Installing BCD536HP HomePatrol Series Scanner with Wi-Fi

The BCD536HP can be placed on a convenient surface in your home as a base station, and connected to a standard outlet that supplies 120VAC, 60Hz. You must use either the supplied antenna or an electrically correct outdoor antenna, properly and safely mounted at your chosen site.

The unit can also be placed above, beneath, or in the dash of your vehicle using the supplied bracket and mounting hardware.

• If your scanner receives interference or electrical noise, move the scanner or its antenna away from the source.

• Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Avoid placing the scanner in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents.

Power Related Issues

Important: To prevent memory from being corrupted, do not unplug the AC adapter during the time the memory is accessed for programming or auto store.

Note 1: If when you connect the AC adapter the [VOL] /Power Switch is ON, the scanner may not power on. Should this occur, simply turn the control OFF, then ON again.

Note 2: When you turn off the scanner using the power switch, the scanner remembers the last settings and mode. When you turn power back on, it resumes the previous mode.

Connecting an Optional Antenna

The scanner’s BNC connector makes it easy to connect a variety of optional  antennas, including an external mobile antenna or outdoor base station antenna.

Note: Always use 50-ohm, RG-58, or RG-8, BNC terminated coaxial cable to connect

an outdoor antenna. If the antenna is over 50 feet from the scanner, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric coaxial cable. Cable loss increases with higher frequency.

Connecting an Extension Speaker

In a noisy area, an optional amplified extension speaker, positioned in the right place, might provide more comfortable listening. Plug the speaker cables 1/8-inch (3.5-mm) mini-plug into your scanners back-panel Ext. Sp. Jack.

WARNING! If you connect an external speaker to the scanner’s Ext. SP jack or headphone jack, never connect the audio output line to a power supply and ground. This might also damage the scanner.

BCD536HP Only - All audio output is Class-D amplified (PWM). Never connect Ext. SP jack or headphone jack to an external Class-D AMP.

Base Station

This is the simplest approach to let you get started quickly. Decide on a location that is convenient to a nearby wall outlet, has desk space to let you complete your programming worksheets, will safely allow the indoor antenna to be extended, or near a window to use an outdoor antenna.

To secure the radio to a surface by means of the mounting bracket, follow the steps below:

1. Attach the four protective mounting feet to the mounting bracket when you casually use the scanner on a flat surface. Should you desire to permanently mount the scanner, remove the feet and use wood screws through the bracket as described in Steps 2 and 3.

2. Use the bracket as a template to mark positions for the two mounting screws.

3. At the marked positions, drill holes slightly smaller than the screws.

4. Align the bracket with the threaded holes on the sides of the radio case so the bracket is beneath the radio. Secure the bracket using the two threaded knobs. Never over tighten the knobs.

Once the radio is positioned, connect it to a source of AC power using the supplied 13.8V, 750 mA AC adapter. Insert the barrel of the AC adapter to the jack on the rear, upper right side of the radio marked. Insert the connector of the supplied indoor telescoping antenna to the BNC Antenna

Connector and apply moderate pressure to secure it.

Vehicle Installation

You can mount your scanner in your vehicle, using either the supplied bracket or the optional DIN-E sleeve.

If the scanner loses power (as when you turn off your car’s ignition with the scanners power switch on), it can corrupt the microSD card. To ensure that does not happen, turn off the scanner before turning the car’s ignition off.

WARNING! AVOID AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT ZONES.

Ignoring this installation concern may result in bodily harm and the inability of the airbag to perform properly.

Mounting Using the Bracket

With the bracket removed from the radio, use the holes in the bracket as a template to initially mark the location you plan to use in your vehicle. Be absolutely certain of what might be behind the mounting surface before making any holes, be it above, or below, or in front of your dash, armrest console, or other location. If you drill carelessly, expensive damage can result. If in doubt, consult your vehicle dealer’s service department or a qualified professional installer.

1. Using appropriate screws or other hardware, secure the bracket.

2. Insert the scanner and insert the bracket knobs to lock the scanner in position.

3. Attach the Cigarette Lighter Power Cord to the rear of the scanner and plug the adapter end into a dash mounted 12V DC socket.

4. Attach a suitable mounted mobile antenna to the antenna jack on the back of the scanner.

Mounting Using the DIN-E Sleeve

If you are unsure about how to install your scanner in your vehicle using the optional DIN-E sleeve, consult your automobile manufacturer, dealer, or a qualified installer. Before installing, confirm that your scanner fits in the desired mounting area and you have all the necessary materials to complete the task.

Your scanner requires a 2 x 7-1/8 x 5-5/16 inch (50 x 180 x 135 mm) mounting area. Allow an additional 2-3/8 inch (60mm) space behind the unit for connectors and wires.

1. Remove the bracket if it is attached.

2. Remove the four Philips screws from four small tabs on the rear of the case that secure the outer metal case and pull off the case (toward the rear) with care.

3. Install the DIN sleeve into the opening in your dashboard, lip facing out.

4. Push out the top and bottom tabs to hold the sleeve firmly in place.

5. Before inserting the scanner in the sleeve, attach the cable from the previously mounted antenna. Attach the DC Power leads. RED goes to a positive (+) connection on your fuse block while BLACK connects to the vehicles chassis ground (-).

6. Connect the ORANGE lead to one side of the headlamp switch so that when you activate the headlights, the scanners LCD display changes intensity. Be sure all the connections are routed away from any potentially pinching or slicing sheet metal.

7. Slowly slide the scanner into the sleeve until it locks in place.

8. To remove the unit, fully insert the removal keys into each slot on the left and right edges of the front panel. Carefully slide the radio from the sleeve.

Removing the Scanner from the DIN-E Sleeve

If you plan to connect other devices or wires to the radio, such as a GPS unit, at a later time, you should plan to remove the scanner from the DIN-E sleeve. This is easily done using the provided

Removal Keys that come with the optional DIN-E sleeve.

Refer to the illustration that follows, showing the Removal Keys.

Fully insert both Removal Keys into the slots on the left and the right edges of the radios dress panel. You cannot remove the radio with only one key. Press in fully, and do not twist the keys.

The radio will unlock from the sleeve making withdrawal from the sleeve possible. Store the keys in a safe place for future use.

Mounting Using ISO Technique

Some vehicles can take advantage of another approach to mounting a radio in a vehicle, called the ISO technique. However, this technique requires a very detailed and thorough knowledge of the technique. Therefore, we strongly suggest that if you have any doubt about your experience and abilities, please consult with a professional installer who is familiar with the ISO approach to radio installation.

To begin the process, it is first necessary to remove the scanners outer metal sleeve from the inner chassis. Unthread the four screws in the rear of the unit. Slide the cover toward the rear and off. Once the sleeve is removed, you will see threaded, metric machine screw holes on either side of the chassis cabinet. Uniden does not supply these screws. Their diameter, length, and screw type should be chosen by a qualified installer based on the internal vehicle bracket which will be used in securing the scanner chassis.

Once the original radio is removed from the vehicle dash and the fit of the scanner is correct, be sure to connect all the power, audio, antenna, and any other cables or wires, to the scanner before the scanner is secured.

The following illustration is a typical example of the ISO technique and the general side mounting screw holes often encountered. It does not actually represent the Uniden scanner or your vehicle’s mounting bracket. Only a professional installer will be able to determine the best and correct approach.

Connecting DC Cable with Orange Wire

Connect this cable to the vehicle’s electric system that receives power when you turn on your headlights. Now your scanner’s display will automatically dim when you turn on the headlights.

Using Internal Batteries (BCD436HP Only)

You can power your scanner using three alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries.

There is no switch for the battery type. Using non-rechargeable batteries, select “No” at the

Battery message when connecting the USB cable.

1. Install 3 AA batteries, matching the polarity symbols (+ -).

2. Replace the cover.

When Battery icon flashes and the scanner beeps every 15 seconds, replace or recharge the batteries.

Using Rechargeable Batteries

You can also use three rechargeable batteries to power your scanner. Before you use

rechargeable batteries, you must charge them. The scanner has a built-in circuit that lets you recharge batteries while they are in the scanner.

If the USB cable is connected to the scanner, or batteries are installed in the scanner when an USB cable is connected, the scanner will check the battery condition.

When the scanner is turned on, the scanner does not charge the batteies.

When the scanner is turned off, the scanner will charge the batteies.

The scanner displays “Normal Charging” while charging the batteies according to the Set Charge Time setting.

Caution: If the scanner gets too hot while charging, it will turn off automatically.

If the batteries are not installed, “No Battery” is displayed.

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Review The AUBBC Full HD 1080P Car Vehicle HD Dash Camera DVR Cam Night Vision Recorder

I purchased two of these units (one to face forward, and one rear-facing); used them to record my drive, and then hooked them up to the computer (had to use the card reader as, no matter what I did, the “Mass Storage” option wouldn’t work when hooking camera to computer via USB). I was so disappointed with the picture quality of the first videos (forward facing camera). They were so pixelated, and had almost a rainbow moiré pattern effect. Then I hooked up the second camera (rear-facing), and the quality was GREAT! I can clearly read license plates when stopped. Decided to do a little test, and held each camera side-by-side and viewed my phone screen; while the picture on the rear camera was great, the front camera STILL had the rainbow pixelation happening. 

I have concluded that I received one defective unit. I have started the return process, and will hopefully receive a second, awesome unit! I’ve attached pictures to show the difference in the video quality between the units. (One was facing away from the sun, and one was more into the sun, so the exposure differs.)

UPDATE: The company contacted me regarding my review, and wanted to make it right! Literally the best online customer service I’ve ever received. I did receive a new replacement camera from the company, and the quality is much better! (New pictures added.) You can read the license plates on the cars; granted, it’s not the BEST quality. I will gladly use these cameras until I decide to upgrade at a later date. The picture of the front of the truck behind me is the new camera they sent; it made me laugh, because if that guy was any closer to my back bumper, he would’ve been in my back seat. Lol Highly recommend if you’re looking for a decent camera on a budget.

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Review Pioneer DEH-X6800BT Single DIN Bluetooth In-Dash CD/AM/FM Receiver

Packed with features for the money. In the current age where factory stereos are next to impossible to replace due to extreme integration, the aftermarket stereo has an expiration date coming due soon. The good news is, if you need or just want to replace a single DIN radio, you have one of the best selections out there right now. I needed to replace the factor 1.5 DIN stereo in a newly acquired 99 Blazer that had one functioning door speaker and the two tweeters in the dash. I’ve been installing stereo systems in my cars since the 80’s even when the factory stereos were fine. 

This Pioneer was what I thought to be an inexpensive unit to just get some sounds in the blazer so I wouldn’t lose my mind commuting back and forth to work and boy was I surprised! Aside from the nice but gimmicky color selections, the unit has serious flexibility with the USB charge/play integrated, the two sets of RCA outputs (which also allows you to power rear speakers via the deck AND use the rear RCA’s to drive an external amp) which is nice if you have 4-6 speakers and a subwoofer. Bluetooth connected fine without drops on an Android phone and even gives voice commands for turn by turn directions if you’re playing music from your phone at the same time by lowering the music slightly to allow you to hear the navigation instructions, just like the wife’s 2015 Charger. The controls are extensive and in depth to say the least for fine tuning the sound. Included are low pass and high pass crossovers with 12/24db cutoffs along with the ability to boost or cut your sub level to match the rest of your system without crawling around with a screwdriver to fine tune your gain. 

In my case, I have a 12 yr old Planet Audio 10″ sub driven by a just as old Alpine mono amp that was collecting dust… Doors have new PA 6.5″ powered by the deck and the 22 yr old who works under me is asking where I got the install and how much was it! Seems I was crowding out his dub step during lunch last week with my AC/DC Thunderstruck…

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Review The Pioneer AVH-280BT In-Dash DVD Receiver

I purchased the AVH-280BT primarily as a screen for a backup camera that I was installing in my 2007 Honda Accord. However, I also wanted to use the opportunity to take a look at how far I wanted to go in improving my car stereo situation – I was using the stock radio and an AUX adapter I had hooked up a few years ago.

When shopping, I considered the higher end models that offer things like CarPlay, HD Radio, satellite radio, AppRadio, GPS navigation, etc. Honestly, unless you really need any of these things, I would pass. CarPlay is in its infancy, requires a usb connection to the phone, and the reviews have been less than stellar. AppRadio frequently breaks with new iOS updates. The GPS units provided in these stereos can’t hold a candle to native phone apps like Waze. I guess HD radio and satellite might be interesting, but it seems unnecessary to me given the plethora of internet radio options via the bluetooth connection to your phone. Bluetooth was really my only must have feature.

Setup was no different than any other car stereo – crimp or solder the wires from the radio harness to the vehicle harness, plug and play, and you’re good to go. I also connected the AWSC-1 to preserve steering wheel controls, this took me a bit longer due to issues specific to my vehicle, but I eventually figured it out.

In using the AVH-280BT the last week or so, I think this model is great for the 90% or so of people that want to modernize their older car’s stereo setup, or upgrade a newer car’s basic stereo to something more exciting. The backup camera images come through nice and clearly, and the screen has a nice viewing angle. Bluetooth (including phone calls) and the iPod connection work great, although on my iPhone 6, I’ve found Bluetooth to be more reliable in terms of displaying album/artist information. AM/FM stations come in just as strong as the stock radio, and FM displays audio information, too. I haven’t tried to play DVDs.

The UI is hideous, yes. But, in perusing the radios from various manufacturers in store, ranging from the high end models to the low end – they were ALL that way. Obviously this is one of the primary problems that CarPlay is looking to solve… but the reliability and convenience factors just aren’t there yet. The UI is usable, and fairly intuitive, but it ain’t a work of art.

One note: setting up Bluetooth and/or playing DVDs requires a connection to the parking brake. Yes, Pioneer locks you out of the Bluetooth pairing menu unless the parking brake wire is connected and the brake is engaged. Making this connection would have been very difficult for me to do. Instead, I installed a manual switch, one end connected to the radio’s parking brake wire, and the other connected to ground (I just used some spare wire to splice into the radio’s ground cable). Flicking the switch emulates the electrical response of engaging and disengaging the parking brake, which makes the radio happy.

Overall, I highly recommend the AVH-280BT for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s audio system. It does not have the features that the higher end models have, but most of them are gimmicks anyway.

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Uniden LRD550 Radar Detector with Voice Alert

DISCLAIMER: Radar detectors are illegal in some states.

Some states prohibit mounting any object on your windshield. Check applicable law in your state and any state in which you use the product to verify that using and ounting a radar detector is legal.

Uniden radar detectors are not manufactured and/or sold with the intent to be used for illegal purposes. Drive safely and exercise caution while using this product. Do not change settings of the product while driving. Uniden expects consumer’s use of these products to be in compliance with all local, state and federal law. Uniden expressly

disclaims any liability arising out of or related to your use of this product.

FEATURES

X, K, and Ka band alarms

POP and Laser alarms

Highway/City modes

Invisible to VG-2 and Spectre I/IV/IV+ radar detectors

Mute alarm audio

Memory feature saves user’s last settings (except MUTE) when the unit is powered down/disconnected from power.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX

LRD550 radar detector

Straight 12V DC Power Cord

Windshield Mounting Bracket

Hook and loop fastener tape

Spare fuse for DC Power Cord

Description:
Display & Graphics
Display Type: Icon Display 
General Information
Brand Name: Uniden 
Manufacturer: Uniden Corporation 
Manufacturer Part Number: LRD550 
Product Model: LRD550 
Product Name: LRD550 Radar Detector 
Product Type: Radar Detector 
Miscellaneous
Additional Information: 360 Laser/L2/L3 radar detector with easy-to-read icon display & voice alert 
Physical Characteristics
Depth: 2.5in 
Height: 10.1in 
Weight (Approximate): 10.70 oz 
Width: 6.8in 
Technical Information
Detection Area: 360 
Features: Voice Alert 
Frequency Band: Laser

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CiBest® Car Dvr 2.7″ LCD Screen Rotating Dual Len Vehicle DVR Road Dash Video Camera Recorder Traffic Dashboard Recorder

This Car DVR has two cameras that can both be rotated 270 degrees, allowing for recording high definition videos from two different angles.

Internal lithium polymer battery, which enables video shooting being carried out while charging.

Internal microphone / speaker. Support TF card with high capacity Turn it on and start video shooting function automatically as the vehicle starts.

Delay starting function, which can prevent it from damage caused by pulse current occurred at the moment of vehicle starting.

GPS scanning and positioning, travelling track restoring

This new model introduces two new functions: GPS Logger ,G-Sensor

This car DVR detects and records any sudden motion or speed changes in X, Y and Z axis.

Screen: 2.7 inch high definition screen

Lens: f: 2mm; F, 2.0 (IR lens) Camera: Front: 140 degree wide angle Back: 120 wide angle

Color sensor: 1/4″” color CMOS Video resolution: 1280*480 (dual mode), 640*480 (single mode)

Video format: AVI Cycled

Recording: Yes

Memory: you need use a Micro SD card, up to 32GB (not included)

Microphone, speaker: Built-in Battery: Built-in lithium polymer battery or car charger

Package Contents

2.7″Car DVR, GPS Module + Car Charger + Vehicle Bracket + User Manual

Product Features

Dual Lens,Front lens: 140 wide-degree,Back lens: 120 wide-degree

GPS Module,Gravity Sensor

Adjust the position of the lens: its front/back lens can be rotated for 270 degree to the front or back

The night vision feature will also allow you to make clear recordings in relatively dark environments.

Protect yourself from fraudulent lawsuits on the road

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