AR8000 operating manual (1) Introduction & accessories Thank you for purchasing THE NEW CONCEPT AOR AR8000 World Band Wide Band all mode receiver. This operating manual is divided into many sections and presented in a logical order assuming that it will be read section by section following the examples. However, if you are familiar with the operations of modern mulit-function receivers you may proceed directly to section 6.
AR8000 operating manual 1-1 Accessories supplied 4 x AA internal high capacity rechargeable NiCad batteries Mains charger DC power lead with cigar lighter plug 16cm semi-flexible wide band Belt clip with two screws Hand strap Operating manual (2) Table of contents 1 1-1 2 3 4 4-1 4-2 4-3 4-4 4-5 5 5-1 5-2 5-3 5-4 5-5 5-6 5-7 5-8 5-9 5-10 5-11 5-12 5-13 5-14 5-15 6 6-1 6-2 6-3 6-4 6-5 2 Introduction and accessories ....................... Accessories supplied .......................................
AR8000 operating manual 6-6 6-7 6-8 6-9 6-10 6-11 6-12 6-13 7 7-1 7-2 7-3 8 8-1 8-2 8-3 8-4 8-5 8-6 8-7 8-8 8-9 8-10 9 9-1 9-2 9-3 9-4 10 10-1 10-2 10-3 10-4 10-5 10-6 10-7 10-8 10-9 10-10 10-11 10-12 11 11-1 11-2 11-3 11-4 11-5 11-6 11-7 12 12-1 12-2 Correcting incorrect frequencies after input ........... Changing a frequency using the UP/DOWN keys .. Changing frequency using the [DIAL] .................... Changing frequency step (AUTO) ......................... Step offset .............................
AR8000 operating manual 13 13-1 13-2 13-3 13-4 13-5 13-6 13-7 13-8 13-9 13-10 14 14-1 14-2 14-3 14-4 14-5 14-6 14-7 15 15-1 15-2 16 16-1 17 17-1 17-2 17-3 17-4 17-5 18 18-1 18-2 19 19-1 19-2 20 20-1 20-2 20-3 21 22 23 24 4 SEARCH ............................................................. 76 Manual search ..................................................... 77 Program bank search ........................................... 80 Program search - saving active frequencies .........
AR8000 operating manual (3) Major features General At first glance the AR8000 in it’s static form may look no different to any modern hand-held wide range receiver, but the similarity ends there... just as soon as the receiver is switched on!! Initially you are greeted with the opening welcome message on the AR8000 multi-function liquid crystal display “WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF AR8000 RECEIVER”, in a similar way to a sign on message displayed by your personal computer.
AR8000 operating manual 2VFO Twin VFO frequencies (A & B) may be displayed on the LCD simultaneously, one providing a stand-by frequency available for quick transfer (similar to commercial aviation built-in radio transceivers). The two VFO systems operate independently of each other and store frequency, mode, channel step, step offset and attenuator status. Alphanumeric Display Each memory channel and search bank can be given a specific title using alphanumeric comments up to seven characters in length.
AR8000 operating manual Free search - the receiver will pause on a busy channel for a predetermined length of time and will resume searching after the time has expired or when the channel clears which ever is first. The programmable range is 1 to 99 seconds and default is OFF. Free search is ignored when the “delay hold” facility has been selected. S-LEVEL search / scan - the receiver will stop on a busy channel only when the signal is above the predetermined signal level.
AR8000 operating manual Copy (CLONE) between two AR8000 receivers The stored memory and search data may be transferred from one set to another using an optional cable / interface (CU-8232). Full computer control The computer control port may be connected via an optional cable / interface (CU-8232) to a computer for remote control of the receiver (control software will be required). Many other features The AR8000 is truly full featured, among other facilities are keypad beep On/ Off, plus keypad lock.
AR8000 operating manual AR8000 from the aerial and switch the set Off. 4-2 Looking after your receiver Always keep the receiver free from dust and water. Use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe the set clean. Never use chemicals such as benzine or thinners which will damage certain parts. 4-3 Power requirements The AR8000 is designed for operation from internal NiCad batteries, internal dry batteries or an external DC supply of 11 - 16V DC at approximately 300mA minimum.
AR8000 operating manual 4-4 NiCads and charging Before operating, charge the internal NiCad batteries using the supplied charger for approximately 16 hours. The low battery indicator “LOW BATTERY” will provide only a short period of warning of low battery power when used with NiCad batteries due to the characteristics of NiCad cells. A longer warning period will be provided when using Alkaline batteries.
AR8000 operating manual (frequencies such as 1.215 MHz = 1215 kHz). If signal strength appears weak, try rotating the receiver as the bar aerial is directional. The internal ferrite bar aerial should provide adequate results in city and high population areas or when visiting airshows which operate a commentary service on medium wave. Better results may be achieved by using an external aerial.
AR8000 operating manual the ATU when changing frequency. An ATU of this type has no active circuitry so is known as a passive device. Active desktop loop aerials Usually designed for the shortwave bands (such as the AOR LA320). Loop aerials have the advantage of small size when compared to long wire aerials and being within easy reach of the operator it can be rotated to provide directivity. The circuitry offers a small level of gain with the advantage of selectivity similar to an ATU.
AR8000 operating manual 5-2 EAR - Earphone / speaker connection This 3.5mm mono socket permits connection to an external earphone, headset or speaker of 8 OHM impedance or greater. When this earphone socket is used, the internal speaker will be automatically disconnected. 5-3 DIAL - tuning control / selector The DIAL control is prominently located on the top of the cabinet for ease of use.
AR8000 operating manual 5-5 PWR / VOL - On/Off switch and volume control The combined volume control and power switch is located on the top face of the cabinet. This control is used to set the required audio output from the receiver. When rotated fully clockwise the volume is at maximum, when rotated fully anticlockwise the volume is reduced to minimum. At the fully anticlockwise position the power On/Off switch is activated with a “click”.
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AR8000 operating manual switchable for use in locations of low level lighting. The basic operational description of each key is as follows: [SRCH] - search key When first pressed initiates the search process and “SRCH” is displayed at the top left of the LCD. When [SRCH] is pressed a second time during search, the SEARCH process is cancelled and the current search frequency is left as a single frequency readout on the LCD.
AR8000 operating manual revert to VFO mode. [2-VFO] [A=B] - twin VFO / equalise memory / manual search key The AR8000 receiver has a 2 VFO system being identified as “A” and “B” on the LCD to the left of the frequency readout. The term VFO historically means “Variable Frequency Oscillator” and today refers to a tunable data store which contains frequency, mode, channel step, step offset and attenuator information. Both VFO frequencies are displayed in parallel format on the LCD one above the other.
AR8000 operating manual should a permanently busy channel be encountered. The UP and DOWN keys may be used to force the receiver to continue searching from a busy channel and to reverse the direction of search. While in search or scan modes and stopped on an interesting busy channel, press [FUNC] [2VFO] to transfer the busy channel to the “active” VFO and revert to VFO mode. To return to 2VFO mode, press the [2VFO] key.
AR8000 operating manual [2] [B] [STEP] Numeric 2 / Bank B / STEP key This key acts as a numeric 2 when entering frequencies via the keypad. In search, scan and memory modes this key is used to identify bank B/b. If the sequence [FUNC] [2] is keyed, the tuning STEP selected. size may be [3] [C] [MODE] Numeric 3 / Bank C / MODE key This key acts as a numeric 3 when entering frequencies via the keypad. In search, scan and memory modes this key is used to identify bank C/c.
AR8000 operating manual [6] [F] [S PROG] Numeric 6 / Bank F / Search program This key acts as a numeric 6 when entering frequencies via the keypad. In search, scan and memory modes this key is used to identify bank F/f. If the sequence [FUNC] [6] is keyed, the SEARCH PROGRAM menu will be activated. The legend “SRCH PROG” appears on the top line of the LCD to indicate activation. The data programming or reprogramming of search banks may be input through this menu.
AR8000 operating manual [9] [I] [DEL] Numeric 9 / Bank I / Data delete This key acts as a numeric 9 when entering frequenkeypad. cies via the In search, scan and memory modes this key is used to identify bank I/i. If the sequence [FUNC] [9] is keyed the data delete options menu and sub menus may be accessed. Initially the legend “SELECT DEL” is displayed on the first line of the LCD. Delete mode enables search, frequency pass, memory and select scan data to be deleted easily.
AR8000 operating manual and the legend “SET P.WORD” is displayed on the first line of the LCD. If the numbers “0000” are displayed then no password is set and all memory banks are accessible. If “****” is displayed then the password is set and only the upper case banks may be accessed. To access the password protected banks, press [FUNC] [.] followed by your four digit password then [ENT]. To change the password press [FUNC] [.] followed by your current password then [ENT]. Next press [FUNC] [.
AR8000 operating manual NEWUSER / EXPERT The default setting is NEWUSER (new user), this is the initial recommended setting. If EXPERT status has not been selected then a smaller number of options are available which simplifies operation when first exploring the features and facilities of the AR8000.
AR8000 operating manual SCAN list. To toggle the status of select scan, press [FUNC] [PASS] again while in M.RE mode. Select scan only scans those specific channels which have been tagged (registered) using the [FUNC] [PASS] select scan procedure. This is very useful to allow the rapid selection of a mixture of memory channels irrespective of memory banks for specific scanning applications.
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AR8000 operating manual When in 2ndF setting, the side panel [FUNC] key need only be momentarily pressed then released before pressing a second keypad option. A continually flashing highlight cursor “F” indicates FUNCTION selection. When in FUNC setting, the side panel [FUNC] key must be pressed and held while a second keypad option is pressed. The flashing highlight cursor “F” indicates FUNCTION selection. The default setting of the [FUNC] key is “2ndF”.
AR8000 operating manual Side panel - right hand side 5-13 DC 12V Charging / external power connection This is a standard 1.3mm dual concentric DC socket. The wiring of this socket is CENTRE POSITIVE, negative ground. THE AR8000 MUST NEVER BE CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE MAINS SUPPLY. The DC socket is used to charge the internal NiCad batteries using the charger provided.
AR8000 operating manual Rear case The battery compartment cover (which is located to the lower section of the rear case) may be removed using a downward sliding motion. Underneath the battery compartment cover are two user accessible parts, the RS232CREMOTE/TAPE connector and the BATTERIES. 5-14 RS232C REMOTE connector This is a very small connector located at the very lowest point of the rear cabinet below the battery housing.
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AR8000 operating manual (6) Basic manual operation of the receiver Operating manual conventions Where text appears in [SQUARE BRACKETS] the keys are to be pressed exactly as shown. For example: [1] [4] [5] [ENT] Means press the 1 key followed by the 4 key followed by the 5 key followed by the enter key. Words contained in speech marks “2VFO” refer to indications displayed on the Liquid Crystal Display.
AR8000 operating manual In normal use, the squelch control should be rotated clockwise until the background noise is just cancelled. This is known as “threshold” and is the most sensitive setting for the squelch control. Do not rotate the control too far clockwise or only the stronger local signals will be heard. If you find setting the squelch control difficult, try removing the aerial from the receiver.
AR8000 operating manual the operators preferences. When in FUNC setting, the side panel [FUNC] key must be pressed and held while a second keypad option is pressed. The flashing highlight cursor “F” indicates FUNCTION selection. The flashing “F” indicates that the receiver is awaiting another key entry. When in 2ndF setting, the side panel [FUNC] key need only be momentarily pressed then released before pressing a second keypad option.
AR8000 operating manual 6-4 Entering a frequency through the keypad - VFO (MANUAL) MODE & changing from VFO “A” to VFO “B” and [A=B] The AR8000 receiver has a 2 VFO system being identified as “A” and “B” on the LCD to the left of the frequency readout. The term VFO historically means “Variable Frequency Oscillator” and today refers to a tunable data store which contains frequency, mode, step, step offset and attenuator information.
AR8000 operating manual Entering a frequency using the numeric keypad Example of frequency entry 145.800 MHz Press [1] [4] [5] [.] [8] [ENT] There is no need to key in the trailing zeros to the right of the decimal point as they are automatically added by the microprocessor. If keying in a whole MHz such as 118.000 MHz there is no need to key in either the decimal point or trailing zeros, they are all added by the AR8000 microprocessor. Example of “MHz round number” frequency entry for 118.
AR8000 operating manual right of the “MHz” position, this is to ensure easy recognition of frequencies which are often listed as “kHz” in frequency guides. Instead, the decimal point is positioned to the right of the kHz position Example of frequency entry 1215 kHz (1.215 MHz) Press [1] [.] [2] [1] [5] [ENT] The frequency of 1215 kHz is equivalent to 1.215 MHz. The AR8000 expects frequency entry to be input in “MHz” format.
AR8000 operating manual Key in [2] to correct the current incorrect display (which is showing 81.8 MHz rather than 82.8 MHz). Alternatively use the [DIAL] to scroll through the digits just like a tuning dial. When the correct frequency is displayed press [ENT] to accept the corrected frequency data. 6-7 Changing frequency using the [UP] [DOWN] keys The UP / DOWN keys provide a convenient method of frequency change.
AR8000 operating manual The speed of tuning may be increased by a factor of x10 while the “F” function legend is displayed (by using the [FUNC] key). 6-9 Changing frequency STEP size (AUTO) The specification for channel occupancy, step (separation) and mode are decided by and allocated by departments of Government following International discussions. Not surprisingly the allocation of frequency bands are not the same all over the world and channel separation (step) varies from band to band.
AR8000 operating manual For example, select 118.000 MHz [1] [1] [8] [ENT] then select a 9 kHz step size [FUNC] [2] choose “9.00” by rotating the [DIAL] and accept the selection by pressing [ENT]. You will note the frequency has been corrected to 117.9990 or 118.0080 MHz (depending upon the previous direction of tuning / searching) both of which are the closest multiple of 9 kHz to 118 MHz.
AR8000 operating manual 1.08 kHz (which are not divisible by 50 Hz), the last digit will not be accepted so may be corrected simply by typing [5]. In fact should you wish, even frequencies listed in the standard STEP list may be entered directly through the numeric keypad once in the “STEP SET” menu. For example, to program a step size of 25 kHz using the numeric keypad: Press [FUNC] [2] [2] [5] [ENT] The display will return to VFO mode with the new step size programmed.
AR8000 operating manual being 71.018750 MHz). The receiver is now tuning in 12.5 kHz steps with a step offset of +6.25 kHz. Note: The STEP OFFSET is always in a positive direction (+) when selected and is calculated as being HALF of the STEP SIZE. STEP OFFSET is only available when the step size is 10 kHz or more. By this measure, a 25 kHz STEP size will have a STEP OFFSET of 12.5 kHz. A 30 kHz STEP size will have a STEP OFFSET of 15 kHz. SET OFFSET is available in VFO and search modes.
AR8000 operating manual AM Amplitude Modulation - Used by broadcast services throughout the world on medium wave and shortwave. AM is also used by VHF Civil airband, UHF Military airband and some PMR (Private Mobile Radio) and utility services. NFM Narrow Band Frequency Modulation - this provides high quality communication for relatively short distance operation. FM uses a greater frequency bandwidth than other modes such as SSB so is less efficient.
AR8000 operating manual Small tuning steps of 50 Hz or 100 Hz should be used for tuning in LSB and other similar modes USB & CW. The AR8000 being a hand held wide band receiver cannot offer the receive performance of a dedicated short wave receiver such as the AOR AR3030 or base wide band receiver AOR AR3000A. This is due to the limitation of size, as a result the receiver’s AGC (Automatic Gain Control) circuitry bandpass circuits and reference stability cannot be as complex.
AR8000 operating manual attenuator is OFF. The selection of attenuator may also be programmed into memory channels and when defining program search. Please refer to sections 4-5, 22 & 23 of this manual for further information regarding aerial suitability, and filters. 6-13 [B SCP] band scope operation A band scope facility has been provided so that adjacent channels can be monitored graphically for activity.
AR8000 operating manual To deactivate the bandscope, repeat the key sequence [FUNC] [7] or press the [2VFO], [SRCH] or [SCAN] keys. (7) Memory banks & channels It is very convenient to store commonly used frequencies into a memory bank along with mode and attenuator status, this saves having to key the data in over and over again. Memory recall is very straightforward and quick when compared to retyping all data. Think of memory channels as pages in a notebook each of which is numbered to identify it.
AR8000 operating manual During the manufacture and testing of the receiver, various test frequencies are entered into the receiver’s memory banks so the memory locations are unlikely to be completely blank. Note: Where memory banks etc are empty the indication “- - -” is often displayed. 7-1 Storing receive data into memory - memory input in VFO mode Lets assume that you wish to store the frequency of 88.3 MHz with the attenuator Off into memory bank “A” location “00” (A00) while in VFO mode.
AR8000 operating manual If you are happy with the alphanumeric description press [ENT] and the display will return to VFO mode. At any time you may abort the memory input by pressing the [CLEAR] key, the display will return to VFO mode. 7-2 Memory recall (M.R) - Recalling receive data from memory Once receive frequency and mode data has been stored into a memory location, its retrieval is quick and simple. Let’s assume that you wish to retrieve the frequency of 88.
AR8000 operating manual Note: If you have activated the PASSWORD protection, it is not possible to access memory banks a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j until the password has been keyed in each time the set has been switched On. Please refer to the PASSWORD section (9) of this manual for further information.
AR8000 operating manual [9] [2] [.] [7] [ENT] to select the desired frequency, the mode and step size will be automatically set by the AR8000 microprocessor. Press and hold the [ENT] key for more than one second to enter memory input mode. Press [1A] [0] [0] [ENT] [ENT] to over-write the previous data. At any time you may abort the memory input by pressing the [CLEAR] key, the display will return to VFO mode.
AR8000 operating manual “COPY-MODE” to indicate that a sub menu has been selected. The cursor will be positioned over the memory bank identifier (LETTER). Use the [DIAL] or keypad to select the memory channel which you would like to copy (like the original of a photo copier!). The third line will alternate between MODE and STEP while the fourth line will alternate between TXT and FREQUENCY so that easy identification of the desired memory channel may be made.
AR8000 operating manual 8-4 MEMORY CHANNEL COPY - alternative method using memory recall Other AR8000 facilities may be manipulated in order to achieve data copying of memory channels. In particular memory recall and memory input may be used to copy frequency, mode and step data but not alphanumeric comment to another memory location.
AR8000 operating manual The third line will alternate between MODE and STEP while the fourth line will alternate between TXT and FREQUENCY so that easy identification of the desired memory channel may be made. Once you have chosen the desired memory channel to be moved press [ENT]. The “original” memory channel number moves to the left hand side of the second line of the LCD and a symbol “==>” points to another memory channel toward the right of the second line of the LCD.
AR8000 operating manual Enter memory data Switch On. Press [2VFO] to enter 2VFO mode. Type in the first frequency [8] [8] [.] [3] [ENT]. Press and hold the [ENT] key for more than one second to access the memory input sub menu. Enter the first memory location [A] [0] [0] [ENT] then press [ENT] again to ignore the “TXT” alphanumeric comment section and accept the memory data. The display returns to 2VFO mode. Type in the second frequency [9] [9] [.] [5] [ENT].
AR8000 operating manual Press [FUNC] [8] to access the “SET EDIT-CH” menu. Move the cursor to the left of the “SWAP-MODE” option using the UP/DOWN keys or [DIAL] then press [ENT] to access the “SWAP-MODE” sub menu. Key in the “first” channel number which you wish to SWAP using the keypad [A] [0] [0] or rotate the [DIAL] to locate the channel number “A00”. Press [ENT] to select the first channel number “A00” which is to be swapped.
AR8000 operating manual Example of memory channel editing Let’s assume that you wish to EDIT the contents of memory channel “A00” which for example may contain the frequency 99.5 MHz with the mode WFM, step set to AUTO, attenuator OFF and alphanumeric comment blank. You may decide the new memory channel data will be 145.5 MHz, mode of NFM, step set to 25 kHz (step offset Off), attenuator On and alphanumeric comment of “2M CALL”. Press [FUNC] [8] to access the “SET EDIT-CH” menu.
AR8000 operating manual The standard options are: 0.05 kHz (50 Hz), 0.1 kHz (100 Hz), 0.2 kHz (200 Hz), 0.5 kHz (500 Hz), 1.00 kHz, 2.00 kHz, 5.00 kHz, 6.25 kHz, 9.00 kHz, 10.00 kHz, 12.50 kHz, 20 kHz, 25.00 kHz, 30 kHz, 50 kHz, 100.00 kHz, 200.00 kHz, 250 kHz, 500.00 kHz. Rotate the [DIAL] to indicate “25.00” on the third line of the LCD to select a 25 kHz step size. The STEP OFFSET facility may be engaged at this point by pressing [PASS] which acts as a toggle.
AR8000 operating manual 8-8 Deleting memory channels and banks It is possible to delete memory channels on an individual basis or delete a whole memory bank in one go. In fact, the delete key has many operations depending upon what operating mode (2VFO, SCAN or SEARCH) the receiver was in prior to the selection of delete using the key sequence [FUNC] [9].
AR8000 operating manual The top line of the LCD will display “MEMO-DATA” the second line will display “DELETE” and the fourth line will display “BANK SET” to ensure that you are aware of the sub menu selected so that accidental memory bank deletion is not possible. The cursor will be positioned over the memory bank identifier (LETTER) to the right of the legend “BANK”. Use the [DIAL] or keypad to select the memory channel which you would like to DELETE.
AR8000 operating manual When the password facility is first used the numbers “0000” are displayed to indicate that no password has been set and all banks are accessible. If “****” is displayed then the password has already been set and only the upper case banks may be accessed. To access the password protected banks key [FUNC] [.] followed by your four digit password (you haven’t forgotten it ? !!) then [ENT]. To set the password for the first time, key in [FUNC] [.
AR8000 operating manual 9-4 If you forget your password Should you forget the password and become locked out, you may reset the microprocessor by holding the [CLEAR] key while powering up the receiver. Your memory bank and search bank data will remain intact but any linked banks, frequency pass data etc will be lost. The password code will be set to “0000” disabling the password protection.
AR8000 operating manual Another special form of scanning is “PRIORITY” where a special channel (default to “A00”) is scanned for activity every five seconds. “SELECT SCAN” enables you to make a single short list of interesting memory channels from all memory banks to be scanned as a separate function. This reduces the need to PASS, LINK and UNLINK banks and channels.
AR8000 operating manual Keep your memory banks tidy - for best scan speed In order to achieve the maximum scanning speed, it is advisable to keep all similar frequencies and modes grouped together within the memory banks. The greater the frequency change between memory channels, then the further the receiver’s VCO (Voltage Controlled Oscillator) has to travel and the slower the scan rates.
AR8000 operating manual The memory bank identifier (such as “A”) will be displayed on the left of the third line of the LCD and memory bank “A” will be scanned with channel numbers changing. When an “active” channel has been located (busy so the squelch opens) the scan process will temporarily pause on the active channel and the full memory location (such as “A03”) will be displayed on the left of the third line of the LCD with any identifying accompanying text to the right.
AR8000 operating manual on the top left of the LCD, if it is not in SCAN mode then press [2VFO] [FUNC] [SCAN] which should achieve SCAN regardless of what the receiver is doing). While in SCAN mode press [FUNC] [SCAN]. The legend “SET M-SCAN” confirms selection. The highlight cursor will be flashing on the left of the second line of the LCD, to the right of the cursor is the selection of bank link “BNK.LK” which is default OFF (no banks linked).
AR8000 operating manual when only the selected banks which contain data will be scanned. * Refer to section 10-12 for further SCAN options which are available in EXPERT status. 10-8 Scanning a memory bank which is not selected in BANK LINK It is still possible to SCAN a single deselected bank by manually bypassing the BANK LINK programming. To SCAN any deselected bank simply key the desired identifying bank letter through the keypad.
AR8000 operating manual The receiver will display a memory channel, mode, frequency, text and scan PASS status. If the desired memory channel to be PASSED (locked out) is not immediately displayed, the [DIAL] may be rotated to review specific memory scan channels. Alternatively the memory channel location may be quickly recalled by keying in the required location using the keypad. For example, to recall memory channel “A00” type [1A] [0] [0] there is no need to press enter. When keying, the “M.
AR8000 operating manual It is strongly recommended that NEWUSER mode is used during familiarisation of the AR8000, use EXPERT status only if you have fully familiarised yourself with all operations. To select EXPERT configuration the CONFIGURATION menu is used. To access the menu press [FUNC] [LOCAL] and the “INITIAL SET” menu will be displayed. Select the NEWUSER/EXPERT option of the fourth line of the LCD, the cursor will be to the right of the “NEWUSER” setting which is the default.
AR8000 operating manual Either use the [DIAL] to change the value or key in a two digit number through the numeric keypad. [0] [0] is accepted as 0.0 seconds (OFF) and [5] [3] as 5.3 seconds. The decimal point is automatically added by the AR8000. The [ENT] key toggles the setting of DELAY between OFF and 2.0 seconds (default). Note: Setting DELAY to 0.0 turns the delay OFF.
AR8000 operating manual Either use the [DIAL] to change the value or key in a two digit number through the numeric keypad. [0] [0] is accepted as 00 seconds (OFF) and [4] [1] as 41 seconds. To accept the changes to FREE scan press [ENT] to return to SCAN mode. Alternatively you may move to the next option (LEVEL SCAN) by pressing the [DOWN] key.
AR8000 operating manual (11) SELECT SCAN - special “select scan list” overview While scanning memory banks, you may decide that some memory channels are MORE INTERESTING than others and become frustrated at having to manually force the SCAN passed uninteresting but active channels. Of course it is possible to PASS these uninteresting channels but you will need to reinstate them at a later time.
AR8000 operating manual 11-1 SELECT SCAN - while in SCAN MODE (tagging and un-tagging) While the receiver is scanning it will stop on active frequencies and you will soon decide that some are “interesting” and some “uninteresting”. To build up your select scan list of interesting channels, start to “tag” the interesting channels while the scan sequence pauses on active memory channels by pressing [FUNC] [PASS].
AR8000 operating manual Each time the sequence [FUNC] [PASS] is keyed then the SELECT SCAN status “s” is toggled so that the channel may be “tagged” (chosen / registered) and “un-tagged” at will. Note: If memory channels are set as “PASS” (with a lower case “p” being displayed), the letter will be over-written by the letter “s” for SELECT SCAN. The status of PASS has not been changed for standard SCAN mode but SELECT SCAN “tagged” channels ignore the status of PASS.
AR8000 operating manual 11-4 SELECT new “SELECT SCAN” channels using the menu To access the “SELECT SCAN” EDIT menu place the receiver into VFO mode then press [FUNC] [PASS]. The “SELECT SCAN” menu displays the legend “SELECT SCAN” to confirm operation. The left side of the second line of the LCD displays “CH-00” with the highlight cursor flashing on the first “0”. The “CH-00” refers to the 100 SELECT CHANNELS of the special list which are numbered 00 - 99 (examples are CH-00, CH-01, CH-03 etc).
AR8000 operating manual 11-5 DELETE individual “SELECT SCAN” channels To access the “SELECT SCAN” EDIT menu place the receiver into VFO mode then press [FUNC] [PASS]. The “SELECT SCAN” menu displays the legend “SELECT SCAN” to confirm operation. The left side of the second line of the LCD displays “CH-00” with the highlight cursor flashing on the first “0”. The “CH-00” refers to the 100 SELECT CHANNELS of the special list which are numbered 00 - 99 (examples are CH-00, CH-01, CH-03 etc).
AR8000 operating manual (12) Priority operation The PRIORITY feature enables you to carry on scanning, searching or monitoring while the AR8000 checks a frequency taken from one of the 1000 memory channels (A00 default) every 5 seconds (default) for activity. The priority checking is accomplished by momentarily moving to the priority frequency to see if it is “active”. If activity is found, the receiver remains on the frequency until the signal disappears.
AR8000 operating manual To cancel priority operation press [FUNC] [4], the legend “P” will be removed from the top line of the LCD. 12-2 Changing PRIORITY channel parameters The default channel used for PRIORITY is “A00” and the frequency and data copied from the channel is checked for activity every 5 seconds. You may select a different memory channel from which the data will be copied or may vary the sampling time for priority activity checking.
AR8000 operating manual (13) SEARCH - search banks and frequency pass The AR8000 has a SEARCH mode whereby an upper and lower frequency limit may be defined and the receiver instructed to look for activity on all frequencies in predetermined step size in an upward or downward direction. The mode and channel step will change automatically when set to the default of AUTO-MODE but data may be specified specifically if preferred. * It is important that you do not confuse SEARCH and SCAN modes.
AR8000 operating manual Searching using the mode of WFM may not be possible in certain frequency bands due to the level of background noise and adjacent channel activity. 13-1 Manual SEARCH between the twin VFO frequencies The simplest form of SEARCH is achieved by programming different frequencies into VFO “A” and VFO “B” while in 2VFO mode. Starting manual search To start MANUAL SEARCH press and hold [2VFO] for more than 1 second.
AR8000 operating manual To restart the manual search process from the start To start the manual search from the original frequency press [2VFO] to return to 2VFO mode than press and hold [2VFO] for more than one second to restart manual search over again. To resume manual search from the current frequency Once you have pressed [ENT] to place the active frequency into VFO mode, you may resume manual search from the current frequency.
AR8000 operating manual The legend “BANK” is displayed on the left of the third line with a memory location to the right. Either key in the desired memory location for storage via the keypad or use the [DIAL] (the UP/DOWN keys change the cursor position if you make a mistake). Press [ENT] to accept the chosen memory location. The cursor moves to the fourth line where a maximum seven character comment may be added.
AR8000 operating manual 13-2 Program search banks It is possible to save parameters of frequency, mode, step step offset and comment into any of the 20 program search banks for easy access at any time. The program search banks (referred to simply as search banks) are identified by letters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J (upper case letters) and a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j (lower case letters).
AR8000 operating manual 13-3 Program search facilities & saving “active” frequencies to memory Starting manual search to initiate PROGRAM SEARCH press [SRCH]. The legend “SRCH” appears on the top left of the LCD to confirm selection. Changing the direction of manual search The direction of search may be reversed by rotating the [DIAL] or using the UP/DOWN keys.
AR8000 operating manual The legend “BANK” is displayed on the left of the third line with a memory location to the right. Either key in the desired memory location for storage via the keypad or use the [DIAL] (the UP/DOWN keys change the cursor position if you make a mistake). Press [ENT] to accept the chosen memory location. The cursor moves to the fourth line where a maximum seven character comment may be added.
AR8000 operating manual SELECT PROGRAM SEARCH BANK FOR PROGRAMMING: To access the SEARCH PROGRAM menu press [FUNC] [6]. The legend “SRCH PROG” will be displayed on the top line of the LCD. The second line of the LCD will display the legend “BANK” followed by the search bank identifier to the right.
AR8000 operating manual Rotate the [DIAL] to indicate “25.00” on the third line of the LCD to select a 25 kHz step size. If EXPERT status has been selected (as shown in section 6-3 of this manual) the channel step may be input using the keypad. Valid step sizes are multiples of 50 Hz. If specifying your own channel step remember that the receive frequency must be divisible by the step size.
AR8000 operating manual 13-5 SEARCH - outline introduction to facilities available in default NEWUSER status During program search, the receiver tunes to every frequency between two specified frequency limits looking for “active” interesting frequencies. When an “active” frequency is located (when a signal is found and the squelch is open) the receiver will temporarily stop searching.
AR8000 operating manual the search bank identifier via the numeric keypad (“A”, “B”, “C” etc). This is the usual way in which program search banks would be used. When in SEARCH MODE, the program search banks are referred to as “SEARCH BANK A”, “SEARCH BANK B”, “SEARCH BANK f” etc rather than using the full title “PROGRAM SEARCH BANK A”, “PROGRAM SEARCH BANK B” etc. This terminology has been employed to make the explanation of and referral to PROGRAM SEARCH BANKS (SEARCH BANKS) less long-winded.
AR8000 operating manual 13-8 Searching a program search bank which is not specified in BANK LINK It is still possible to SEARCH a single deselected bank by manually bypassing the BANK LINK programming. To SEARCH any deselected bank simply key the desired identifying bank letter through the keypad. If initially the bank selected is not linked and does not contain data, the sub menu “SRCH SELECT” will appear. Select the desired bank identifying letter (which does contain data) using the keypad and [.
AR8000 operating manual To access the additional options of “SET SEARCH-SCAN” Once in EXPERT status five additional options are available. To access the “SET SEARCH” menu first place the receiver into SEARCH mode (“SRCH” displayed in the top left of the LCD - press [SRCH] if necessary) then press [FUNC] [SRCH]. Press the [DOWN] key three times (only one press is required if bank link is OFF) to select the first of the four options. Continue using the [DOWN] key until the required option is selected.
AR8000 operating manual HOLD - To resume search when HOLD has been set, press either the [UP] or [DOWN] keys. “FREE search” will be ignored if SEARCH DELAY TIME has been set to “HOLD”. To accept the changes to DELAY search, you must first use the UP/DOWN key to change the cursor position to another line then press [ENT] to return to SEARCH mode as the [ENT] key has a special function in DELAY programming as mentioned above.
AR8000 operating manual To accept the changes to FREE search press [ENT] to return to SEARCH mode. Alternatively you may move to the next option (LEVEL SEARCH) by pressing the [DOWN] key. SEARCH - LEVEL search LEVEL search causes the receiver to check the signal strength of “active” frequencies and only stops when signal strength is above a predetermined level which is programmable in 7 steps plus OFF. The limits are 1 to 7 levels with zero being interpreted as LEVEL search OFF.
AR8000 operating manual direction program search was previously using. Delete program search bank data while in VFO mode First place the receiver into the 2VFO operating mode by pressing [2VFO]. Access the main “SELECT-DEL” by keying [FUNC] [9]. Use the UP/DOWN or [DIAL] to position the cursor to the left of the “SRCH-DATA” option then press [ENT]. Use the keypad, [DIAL] or UP/DOWN keys until the desired bank identifier is displayed.
AR8000 operating manual 14-2 FREQUENCY PASS (lockout) using the “FREQ PASS” edit menu New frequencies may be manually added to the frequency pass list and existing frequencies edited or deleted. The “FREQ PASS” menu is accessed while in SEARCH mode using the sequence [FUNC] [PASS]. The “FREQ PASS” menu displays the legend “FREQ PASS” on the top line to confirm operation. The second line of the LCD will display the legend “BANK” followed by the search bank identifier to the right.
AR8000 operating manual 14-4 Changing (editing) a PASS frequency It is possible to edit a frequency contained in the pass list. To edit a frequency in the pass list (a pass channel) select the corresponding pass channel location (in search mode [FUNC] [SRCH] select letter [ENT] rotate [DIAL] to select frequency which you wish to change). The frequency you wish to change will be displayed to the right of the letter “P”. Key in the new frequency (say 433.200 MHz [4] [4] [3] [.] [2]) then press [ENT].
AR8000 operating manual This may be useful when carefully evaluating frequency bands using manual search and specifically selecting pass frequencies before moving on to automatic program search. During search mode the receiver may stop on an unwanted frequency, carefully note the frequency and if necessary write it down on a piece of paper. Press [PASS] to directly access the “FREQ PASS” menu. Select an appropriate search bank identifying letter using the [DIAL], UP/ DOWN keys or keypad then press [ENT].
AR8000 operating manual (15) AUTO STORE - automatic memory write from program search mode The AR8000 features an Automatic memory write facility. AUTO STORE automatically writes the frequency, mode, step, step offset, attenuator and comment of the first 50 “active” frequencies located in any program search to memory bank “J”. In default status as shipped from the factory and when in NEWUSER mode the AUTO STORE facility is switched “ON”.
AR8000 operating manual The top line of the LCD will display “MEMO-DATA” the second line will display “DELETE” and the fourth line will display “BANK SET” to ensure that you are aware of exactly the sub menu selected so that accidental memory bank deletion is not possible. The cursor will be positioned over the memory bank identifier (LETTER) to the right of the legend “BANK”. Use the [DIAL] or keypad to select memory channel “J” which is to be deleted.
AR8000 operating manual First place the AR8000 into “M.RE” mode by switching on the receiver and pressing the [SCAN] key once (unless it is in SCAN mode in which case you should press [2VFO] followed by [SCAN]). Select memory bank “J” by pressing the bank identifier via the keypad [0J]. The [DIAL] or UP / DOWN keys may be used to review the memory channel data.
AR8000 operating manual DELAY: This parameter determines how soon the receiver will become “dormant (then cycle)” and is timed from when the squelch last closed or keypad was used. The available range is 1 to 99 seconds plus OFF selected by rotating the [DIAL] (default is OFF in NEWUSER mode). When OFF, the power save does not operate and the data field of CYCLE will be displayed as “- -”. CYCLE: This parameter determines how long the receiver will remain active looking for activity then remain dormant.
AR8000 operating manual (17) SPECIAL functions There are five “special” programmable functions available so that you may further optimise the receivers performance. THESE ARE FACTORY SET SO ONLY ATTEMPT TO CHANGE THEM IF YOU ARE CONFIDENT OF THEIR EFFECT. MAKE A CAREFUL NOTE OF THEIR CURRENT POSITIONS BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT TO CHANGE THEM AS THE DEFAULTS SHOWN LATER ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. The options are selected by holding the [FUNC] key plus a numeric key while switching the receiver On.
AR8000 operating manual The default is set to 0.3 seconds. The acceptable range is 0.0 to 4.9 seconds. For solid operation on 900MHz a value of 0.5 may be better. To change the value rotate the [DIAL]. Press [ENT] to accept the changes and return to normal display. Press [CLEAR] to abort the menu and return to normal display. 17-4 AUDIO LEVEL - [FUNC] [4] SWITCH ON This is the level of modulation required for the squelch to determine if valid modulation is present when using AUDIO scan and search.
AR8000 operating manual 18-1 Setting the RS232 parameters The RS232 parameters may be altered using the “REMOTE” option in the CONFIGURATION menu. This is accessed in EXPERT status by pressing the [FUNC] [LOCAL] keys. Make sure that the EXPERT status is selected, if not use the UP/DOWN key to move the cursor alongside the “NEWUSER” option and rotate the [DIAL] so that the legend “EXPERT” is displayed. Press the [DOWN] key until the “REMOTE” menu is displayed. There are two parameters which may be altered.
AR8000 operating manual (19) Clone (copy) data between two AR8000 receivers It is possible to clone (copy) selected or ALL data from one AR8000 to another AR8000 receiver. This is a useful facility when two friends each have the AR8000 receiver and wish to share data. The optional CU-8232 interface is required along with the necessary cables for connecting two AR8000 receivers together. Further information will be provided with the optional CU-8232 interface unit.
AR8000 operating manual Make sure that the EXPERT status is selected, if not use the UP/DOWN key to move the cursor alongside the “NEWUSER” option and rotate the [DIAL] so that the legend “EXPERT” is displayed. Press [ENT] to accept the changes. The process of copying specific data is initiated using the “SET COPY” menu which is accessed by pressing [FUNC] [0] while in EXPERT status.
AR8000 operating manual Both “A” & “B” VFO frequencies will reset to 80.000 MHz and mode/step will be set to AUTO. Search/scan bank linkage and select scan data will be lost but the memory contents will be retained. The pass channels will be off, pass frequencies will be deleted and password will be cancelled. DO NOT USE THIS KEY SEQUENCE UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY.
AR8000 operating manual transmissions (you can usually remove the aerial to determine this). Alternatively the AR8000 (like all receivers) will produce spurii in certain places such as 76.8 MHz and 49.725 MHz as examples. You may use the PASS and AUDIO SCAN/SEARCH facilities to reduce their annoyance to a minimum. The display blinks and changes Ensure that the PRIORITY facility is not engaged. If it is, a letter “P” will be displayed on the first line of the LCD.
AR8000 operating manual “FREQ ERROR” This error message will be displayed if you attempt to key in a frequency outside of the acceptable range of 0.1 MHz (100 kHz) to 1900 MHz. The frequency will revert to the original display and you may re-enter a new frequency. “PLL ERROR” This indicates that the PLL (Phase Lock Loop) has unlocked. This is the system used by the receiver to select and change frequency.
AR8000 operating manual WA7000 wide band active whip aerial Compact aerial designed for installation where space is a problem. The WA7000 is active on the lower frequency band 30kHz to 30MHz and passive on the higher band between 30MHz to 2000MHz. DA3000 VHF-UHF discone aerial 16 element VHF - UHF discone aerial with useable coverage of 25 MHz to 2000 MHz. Supplied with cable and connectors etc.
AR8000 operating manual Long wire aerials For shortwave 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 AR8000. 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. Never attach the wire aerial directly to a support or wall.
AR8000 operating manual As a compromise it may be worth making up a dipole aerial for a band of particular interest and have a VHF-UHF discone plus second random wire for general listening. It is quite easy to make a dipole for shortwave, for that matter one can be easily made up for VHF or UHF too. If being made for VHF-UHF the centre connection of the coaxial cable feeds the upper element set vertically.
AR8000 operating manual Coaxial cables When constructing dipole aerials or connecting VHF aerials 50 OHM coaxial cable should be used. For shortwave or short runs of VHF URM43, URM76 or RG58U is ideal, for longer runs of VHF-UHF feeder it may be worth considering a heavier URM67 or RG213 (or better!). ATU & preselectors Aerial tuning units (ATU) may improve the shortwave section of a wide range receiver by rejecting unwanted signals and only allowing a specific band of frequencies through.
AR8000 operating manual Typical usable coverage starts from about 25 MHz and extends continuously to 500 MHz 1300 MHz or even 2000 MHz. The coverage peaks and dips throughout it’s range as the elements interact to provide the widest possible coverage. Due to their necessary construction discone aerials are a little prone to “wind noise” due to vibration and possible damage in severe gales.
AR8000 operating manual This provides a screen for potential incoming interference and passes any noise down the cable away from the receiver and toward the earth rod. (23) Propagation - shortwave bands VHF and UHF transmissions generally only propagate relatively short distances when compared to short wave signals. For all intensive purposes they may be considered as line-of-sight plus a bit.
AR8000 operating manual If the transmitted frequency is too high for to be reflected by the ionosphere, or the angle too steep, transmissions will simply pass straight though the ionosphere without being reflected and will travel upward to the next ionosphere layer. “E” layer Above the “D” layer is the “E” layer located at a height of about 100 kilometres.
AR8000 operating manual You will note that large areas of the Earth’s surface lays between the point of transmission and reflection, in this area there will be little or no reception. For this reason “F” layer propagation is often referred to a “SKIP” and the reflected signal as “SKY WAVE”. Generally speaking only frequencies below 30MHz are reflected by the ionosphere. Higher frequencies pass straight through even the “F” layers and will continue outward into space for ever.
AR8000 operating manual (24) Specification Frequency Range: 500 kHz to 1900 MHz Receive Mode: AM, NFM, WFM, USB, LSB, CW Frequency Step Size: 50, 100, 200, 500 Hz, 1, 2, 5, 6.25, 9, 10, 12.5, 20, 25, 30, 50, 100, 200, 250, 500 kHz or any multiple of 50Hz up to 999.995 kHz Receive Sensitivity: 500 kHz to 2.0 MHz SSB by field signal strength AM by field signal strength 2.0 MHz to 30 MHz SSB 1.0uV AM 3.0uV NFM 1.5uV 30 MHz to 1.0 GHz SSB 0.25uV AM 1.0uV NFM 0.35uV WFM 1.0uV 1.0 GHz to 1.3 GHz NFM 1.
