Battery Considerations - AOR AR8200 Manual

Section 1-6-3, 1-6-4
It is advisable to switch the AR8200 off when starting the vehicle as the starter motor often causes
power surges. Some vehicles require their ignition to be ON for the cigar socket to operate.

1-6-4 Battery considerations

The supplied NiCads are not factory charged. Fit them to the AR8200 and charge for about 12 hours.
After this time the NiCads should never be left in a flat condition or internal filaments will form (inside the
NiCads) shorting its terminals rendering it useless. If you are not going to use the NiCads for a while,
charge them before placing them into storage. NiCads have a memory effect, for longevity, once a
month flatten them completely then fully charge them again. Avoid excessive 'topping up', when
possible, it is best to charge NiCads when they are totally flat.
If you have not used the cells for a long time, specialist external chargers may help 'bring them back to
life' by first discharging them COMPLETELY then charging at a higher rate than the AR8200 can provide.
It is common practice to place exhausted NiCads into a torch to ensure that they are totally flat before
charging, this ensures the best life span. Regular charging in a rapid external charger may be
convenient but will reduce the life span of the cells.
Do not over-charge, charging for more than 24 hours may significantly shorten the life span of the
NiCads. If the NiCads are left charging permanently, there is a small chance of explosion due to the
build up of heat. If you intend permanently using the AR8200 from an external power supply, remove
one battery to prevent over-charging... or better still remove all the batteries and store them away.
Do not short NiCads as they can provide high current levels.
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.
19