Uniden Bearcat HomePatrol Review: Simple Scanning Without the Complexity

When the Uniden Bearcat HomePatrol was introduced, it changed the way many people approached scanner radios. Instead of requiring users to manually program hundreds of frequencies and talkgroups, the HomePatrol relied on a built-in RadioReference database and simple ZIP code programming, making it one of the easiest digital scanners for beginners.

Even though newer models have appeared, the HomePatrol continues to attract listeners looking for a straightforward way to monitor public safety, aviation, railroads, marine communications, and amateur radio. In this review, I’ll look at its features, strengths, limitations, and whether it’s still a good choice today.

Bottom Line

Best For

• Beginners
• Home monitoring
• Users wanting simple setup
• Casual scanner enthusiasts

Less Suitable For

• Advanced custom programming
• Portable field use
• Users needing simulcast performance comparable to the SDS series

The Uniden HomePatrol has a large 3.5″ LCD touch screen. The HomePatrol is self-configuring and uses the RadioReference.com database and built-in GPS to determine what frequencies to monitor. Manually entering a location is also possible. The Trunk tracking system tracks EDACS (N/W), LTR, and Motorola (analog/mixed/digital). A Micro-SD slot allows the memory to be expanded with 2GB cards.

HomePatrol FEATURES:

• Simple Programming-Simply enter your zip code or city and HomePatrol-1 selects the channels in use in your area.
• TrunkTracker IV (Motorola APCO 25 Digital, Motorola, EDACS, LTR)-Lets you monitor all of the major types of communications systems used by public safety, local government, amateur radio operators and more.
• S.A.M.E. Emergency/Weather Alert – Allows you to specify the area that you need to hear any alerts that may be Weather, Civil, Biological, Nuclear or National in nature.
• Covers US and Canada – The built-in database includes all known channels in use in the United States and Canada. (All services not available in some areas.)
• Quick Record and Playback – Lets you record sessions for later playback or archiving.
• Instant Replay – Lets you replay the most recent reception with a single tap.
• 3.5″ Daylight Viewable Display
• Free Radio System Updates – Radio System database is updated weekly.
• No Subscription Needed.
• Touchscreen Operation – Makes it easy to control what you are hearing.
• HomePatrol Sentinel PC Software Included – Lets you update the HomePatrol-1’s database, update firmware and more easily manage favorites lists and other settings in your HomePatrol-1.

One of the reasons the HomePatrol remains popular is that it removes much of the frustration traditionally associated with scanner programming. Instead of spending hours entering frequencies manually, new users can often begin monitoring local systems within minutes, making it one of the most approachable digital scanners ever produced.

I am seriously looking at buying one of these Uniden Bearcat HomePatrol scanners in the near future. This is state-of-the-art in scanning and I’m impressed with the audio I’ve heard on some YouTube videos. I need a scanner that doesn’t just sit there but likes to be tinkered with. I like eye candy too; I think this unit fits the bill. Although the initial setup is very easy and automated, you can also use a configuration menu to fine-tune the radio to your operational preferences.

I need to sell off some things to pay for it though. Like my Pro-106 trunking scanner.  A buddy of mine is interested in it. I also have a Yupiteru MVT-7100 and a Uniden BC235XLT Trunk Tracker scanner. Must move out the old stuff to make room for (and fund) the new stuff!

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