What is Keystone Scanner?
Keystone Scanner is a free online streaming service that lets you listen to public safety radio communications from Cambria, Somerset, and Indiana counties in Pennsylvania.
We use software-defined radio (SDR) equipment to capture transmissions from the local P25 digital radio system, then stream them through a web-based interface called Rdio Scanner.
Is it free to listen?
Yes! Keystone Scanner is completely free to use. We run this service as a community resource for local residents who want to stay informed about public safety activity in their area.
Is it legal to listen to police scanners?
Yes, in Pennsylvania it is legal to listen to police, fire, and EMS radio communications. The FCC allows anyone to listen to public safety radio transmissions that are not encrypted.
However, it is illegal to use scanner information to interfere with emergency operations, commit crimes, or evade law enforcement.
What can I listen to?
Our feed includes police, fire, and EMS dispatch and operations channels from Cambria, Somerset, and parts of Indiana County. This includes local police departments, volunteer fire companies, ambulance services, and county dispatch.
Note: Some agencies use encrypted communications that cannot be monitored.
How do I start listening?
Just click the "Listen Live" button on our homepage to open the scanner interface. Then press the LIVE FEED button to start receiving audio.
For detailed instructions on using all the controls, check out our Listener Manual.
Why don't I hear anything?
There are a few reasons you might not hear audio:
No traffic: Radio systems can be quiet, especially during off-peak hours. This is normal — you'll hear transmissions when there's activity.
LIVE FEED is off: Make sure the LIVE FEED button shows a green LED indicator.
No channels selected: Press SELECT TG and make sure you have some channels enabled (green or yellow indicators).
Volume: Check that your device volume is turned up and not muted.
Can I listen on my phone?
Yes! The web interface works on any modern mobile browser. Just visit our site and open the stream.
You can also use the official Rdio Scanner app available on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android). Enter our server URL to connect.
Can I listen to past calls?
Yes! Press the SEARCH button to access our archive. You can browse and search past transmissions going back 7-10 days.
Filter by date, time, system, group, or specific talkgroup to find what you're looking for.
Why is there a delay?
There's typically a 5-30 second delay between when a transmission happens and when you hear it. This is due to the time it takes to capture, process, and stream the audio over the internet.
If you have many channels enabled during busy periods, calls can also queue up, adding to the delay.
Why are some channels missing or silent?
Some agencies have switched to encrypted communications, which cannot be monitored by scanners. This is increasingly common for sensitive law enforcement channels.
Additionally, some channels may simply have very low traffic volume.
The stream is down — what happened?
Occasional outages can happen due to:
• Internet connectivity issues
• Server maintenance
• Software updates
• Equipment problems
We try to keep downtime to a minimum. If the stream is down for an extended period, check back later or contact us.
Who runs Keystone Scanner?
Keystone Scanner is operated by local radio enthusiasts who want to provide a free community resource. We are not affiliated with any government agency or emergency services.
How can I support the service?
Running this service costs money for equipment, hosting, and internet bandwidth. If you find Keystone Scanner useful and would like to help cover these costs, we gratefully accept donations.
You can also help by spreading the word to others in the community who might find the service useful!