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(1) AR8600 Index
(1) Index ..........................................................................................................................
1-1 Introduction ................................................................................................................
1-2 Take care of your radio ..............................................................................................
1-3 Attention while operating ............................................................................................
1-4 Accessories supplied .................................................................................................
1-5 Controls & functions ..................................................................................................
1-5-1 Keypad ...................................................................................................................
1-5-2 Summary of keys ....................................................................................................
1-5-3 Important controls ...................................................................................................
1-6 Power supply .............................................................................................................
1-6-1 Optional internal battery (BP8600) ..........................................................................
1-6-2 Charging the optional BP8600 battery ....................................................................
1-6-3 Battery considerations ............................................................................................
1-6-4 Cigar lighter lead ....................................................................................................
1-7 i.f. output and spectrum display .................................................................................
(2) Making the AR8600 ready for operation ..................................................................
2-1 LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) ......................................................................................
2-2 Connect the aerial (antenna) .....................................................................................
2-3 Connect power ..........................................................................................................
2-4 Keypad and knobs... what you need to know 'most' ..................................................
2-4-1 ENTER key ............................................................................................................
2-4-2 FUNCTION key ......................................................................................................
2-4-3 PASS key .............................................................................................................. .
2-4-4 CLEAR key .............................................................................................................
2-4-5 MONITOR key ........................................................................................................
2-4-6 KEY lock ................................................................................................................
2-4-7 STANDBY key ........................................................................................................
(3) Basic manual operation of the receiver ..................................................................
3-1 Switching on for the first time ....................................................................................
3-2 2VFO twin VFO selection ..........................................................................................
3-3 Entering a frequency using the numeric keypad ........................................................
3-4 Correcting frequency input ........................................................................................
3-6 Changing frequency using the main dial ....................................................................
3-7 Changing receive mode .............................................................................................
3-7-1 Auto-mode selection ...............................................................................................
3-7-2 Receive mode selection menu ................................................................................
3-8 Changing tuning STEP size .......................................................................................
3-9 STEP-adjust ..............................................................................................................
3-9-1 Automatic calculation of step adjust .......................................................................
3-9-2 Cancelling step adjust ............................................................................................
3-9-3 Manual setting of step adjust ..................................................................................
3-10 FREQUENCY OFFSET ...........................................................................................
3-10-1 Using pre-programmed frequency offset data .......................................................
3-10-2 Entering new frequency offset data ......................................................................
3-11 Attenuator ................................................................................................................
3-12 Noise limiter .............................................................................................................
3-13 AFC - Automatic Frequency Control ........................................................................
(4) VFO enhanced facilities ...........................................................................................
4-1 Quick memories ........................................................................................................
4-1-1 Saving quick memory data .....................................................................................
4-1-2 Recalling quick memories ......................................................................................
4-2 VFO scan ..................................................................................................................
4-2-1 VFO SCAN sampling time ......................................................................................
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Table of Contents
Troubleshooting
Related Manuals for AOR AR8600
Summary of Contents for AOR AR8600
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Page 1: Table Of Contents
1-6-3 Battery considerations .................... 1-6-4 Cigar lighter lead ....................1-7 i.f. output and spectrum display ................. (2) Making the AR8600 ready for operation ..............2-1 LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) ..................2-2 Connect the aerial (antenna) ..................2-3 Connect power ...................... - Page 2 4-3 VFO Search ....................... 4-3-1 Defining VFO search ....................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 ....................
- Page 3 7-9-3 Select scan environment ..................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 ................
- Page 4 (14) Configuration menu ....................14-1 CONFIG BEEP ......................14-2 CONFIG LAMP ......................14-3 CONFIG CONTRAST ....................14-4 CONFIG Auto power off ................... 14-5 CONFIG Remote RS232 ..................14-6 CONFIG FREQ DISP ....................14-7 CONFIG GLOBAL write protect ................14-8 CONFIG Opening message ..................(15) Band scope ......................
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Page 5: Introduction
BP8600 internal NiCad battery pack to an authorised service engineer. If using the AR8600 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 AR8600 is powered down using the PWR/VOL control or external power is removed (without the optional internal BP8600 battery fitted or becomes 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
Power supply (may be supplied in some world market areas and in a separate carton) Operating manual (this booklet) 1-5 Controls & functions Controls are located on the front with most connection sockets on the rear of the AR8600, a brief identification is given here: See over for a further description... - Page 8 The REMOTE RS232 socket (17 above) is designed for connection directly to an RS232 serial port of a computer such as a PC. No interface is required, just a standard RS232 lead... avoid nul-modem leads as they are not suitable. Connections for a PC are as follows: AR8600 PC 9 way RS232 ACC connections 1 12V d.c.
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Page 9: Keypad
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
1-5-2 Summary of keys The keypad is split into four areas of the front cabinet of the AR8600, the ‘ten keys’ for frequency access, the bottom row for VFO, SCAN, SEARCH operations, three on the left for standby, key lock, monitor and a group of four arrow keys on the right for frequency control and manipulation of menus. - Page 11 QUICK MEMORY OFF / 10s to 990s (default = OFF) PRESS this key to switch the AR8600 on and off as a toggle. The main PWR/VOL control must be ‘on’ in order for the STANDBY switch to operate. Hold the key for more than one second for the press to be registered.
- Page 12 On the AR8600 to soft reset the microprocessor should the AR8600 appear to behave strangely... no memory contents will be lost. Numeric figure one during frequency input. Selection of memory/scan bank “A” or “a” and search bank “A”...
- Page 13 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.
- Page 14 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 &...
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Page 15: Important Controls
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 AR8600 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
POSITIVE, the chassis of the receiver is at negative ground. If a power supply has been provided with the AR8600 (depending upon world market area), it is pre-wired and provides a nominal 12V d.c. output with suitable connectors being fitted as standard for the a.c. power input and connection to the AR8600. -
Page 17: Charging The Optional Bp8600 Battery
AR8600 with the BP8600 for extended periods (several months), it may be worth considering removing the batteries from the radio (to prevent the cells deteriorating). It is most important that they are charged before placing them into storage and reusing them within at least three months, ideally NiCads should be fully cycled not less than once every month after they have been placed into use, always charge NiCads before placing them into storage. -
Page 18: Battery Considerations
‘bring them back to life’, first ensure they are COMPLETELY discharged then charge for a longer period of time, perhaps 72 hours. It is common practice to force complete exhaustion by leaving the squelch open and volume set to half until the AR8600 stops working, carry this out once a month to ensure best battery longevity. -
Page 19: Output And Spectrum Display
The rear panel has a 10.7MHz i.f. output designed to drive the SDU5500 optional Spectrum Display Unit. The AR8600 must be enabled in order to provide the i.f. output, this operation should be carried out in a workshop. The WFM circuit of the AR8600 becomes permanently active to achieve a wide bandwidth (irrespective of receive mode employed), however the usable bandwidth remains smaller than the total 10MHz provided by the SDU5500. -
Page 20: Making The Ar8600 Ready For Operation
LCD, an LCD test routine has been provided. and hold the key then switch the AR8600 on, (then turn the PWR/VOL control clockwise to provide power or if already switched on . When the sign-on message has been displayed all LCD graphics will be displayed. -
Page 21: Connect The Aerial (Antenna)
A different (external) aerial can easily be fitted once you have established that the AR8600 is operating correctly and you are familiar with operation. If you wish to monitor MW (Medium Wave bands), plug in the BC ANT - MW bar aerial. The BC ANT slot is located centrally on the rear panel. -
Page 22: Keypad And Knobs
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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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 In 2VFO mode 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 (when using VFO SCAN it is possible for the lower line frequency to be active, in this case a larger text size is employed for clarity).
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Page 26: Entering A Frequency Using The Numeric Keypad
Transfer to active VFO When the AR8600 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 AR8600 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 AR8600 will return to its previous task just as if the key had been operated. -
Page 28: Changing Frequency Using The Main Dial
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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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 AR8600. It is essentially the same as AM but uses a wider IF filter, particularly useful for monitoring parasitic airband transmissions when ‘repeater transmissions’...
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Page 31: Changing Tuning Step Size
However due to the complexities of SSB, audio never sounds 100% natural, like all SSB- equipped receivers, the AR8600 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 AR8600 is inviting you to change the step size. Use the main dial or keys to select the required step size.
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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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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. - Page 35 LCD as “ADJ+ 7.50” representing a positive offset of +7.5 kHz with a step size of 15 kHz… the AR8600 often assumes that you require a half step. However when looking at the requirement the required offset is actually 5 kHz.
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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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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
“+” to “-“ or vice-versa. 3-11 Attenuator The attenuator adds 10dB of signal reduction to the RF input stages of the AR8600 to reduce the possible effects of strong signal overloading due to connection to an external aerial or when the receiver is used in close proximity to strong transmissions. -
Page 39: Afc - Automatic Frequency Control
3-13 AFC - Automatic Frequency Control The AR8600 is equipped with AFC, this is useful when tracking unusual band plans or when the exact frequency is unknown… it ensures that the AR8600 is tuned to ‘centre frequency’ for best reception. - Page 40 The distance in kHz which the AR8600 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 ±...
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Page 41: Vfo Enhanced Facilities
AUTO QUICK MEMORY, the VFO environment parameters need to be first set up The AR8600 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 AR8600 ! 4-2 VFO scan You will be aware that the AR8600 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
5 seconds. 4-3 VFO Search It is possible to quickly assign two frequency limits to VFO-A and VFO-B then instruct the AR8600 to automatically tune the receiver from one frequency limit to the other in the specified receive mode and tuning step looking for active frequencies. -
Page 44: Forcing Vfo Search To Resume & Changing Search Direction
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
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
VFO scan. 4-4-2 VFO search DELAY The VFO search DELAY parameter affects the time the AR8600 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
4-4-3 VFO search LEVEL squelch The VFO LEVEL squelch parameter causes the AR8600 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
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 AR8600 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
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. to accept the changes and return to the display prior to accessing the VFO environment menu. -
Page 50: Vfo Quick Memory
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 AR8600 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 AR8600 is not powered-down using the key and insufficient power is available to save the data. - Page 53 AR8600 into VFO mode. to select the desired frequency, the mode and step size will be automatically set by the AR8600 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”...
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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 AR8600 as it will prevent certain functions being carried out at a future time. -
Page 55: Automatic Memory Allocation
. If the AR8600 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 AR8600 will monitor whatever memory channel first appears when you enter memory read. -
Page 57: Memory Channel Review / Hunt
When deleted, the AR8600 increments to the next memory channel which contains data. It is also possible to delete whole memory banks in one go using the DELETE menu. Please refer to the section 10-3 of this manual relating to memory bank DELETE options. -
Page 58: Adding Text Names To Memory Banks
5-5-2 Adding text names to memory banks To assist with memory management and identification, memory banks can be named. The SCAN BANK menu is used to add or edit memory bank names. To access the SCAN BANK menu . The LCD will initially display the legend “M-BANK”, the currently selected memory bank ‘pair’... -
Page 59: Priority Operation
(6) Priority operation The PRIORITY feature enables you to carry on scanning, searching or monitoring while the AR8600 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 AR8600 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
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
AR8600 will temporarily stop scanning. At default when shipped from the factory, the AR8600 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
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
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
“MEM PASS CH SEARCH !!” as the AR8600 checks that all tags have been removed. The LCD will then display “PASS-CH ---” to confirm that no channels are now tagged as PASS. To exit the menu and return to the standard display... -
Page 66: Deleting Memory Channels
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. 7-6-1 Deleting single memory channels While in memory read mode, to delete the currently displayed memory channel. -
Page 67: Additional Scan Facilities
(one or twice) to start scanning if the AR8600 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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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
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. to accept the changes and return to the display prior to accessing the scan environment menu. -
Page 72: Select Scan Environment
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
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
(8) Search mode In search mode, the AR8600 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. 8-1 Search types The AR8600 is equipped with two types of search:- VFO SEARCH = search from the current frequency in VFO mode. -
Page 75: Starting Program Search
8-2-2 Forcing the search to resume If the AR8600 stops on an unwanted busy frequency, 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
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 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.
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Page 78: Programming A Search Bank
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 AR8600 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.
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Page 80: Locking Out Unwanted Active Frequencies (Pass)
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
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 AR8600 is not already in search mode). The banks grouped together in the SEARCH 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 AR8600 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
8-7-2 Search LEVEL The search LEVEL squelch parameter causes the AR8600 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). The limits are OFF and 1 to 255 (default off). -
Page 85: Search Free
This is useful if you wish to gain a snap shot of activity without the AR8600 being tied to a busy frequency for long periods of time (such as when monitoring active amateur band repeaters etc). Search FREE time saves you having to manually intervene to force the search process to resume and saves the need to lockout (PASS) busy frequencies. -
Page 86: Auto Store
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
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. While in search mode, the DELETE menu is accessed using the key sequence . -
Page 88: Edit Menu
(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
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
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
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
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
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
(10) DELETE menu facilities It is often desirable to delete many data entries in one go such as memory channels and pass frequencies. To assist with data management a DELETE menu is provided which offers the following:- DEL SRCH delete a search bank DEL SRCH PASS delete the search pass frequencies DELETE VFO PASS... -
Page 95: Delete Vfo Pass
If no data is present the legend “DEL PASS --” will be displayed. To delete the frequency pass data , the legend “DEL PASS --” confirms deletion. Note: When searching, an empty search bank will cause the next search bank containing valid data to be recalled. -
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 AR8600 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 AR8600 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
(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 overwritten. 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 AR8600 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 AR8600 will not be able to enter, delete or edit any current data within the AR8600, 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 AR8600 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
12-2 Text search For fastest text search and greatest reliability, place the AR8600 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
(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. 13-1 Short cut menu access SCAN short cuts for flashing “FUNC”... -
Page 104: Short Cut Text Entry
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. This method of text entry is consistent with that used by PERSONAL PAGERS. -
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 the key shown above the required character (do not push both keys together). -
Page 106: Configuration Menu
While the AR8600 is switched on and connected to an external power source such as a power supply, the lamp will be default PERMANENTLY ON. The lamp will go out when the AR8600 is switched off. -
Page 107: Config Contrast
(if a short auto-power-off period has been set), auto power off setting is not cancelled with power off / on… if the AR8600 appears to switch itself off for no reason, check to make sure that you haven’t enabled auto power off (there is no associated LCD legend). -
Page 108: Config Remote Rs232
14-6 CONFIG FREQ DISP It is possible to instruct the AR8600 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 109: Config Global Write Protect
(OPENING MESSAGE). 14-8 CONFIG Opening message It is possible to display a welcome message while the AR8600 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 AR8600. -
Page 110: Band Scope
(15) Band scope The AR8600 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. -
Page 111: Exit From Band Scope
The centre frequency is displayed in the top left of the LCD, one pixel will be missing from the centre of the graphical base line indicating centre frequency position. A progress cursor which comprises of a single pixel on the graphical base line travels from left to right updating the band scope display…... -
Page 112: Moving The Marker
When the frequency span width is altered, the trace restarts. to refresh the trace from the start. 15-4 Moving the marker To move the marker position use the keys, the channel step will be dependant upon the span width resolution. To monitor the marker frequency and hold the key. -
Page 113: Peak Hold
Refer to section 18-7-7 of this manual for further information regarding this feature. It is also possible to connect the AR8600 to an external Spectrum Display Unit, the AOR SDU5500 has been designed specifically for this purpose. Please refer to section 1-7 of this operating manual. -
Page 114: Sleep
(16) Sleep It is possible to instruct the AR8600 to automatically switch to standby 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 115: Brief Command Index (Rs232)
Send a [CR] then re-send the command. Should problems persist, check your connections and try reducing the RS232 baud rate. AR8600 remote indication: When the AR8600 has received a command via the RS232C port the receiver’s LCD will display the symbol. -
Page 116: Detailed Rs232 Command Listing
17-3 Detailed RS232 command listing for the AR8600 Remote ID Hex value 0x01 To set: BS nnn...n <CR> Accepts a value nn in the range 01-99 Where n is a bank indicator in the range A-T or a-t BS%%<CR> clears all link settings To set: AF n <CR>... - Page 117 DD Dial (VFO) delay To set: DD nn <CR> Span 200kHz 100kHz Where nn = 00 - 99 or FF (indicating 0.0 - 99 Upper frequency seconds or FF=hold) Centre frequency To read: DD<CR> Lower frequency Responds with DD n.n Each one represents 2kHz Dial (VFO) pause To set: DP nn <CR>...
- Page 118 When active, data in the following format is 2 AM returned when the squelch opens: 3 USB LC nnn V x RF nnn...n 4 LSB 5 CW LC nnn SR x RF nnn...n 6 SFM 7 WAM LC nnn M nxx RF nnn...n 8 NAM When inactive, the radio returns LC data To read: MD<CR>...
- Page 119 MW d:50 TBdaer band OM Opening message To set: OM n <CR> MW E:50 TBEMARINEch Where: n =0 display the standard MW e:50 TBeair band default message Notes: n =1 display no opening message 1. This feature allows the size of n =2 display a custom 48-character memory banks to be changed in message defined as follows:...
- Page 120 QM8 RF0087320000 QM9 RF0087320000 To Read: SC<CR> Note: This command is read only Responds with: SC nnn Power Off QP<CR> Switches the AR8600 to standby Set hold/delay time mode. in search mode To set: SD nn <CR> where Delete search bank QSx<CR>...
- Page 121 where x = A-T or a-t Text Search TS xxx...x <CR> Recalls search bank x Searches for the specified text in a SR%%<CR> memory channel Responds with a listing of all search Where xxx...x is a minimum of 2 banks A-J characters and a maximum of 11 Responds with: characters of ASCII text comment...
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Page 122: Clone Of Data Via The Rs232 Socket
It is possible to copy data (clone) between two be lost (approx. 30 AR8600 receivers using a 9-pin male to 9-pin seconds) male lead, no computer is required. The pin connections should be as follows:... -
Page 123: How To Clone Data
17-4-1 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 14-5 of this manual for information on the CONFIG menu settings). -
Page 124: Slot Card Socket
(18) Slot card sockets The AR8600 has the provision to accept up to five optional slot cards into special socket on the rear of the cabinet. Avoid dust or objects (particularly conductive material and liquid) from entering the sockets when slot cards are not in use otherwise the receiver may be damaged by short circuits. -
Page 125: Fitting The Slot Card
Always switch the AR8600 off when inserting a slot card. The slot cards are fitted into the rear panel of the AR8600, look for the labels embossed into the rear panel underneath the appropriate slot socket; care should be taken not to insert the wrong card into each socket as each socket is identical. -
Page 126: Te8200 Optional Tone Eliminator Slot Card
“OPTION SEL”. The AR8600 will have recognised that the TE8200 has been fitted so will present the first group of slot card options and the selection line for the tone eliminator “TONE ELMT”. The tone eliminator is the first item... -
Page 127: Ct8200 Optional Ctcss 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 AR8600 will NOT think that it has found an active receive frequency or blank carrier. -
Page 128: Ctcss Tone Squelch
To abort entry and exit the menu Note: You won’t be able to audibly hear a CTCSS tone due to the low frequencies employed and audio characteristics of the AR8600 (and other receivers). 18-4-1 CTCSS tone squelch While in the CTCSS menu, to activate the CTCSS facility (the LCD legend “ON”... -
Page 129: Ctcss Search
2.4 kHz to 5.6 kHz. Register the VI8200 slot card Insert the VI8200 slot card and switch the AR8600 on and REGISTER the VI8200 card via the OPTION SELECT registration menu. Refer to section 18-2 and the example for the TE8200 shown in section 18-3. -
Page 130: Ru8200 Optional Record & Playback Slot Card
“REC” (RECORD), “C.REC” (continuous record) and “PLAY” (play). to accept the selection and return to the previous menu or abort. Recording and playback can be carried out while the AR8600 is in VFO, scan or search mode. 18-6-1 Recording While in the record &... -
Page 131: Playback
While recording is in progress, the second line from the bottom of the LCD (usually displaying the standby frequency in 2VFO mode) changes to a progress bar “REC =====>” indicating that recording is in progress. Once started, the recording process continues for about 20 seconds and the legend “End” is displayed when the recording process is complete. -
Page 132: Em8200 Optional External Extended Memory Slot Card
Important note: Never remove the EM8200 with the AR8600 switched on, especially while data is being saved / loaded to and from the AR8600 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 133: Em8200 All-Data Save And Load
(if beep is enabled). Register the EM8200 slot card Insert the EM8200 slot card and switch the AR8600 on and REGISTER the EM8200 card via the OPTION SELECT registration menu. Refer to section 18-2 and the example for the TE8200 shown in section 18-3. -
Page 134: Em8200 All-Mem Save And Load
The load process will take over 20 seconds to complete. Once the load is complete, the AR8600 will power off/on and the LCD will revert to its previous display (VFO, scan or search etc). 18-7-3 EM8200 ALL-MEM save and load It is not necessary to save and load all of the data at times when you do not wish your search banks etc over-written. -
Page 135: Em8200 Memory Bank Save And Load
to start the data load. The legend “EXT-MEM LOADING !!” will be displayed with the exclamation marks flashing to indicate that loading is in progress. The memory load process will take over 20 seconds to complete. Once the load is complete, the LCD will revert to its previous display (VFO, scan or search etc). -
Page 136: Em8200 Search Bank Save And Load
Save ALL-SRCH (all search banks) 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 or main dial (0, 1, 2 or 3). key to move the cursor to the left of the “ALL-DATA”... -
Page 137: Em8200 Internally Stored Band Scope Save And Load
Access the COPY EXT-MEM menu using the key sequence Select the “LOAD” option, to toggle between load and save. Next select the EM8200 bank you wish to load using the keys or main dial (0, 1, 2 or 3). key to move the cursor to the left of the “ALL-DATA”... - Page 138 key to move the cursor to the left of the “ALL-DATA” legend, use the keys to select “B-SCOPE”. to start the band scope data load. The legend “EXT-MEM LOADING !!” will be briefly displayed, the band scope load process will only take a second to complete. Once the load is complete, the LCD will revert to its previous display (VFO, scan or search etc).
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Page 139: Trouble Shooting
Check to see if the problem has cleared. 19-1 Soft reset of microprocessor If removing power and switching the AR8600 off / on does not help, try a soft reset of the microprocessor. Soft reset is achieved by powering-up the radio with the... -
Page 140: Trouble Shooting - Take Note Of The Following
No SEARCH. Check that you have search data programmed and that all frequencies are not locked out (PASS). PLL ERROR. If the radio circuit is unable to tune the AR8600 to the programmed frequency a PLL ERROR (Phase Lock Loop) may result. Check that the problem is not caused by corrupt data stored erroneously in a memory channel, memory bank or search bank. -
Page 141: Optional Accessories
Chip based recording unit and playback, 20 seconds approx. 5. EM8200 External extended memory, backup 4,000 memories, 160 search banks (can hold as much data as 4 x AR8600). Miscellaneous: Three leads are available for use with the option socket. -
Page 142: 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 of the AR8600 (or wrap the conductor of the long wire onto the telescopic whip aerial). -
Page 143: Specification
(22) AR8600 specification Frequency Range: 530 kHz to 2040 MHz (Actual frequency input 100 kHz to 2040 MHz, performance between 100 kHz to 530 kHz is not guaranteed). Receive Modes: WFM, NFM, SFM, WAM, AM, NAM, USB, LSB, CW Sensitivity: 500 kHz ~ 2.0 MHz...