12 best radioshack scanners

RadioShack, once a popular electronics retailer, offered a range of scanners that were used for monitoring various radio frequencies. Radioshack scanners were favored by hobbyists, radio enthusiasts, and professionals for staying informed about local emergency services, weather updates, and other radio communications. Here are some key points about RadioShack scanners:

  1. Frequency Coverage: RadioShack scanners typically covered a broad range of radio frequencies, including VHF (Very High Frequency), UHF (Ultra High Frequency), and sometimes even HF (High Frequency) bands. The exact coverage varied depending on the model.

  2. Analog Scanners: Many Radioshack scanners were analog scanners, which means they could receive analog modulation modes like AM (Amplitude Modulation) and FM (Frequency Modulation). These modes are commonly used for voice communication.

  3. Programming and Memory: Radioshack scanners often featured programmable memory channels, allowing users to store and organize frequently monitored frequencies. This made it easier to scan and listen to specific channels of interest.

  4. Search and Scan: These scanners typically had search and scan functions.In search mode, the scanner could sweep through a range of frequencies to identify active channels. Scan mode allowed users to monitor preprogrammed channels or stored frequencies for activity.

  5. Trunking and Digital: Some advanced Radioshack scanners were capable of trunking, which is important for monitoring complex radio systems used by public safety agencies. In addition, certain models supported digital decoding, enabling the reception of digital or encrypted communications.

  6. Antennas: The performance of Radioshack scanners often depended on the quality of the antenna used. Enthusiasts sometimes upgraded their antennas to improve reception, especially for more distant signals.

  7. Weather Alerts: Many Radioshack scanners featured weather alert functions, allowing users to receive National Weather Service alerts and updates for their area.

  8. Power Sources: Radioshack scanners could be powered by standard AC power or batteries, making them portable for outdoor use or during power outages.

  9. Legal Considerations: It's important for users of these scanners to be aware of and comply with local laws and regulations regarding the monitoring of certain frequencies, especially public safety and emergency service channels.

  10. Applications: Radioshack scanners were used for various purposes, including hobbyist listening, staying informed about local events, monitoring emergency services, and participating in amateur radio activities.

Radioshack, as a brand, was once known for providing a variety of electronic products, including scanners. However, Radioshack had faced financial difficulties and had closed many of its physical retail stores. The availability of Radioshack scanners might have changed since then, but they were popular devices for radio enthusiasts and hobbyists in the past.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best radioshack scanners on the market
  

Remanufactured RadioShack PRO-2096 5500-Channel Digital Trunking Scanner

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Box is open. Item is barely used.

RadioShack Race Scanner Phone Adapter Ca

RadioShack

Product description

Enables you to use mobile phone with your scanner. Works with many brands of phones

  • Includes 3 cables for use with many mobile phones including smart phones
  • Flexable 12" cable

T POWER AC Adapter Charger Compatible with Radio Shack GRE GRECOM Whistler Scanner PRO-197 Pro-2055 Cat. No. 20-197 20197 20-428 20428 RadioShack Digital Trunking Desktop Mobile Radio Scanner

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

POWER SPECS : Input Voltage Range: AC 100V - 240V



Compatible with: Radio Shack GRE GRECOM Whistler Scanner PRO-197 Pro-2055 Cat. No. 20-197 20197 20-428 20428 RadioShack Digital Trunking Desktop Mobile Radio Scanner



AD-48138060



GRE PSR-400, PSR-410, PSR-600 GRECOM , RADIO SHACK PR0-197 PRO-652 PRO-2067 PRO-2055 PRO-160 PRO-163 PRO-2096

  • T POWER Made with the highest quality (( Extra Long 6.6ft cable cord )) Total Cord Length Is Extended to 6.6 ft (Competitor's Products are Only 3-4 Ft Long) .POWER SPECS : Input Voltage Range: AC 100V - 240V
  • Compatible with: AD-48138060 , GQ15-138060-AU , GA-04D-1100D
  • Radio Shack GRE GRECOM Whistler Scanner PRO-197 Pro-2055 Cat. No. 20-197 20197 20-428 20428 RadioShack Digital Trunking Desktop Mobile Radio Scanner
  • GRE PSR-400, PSR-410, PSR-600 GRECOM , RADIO SHACK PR0-197 PRO-652 PRO-2067 PRO-2055 PRO-160 PRO-163 PRO-2096

Radio Shack PRO-652 Digital Triple-Trunking Desktop Radio Scanner by RadioShack

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Digital triple-trunking desktop scanner - trunks all 3 popular system types Object-oriented, menu-driven programming 39,000 object memory - stores up to 1,800 objects in main memory and has 21 V-scanner memory 700MHz digital interface LED and alert sounds can be set to alert you to what object is being heard

  • Digital triple-trunking desktop scanner - trunks all 3 popular system types
  • Object-oriented, menu-driven programming
  • 39,000 object memory - stores up to 1,800 objects in main memory and has 21 V-scanner memory
  • 700MHz digital interface

User questions & answers

Question: this scanner will pick up fire police and ems correct
Answer: if you know the frequencies of the department you wish to monitor you can program them into the scanner and listen to all their calls
Question: How well would a 2m:70cm jPole antenna work with this scanner
Answer: it should work very well. I use a 2m-70cm discone.
Question: will this scanner pick up the 800 trunking system
Answer: Yes it will pick up the new 800 mhz system
Question: Does this scanner also scan antalog
Answer: yes

RadioShack PRO-405 200-Channel Desktop Radio Scanner

Based on 27 reviews Check latest price

Product description

RadioShack PRO-405 Desktop Radio Scanner picks up police and fire frequencies in many areas, as well as aircraft, marine, FM, FRS/GMRS and Ham communications.

  • 200-channel memory that cvan be categorized into 10 separate memory banks
  • One-touch service search makes it easy to listen to a specific service
  • SkyWarn; NOAA SAME Weather Alert
  • Preprogrammed with 153 popular channels; PC Interface for programming
  • FM Radio

User questions & answers

Question: what frequencies does this scanner cover
Answer: The HDMI output supports all the digital signals.
Question: Can someone tell me how you can lockout an entire bank of frequencies
Answer: HDMI cables will work regardless of version, just older cables may not be able to transmit video at the same frame rate. But newer version cables will work with older devices. The higher version cable will NOT make an older version hardware perform better.
Question: is this unit a good one for beginners
Answer: You need the OREI HDA-925 for your setup: https://www.amazon.com/OREI-60Hz-Audio-Converter-Extractor/dp/B07T6CDPQJ/
Question: how do you program it. i bought this used with no manual
Answer: Yes you would be able to connect the optical/SPDIF cable from the switcher to the sound bar. Sources to the switcher Hdmi output 1 to tv Optical to sound bar You may need to turn the audio down/muted on the tv so audio only comes out the sound bar and you don't have you audio doubling

RadioShack Pro-163 Desk Top Triple Trunking Scanner

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The PRO-163 triple trunking scanner can be used as a desktop or mobile unit.

  • Free Shipping on orders over $50

User questions & answers

Question: I want to know how to find out if my countiy broadcasts analog or digital.Where do I look? Who do I ask? What do I look or ask for
Answer: Look at radioreference.com. You find any answers to your questions there.
Question: How many channels it had
Answer: It says it can store up to a 1000.
Question: does this pick up the new digital police signals
Answer: Not sure. Just read the manual and it didn't mention anything about digital.
Question: do you know if this is a digital or analog scanner
Answer: This is analog scanner most systems went to what's called a p25 system meaning its digital signal. If your area is not digital yet you can use this scanner works great. go to radioreference.com for more info. you want to look for PL tones only for this scanner .NAC will not work with this scanner. Otherwise spend 500.00 and buy a digital scanner.

Radio Shack Pro 2050 Trunk Tracker 300 Channel VHF/UHF/Air/800MHz Scanner

Product description

Radio shack pro-2050 police fire weather scanner Trunk Tracker 300 Channel VHF/UHF/Air/800MHz tested in working order great shape

User questions & answers

Question: Is this digital
Answer: Sorry, they never shipped it. They said not available...

Radio Shack 200-Channel Home Scanner PRO-2032

Product description

The Radio Shack 200-Channel Programmable Desk Top Home Scanner Model PRO-2032 lets you in on all the action! This scanner gives you direct access to over 31,000 frequencies in 10 radio bands, including those used by the police department, the fire department, ambulance services, aircraft amateur radio operators, and transportation services. You can select up to 200 channels for your scanner to scan and you can change your channel selections at any time. The secret to your scanner's ability to scan so many frequencies is its custom-designed microprocessor-a tiny built-in computer. Features two-speed hyperscan searches, and scans channels faster. Search function finds new and unlisted frequencies, and two-second scan delay lets you hear the return calls. Includes telescoping antenna, 12V DC adapter jack, and is UL listed for AC operation.

  • Direct Access To Over 31,000 Frequencies In 10 Radio Bands
  • Two-Speed Hyperscan Searches & Scans Channels Faster
  • Search Function Finds New & Unlisted Frequencies
  • LCD Display
  • Memory Backup

Whistler WS1010 Analog Handheld Scanner (Black)

Whistler

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The new scanner line opens with the WS1010. This 200 channel scanner features Data Cloning, PC updatable database capabilities, and dedicated Skywarn button for storm watchers.

  • Lock-out Function - skip over specified channels or frequencies when scanning or searching
  • Tune - find new and unlisted frequencies starting from a specified frequency,200 Channel memory - plenty of memory to store all your favorite frequencies in 10 separate storage banks
  • Scan Delay - delays scanning for two seconds before moving to another channel in order to hear replies
  • Priority Channel - set the scanner to check one channel every two seconds while scanning
  • PC programmable - allows users to backup data, update database and program scanner directly from a PC
  • IN THE BOX : Analog Hand-held Scanner, AC Adapter, Flex Antenna, Black Battery Shell, Yellow Rechargeable Battery Shell, User Guide, Quick Start Guide

User questions & answers

Question: Does it work with 900 mhz
Answer: Hey Drakkenfyre barring any manufacturing anomalies the UV-5R accessories, including batteries and the BL-5L, should be compatible with the 5x3. Essentially they are the same radio outside, just different electronics/firmware inside. If you are unlucky to get one of the bad batteries visit the Miklor.com web site for all information about the radio, and this http://kj4ajp.mambm.com/BL5L/ for repairing the battery to make it fit. Hope this helps.
Question: We cannot pick anything up. All static. Occasionally fire department. What's the problem
Answer: This radio uses all the battery options and accessories that fit the UV-5R or the BF-F8HP. So yes. You can use both the AAA and the AA battery eliminators as well as the extended batteries.Hope this helps.
Question: Can I pick up police frequencies with this? I live in a high crime and would like to listen in to the chatter for pure entertainment purposes
Answer: All radio transmitters and some other emitters must have FCC certification. Commercial and public service require Part 90 certification. Other services like FRS and GMRS fall under other parts of the rules. As part of the certification process the FCC issues an FCC ID number for each design of transmitter. I have used the FCC ID to determine the frequency range and modulation type of radios before by doing a Google search of the number. There is also a search page on the FCC site. The only radio service exempt from these regulations is Amateur Radio. Ham radio operators are directly responsible for their emissions and have demonstrated sufficient knowledge of the rules and electronics by passing an exam. Most of the Chinese radios are therefore marketed to Ham radio operators since most do not have any FCC certification. They are also not legal to use on commercial, FRS and GMRS frequencies unless they have the FCC certification number or a sticker with the numbers on them. The UV-5X3 is a perfect example. The sticker under the battery affixed to the radio calls it an Amateur radio and there is no reference to FCC certification or ID. There are some of the UV-5R radios that have a part 90 certification sticker on them but they are mostly the older models like the UV-5RV2+. If programmed correctly so the end user can not operate the radio on frequencies they are not authorized to use they can be used for commercial and public service. They are not certified and are not legal to use for FRS and GMRS even with the part 90 certification.
Question: DO YOU NEED AN OUTSIDE ANTENA
Answer: We have a 100watt repeater (before 2013) for local / regional and achieve 200 miles every day, and a few long haul repeaters that are 1.5KW to backhaul between other repeaters and their base stations. We could use VoIP between repeaters, we are just blessed to have a mountaintop that we use, and just expanded as another liscense holder gave up their space, so we have another relay tower. For security I won't say where, but you likely have used it without knowing. So listen to everyone here and join your regional and national clubs. They fund 30-40-% of our operations.

Product features

WS1010 - Handheld Scanner Radio

This 200-channel scanner lets you listen to FM radio bands and can be categorized into 10 separate memory banks. Also, it offers the convenience of one-touch searches of marine, fire/police, air, ham and weather frequencies.

What is Object Oriented Scanning?

Programming scanning receivers can be challenging, but object-oriented programming simplifies the process by using common conventions for scanning concepts that have common characteristics.

T POWER (9v AC Adapter Charger Compatible with Realistic Cat. No. 273-1455 2731455 RadioShack CAT. NO. 273-1455D 2731455D Power Supply Charger

T POWER

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

POWER SPECS : Input Voltage Range: AC 100V - 240V



Compatible with: Realistic Cat. No. 273-1455 2731455 RadioShack CAT. NO. 273-1455D 2731455D Power Supply Charger



T POWER - manufactured with the highest quality materials and include multiple smart features safeguarding against IV - incorrect voltage, SC - short circuit, IO - internal overheating. CE/FCC/RoHS certified



  • T POWER Made with the highest quality (( Extra Long 6.6ft cable cord )) Total Cord Length Is Extended to 6.6 ft (Competitor's Products are Only 3-4 Ft Long) .POWER SPECS : Input Voltage Range: AC 100V - 240V ( 9vdc ) Inner Negative Connector
  • Compatible with: Realistic Cat. No. 273-1455 2731455 RadioShack CAT. NO. 273-1455D 2731455D Power Supply Charger
  • Archer CAT. NO. 273-1455A 2731455A Realistic Cassette Players and Radio Radio Shack Handheld Scanner

Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner. 500 Alpha-Tagged channels. Public Safety, Police, Fire, Emergency, Marine, Military Aircraft, and Auto Racing Scanner. Lightweight, Portable Design.

Uniden

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

"The Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner has a feature called Close Call Technology. The Close Call RF Capture instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Close Call Do Not Disturb Mode prevents close call checks during a transmission. This radio is compact and features Weather Alert technology and is capable of attaching to civilian and military air bands.Receives conventional channels on the following frequencies: (25-54 MHz) (108-174 MHz) (225-380 MHz) (400-512 MHz) ". Pre-Sets for Popular Channels

  • Listen in and stay informed, this sophisticated scanner has 500 alpha-tagged channels in a convenient compact design with loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission.
  • Listen to Over 40,000 Frequencies, you can listen to both civilian and military bands, including Police, Ambulance, Fire, Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.
  • Search More Efficiently with 500 Alpha-Tagged Channels Finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 500 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer. Alpha Tagging lets you assign names to your channels, so you can keep track of who you are listening to.
  • Lightweight, Portable Design, take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features, the orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
  • Get started listening right away with convenient Pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten separate Police, Fire/Emergency, Ham, Marine, Railroad, Civil Air, Military Air, CB Radio, FRS/GMRS/MURS, and Racing search bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
  • included components: Uniden Bearcat 500 Channel Alpha Numeric Hand Held Radio Scanner Civil & Military Aircraft Bands Usb Cable Free Software Available Online

User questions & answers

Question: Does anyone believe this scanner is easier to use than the Whistler
Answer: The GPS receiver is installed but you need the plugin GPS antenna that must be purchased separate. (about $100.00)Any antenna can be used with the proper adapter. If you are using a outside antenna you just need to know what type of connector is on the end of the cable coming from the antenna and purchase the proper adapter. The stock antenna is SMA, but it comes with a SMA to BNC adapter. Adapters range in price from 5 - 10 dollars.
Question: Can I use an external battery such as used to recharge a iphone to power this? This is to be used at nascar race. Connected by usb
Answer: It will not allow most "Noise canceling" headphones as they are 600ohm, and the earphone jack is 32ohm!
Question: Does this scanner have a jack for earphones or earbuds
Answer: The BCD436HP comes with the handheld unit, a USB cable for data transfer and charging, an SMA to BNC adapter, rubber duck antenna, wrist strap, belt clip, printed manual, and 3 rechargeable AA batteries. It does not come with AC or DC adapters for the USB cable.
Question: programable for trains
Answer: These are all DIGITAL modes.. YES it will rx P25Phase I and II as well as the AM for aircraftOther features: TrunkTracker V, APCO 25 phase I and phase II, X2-TDMA, CTCSS/DCS rapid decoding, P25 NAC decoding and simple-to-use Sentinel PC software to keep your scanner's database and firmware up to date. Receives conventional and the following types of trunked channels: •Motorola Type I •Motorola Type II •Motorola Type IIi Hybrid •Motorola Type II Smartnet •Motorola Type II Smartzone •Motorola Type II Smartzone Omnilink •Motorola Type II VOC •LTR Standard •Project 25 Standard •Motorola X2-TDMA •P25 Phase I and Phase II •EDACS Standard (Wide) •EDACS Narrowband (Narrow) •EDACS Networked (Wide/Narrow) •EDACS ESK On the following frequencies: (25-512 MHz) (758-960 MHz) (excluding cellular telephone bands) (1.24 â€" 1.3 GHz) "

Product features

BC125AT 500 Channel Handheld Scanner with Alpha Tagging

Listen in and stay informed with the Uniden BC125AT Compact Bearcat Handheld Scanner. This sophisticated scanner with 500 alpha-tagged channels boasts a convenient compact design and loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission. With this Bearcat scanner, you can listen to military and civilian air bands. You can also get important weather and safety alerts.

Listen to Over 40,000 Frequencies

The Bearcat BC125AT handheld scanner gives you direct access to over 40,000 frequencies. You can listen to both civilian and military bands, including police, ambulance, fire, weather, marine, aircraft, railroad, civil air, amateur radio services, and racing.

Search More Efficiently with 500 Alpha-Tagged Channels

Finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 500 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer. Alpha Tagging lets you assign names to your channels, so you can keep track of who you are listening to.

Lightweight, Portable Design

Take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features in a lightweight, portable design. The orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.

Bingfu Police Radio Scanner Antenna 20-1300MHz 7 Sections Telescopic BNC Male Antenna Ham Radio Handheld CB Radio Antenna for Uniden Whistler Police Radio Scanner Two Way Radio Frequency Counter

Bingfu

Based on 351 reviews Check latest price
  • Frequency Range: 20MHz - 1300MHz; 7 Sections; Length: 20cm - 115cm; VSWR: < 2.0; Impedance: 50 ohm; Antenna Connector: BNC Male Connector;
  • Compatible with: Police Radio Scanner, Ham Radio, Two Way Radio, Amateur Radio Mobile Transceiver, Portable Handheld CB Radio, Wireless Microphone System, Frequency Counter, FM Broadcast Transmitter;
  • Easy to install, compatible with handheld, indoor and mobile radios, transceivers and scanners, the antenna body can be bent to 90 degrees, easy to carry.
  • Package List: 1 x Antenna (As the Picture Shown);
  • Compatible with Uniden, Whistler Police Radio Scanners and Cobra, Uniden, Midland and Maxon Portable Handheld CB Radios.

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work and improve reception on my uniden home patrol ii
Answer: It depends on your location I have one and it works great!!
Question: The antenna is not 115cm (45 inch). it is 99cm (39 inch). it is also not 7 sections like in photo. it is 6. what is the problem
Answer: The Telescopic BNC Antenna is 7-Sections 115cm, could you please check the antenna top section whether pull out.
Question: I have a Whistler 1065 with a 5 sections antenna .will this 7 section antenna work on the Whistler
Answer: It should fit most scanners today are fitted the same
Question: Does it use a pl-259 uhf-type plug
Answer: Hello, This is a BNC male connector,can't used in PL-259 UHF connector.

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