When purchase a police scanner you may want to think about some of the accessories that you may need to go with your scanner. Some of these accessories are antennas, extension speakers, ear buds, batteries, battery chargers, AC and DC adapters, protective cases, surge protectors, and lightning protectors. You may want to purchase some of these items to enhance your scanning experience.
When you purchase a scanner, it will come with a standard "rubber ducky" antenna. These work fine, but if you want to get more distance and improve your reception you may want to think about an additional antenna.
Ah yes, those scanning extras that are made to enhance your scanning experience.
When it comes to scanner accessories, there is an extensive assortment of products to choose from. The types of antennas that you might run into are Telescoping, omini directional, disc one, magnet mount, and window mount. If you have a handheld scanner, you will need the telescoping type and if you have the base, you will want to find a disc one or roof-mounted antenna.
When it comes to external speakers, you will want these when in noisy places. They can set on top of a desk or mounted on a vehicle. For the ear buds accessories you will want them when the noise has gotten way too much. You simply plug them into the jacket pocket and feed the cord up your back, then it will go to your ear, and it is usually hard to detect that you are listing to anything. It is great for private investigators because you are able to listen to the scanner in one eye and still hear what's going on around you with the other ear. You must take inconsideration that not everything is made the same.
With different brands, you will have different qualities. For instance, some may fit your ear better than others, which will make your listening session more comfortable. When purchasing an earbud accessory you will want to consider cord length, color, and if you will need an ear clip. Ear clips help the ear bud to stay in your earlobe.
Another accessory that you will need is a batter or adaptor.
A battery comes in all shapes and sizes and if you have, a handheld you will most likely need a few AA cells with maybe lithium or lithium-ion charge. Alkaline batters will be better for most handhelds. Don't forget, with a batter you will need a battery charger too. A charger is only necessary if you are looking about purchasing rechargeable batteries.
You will need an AC adapter if you are planning on playing it at your house or if you want to use your household voltage. For DC adapters you will only need them if you will need it for a car, truck, or boat.