Batboard

Wanting to use VHF radio to log local fire department communications for the FD.. Any suggestions on software packages.

If you're not opposed to using a consumer program, I can highly recommend FreeScan software connected to a Uniden scanner. I have a BCT-15 sitting at home setup for logging purposes. You can instruct the software to make .mp3 sound files to go along with the log file.

http://scannow.org/index.htm

I use it to pick up new LTR TGIDs, new frequencies/tones from the defined-range searches, etc. It's a very useful tool. My only gripe is the occasional program reset. You can remedy it somewhat by setting up some autosave rules within the program.

-Mike

Logging screengrab stolen from RR:

Thank you , I appreciate the feedback.

I have been using ProScan with a BCD396T to log and record comms. Works great, runs 24/7 with no memory
issues. Saves the audio files as MP3s for listening at a later time. It will log and record anything within
the capabilities of the particular scanner you're using.

Also, you can listen to the audio live with one of the many available SmartPhone apps by
setting up the Remote Scanner over IP interface.

And if you're out away from the main program, you can log in using another computer
running ProScan and make changes to the scanner, such as lockouts, volume/squelch,
basically anything as if the scanner was right there in your hand in front of you.

www.proscan.org

Thank you, I need the audio files saving function. What size hard drive for saving transmissions ?

Hard drive space will depend on how much activity there is.

I'm using a 300GB HD and have been recording for almost 2 years. Some days
are over 2 hours of activity. I haven't saved all files for every day, so I cannot
give you a relative size requirement.

The software will only record voice acitvity. It pauses recording until
the frequency is active again. Therefore you can listen to the
recording without having to fast forward though the inactive periods.
The software also itemizes the recordings based on date and frequency so
you don't have to guess what you're listening to.

That is just what we are looking for. Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

No problem. ProScan is a very useful program. Definitely worth the small fee IMHO.

I want to use a Motorola CDM 1250 VHF radio.. What type of cable do I need from radio to computer ?

A simple shielded cable from the radio's 16 pin connector to the computer's LINE IN.

The pin on the CDM would be Filtered audio and Ground. Add a 2.2 uF capacitor in series to block any DC on the audio lead.

This connection is not affected by the volume control on the CDM.

Thanks Will.