AOR AR8200 Manual

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Table of Contents

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Summary of Contents for AOR AR8200

Page 1: Table Of Contents
1-6-1 Internal batteries ....................... 1-6-2 Charging the NiCads ....................1-6-3 Cigar lighter lead ...................... 1-6-4 Battery considerations ....................(2) Making the AR8200 ready for operation ..............2-1 LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) ..................2-2 Connect the aerial (antenna) ..................2-3 Fit the batteries ......................
Page 2 4-3-2 Starting VFO search ....................4-3-3 Forcing VFO search to resume & changing search direction ........4-3-4 Locking out unwanted frequencies (PASS) .............. 4-3-5 Saving active frequencies to memory ..............4-3-6 Exiting VFO search ....................4-4 VFO environment menu ....................4-4-1 VFO SCAN .......................
Page 3 7-9-4 Editing the contents of the select scan list ............... 7-9-5 Deleting all select scan channels ................(8) Search mode ....................... 8-1 Search types ........................ 8-1-1 Program search overview ..................8-2 Starting program search ....................8-2-1 Reversing the direction of search ................8-2-2 Forcing the search to resume ...................
Page 4 (14) Configuration menu ....................14-1 CONFIG BEEP ......................14-2 CONFIG LAMP ......................14-3 CONFIG CONTRAST ....................14-4 CONFIG Power save ....................14-5 CONFIG Auto power off ..................... 14-6 CONFIG REMOTE BPS ..................... 14-7 CONFIG FREQ DISP ....................14-8 CONFIG GLOBAL write protect ................. 14-9 CONFIG Opening message ..................
Page 5: Introduction
SAFETY NOTICE - Always disconnect the charger from the a.c. socket when not in use. If using the AR8200 in a base station situation, the best short wave reception is usually achieved by the fitting of a separate external earth rod, however consider the implications carefully if your a.c. building supply uses a Protective Multiple Earth (PME) system.
Page 6: Attention While Operating
4. Currently displayed VFO data is saved at power down (to increase speed of operation and to reduce write cycles). For this reason, if the AR8200 is powered down by removing external supply (without internal batteries in place or when the batteries become exhausted), the last displayed frequency will be lost and the frequency used prior to this will be displayed when next powered up.
Page 7: Accessories Supplied
Note: It is very important that the squelch is advanced to cancel background noise for the search & scan facilities to operate. This is because the AR8200 believes that it has found an active frequency when the squelch opens and “S” ‘squelch open’ legend is displayed to the left of the signal meter.
Page 8: Controls & Functions
Section 1-5 1-5 Controls & functions Controls are located on the top, front and left hand side of the AR8200, a brief identification is given here: 1. Rotary volume control 2. Rotary squelch control 3. BNC aerial socket 4. Function key 5.
Page 9: Keypad
Section 1-5-1 1-5-1 Keypad Keypad conventions Most keys have multiple functions, their functions are printed on the cabinet. However due the restriction of available size, not all facilities can be shown on the keypad printing. To ease access to the many facilities, two formats are employed:- Push and release the key quickly to access the required facility.
Page 10: Summary Of Keys
Section 1-5-2 1-5-2 Summary of keys The main keypad is located on the front cabinet of the AR8200 with other keys located on the left hand side. When powered from internal batteries with the lamp configured to AUTO, the lamp will automatically illuminate when keys are pressed and will stay illuminated for five seconds after the last key press.
Page 11 OFF / 10s to 990s (default = OFF) PRESS this key to switch the AR8200 on and off as a toggle. To prevent accidental switch on and off, the power key is placed between two ridges and has to be held for more than one second for the press to be registered.
Page 12 AUTO-MODE where the receiver mode and tuning step are automatically selected by the AR8200 microprocessor from the pre-programmed band plan data (this is a short cut to save using the receive mode menu). The LCD legend “AUT” confirms that auto-mode is...
Page 13 Section 1-5-2 Numeric figure four during frequency input. Selection of memory/scan bank “D” or “d” and search bank “D” or “d” or “N” or “n”. toggles the priority facility on/off (assuming that one has already been assigned using the priority menu). The LCD legend “PRI” confirms when priority has been selected. to access the priority menu where the data from a memory channel may be assigned for priority use.
Page 14 Section 1-5-2 Numeric figure nine during frequency input. Selection of memory/scan bank “I” or “i” and search bank “I” or “i” or “S” or “s”. will delete the currently displayed memory channel during memory read or scan. accesses the delete menu where search banks, VFO pass frequencies, memory banks, select channel tags, channel protect status &...
Page 15: Side Panel
The KEY LOCK is intentionally small to reduce the chances of accidental operation. Key lock is useful when you do not wish an important frequency to be lost or the AR8200 to be incorrectly set to a different frequency. The key lock status is not deactivated by switch off / on, the keys are not affected by key lock.
Page 16: Power Supply And Battery Charging
SAFETY NOTICE - Always disconnect the charger from the a.c. socket when not in use. If you are not going to use the AR8200 on batteries for a while, remove the batteries from the radio (to prevent dry cells leaking) and charge NiCads before placing them into storage.
Page 17 The AR8200 charging circuit is not designed to recharge dry cells or NiMHi batteries, if these are to be recharged, they must be removed from the AR8200 and charged in a specialist external charger following the manufacturers recommendations.
Page 18: Charging The Nicads
AR8200 is switched off. It is possible to charge the AR8200 while the radio is switched on and being used, however the charging cycle will take longer (16 hours is typical) and a degree of hum superimposed on reception may be encountered as the charger is not regulated.
Page 19: Battery Considerations
The supplied NiCads will typically provide around 300 charge / discharge cycles. If dry cells are used (Alkaline, Zinc, Manganese) make sure they are removed if external power is connected to the AR8200. Do not mix cells of different types and do not mix new and used cells.
Page 20: Making The Ar8200 Ready For Operation
Section 2, 2-1 (2) Making the AR8200 ready for operation 2-1 LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) All relevant operational information is provided via the large LCD. To see all the available LCD legends, and to test the LCD, an LCD test routine has been provided.
Page 21: Connect The Aerial (Antenna)
2-3 Fit the batteries Fit the NiCad cells or dry batteries to the AR8200 as detailed in section 1-6-1 of this manual. Alternatively the charger may be connected to the 12V d.c. socket of the AR8200 (however, do not...
Page 22: Keypad And Knobs
Section 2-4, 2-4-1, 2-4-2, 2-4-3 2-4 Keypad and knobs... what you need to know ‘most’ Several of the keys have special characteristics, a summary was given in section 1-5-1 of this manual where it was explained that several keys have two of three functions associated with them. IMPORTANT Note: Make sure you understand the PASS (LOCKOUT / SKIP) operation before using the PASS facility, this applies to the PROTECT facility too, make sure both facilities are understood before you attempt to use them.
Page 23: Clear Key
The KEY LOCK is intentionally small to reduce the chances of accidental operation. Key lock is useful when you do not wish an important frequency to be lost or the AR8200 to be incorrectly set to a different frequency. The key lock status is not deactivated by switch off / on, the keys are not affected by key lock.
Page 24: Basic Manual Operation Of The Receiver
3-2 2VFO twin VFO selection The AR8200 receiver has a twin VFO system being identified as “V-A” and “V-B” on the LCD to the left of the frequency readout. The term VFO historically means ‘ Variable Frequency Oscillator ’ and today...
Page 25 Section 3-2 Both VFO frequencies are displayed in parallel format on the LCD, one above the other. The ‘ active ’ VFO (the one which is currently receiving) is displayed using a large font centrally on the LCD, the ‘ standby ’ VFO is shown on a lower line using a smaller font size. key to first select ‘...
Page 26: Entering A Frequency Using The Numeric Keypad
Section 3-2, 3-3 Transfer to active VFO When the AR8200 has stopped on an active frequency in memory read, scan or search mode, use the key sequence to transfer the frequency to the active (upper VFO). The AR8200 will revert to 2VFO mode where the frequency may be monitored.
Page 27: Correcting Frequency Input
Acceptable input range is 0.1 MHz to 2040 MHz. Note: If you pause during frequency input for more than 90 seconds, the menu will time out and the AR8200 will return to its previous task just as if the key had been operated.
Page 28: Changing Frequency Using The And Keys
It provides an easy method to locate new or previously unknown frequencies or to check activity within certain frequency bands such as amateur or short wave broadcast. The rotary tuning main dial provides the very best ‘user interface’ with the AR8200 especially for USB, LSB and CW listening.
Page 29: Changing Receive Mode
For this reason, it is necessary to change receive mode in order to monitor various transmissions. For your convenience, receive mode and tuning step size have been pre-programmed into the AR8200 auto-mode bandplan data at the factory to simplify operation of the receiver, especially while you familiarise yourself with all the facilities.
Page 30 NFM but uses a narrower IF filter for added selectivity when monitoring crowded bands such as PMR utilities. Wide Amplitude Modulation - this mode is specific to the AR8200. It is essentially the same as AM but uses a wider IF filter, particularly useful for monitoring parasitic airband transmissions when ‘repeater transmissions’...
Page 31: Changing Tuning Step Size
However due to the complexities of SSB, audio never sounds 100% natural, like all SSB-equipped receivers, the AR8200 may sound a little ‘robotic’ but you soon get used to SSB receivers. Small tuning steps of 50 Hz or 100 Hz should be used for tuning in USB and the other similar modes LSB &...
Page 32 AUTO MODE / STEP is currently selected. The bottom line of the LCD displays the legend “STEP SET” to indicate that the AR8200 is inviting you to change the step size. Use the main dial or keys to select the required step size.
Page 33: Step-Adjust
Example 1: Assume that you wish to tune from 148.010 MHz in 20 kHz steps (i.e. 148.010, 148.030, 148,050, 148.070, 148.090 etc). When manually tuning, the AR8200 would normally correct the frequency display to read 148.020 then step upward in 20 kHz steps. Tuning back downward will skip 148.010 MHz (the starting point) as the original frequency was not divisible by step size…...
Page 34: Cancelling Step Adjust
LCD and the auto-mode “AUT” legend will be displayed. 3-9-3 Manual setting of step-adjust The AR8200 usually correctly ‘guesses’ what step-adjust you require, often this is a half step but manual intervention is possible! Example 2: Assume that you wish to tune from 58.445 MHz in 15 kHz steps (i.e. 58.445, 58.460, 58.475, 58.490, 58.505 etc).
Page 35 The main dial will now correctly follow the required bandplan. Manual intervention is not always required Note: The AR8200 is not all that dumb really, in the above example, as soon as you pressed the key the CPU realised that a half step was not appropriate so would...
Page 36: Frequency Offset
(do NOT press enter!). to access the STEP-ADJUST menu. Ignore the step-adjust value displayed (10 kHz), to let the AR8200 automatically calculate the requirement, you will need to a second time to exit the menu and return to frequency display.
Page 37: Entering New Frequency Offset Data
When you release the key, the AR8200 will revert to the original frequency (and squelch will close if no signal is present). Note: Each VFO, memory channel and search bank can be programmed with a different frequency offset.
Page 38: Attenuator
1.600 MHz above the original frequency) will be displayed. When you release the key, the AR8200 will revert to the original frequency of 433.000 MHz (and squelch will close if no signal is present). You can access the frequency offset menu simply to change the direction of offset from “+” to “-“...
Page 39: Afc - Automatic Frequency Control
3-13 AFC - Automatic Frequency Control The AR8200 is equipped with AFC, this is useful when tracking unusual band plans or when the exact frequency is unknown… it ensures that the AR8200 is tuned to ‘centre frequency’ for best reception.
Page 40 Section 3-13 The distance in kHz which the AR8200 can ‘pull’ depends upon receive mode, IF bandwidth and signal strength… the wider the filter and stronger the signal then the further AFC can pull. Typically AFC will pull in the region of ± 5 kHz to ± 15 kHz, the maximum value for AFC is set to ±...
Page 41: Vfo Enhanced Facilities
AUTO QUICK MEMORY, the VFO environment parameters need to be first set up The AR8200 provides 1,000 memory channels in addition to the 10 ‘quick memory’ channels and a priority channel. Each ‘quick memory’ channel may hold all the data for the current VFO: frequency, mode, step, step-adjust, frequency offset, attenuator setting, noise limiter status &...
Page 42: Recalling Quick Memories
(with careful use) is similar to adding a further 10 VFOs to the AR8200 ! 4-2 VFO scan You will be aware that the AR8200 displays two VFOs with the top VFO being the ‘active’ VFO which monitors activity. At present you have to manually intervene by a...
Page 43: Vfo Scan Sampling Time
4-3 VFO Search It is possible to quickly assign two frequency limits to VFO-A and VFO-B then instruct the AR8200 to automatically tune the receiver from one frequency limit to the other in the specified receive mode and tuning step looking for active frequencies. This process is called VFO SEARCH .
Page 44: Forcing Vfo Search To Resume & Changing Search Direction
Section 4-3-2, 4-3-3, 4-3-4 Note: While in VFO mode, if the keypad or key is used, the current status of the audio with respect to the squelch control will be maintained. If the squelch is closed before you PUSH a key, the audio will remain muted until the key sequence is completed even if the frequency becomes active (and vice-versa…...
Page 45: Saving Active Frequencies To Memory
Section 4-3-4, 4-3-5 If PASS channels have already been tagged for VFO SEARCH the legend “PASS xx” will be displayed where “xx” indicates that data is present. If no pass frequencies have been tagged, the legend “PASS 00 ----.----” will be displayed. The frequency pass contents may be reviewed using the keys or main dial.
Page 46: Exiting Vfo Search
4-4-2 VFO search DELAY The VFO search DELAY parameter affects the time the AR8200 will remain on an active frequency in VFO search mode once the received signal has disappeared and the squelch has closed. This is particularly useful for customising how long the receiver will wait for a reply before resuming VFO search.
Page 47: Vfo Search Level Squelch Environment
4-4-3 VFO search LEVEL squelch The VFO LEVEL squelch parameter causes the AR8200 to check the signal strength and to only open the squelch when the signal strength is above the stated level (which is programmable in 256 steps).
Page 48: Vfo Search Voice Squelch Environment
VFO search even though the frequency is still active. This is useful if you wish to gain a picture of what is happening on a band without the AR8200 being tied to a busy frequency for long periods of time (such as when monitoring active amateur band repeaters etc). VFO FREE search saves you having to manually intervene to force the VFO search process to resume and saves the need to lockout frequencies using the FREQUENCY PASS facility.
Page 49: Vfo Auto Store Environment
Section 4-4-5, 4-4-6, 4-4-7 VFO FREE search is configured via the VFO environment menu, use the key sequence to access the VFO environment menu. key four times to move to the FREE parameter. to toggle between OFF and 5 seconds (the default is off). Use the main dial to increment value by 1s or use the keys to increment by 5s.
Page 50: Vfo Quick Memory Environment
Section 4-4-7, 4-4-8 If bank “J” contains data, the legend “J00” will be displayed (the number indicating the presence of data), if no data is held in bank “J” the legend “J--“ will be displayed. to delete the contents of bank “J”, this will take a few seconds to action by the CPU. The legend “J--“ will be displayed to confirm deletion.
Page 51: Memory Channels & Banks
(memory channel) and each page may be overwritten with new data, they can be used over and over again. The AR8200 has 1,000 memory channels in addition to 10 ‘quick memory’ channels and a priority channel.
Page 52: Storing Vfo Frequencies & Data Into Memory
Should the NiCads (or dry batteries if in use) become completely exhausted, the last stored memory channel or last VFO data ‘may’ be lost if the AR8200 is not powered-down using the key and insufficient power is available to save the data.
Page 53 Section 5-2 to place the AR8200 into VFO mode. to select the desired frequency, the mode and step size will be automatically set by the AR8200 microprocessor. key for more than one second to enter ‘memory input’ mode. One line up from the bottom of the LCD will be the legend “M-WRITE”...
Page 54: Another Example Of Memory Write
2VFO mode. Important note: It is suggested that you do not use the write protect facility until you are familiar with the operation of the AR8200 as it will prevent certain functions being carried out at a future time.
Page 55: Automatic Memory Allocation
. If the AR8200 has to look through many full memory channels before an empty channel is located, the message “MEM WRITE SEARCH BLANK CH” may be briefly displayed.
Page 56: Memory Read "M.rd
“E25” during an earlier example in the preceding section 5-2 of this manual. to place the receiver into memory read mode, the legend “M.RD” appears toward the top left of the LCD to confirm operation. The AR8200 will monitor whatever memory channel first appears when you enter memory read.
Page 57: Memory Channel Review / Hunt
Should you know the number of the required memory channel, the keypad method of memory recall will be much faster. The AR8200 will monitor whichever memory channel is displayed in memory read “M.RD” mode.
Page 58: Memory Channel Editing
Section 5-5-1, 5-5-2, 5-6, 5-7 5-5-1 Memory channel editing It is possible to copy, move, swap and edit memory channels to assist the management of data. Please refer to section 9 of this manual regarding the EDIT menu. 5-5-2 Adding text names to memory banks To assist with memory management and identification, memory banks can be named.
Page 59: Priority Operation
(6) Priority operation The PRIORITY feature enables you to carry on scanning, searching or monitoring while the AR8200 checks a frequency taken from one of the 1,000 memory channels (A00 default) every 5 seconds (default) for activity.
Page 60: Engaging Priority Channel
PRIORITY IS ENGAGED (switched on). If activity is encountered on the priority channel, the AR8200 will stay on the priority frequency until the transmission ends (and the squelch closes) after which time the priority frequency will be checked for activity every few seconds.
Page 61: Changing The Priority Channel Data Pickup Channel
Section 6-2, 6-2-1, 6-2-2 This is accomplished by using the “PRIO SET” menu accessed by the key sequence The legend “PRIO SET” appears on the top line of the LCD to confirm selection. 6-2-1 Changing the priority channel data pickup channel Should you wish the priority channel to use data contained in another memory location, access the “PRIO SET”...
Page 62: Scan - Scanning Memory Channels & Banks
AR8200 will temporarily stop scanning. At default when shipped from the factory, the AR8200 will remain on the active memory channel until the received signal disappears and the squelch closes. The CPU will then wait a further 2 seconds in case a reply is audible (such as aircraft and air traffic communications) and will then resume scanning the memory channels again.
Page 63: Starting To Scan
Section 7-2, 7-3 When in SCAN MODE, the memory banks are referred to as “SCAN BANK A”, “SCAN BANK B”, “SCAN BANK f” etc rather than using the full title “SCAN MEMORY BANK A”, “SCAN MEMORY BANK B” etc. This terminology has been employed to make the explanation of and referral to SCAN MEMORY BANKS (SCAN BANKS) less long-winded.
Page 64: Transfer Of Active Memory To Vfo
Section 7-3, 7-3-1, 7-4, 7-5 When SCAN has been selected, only the currently displayed memory bank WHICH CONTAINS DATA will be SCANNED (as bank link is default off), receive mode and frequency are unimportant. Any memory channels which contain no data (empty) will be ignored (skipped). 7-3-1 Transfer of active memory to VFO When the scan process is paused on a busy channel, to transfer the current memory...
Page 65: Toggling Memory Channel Pass
“DEL MEM PASS”. Note: It will take a little while for the AR8200 to look for PROTECT channels and PASS channels as you work through the menus. If at least one memory channel has been tagged PASS, the third line from the bottom of the LCD will display a memory location such as “PASS-CH A17”...
Page 66: Deleting Memory Channels
Section 7-6, 7-6-1, 7-6-2, 7-7 7-6 Deleting memory channels Although it is possible to over-write memory channels with new data, edit memory channels, swap, copy, move and to PASS (skip) them, there will be occasions when you want to delete memory channels completely.
Page 67: Additional Scan Facilities
(one or twice) to start scanning if the AR8200 is not already in scan mode. The memory banks grouped together in the SCAN GROUP will form a large group during scan. The SCAN GROUP number (and associated data) will be used to define current scan parameters.
Page 68: Scan Delay
ALL, WFM, NFM, SFM, WAM, AM, NAM, USB, LSB, CW 7-8-1 Scan DELAY The scan DELAY parameter affects the time the AR8200 will remain on an active frequency in scan mode once the received signal has disappeared and the squelch has closed. This is particularly useful for customising how long the receiver will wait for a reply before resuming scan.
Page 69: Scan Voice
While scanning, the LCD legend “LSQ” is displayed to indicate that scan LEVEL squelch is in operation. 7-8-3 Scan VOICE The scan VOICE squelch parameter causes the AR8200 to check the current frequency for valid audio and to only open the squelch when audio above a specified level (which is programmable in 256 steps) is detected.
Page 70: Scan Free
This is useful if you wish to gain a snap shot of activity without the AR8200 being tied to a busy frequency for long periods of time (such as when monitoring active amateur band repeaters etc).
Page 71: Write Protect Of Memory Channels & Banks
Section 7-8-5, 7-8-6, 7-9, 7-9-1, 7-9-2 as a short cut to ALL (which is the default) which will cause all receive modes to be scanned in the specified scan group. Use the main dial or keys to select the receive mode: ALL, WFM, NFM, SFM, WAM, AM, NAM, USB, LSB, CW.
Page 72: Select Scan Environment
Section 7-9-3, 7-9-4 7-9-3 Select scan environment The select scan environment may be customised in respect of DELAY, LEVEL, VOICE, FREE and MODE. The current SCAN-GROUP selection is used by select scan. To access the scan group environment menu . For further information regarding the scan group environment please refer to section 7-8 of this manual.
Page 73: Deleting All Select Scan Channels
Section 7-9-4, 7-9-5 If you wish to add more select scan channels once to move upward to the new end of the list and repeat the process. to exit the select scan menu. It is possible to delete the entire select scan list in one go using the DELETE menu, this is very useful to enable rapid changes to the select scan list content.
Page 74: Search Mode
Section 8, 8-1, 8-1-1 (8) Search mode In search mode, the AR8200 is programmed to automatically tune between two specified frequency limits looking for activity. Please refer to section 1-3 of this manual if you do not fully understand the terminology of SEARCH.
Page 75: Starting Program Search
8-2-2 Forcing the search to resume If the AR8200 stops on an unwanted busy frequency, key or use the keys or main dial to force the search process to resume from the current frequency displayed.
Page 76: Copying An Active Frequency To The Vfo Or Memory Location
Section 8-2-4, 8-3 8-2-4 Copying an active frequency to the VFO or memory location It is convenient to transfer an active frequency from search to VFO or memory for periods of extended listening. Copy to VFO When the search process is stopped on an active frequency, key to transfer the current receive frequency to the single VFO where it may be monitored.
Page 77 Section 8-3 Recalling banks K - T requires use of the ‘SHIFT’ Recalling banks k - t requires use of the ‘case’ command before the letter key, this ‘shift’ and ‘shift’ command before the letter key: command is the use of the key before a second numeric key is pushed.
Page 78: Programming A Search Bank
Section 8-4 8-4 Programming a search bank Each of the 40 search banks may be programmed with different frequency limits, receive modes, step size etc as listed in section 8-1-1 of this manual. to access the “SRCH-PROG” menu. Use the main dial or keys or keypad to select the bank you wish to program or over write.
Page 79 STEP size selection. Note: Step-adjust value will be calculated automatically by the AR8200 if a manual entry is not made. The CPU calculates if the selected tuning step size is divisible into the search bank start and end frequency limits and sets step-adjust accordingly.
Page 80: Locking Out Unwanted Active Frequencies (Pass)
Section 8-5, 8-5-1 8-5 Locking out unwanted active frequencies (PASS) It is possible to lock out (PASS) unwanted frequencies while in program search mode, this is useful to eliminate unwanted permanent transmissions. It is important to understand the PASS facility before using the key or transmissions may be missed.
Page 81: Search Bank Link
Section 8-5-1, 8-6 To delete the entire contents of the current search pass list , the legend “PASS 00 ----.----” confirms deletion. The search pass list may also be deleted using the DELETE menu, refer to section 10-1 of this manual. Adding new pass frequencies Access the search pass list, If you are currently searching , the “SRCH PASS”...
Page 82: Additional Search Facilities
K - T and k - t. to accept the data input. to start searching (if the AR8200 is not already in search mode). The banks grouped together in the SERACH GROUP will form a large group during search. The SEARCH GROUP number (and associated data) will be used to define current program search parameters.
Page 83: Search Delay
8-7-1 Search DELAY The search DELAY parameter affects the time the AR8200 will remain on an active frequency in search mode once the received signal has disappeared and the squelch has closed. This is particularly useful for customising how long the receiver will wait for a reply before resuming search. For example, when communications are passed back and forth between a control tower / aircraft which may take a few seconds.
Page 84: Search Level
Section 8-7-2, 8-7-3 8-7-2 Search LEVEL The search LEVEL squelch parameter causes the AR8200 to check the signal strength and to only open the squelch when the signal strength is above the stated level (which is programmable in 256 steps).
Page 85: Search Free
This is useful if you wish to gain a snap shot of activity without the AR8200 being tied to a busy frequency for long periods of time (such as when monitoring active amateur band repeaters etc).
Page 86: Auto Store
Section 8-7-5, 8-7-6 8-7-5 AUTO STORE Auto store causes the first 50 active frequencies located during search to be automatically written to memory bank “J” (channels J00 to J49). If bank “J” is full, auto store will not function. Note: Memory banks are dynamically configurable so that bank “J” has 50 channels at default buy may be configured to provide 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, or 90 channels.
Page 87: Deleting Search Banks
Section 8-7-7, 8-7-8 8-7-7 Deleting search banks A delete menu is provided so that you can delete program search data (of course you may simply over-write the data too) and frequency pass channels. You cannot delete search banks which have been write protected.
Page 88: Edit Menu
Section 9, 9-1 (9) EDIT menu The EDIT menu is a powerful feature which simplifies the management of data and provides the following operations: COPY MEM-CH loads one memory channel to save to another location COPY MEM-BNK loads one whole memory bank to save to another location COPY SEARCH loads one search bank to save to another location MOVE MEM-CH...
Page 89: Edit Copy Memory Bank
Section 9-1, 9-2 Note: If the SAVE location is write protected, the legend “PROTECT” will be displayed. You must remove write protect from the SAVE memory location before you can copy new data to that location. You may remove the write protection for one or all memory channels, refer to sections 11-1 &...
Page 90: Edit Copy Search Bank
Section 9-2, 9-3, 9-4 Note: If the SAVE bank location is write protected, the legend “PROTECT” will be displayed. You must remove write protect from the SAVE memory bank before you can copy new data to that location, individual memory channel write protect is ignored. Refer to the write protect section 11 of this manual.
Page 91: Edit Swap Memory Channel
Section 9-4, 9-5 Two data input lines are presented LOAD and SAVE. The cursor will be positioned on the LOAD line. “LOAD” represents the memory channel which you would like to move (this is the data you want). Use the main dial to select channel number and the keys to select bank, alternatively type in a three digit memory location via the keypad.
Page 92: Edit Memory Channel
Section 9-5, 9-6 to swap the memory channel data between CH-A and CH-B. Both CH-A and CH-B display the memory channel location of CH-A. The process may be repeated for other locations. Note: If either location is write protected, the legend “PROTECT” will be displayed. You must remove write protect from the memory location before you can swap new data to that location.
Page 93: Edit Search Protect
Section 9-6, 9-7 to move to the “MODE SET” line. Use the main dial or keys to select receive mode. key may be used as a short cut to “AUTO”. In auto, receive mode & tuning step will be read from the pre-programmed auto band plan data. to move to the “SET STEP”...
Page 94: Delete Menu Facilities
Section 10, 10-1 (10) DELETE menu facilities It is often desirable to delete many data entries in one go such as memory channels and pass frequen- cies. To assist with data management a DELETE menu is provided which offers the following facilities:- DEL SRCH delete a search bank DEL SRCH PASS...
Page 95: Delete Vfo Pass
Section 10-1, 10-2, 10-3 If frequency pass channels exist for the current bank, the legend “DEL PASS xx” will be displayed with the “xx” number (00 to 49) indicating that data is present. If no data is present the legend “DEL PASS --”...
Page 96: Delete Select Scan Channels
, (while in SCAN or VFO mode use the key sequence key five times, the LCD will temporarily display “MEM PROTECT CH SEARCH !!” as the AR8200 checks to see which memory channels are write protected (if any). The menu selection “CH PROTECT” will be displayed after a few seconds.
Page 97: Delete Memory Channel Pass
(this takes a few seconds to clear) then push for the sixth time the LCD will temporarily display “MEM PASS CH SEARCH !!” as the AR8200 checks to see which memory channels have PASS tags (if any). The menu selection “DEL MEM PASS” will be displayed after a few seconds.
Page 98: Write Protect
Section 11, 11-1, 11-2, 11-3 (11) Write protect It is possible to write protect memory channels, whole memory banks, search banks and ‘globally protect’ memory to prevent data being accidentally over-written. 11-1 Memory CHANNEL write protect It is possible to protect memories while writing new data, toggle the protect status of previously stored memory channels and to delete all memory channel protect tags in one go.
Page 99: Channel Protect Delete
11-4 Channel protect delete It is possible to remove all channel protect tags in one go, this allows you to return the AR8200 to a known state of operation if you have mixed many facilities together and unexpected results have been encountered.
Page 100: Search Bank Write Protect
For the ultimate in write protection a GLOBAL facility is available. This will ensure that casual users of the AR8200 will not be able to enter, delete or edit any current data within the AR8200, even the optional EM8200 will not be able to load data into the radio.
Page 101: Text Search And Input
2. memory banks 3. search banks This aids later identification of stored data. It is also possible to TEXT SEARCH the AR8200 to automatically hunt for matching text, a minimum of 2 characters are required for TEXT SEARCH, in practical terms a minimum of 3 characters are recommended and the more characters used, the faster the resultant search.
Page 102: Text Search
Section 12-2 12-2 Text search For fastest text search and greatest reliability, place the AR8200 into memory read, scan or search mode (it takes a long time while in VFO mode and may fail under certain circumstances). Text search may take up to 30 seconds to complete.
Page 103: Short Cut Keys
Section 13, 13-1 (13) SHORT CUT keys There are various short cut key combinations available for use with the ‘ FLASHING FUNCTION ’. When the “FUNC” legend is flashing, two keys are held simultaneously to provide a short cut to specific functions which would otherwise require greater key presses or use of a menu.
Page 104: Short Cut Text Entry
Section 13-2 13-2 Short cut text entry Entering text into memory channels, memory banks and search banks can be quite long winded. To speed up the process, while the “FUNC” legend is flashing two keys may be pushed in sequence to provide a short cut a variety of alphabet letters (upper case), numbers and symbols.
Page 105: Short Cut Text Entry, Keypad With Keys
13-3 Short cut text entry, keypad with keys Text may also be entered using a combination of the keypad and keys. While in a text input menu, for flashing “FUNC” legend then refer to the following table. Look for the required character in the table then PUSH the key shown to the horizontal-left followed by key shown above the required character (do not push both keys together).
Page 106: Configuration Menu
(LAMP). 14-2 CONFIG LAMP The AR8200 is equipped with high intensity green LEDs to illuminate the LCD and front panel keypad when operating in areas of low level lighting. While the AR8200 is switched on and connected to an external power source such as the charger or d.c.
Page 107: Config Contrast
This setting is relevant when operating from internal batteries only. The lamp will CONTinuously illuminate the front panel and side panel keys. The lamp will only extinguish when the AR8200 is switched off. Of course continuous operation of the lamp will drain the internal batteries more quickly.
Page 108: Config Power Save
Note: While in a dormant state (waiting to cycle), the AR8200 behaves sluggishly. When power save is ON, the AR8200 will automatically switch ‘off and on’ but the display will appear permanently on as only the AR8200 “receive” circuitry is switched off and on (switching the receiver off for short periods of time is what saves power!), the microprocessor is left on permanently but in a reduced operating condition.
Page 109: Config Auto Power Off
AR8200 off. If the squelch opens again before auto switch off time has elapsed, the radio will not power down and the counter will be reset (i.e. an open squelch defeats auto power off).
Page 110: Config Freq Disp
14-7 CONFIG FREQ DISP It is possible to instruct the AR8200 NOT to display frequencies while in memory read, search and scan modes (should you wish for prying eyes not to see specifically what you are listening to). Liberal use of ‘text comments’...
Page 111: Config Opening Message
(OPENING MESSAGE). 14-9 CONFIG Opening message It is possible to display a welcome message while the AR8200 is powering up and collating its ‘boot-up’ information. There are three options for opening message: NORM Normal message is displayed at switch-on: WELCOME TO THE NEW WORLD OF AR8200.
Page 112: Band Scope
(15) Band scope The AR8200 is equipped with a flexible band scope function which is capable of graphically displaying band activity. The maximum frequency span width is 10 MHz, you may zoom in on activity to a span width of 100 kHz. Centre frequency is displayed and a marker may be manipulated to ascertain the frequency of activity using the graphical display.
Page 113: Exit From Band Scope
15-2 Exit from band scope To exit the band scope 15-3 Setting frequency span width (waveform enlargement) The frequency span width may be adjusted between the limits of 10 MHz (default) to 100 kHz using keys. The span widths available are: 10 MHz 35s for full trace approx.
Page 114: Entering A New Centre Frequency
15-6 Entering a new centre frequency To enter a new centre frequency, simply tap the wanted frequency into the keypad. The legend “CENTRE FREQ” will be displayed on the top line of the LCD with entry taking place on the second line. To complete entry in MHz format .
Page 115: Loading Stored Band Scope Traces From Memory
. The legend “RCV” (in the place of “MKR”) indicates that a stored trace is currently being displayed. The AR8200 will no longer sweep the frequency range but the key may still be used to monitor the marker frequency. Key in a new centre frequency to return to a real time band scope.
Page 116: Sleep
(16) Sleep It is possible to instruct the AR8200 to automatically switch-off after a predetermined time, this is particularly useful if you know that you may be called away from the receiver or listen to it while in bed and don’t want the batteries to become completely flat.
Page 117: Option Socket
Gently lift the stopper from the rear edge to reveal the D-shaped metallic socket. Be careful to keep dust and dirt from this socket and to prevent liquid entering the AR8200 via this socket. Ensure that no conductive material is allowed to short circuit the socket which may damage the receiver.
Page 118: Rs232 Operation
14-6 of this manual for information on the CONFIG menu settings. 17-2 CLONE of data via the option socket It is possible to copy data (clone) between two AR8200 receives using the optional CO8200 clone lead, no computer is required.
Page 119: How To Clone Data
17-2-1 How to clone data Ensure that the RS232 baud rate is set to the same speed for both radios and that the address is set to 00 on both units (refer to section 14-6 of this manual for information on the CONFIG menu settings).
Page 120 counting downward to indicate that the copy process (clone of data) has started. When the number reaches zero the copy process will have completed, both radios will revert to standard displays. Note: If you make a mistake during programming, it is possible to key to exit the menu.
Page 121: Slot Card Socket
(18) Slot card socket The slot card is located in the bottom of the AR8200 cabinet and protected from dust etc by a door which is hinged toward the back edge of the cabinet. To access the socket place the AR8200 on its back and open the front edge of the protective door.
Page 122: Removing The Slot Card
If however the AR8200 ‘thinks’ that a slot card option is fitted when it isn’t, access the slot card menu and disable the option. You may wish to leave certain items selected if they are not affecting current operation in order to minimise reprogramming when slot cards are inter-changed at a later time.
Page 123: Ct8200 Optional Ctcss Slot Card
USB. 18-3 CT8200 optional CTCSS slot card The CT8200 enables the AR8200 to search for 50 CTCSS tones which may be in use on the current receive frequency and to save a specific CTCSS tone (from the 50 tones available) into each VFO, each search bank and every memory channel individually.
Page 124: Ctcss Search
While in the CTCSS menu, to activate the CTCSS facility (the LCD legend “ON” is displayed in reverse highlight). Use the main dial or keys to make selection of CTCSS tone from the 50 available, the value cannot be adjusted when the menu is set to “OFF”. The current CTCSS tone is displayed on the last-but-one line of the LCD, the legend “...
Page 125: Te8200 Optional Tone Eliminator Slot Card
4.2 kHz. Insert the TE8200 slot card and switch the AR8200 on, select VFO mode. to access the slot card option menu. The AR8200 will have recognised that the TE8200 has been fitted so will present the tone eliminator menu.
Page 126: Ru8200 Optional Record & Playback Slot Card
‘pilot tone’ which matches the current setting of the tone eliminator, the squelch will close allowing the scan and search processes to continue… i.e. the AR8200 will NOT think that it has found an active receive frequency or blank carrier.
Page 127: Playback
The EM8200 enables the whole 1,000 memory channels in 20 banks and 40 program search banks to be backed up to the EM8200. In fact the EM8200 can hold the entire contents of the AR8200 including environmental operating data and band scope FOUR times in EM8200 locations 0, 1, 2 &...
Page 128: Initialising (Formatting) The Em8200 Before Use
Important note: Never remove the EM8200 with the AR8200 switched on, especially while data is being saved / loaded to and from the AR8200 or data corruption may occur. Saving all data takes some time, it is recommended that external power be used while copying large volumes of data to / from the EM8200 (or at least be sure that the batteries are well charged).
Page 129: Em8200 All-Data Save And Load
18-6-2 EM8200 ALL-DATA save and load Before loading data from the EM8200 it is recommended that ALL DATA save be used to make a copy of the AR8200 into one of the EM8200 memory locations (i.e. keep one as a temporary copy of your current AR8200 data).
Page 130: Em8200 All-Mem Save And Load
The load process will take over 20 seconds to complete. Once the load is complete, the AR8200 will power off/on and the LCD will revert to its previous display (VFO, scan or search etc).
Page 131: Em8200 Memory Bank Save And Load
Select the “LOAD” option, to toggle between load and save. Next select the EM8200 bank you wish to load using the keys (0, 1, 2 or 3). key to move the cursor to the left of the “ALL-DATA” legend, use the keys to select “ALL-MEM”.
Page 132: Em8200 All-Srch Save And Load
bank you wish to save using the keys (0, 1, 2 or 3). key to move the cursor to the left of the “ALL-DATA” legend, use the keys to select “MEM-BNK”. key to move the cursor to the right of the legend “MEM-BNK“ to enable selection of the desired memory bank to load.
Page 133: Em8200 Internally Stored Band Scope Save And Load
18-6-6 EM8200 SEARCH BANK save and load The search data ‘saved or loaded’ can be specific to one bank only. Save SRCH-BANK (one specific search bank) Access the COPY EXT-MEM menu using the key sequence Select the “SAVE” option, to toggle between load and save. Next select the EM8200 bank you wish to save using the keys (0, 1, 2 or 3).
Page 134 trace is currently ‘actively’ displayed on the LCD while in BAND SCOPE mode, it may also be saved to external memory. Save B-SCOPE To save the internally stored band scope to external memory, access the COPY EXT-MEM menu using the key sequence Select the “SAVE”...
Page 135 With EM8200 ‘not’ fitted: Use the key sequence to recall the loaded band scope to LCD. With EM8200 fitted: Use the key sequence to access the band scope load menu, the legend “B-SCOPE LOAD” will be displayed. key to toggle the memory selection between INTERNAL “INT” and EXTERNAL “EXT”, the default is “EXT”.
Page 136: Trouble Shooting
Check to see if the problem has cleared. 19-1 Soft reset of microprocessor If removing power and switching the AR8200 off / on does not help, try a soft reset of the microprocessor. Soft reset is achieved by powering-up the radio with the key held, do not release the key until the opening message has performed and a frequency is displayed in 2VFO mode.
Page 137: Trouble Shooting - Take Note Of The Following
There is no receive. Check that a suitable aerial is connected to the AR8200 and the attenuator is not switched on (ATT legend). Check that VOICE squelch is not in use (VSQ legend), check that LEVEL squelch (LSQ legend) is not in operation.
Page 138: Optional Accessories
When POWER SAVE is on, response from the AR8200 may be sluggish and there will be periods of no receive. If the key is being used to display a frequency with FREQUENCY OFFSET in use, this offset frequency cannot be stored into memory.
Page 139: Aerial (Antenna), Earths & Propagation
For short wave reception a random length of long wire approximately 10 to 20 metres in length forms a good compromise. The wire should be connected to the centre pin of a BNC plug then connected to the BNC aerial input on the top of the AR8200. If possible try to locate the receiver close to a window so that the wire has the shortest and most direct run from the rear of the receiver to the outside world.
Page 140: Specification
Propagation VHF and UHF transmissions generally only propagate relatively short distances when compared to short wave signals. For all intents and purposes they may be considered as line-of-sight plus a bit. Where as point to point communication between mobile users or when in built up areas may only be a couple of kilometres, aircraft at heights of 30,000 feet may be heard for many tens of kilometres (100 to 300 with the right conditions).

AOR AR8200 Manual

Index

Making the AR8200 Ready for Operation

Basic Manual Operation of the Receiver

VFO Enhanced Facilities

Memory Channels & Banks

Priority Operation

SCAN - Scanning Memory Channels & Banks

Search Mode

EDIT Menu

DELETE Menu Facilities

Write Protect

TEXT Search and Input

SHORT CUT Keys

Configuration Menu

Band Scope

Sleep

Option Socket

Slot Card Socket

Trouble Shooting

Optional Accessories

Aerial (Antenna), Earths & Propagation

Specification

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for AOR AR8200

Summary of Contents for AOR AR8200

Table of Contents