Complete guide to Uniden scanners, California radio codes, and frequency resources.
Best For: Serious hobbyists
Compare the current manufacturer specifications and your local radio systems before buying. Reception, battery life, and required upgrades depend on setup and use.
Branded as "Bearcat"
View SDS150Best For: Budget-conscious digital scanner users
Check the current price, local system compatibility, and optional upgrade costs with the retailer before buying.
View SDS100Best For: Listeners whose local channels are still analog
I personally recommend the BC125AT if you want a genuinely inexpensive scanner. It is a good analog receiver, but it cannot monitor P25 or other digital systems. Check what your local agencies use before buying.
View BC125ATBest For: Home/Vehicle
Source: Uniden SDS200 specifications, checked October 1, 2026. Features and compatibility should be confirmed before purchase.
View SDS200Common codes you'll hear when listening to California public safety frequencies.
| Code 1 | Respond at your convenience |
| Code 2 | Urgent, no lights/sirens |
| Code 3 | Emergency, lights and sirens |
| Code 4 | No further assistance needed |
| Code 5 | Stakeout |
| Code 6 | Out for investigation |
| Code 7 | Meal break |
| 10-4 | Acknowledgment / OK |
| 10-7 | Out of service |
| 10-8 | In service |
| 10-20 | Location |
| 10-97 | Arrived at scene |
| 10-98 | Finished assignment |
| 10-99 | Officer needs help |
| 187 | Homicide |
| 211 | Robbery |
| 245 | Assault with deadly weapon |
| 415 | Disturbing the peace |
| 459 | Burglary |
| 484/488 | Petty theft |
| 502 | DUI |
| 10851 | Stolen vehicle |
| 20001 | Hit and run (injury) |
| 20002 | Hit and run (property) |
| 22350 | Speeding |
| 23103 | Reckless driving |
| 23152 | DUI |
Most modern Uniden scanners can be programmed using:
I recommend starting with your local county on RadioReference and importing those frequencies into your scanner.
Check out my products page for my specific scanner recommendation.