subject: Frequently Asked Questions About Racing Scanners [print this page] Would you like to learn more about radio scanners? Scanners are used as an essential tool of the trade by people in public service jobs such as the police, and by everyday Joes like you and me for fun and sport, as we listen to insider conversations by our favorite racing teams at the NASCAR races. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about radio scanners.
Question: If I get a radio scanner (such as a Uniden NASCAR scanner) that's designed to be used for sporting events like auto racing, can I still use it to pick up public utilities and public service broadcasts?
Answer: Yes, Uniden scanners and other radio scanners pick up a wide variety of channels in addition to popular racing team channels, including police reports, National weather alerts, local utilities reports, HAM radio, and other stations. Unless your public utility company or public service broadcasts on unusual stations that you can't tune into with an average radio scanner (and some police stations do select obscure channels and frequencies for privacy and security reasons), you should be able to listen to your local broadcasts, as well as national reports and broadcasts. There are hundreds of stations that you will be able to listen to on your radio scanner.
Question: If I want to use my scanner at auto racing events, how important is it to get a radio scanner that is made specifically for auto racing like a Uniden NASCAR scanner?
Answer: Although these types of "racing scanners" may have handy features, you can still pick up on the pit crew action with other types of scanners. Any radio scanner that picks up the same frequencies that racing teams use (usually in the 400 to 500 range) will be able to allow you to listen in to your racing teams. If you aren't buying a radio scanner made for the races, though, keep in mind that you'll want a lightweight, easily portable scanner. You will also want backup batteries on hand, and the option of being able to charge up your scanner via a car charger may come in handy.
You will also need some good, noise-canceling headphones, since the noise in the stands can be so loud you won't otherwise be able to hear. You can buy head phones separately, though, so don't think you have to buy an expensive racing scanner just for the headphones. Other handy features (like a carrying case) unique to a racing scanner you can usually do without, or make do with other accessories.
