InterceptRadio.com Forums

Trying to understand the whole control channel thing. Using the Snohomish Co Moto system as an example. I understand that there are primary control channels and secondary control channels. Then there are some other frequencies. I assume these other channels are used for transmitting the actual data? And the control channel is where the scanner gets the info on how to track the conversation?

Also, I see there is a West and East Simulcast. Both with control channels. I'm not sure if I should program both primary control channels in to my scanner or not. Is there reasons on why I would or would not want to do this?

And lastly, I see there are frequencies for Deer Creek IR and North Mountain IR. But no control channels listed. What are these?

what kind of scanner do you have is it tracking?

bc246t

There are 26 Freq. in the Snohomish County 800 system, I entered all 26 and then chose what TG I wanted to listen to. Is there any reason that I did not need to load all 26 freq. ? I have a BC 895 XLT and I receive everything I want to listen to from Lynnwood.

This is why i get confused when people are talking about Contron Channels. With the Snohomish County System just load everything. Can someone explain differantly?

My BC246T has the ability to track the frequencies via just the Control Channel. So, I don't have to load all the extra frequencies used.

I jsut want to understand the differenct in using the West or East trunk. Should I used both Control Channels? If I don't, will I miss some traffic?

I have both the east and west freqs. in my Pro-97 I just put in a conventional freq in between the two systems so they can be in the same bank. Seems to work fine. Seems to get all the TG ID's just fine.

With just the control channel in you have more room in your scanner.