ACCESSORIES

Items available locally that you may require or want include:

Serial Cable:

This is used to connect the BC780XLT to a computer for programming or control using one of the several free, shareware or commercial products available. The BC780XLT has a female DB9, most newer PC's have a male DB9. The correct cable would thus be a male-female serial cable. Some older PC's have a DB25 serial port, you would then need an adaptor (DB25 to DB9) or a cable with the appropriate DB25 on one end and a male DB9 on the radio end. The Serial Cable should be a "Straight Through" cable, not a cross over cable.

Cloning Cable:

To clone on BC780XLT to another you need a cloning cable. This would have male DB9's on either end, as well as a null modem adaptor. Sometimes you can find a cable that is already wired for use as a null-modem (with TX crossed to RX and vice-versa). A "Cross-over" cable would work for this purpose.

External Speaker:

Sometimes the mounting of the radio will block the speaker, or it may be used in a noisy vehicle or enviorment. An external speaker will help make it easier to understand communications. Also, you may consider an amplified speaker in extremely noisy conditions. These are available at local electronic stores and mail order outlets.

Battery Packs:

While the BC780XLT was designed to be used in a vehicle or building there are times when it's functionality is desired away from commercial or vehicle power. Check the ScannerMaster site for internal battery packs. This new accessory mounts inside your BC780XLT and allows you to roam with the scanner anywhere! It charges automatically from the regular power cord and connector. 10 minute installation with only a screwdriver!

Antenna:

There are many times when the included antenna is not appropriate. If you are in a weak signal area, a vehicle, or just want better reception you should look at an external antenna. Many sources have mobile and base antennas. The lead in cable should be 50 or 75 ohm, and terminated with a BNC connector. Of course be aware of power lines when working on outside antennas!

The cable from the antenna to the radio can be either 50 or 75 ohm. RG-58 works for short runs in most instances. For longer runs use high quality RG-6, RG-8 or better cables.

Some scanner antennas come with "F" Connectors. For these antennas use good quality RG-6 cable and an "F" to BNC adaptor.

If you live near a paging tower, weather broadcast tower or other strong transmitter you may receive Intermod or other interference. This can be alleviated often by merely repositioning the antenna. If this does not work then you may require a filter or other device to block specific frequencies. Also try the attenuating feature on the BC780XLT to see if that helps.

Cases: ScannerMaster makes a nylon case just for the BC780XLT. This is form-fitting and has cutouts for connectors and the speaker. It has a carry strap that holds the radio for perfect viewing. Go to the ScannerMaster site for details.

There are several items under development that will extend the functionality of the BC780XLT. Check back here often for more details!

Check here for more special accessories for the BC780XLT. ScannerMaster has a line of accessories made specifically for the BC780XLT!

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Math for TrunkTracking Why are Talkgroups in increments of 16 and other mysteries of the trunked universe.	Owner's Manual Download the manual here. Great if you lost the original or are just interested. (Caution: 4.3 MB "PDF")
Accessories Make the best scanner even better	Photos from the CARMA 780 Workshop We spent the whole evening talking about the 780, see the evidence!