Scanner Software Guide 2026
The right software makes scanner programming effortless. From Uniden's official Sentinel to powerful SDR applications, here's everything you need to get your scanner or SDR dongle up and running.
Software by Scanner Type
Uniden SDS100 / SDS200
- Sentinel (Free) - Official software for updates, database, favorites
- ARC536 (Paid) - Advanced Excel-style favorites editor
Uniden BCD436HP / BCD536HP
- Sentinel (Free) - Same software as SDS series
- ARC536 (Paid) - Enhanced editing features
Uniden HomePatrol
- Sentinel (Free) - Different version than SDS/BCD
Whistler Scanners
- EZ Scan (Free) - Official Whistler software
SDR Dongles (RTL-SDR)
- SDR# (Free) - Windows, best plugin ecosystem
- SDR++ (Free) - Cross-platform, modern UI
- GQRX (Free) - Mac/Linux native
Uniden Sentinel
Official Uniden Programming Software
FreeWindows only | Required for SDS100, SDS200, BCD436HP, BCD536HP
What It Does
- Downloads and updates the RadioReference database
- Installs firmware updates
- Creates and manages Favorites Lists
- Configures scanner settings
- Imports/exports configuration files
Getting Started
- Download Sentinel from Uniden's official website
- Install the software and connect your scanner via USB
- Update the database - Sentinel downloads the latest RadioReference data
- Create Favorites Lists using your ZIP code or manual selection
- Upload to scanner - write your configuration to the device
Pro Tips
- Always check for firmware updates when you connect your scanner
- Back up your Favorites Lists before making major changes
- Use the "Quick Key" feature to organize your favorites for fast access
- RadioReference Premium subscription unlocks additional database features
ARC536 (Third-Party)
Advanced Scanner Programming
Paid (~$50)Windows only | For SDS100, SDS200, BCD436HP, BCD536HP
Why Use ARC536?
While Sentinel handles the basics, ARC536 offers a powerful "Excel-style" editor that makes complex programming much easier. If you're building detailed favorites lists with many systems, ARC536 saves significant time.
Key Features
- Spreadsheet-style editing for batch changes
- Virtual control screen (ARC536Pro)
- Audio recording capabilities
- Direct RadioReference.com integration
- Copy/paste between systems
- More intuitive interface than Sentinel
Important Note
ARC536 is NOT a replacement for Sentinel. You still need Sentinel for firmware updates and database downloads. ARC536 excels at favorites list management.
SDR Software
Software Defined Radio requires different software than traditional scanners. Here are the top choices for RTL-SDR and other SDR dongles.
SDR# (SDRSharp)
FreeWindows | Best for beginners
Why SDR#
The most popular SDR software for Windows. Quick to set up, responsive interface, and supported by a massive plugin ecosystem. If you want to add scanning tools, noise reduction, or specialized decoders, SDR# makes it easy.
Best For
- Beginners new to SDR
- RTL-SDR dongles
- Users who want plugin extensibility
- Windows-only setups
SDR++
Free & Open SourceWindows, Mac, Linux | Modern choice
Why SDR++
A modern, cross-platform SDR application that's fast, efficient, and works on any operating system. Low resource requirements make it great for laptops and low-power computers. Built-in support for streaming and remote use.
Best For
- Mac and Linux users
- Low-power computers
- Remote SDR operation
- Modern, clean interface
GQRX
FreeMac, Linux | Native Unix experience
Why GQRX
Simple and effective SDR receiver for Mac and Linux. Similar to SDR# in features and ease of use. No plugin system, but everything you need is built-in. Great for users who prefer native Unix applications.
Best For
- Mac users
- Linux enthusiasts
- Simple, no-frills operation
Digital Decoding Software
To decode digital modes like P25, DMR, and NXDN with an SDR, you need additional software.
DSD+ (Digital Speech Decoder)
FreeWindows | For digital voice decoding
What It Decodes
- P25 Phase I
- DMR/MOTOTRBO
- NXDN
- D-STAR
- ProVoice
How It Works
DSD+ takes audio from your SDR software (via virtual audio cable) and decodes digital voice in real-time. It requires some setup but allows RTL-SDR dongles to monitor digital systems that traditional scanners handle automatically.
Learning Curve
Setting up DSD+ requires configuring virtual audio cables and understanding audio routing. It works well once configured, but expect an afternoon of setup and learning. For easier P25 monitoring, consider a traditional scanner with built-in digital decoding.
Comparison: Scanner Software vs SDR Software
| Feature | Scanner Software | SDR Software |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Programming favorites, updates | Real-time radio reception |
| Ease of Use | Beginner-friendly | Moderate learning curve |
| Digital Decoding | Handled by scanner hardware | Requires additional software |
| Visual Spectrum | Limited (scanner dependent) | Full waterfall/FFT display |
| Recording | Audio recording to SD card | Raw IQ or audio recording |
| Cost | Free (Sentinel) or ~$50 (ARC536) | Free (all major options) |
Essential Downloads
For Uniden Scanners
For SDR Dongles
Digital Decoding
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sentinel free to use?
Yes, Uniden Sentinel is completely free. Download it from Uniden's website. You'll need it for firmware updates, database downloads, and favorites management on SDS100, SDS200, BCD436HP, and BCD536HP scanners.
Can I program my scanner without a computer?
Modern Uniden scanners can do basic programming directly on the device using GPS-based location programming or manual entry. However, creating detailed favorites lists, updating firmware, and managing databases requires Sentinel software on a computer.
What's the difference between Sentinel and ARC536?
Sentinel is Uniden's official free software required for firmware and database updates. ARC536 is paid third-party software with a more powerful 'Excel-style' editor for creating favorites lists. Many users use both: Sentinel for updates, ARC536 for detailed programming.
Which SDR software should I start with?
For Windows, start with SDR# (SDRSharp)—it's free, well-documented, and has excellent plugin support. For Mac or Linux, try SDR++ which is cross-platform and modern. Both are beginner-friendly and work with RTL-SDR dongles out of the box.
Can SDR software decode P25 digital audio?
Yes, with the right software. DSD+ (Digital Speech Decoder Plus) can decode P25, DMR, and other digital modes when fed audio from SDR software like SDR#. This requires some configuration but allows SDR dongles to monitor digital systems.
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