Can the BC125AT pick up digital police and fire signals?

No, the Uniden BC125AT is an analog-only scanner. It cannot receive or decode digital transmissions such as P25, DMR, or NXDN, which are used by many modern public safety departments. It is excellent for monitoring analog communications in aviation, marine, railroad, racing, and areas where agencies still use traditional analog systems.

What is Close Call Technology and how does it work?

Close Call Technology is a system that automatically detects, identifies, and tunes to strong nearby radio transmissions. When activated, the scanner constantly samples the RF environment. If it detects a strong signal from a nearby transmitter (like a race official's walkie-talkie or a aircraft's radio), it will instantly interrupt the current scan to listen to that transmission, ensuring you catch local, active communications.

Is this scanner pre-programmed with frequencies?

The BC125AT comes with pre-sets for popular channels in its covered services (like aviation and marine), but it is not fully pre-programmed with your local frequencies. To get the most out of it, you will need to program it manually via the keypad or, more efficiently, use the free PC software to download and upload frequency lists for your specific area and interests.

What does 'PC Programmable' mean?

'PC Programmable' means you can connect the scanner to a Windows computer via the included USB cable. Using free software from Uniden, you can easily create, edit, and organize all 500 channels, assign alpha tags (text labels like 'LAX Tower'), and manage scan lists. This is much faster than manual programming and allows for easy backup and sharing of frequency files.

What kind of batteries does it use, and is there a power adapter?

The BC125AT operates on two standard AA batteries (Ni-MH rechargeable or alkaline). A power adapter is NOT included in the box. For extended use, it's recommended to use high-capacity rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. The scanner can also be powered via the USB cable when connected to a computer or a USB power source.

Back to Deals

Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner, 500-Alpha-Tagged Channels, Close Call Technology, PC Programable, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, NASCAR, Racing, and Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety.

Name: Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner, 500-Alpha-Tagged Channels, Close Call Technology, PC Programable, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, NASCAR, Racing, and Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety.
Brand: Uniden
SKU: B00772MR0K
Price: 110 USD
Availability: InStock

"The Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner has a feature called Close Call Technology. The Close Call RF Capture instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Close Call Do Not Disturb Mode prevents close call checks during a transmission. This radio is compact and features Weather Alert technology and is capable of attaching to civilian and military air bands.Receives conventional channels on the following frequencies: (25-54 MHz) (108-174 MHz) (225-380 MHz) (400-512 MHz) ". Pre-Sets for Popular Channels

Amazon Price

$110.00

Shop on Amazon

Price Trend

Current / All-Time Low

$110.00 / $7.88

Current Price$110.00

30-Day Low$110.00

All-Time Low$7.88

Pros & Cons

Pros

•Close Call Technology instantly detects and tunes to nearby transmissions.
•Extensive frequency coverage includes Air, Marine, Railroad, and Public Safety (non-digital).
•PC programmable for easy management and storage of 500 alpha-tagged channels.
•Compact, portable design with Weather Alert for emergency broadcasts.
•Excellent value, especially at the current sale price.

Cons

•Cannot receive or decode digital (P25, DMR, NXDN) transmissions, limiting access to some modern public safety systems.
•Learning curve for beginners to understand programming and frequency databases.
•Battery life depends on usage and battery quality (requires AA batteries, not included).

Overview

Positioned as an accessible yet capable scanner for hobbyists and professionals, the BC125AT delivers core value through its comprehensive frequency coverage and intelligent features. The Close Call RF Capture technology automatically tunes to nearby transmissions, ensuring you never miss local activity. Its compact design, Weather Alert functionality, and pre-set popular channels enhance usability right out of the box. While it does not decode digital signals, it remains a top choice for monitoring analog communications across aviation, rail, racing, and more.

Who is this for?

This scanner is for the curious hobbyist, the aviation spotter parked near an airport, the railfan documenting train movements, or the racing enthusiast wanting to listen to pit crews. It's ideal for individuals seeking a window into the analog radio world around them, from marine communications to local non-digital fire departments. It suits those who enjoy tinkering with technology and organizing channels via PC, as well as anyone needing a portable alert for weather emergencies.

Best Usage Scenarios

Monitoring local air traffic control and pilot communications at an airport.

Listening to driver and crew communications at a NASCAR or local race track.

Tracking railroad dispatches and engineer conversations near train lines.

Following marine traffic and Coast Guard communications on waterways.

Staying informed of weather alerts and non-digital police/fire activity during local events or storms.