Pro-197 Radio Scanner Radioshack

I've never owned one of the GRE designed scanners before, so my experience was limited to using one at work. After a bit of learning curve, it was an easy to use scanner using ARC500 software. I have a lot of experience with the Uniden DMA scanners, so I'm comparing the Pro 197 (which is made by GRE and the same as the PSR600) to those scanners.The Pro 197 is more sensitive on UHF than the Unidens. I'm running them all off of a ST-2 on the roof through an Electroline 0 db splitter, so there is no antenna difference. It's maybe a little less sensitive on 800, but I'm not sure. It's certainly NOT more sensitive. I haven't heard enough VHF yet to notice a difference.I used ARC500 to program the scanner and there are certainly some differences between it and Butel programs for Uniden scanners. I had to do a bunch of revisions and reloads as I tried to get the various functions and features to my liking. The only downside to that is that you have to reload the entire scanner for every change, large or small.I'm not sure that I like that Five way pad to control channel and list selection, among other things. At this point I like the Uniden controls better, but that might be a matter of getting used to the scanner.I think GRE made a mistake using the same sized display for the portable and the mobile. Way t0o small for a mobile install, although I don't expect I'll use it for that. It's OK for use in the house, but a bigger display would be better. Speaking of display, it would be nice if the list number flashed when a list was being scanned. Uniden does it when a system is being scanned and I like that. The GRE does show the list name, but it's not quite as useful. At least to me.The feel of the buttons is different than the Uniden, but again I think that's a matter of getting used to that.I hate the volume control. Why GRE used a linear taper and no positive detent on a mobile scanner is beyond me. Uniden is way out in front on that account. That also goes for the squelch and large scroll wheel. GRE should change that design. If not for that and the small display, I'd give this scanner five stars.Audio is more crisp on the GRE (OK, it's actually a RS) even without an external speaker.I was also able to figure out the SAME weather alert, which I still can't do with the Unidens.I like the Analyze feature for trunk systems, although the manual doesn't mention it really. The Easy To Read manual is much better for that stuff. Using analyze, I was able to pick up a couple of incorrect control frequencies for trunk systems and fix them. Of course that did require reloading the entire scanner, but I've already mentioned that.I haven't heard enough digital yet to know if it's really better as most people seem to say it is. As long as it's not worse, that's OK.

The Pro-197 is a good scanner, however the one I purchased from this Amazon seller was received with a missing knob and broken faceplate. When purchasing this scanner also consider getting a subscription to Radio Reference, and getting software such as Win500 to program your scanner (you also need a programming cable). Trying to hand program will cause severe frustration. I tried several scanners before buying the Pro-197 and it had the best sensitivity to digital signals, as well as the best rejection. The analog side is also not too shabby. Keep in mind that digital transmissions, such as Ohio MARCS is 750-850 MHz, and some of the legacy analog is 150-160 and 450-470. You need a proper antenna to achieve good results. I use a Diamond X50 along with a 800 MHz antenna. Works super. The new version of this radio is the Pro-652.

Very good all purpose scanner. Just an FYI - you will need to spend time with this equipment as it does require some knowledge on how to program to get the most use out of it. Luckily there is Radio-Reference.com which has a great forum and lots of very helpful and giving people there to help answer any specific questions on all topics related to this model scanner. My scanner works great and is very interesting to listen to - police, fire, marine, airplanes, businesses, CB, ham radio, repeators, etc.You should also be advised the company that makes this Pro-197 scanner for Radio Shack (GRE) is no longer in business so there will be no further software updates and future project support from the company will likely dwindle as time goes on. I do believe warranties are being honored. I know that Radio Shack scanners are no longer being manufactured so what is being sold today are the last batches of inventory. I bought mine knowing that I will at least still get several years (if not more) great use out of it. If you can get a good price I would still consider the Pro-197 (as well as the hand-held Pro-106 which is the sister scanner to the Pro-197 and has all the same software and programming methods).

I PURCHASE THIS SCANNER FROM AMAZON THE ONLY PROBLEM I AM HAVING IS PROGRAMMING IT. VERY DIFFERCULT .THE MANUAL IS WORTHLESS ,WHEN YOU GET DONE READING THE MANUAL YOU ARE MORE CONFUSE THEN WHEN YOU STARTED.THEY NEED TO MAKE SCANNERS NOT SO DIFFERCULT ,SO THAT PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO PROGRAM THEM WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS. KC

not as easy to understand for this old school hobbyist. the jump to digital requires a bit of learning curve for those used to the old analog scanners. it is fun to use, however, and still learning all the capabilities.had to return the first one order due to a faulty AC adapter. Amazon was excellent in its customer service and refunded even before the return was completed. the second unit works fine.

I had a similar radio so I knew what I was getting. What amazed me was the fact the radio arrived with nothing protecting the radio in a box rattling around with pieces of metal in the box. The radio was not damaged but that was through no fault of the shipper. The radio itself is an excellent radio that i use to monitor aircraft, railroad, and some public safety.

I love this but I bought this I barely works at all well it quit working the seller was rude only gave me half my refund. bavk

I've had over a dozen scanners in the last 30 years. Loved my BCT-15 but local agencies started going digital so I had to as well. Looked at the Home Patrol and the other Uniden digitals, but found the Pro-197 here at Amazon as a "used" item fulfilled by Amazon Warehouse. It was as good as new. Loaded up the software, downloaded info from Radio Reference, and it's perfect!So easy to use. Love GRE's new objects and groups. Throw out the old way of thinking about scanning. This way is so much better!Completely pleased with my purchase.