NXDN so if it were added up front the scanner would be more expensive.
Before you can really do anything at all with the scanner it has to have the firmware installed and the USA (or Canada) database updated. You’ll require a Windows only (BOOOOO!) program called Sentinel. Sentinel can be downloaded from a sticky thread in the Uniden Tech Support Forum on RadioReference.com
The latest BETA firmware can be found in a sticky thread there as well. Bear in mind the Sentinel program will install STABLE firmware. BETA firmware is installed differently than STABLE firmware.