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Digital scanners allow you to monitor modern public safety radio systems used by many police, fire, and emergency agencies across the country. From handheld models to advanced base and mobile units, digital scanners offer clearer audio, expanded coverage, and support for P25 Phase I and Phase II systems. Whether you're a beginner or experienced listener, Scanner Master can help you choose the right digital scanner for your area and monitoring needs.
Just as TV went digital some years ago, the FCC desires that public safety agencies gradually migrate to digital radio systems as well. A great many cities, counties and states in the U.S. and Canada now use digital public safety radio systems. You may find digital radio systems in some cities (Los Angeles for example) as well as suburban and even rural areas (throughout the Midwest), while in area major cities and suburbs (metro Boston for example), there is hardly any digital at all. The only way to be certain whether you need a digital scanner in your area is by asking our team with the
Choose The Right Scanner simple form, and we will let you know.
There are also a few encrypted digital radio systems and systems that do not comply with national standards that cannot be monitored on any radio scanner. Digital technology is expensive so unfortunately there is no low-end/low-cost digital scanner model. While digital radio scanners can monitor digital, trunking and analog radio communications, they can be difficult to program. That’s where we can make a difference. All of our police scanners can be programmed with help from our trained professional staff, who will work with you to select and program the right digital scanner for your needs. While
pre-programmed and HomePatrol scanners are easier to use, they also benefit from our programming and Setup and Optimize service.
Frequently asked questions about Digital ScannersQ: What is a digital police scanner?
A: A digital police scanner is a radio scanner designed to receive modern digital radio systems used by many police, fire, EMS, and public safety agencies. Unlike older analog scanners, digital scanners can monitor APCO P25 Phase I and, in many cases, Phase II systems that are now common across the United States. Read more on the blog to
learn about DMR, NXDN and P25.
Q: Do I need a digital scanner in my area?
A: Many cities and counties now use digital or trunked radio systems, which require a compatible digital scanner to monitor. If your local agencies use analog frequencies, a standard analog scanner may still work. Scanner Master can help you determine whether you need a digital scanner based on the radio systems used where you live.
Q: What is the difference between Phase I and Phase II digital scanners?
A: Phase I and Phase II refer to different types of APCO P25 digital radio systems used by public safety agencies. Phase II systems are newer and more efficient, and many agencies are transitioning to them. Choosing a scanner that supports both Phase I and Phase II helps provide better long-term compatibility and monitoring capability.
