Specifications

on a regular basis, if you are not going to use the 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.

These BP8600 is not charged at the factory before shipping, so you will need to charge it for 48 hours

before use. Dry cells such as Alkaline or Zinc / Manganese cannot be used, the AR8600 charging

circuit is not designed to recharge dry cells or NiMHi batteries.

Fitting batteries

The optional BP8600 battery pack must be fitted in a workshop.

1-6-2 Charging the optional BP8600 battery

The optional BP8600 is intended to be charged while inside the AR8600 while connected to an external

12V d.c. power supply. Switch the AR8600 to STANDBY by pressing the key for more than

one second (or switching off the AR8600 using the PWR/VOL control). It will take 48 hours for the

BP8600 to fully charge, the BP8600 will not successfully charge when the AR8600 is in operation.

The AR8600 will provide around 2 hours of continuous

operation with one third volume and constant reception

with the backlight switched off. The operational time

between charges will be dependant upon volume level

and operating parameters, the power save facility will

also extend operating time.

If connected to an external power supply, the AR8600

many be used for continuous operation regardless of

the charge status of the NiCad battery (the charge

current being at a very low level).

When the NiCads near discharge, three states will be encountered:-

1. A battery symbol will appear in the extreme top right of the LCD a couple of minutes before the

NiCads completely discharge. The operational cut-off point is difficult to determine making advance

warning brief. The legend will have one diagonal bar representing minimal charge left.

2. The LCD battery legend will become an empty outline... operation will cease almost immediately.

3. The NiCads will expire and the set will power off (the VFO frequencies and last stored memory

may be lost). Connect a 12V d.c. power supply to continue operation or recharge the battery.

Section 1-6-1, 1-6-2