Batboard

Looking to use a UHF HT-1250 LS model on a Motorola analog Smartzone trunking system as a receiver ONLY. I have never programmed a trunking system into a HT before and 1) want to make sure I can follow the system without issues, and 2)ensure that in no way am I going to interfere with system operation (make it impossible to key up accidentally or allow others to do so at work, but still be able to decode identifiers and use an alias table to see who's talking). Anyone done this? Advice would be welcome. Yes, I know I can do this with a scanner, but being able to use my work HT to do this would be helpful and allow me NOT to have to carry another piece of gear.

That radio won't follow a Smartzone system. It's an LTR radio. Prolly should get a scanner.

First, an LTR/Passport radio, like the HT1250LS cannot be used on a Type II Smartzone system like the one you're thinking of. It's just not going to work. They are two different trunking protocols.

Second, even if you fully understand them, "safely" monitoring a trunked system can be a touchy thing. If you do not know what you are doing (no offense intended), you are headed for trouble in a hurry. I could point you to the "why we tell people to buy a scanner": thread sticky, but you are also fortunate enough to live in an area where the mere act of possessing a scanner in a motor vehicle is also a criminal offense.

Bottom line- there is no way for you to do what you want in your area without exposing yourself to potentially serious problems. Sucks, but that's life in NY.

This is why I posted here first! Thank you for the advice-time for a scanner *sigh*. Would have been just so easy...