Uniden BC355N 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call Capture, Pre-programmed Search Bands
Quick take
The Uniden BC355N is a straightforward analog base/mobile scanner that’s designed to quickly land on active signals using Close Call RF Capture and built-in service band presets. It works well for listeners in areas where police, fire, and similar services still transmit on conventional analog frequencies, but it cannot monitor digital trunked systems (like Project 25, DMR, NXDN), so that limitation is the main thing to double-check before buying.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Close Call RF capture helps you quickly tune to nearby transmissions.
- 300 channels with memory for saved frequencies plus preset “action” service bands.
- Multiple power options (AC adapter, DC cable, and an automotive power outlet plug) for home or vehicle use.
- Includes a backlit display and covers common bands used for aviation, marine, weather, and more (analog only).
Cons
- Analog scanner only, not capable of monitoring digital radio systems or trunking.
- No numeric keypad, which can make frequency entry feel a bit fiddly depending on what you listen for.
- Programming can become time-consuming if you plan to load and scan a large number of custom frequencies.
What buyers think
Buyer feedback trends toward “works as advertised” for people who specifically need an analog scanner. Many listeners report fast setup and that the unit is easy to get running, with Close Call and built-in presets making it simpler to find activity. The scanner’s compact size and ability to run from standard 12V-style vehicle power are also commonly mentioned as practical for day-to-day use. On the usability side, programming receives mixed-but-generally practical commentary: a portion of buyers find it straightforward, while others call out that entering and managing a lot of frequencies can be repetitive, time-consuming, or confusing.
Importantly, there is enough evidence to reinforce one major decision factor: the BC355N is mainly useful if local services are still on analog conventional channels. Buyers who tried to use it for non-supported needs (for example, digital services) describe frustration, which aligns with the model’s analog-only limitation.
Key features that matter in real use
Close Call RF Capture for faster tuning
Close Call RF Capture Technology is built to instantly tune to transmissions from nearby nearby transmitters. If your goal is to hear what is active locally without constantly scanning manually, this feature can reduce the “hunt time,” especially when you are first setting up your listening habits.
Preset “action” service bands plus saved frequencies
The BC355N combines pre-programmed search bands with the ability to store frequencies. You can save up to 300 frequencies, and you also scan alongside the preset frequencies. That approach is useful when you discover new activity and want quick access later without rebuilding everything from scratch.
Built-in coverage for common listening categories
Designed for analog monitoring, the scanner supports a range of frequency coverage and service categories that buyers typically look for, including aircraft (AM with 8.33 kHz steps), marine, NOAA weather, aviation-related listening, CB, and conventional non-digital police, fire, and EMS monitoring (where available in your area).
Pros and cons, in plain terms
- Best for: People who want an entry-level analog scanner for home or car use, especially in regions where local public safety traffic is still conventional analog.
- Who will like Close Call: Listeners who prefer quick discovery of active signals over sitting through long scans.
- Who should consider a different model: Buyers in areas where police, fire, EMS, and other agencies have moved to digital trunked systems. The BC355N is explicitly not designed for digital radio system monitoring.
Analog vs digital trunking: the decision you should make first
This is the biggest buy-or-skip factor. The BC355N is a non-digital scanner, meaning it cannot decode digital trunked systems (examples include Project 25, DMR, and NXDN). If your local agencies use digital trunking, you will need to look at a Uniden digital model (the “D” lineup), rather than expecting an analog unit to keep up.
If you are unsure what your area uses, think of the BC355N as a “conventional analog” listener tool. It can still be a great way to get started, but only if the signals you want to hear are within its analog capabilities.
Setup and programming experience
Most buyers who are satisfied report getting the scanner running quickly, often using presets to begin listening right away. When you move into custom programming, the experience depends on your expectations. If you plan to store and scan a small to moderate set of frequencies, the scanner’s structure can be manageable. If you want to program many frequencies beyond presets, some buyers find it repetitive, time-consuming, or confusing, and recommend a more advanced scanner for larger custom libraries.
There is also commentary that entering frequencies can feel fiddly because the scanner uses a simpler button layout (no numeric keypad). That is not necessarily a dealbreaker, but it can matter if you frequently enter new exact frequencies.
Power and portability for home or vehicle listening
The BC355N is designed as both a base and mobile scanner, and it supports multiple power options, including an AC adapter and car/DC connections. Buyers who want something that does not take up much space tend to appreciate the compact footprint and the ability to transition between home and vehicle setups.
Price and availability
Pricing can change depending on the retailer and timing. If you want the latest cost and current stock status, check the button below.
Verdict: is the Uniden BC355N worth it?
The Uniden BC355N is worth considering if you want an affordable, user-friendly analog scanner with Close Call RF capture, preset search bands, and practical power options for home or a vehicle. It is not the right choice if your local monitoring goals depend on digital trunked systems, because it cannot decode them. If you confirm you need analog conventional reception, the BC355N’s mix of presets plus 300 memory slots gives you a solid starting point without overcomplicating your setup.
FAQ
Does the Uniden BC355N scan digital trunked systems (P25, DMR, NXDN)?
No. The BC355N is not capable of digital radio system monitoring and is designed for analog reception.
What is close call RF capture on the BC355N?
It is a feature that helps the scanner instantly tune to signals from nearby transmitters, making it easier to locate active frequencies in your area.
How many frequencies can the BC355N save?
The scanner can save up to 300 frequencies in its memory.
Can I use it in my car?
Yes. It includes power options for vehicle use, along with an AC adapter for home listening.
Is the BC355N good for aviation and NOAA weather?
It is intended to cover aviation-related listening and includes NOAA weather support, as part of its preset service bands and analog coverage.
Is programming difficult?
Many buyers find it straightforward to get started with presets, but loading many custom frequencies can feel repetitive or confusing, so a higher-end model may be better if you plan to build a very large custom library.
Specifications
| Product Title | Uniden BC355N 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call Capture, Pre-programmed Search Bands, NOAA Weather, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, NASCAR, and 'Non-digital' emergency services |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Security & Surveillance > Radio Scanners |
| Brand | Uniden |
| Manufacturer | Uniden |
| Model Number | BC355N |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Acrylic |
| Item Weight | 3.25 Pounds |
| Additional Features | Close Call RF Capture Technology, Wide Frequency and Service Bank Support |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Tuner Type | UHF |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Frequency | 800 MHz |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Product Specific batteries required. |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| Hardware Interface | Radio Frequency |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Style Name | BC355N |
| Enclosure Material | Acrylic |
| Built-In Media | scanner |
| UPC | 799916833412 805095154450 711938649277 071030145887 807035658004 754262049078 864007016606 809390048100 805100147514 163121439118 786434407393 163121445553 014444592335 132017745350 012304037927 521227202508 605403549172 803983011472 617407415773 801038874119 809387582549 087017827684 012304488774 739839220753 749860129789 801029227337 523161302771 024141413116 846829455597 782386082626 041114425860 961613244710 696582171162 151903508978 809188488347 069060197709 118037202301 801200959354 836041216427 803983011830 734911347519 650415524204 014444884621 806296616808 724627266198 182682327641 806294957194 012303537237 885417259827 799916895335 080050302804 808112773184 012303730614 765042366094 691943830887 050633650646 115970788657 807032931476 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00050633650646, 00799916833412 |
| Mfr Part Number | BC355N |
| Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Item Type Name | 800 MHz 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call RF Capture, Pre-programmed Search “Action” Bands to Hear Police, Ambulance, Fire, Amateur Radio, Public Utilities, Weather, and More |
| Special Feature | Close Call RF Capture Technology, Wide Frequency and Service Bank Support |
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