Deep dive on programming here.
We HIGHLY recommend letting our experts program your scanner.
Programming issues are, by FAR, the #1 reason for...
- Returns
- 99% of any negative comments about the SDS200 you'll read while researching
- 99% of any negative comments about us
- 90% + of all support questions
- Our receding hairlines
Basically, you're about to spend hundreds of dollars on a snappy new gadget, might as well spring a few extra bucks so it will actually work right out of the box.
What software is installed on my SDS200?
The new Uniden SDS200 comes with Sentinel software like other Uniden scanners, including the SDS100, BCD436HP, BCD536HP & HomePatrol-2. While there is a version of the Sentinel software for each scanner, they operate the same. The SDS200 includes Sentinel software (download free SDS200 software here). Watch our Uniden Sentinel software programming video here or above in the video gallery.
What is "One Touch Start Up"?
Adding this with programming allows our technicians to make hardware, software and frequency updates prior to shipping your scanner. You can buy just the programming, which will give you everything needed to listen in your area, but "One Touch Start Up" ensures a smooth experience right from the start with zero technical know-how. "One Touch Start Up" is a popular gift item as this allows the scanner to simply "work" by powering on.
How long does programming take?
Programming adds 1-2 additional business days to delivery.
What if this does not work?
We have a 100% money back guarantee if you’re not happy with your programming.
How are you so much cheaper than other scanner programming places?
We’re awesome.
Can you program X, Y, Z?
We can program anything that is in Radio Reference. If you have frequencies that are not in Radio Reference, as long as you can put them in a CSV file, we can program them.
What if I need help?
We’re always here to help.
Self Programming
Can I program this scanner myself?
We created a programming decision tree to help you decided on whether you should include professional programming with your scanner, but we HIGHLY recommend adding programming.
Can't I just punch in my zip code for programming?
When you type in your zip code, it scans EVERYTHING in your area, which is kinda like getting the phone book thrown at you. This is why over 95% of orders include programming & why we highly recommend. Our professional programming filters the junk out so you don't have to listen to things such as the dog catcher, repo guy, power company & the like.
How long does programming take?
It takes our scanner tech over an hour to program each scanner & this is ALL he does. For new & moderate scanner users, we estimate 3-12 hours of programming. Setup time varies wildly based on scanner type, area, scanner experience & general tech familiarity.
Why should I buy programming?
Programming is the #1 reason police scanners are returned. While scanner programming is much easier than the days of crystal scanners, there is a learning curve like any other electronics purchase. While some scanner enthusiasts are highly technical and want to learn the ins-and-outs of programming, others want their scanner to just "work" right out of the box.
95% of all scanner sales include programming, so unless you’re familiar with scanners, scanner terminology, own a PC (Macs do not work), and want to learn the nuances of programming, we highly recommend having your scanner professionally programmed. Scanner technology is fairly user friendly, but scanners are not smartphones or iPads. If you're spending hundreds on a scanner, we recommend springing a few extra bucks so it works right out of the box.
Can't you teach me programming with your lifetime technical support?
No. Lifetime technical support is not unlimited technical support. We are always here to help and love to do so. We made "how to" videos and can help point you in the right direction, but we will not teach programming.
