AOR AR5000 Wideband Reciever Instructions

							AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL          PAGE 1
Contents
(1)  Table of contents  ..........................................................................  1
(2)  Introduction  ...................................................................................  2
2-1  Key information and common menus  ..................................  3
2-2  Accessories supplied  ..........................................................  4
(3)  Major Features  ..............................................................................  4
(4)  Precautions  ...................................................................................  4
4-1  Location  ..............................................................................  4
4-2  Looking after your receiver  ...................................................  5
4-3  Power requirements  ............................................................  5
4-4  Aerial (antenna) connection  .................................................  5
(5)  Controls and functions  ................................................................  6
Front panel
5-1  On/Off power switch  ............................................................  6
5-2  S-meter (signal strength meter)  ...........................................  6
5-3  Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)  ................................................  6
5-4  Main (large) rotary tuning control - MAIN DIAL  ..........................  8
5-5  Sub (small) rotary tuning control - SUB DIAL  ............................  8
5-6  Torque adjustment (MAIN DIAL brake)  .....................................  8
5-7  Removable feet  ...................................................................  9
5-8  Internal speaker  ..................................................................  9
5-9  SQ - squelch control (plus RF control)  .................................  9
5-10  Volume control (AF GAIN)  ................................................. 10
5-11  ACC 1  accessory number one socket  ................................ 10
5-12  Headphone socket  ............................................................. 10
5-13  Front panel keys  ................................................................ 10
Rear panel
5-14  DC 12V - external power connection  .................................. 15
5-15  ACC 2  (accessory 2 socket)  ............................................. 15
5-16  EXT SP - external speaker output socket  ........................... 16
5-17  REMOTE - RS232C computer control port  ........................ 16
5-18  I.F. OUTPUT (10.7 MHz)  ................................................... 16
5-19  STD IN (10 MHz)  ............................................................... 16
5-20  MUTE  ............................................................................... 16
5-21  ANT 2  ............................................................................... 17
5-22  ANT 1  ............................................................................... 17
(6)  Basic manual operation of the receiver  ..................................... 17
6-1  Switching on for the first time  .............................................. 17
6-2  Changing VFO  .................................................................... 17
6-3  Tuning the receiver using the rotary controls  ........................ 18
6-4  Entering a frequency via the numeric keypad  ....................... 18
6-5  Correction of frequency input via the numeric keypad  ........... 19
6-6  Selecting tuning step (increment)  ......................................... 19
6-7  Step-adjust  .......................................................................... 20
6-8  FREQUENCY OFFSET  ....................................................... 22
6-9  Changing receive mode (AUTOMODE)  ................................ 22
6-10  IF BANDWIDTH  ................................................................ 24
6-11  AF SET - (Audio characteristics)  ........................................ 25
6-12  Audio tone eliminator (T-ELMT)  ......................................... 27
6-13  DTMF decoder  .................................................................. 28
6-14  RF Attenuator & preamplifier  ............................................. 28
6-15  CONFIG menu outline of facilities  ...................................... 28
6-16  CONFIG - LAMP  ............................................................... 29
6-17  CONFIG menu - BEEP  ..................................................... 296-18  CONFIG - EXTERNAL I.F. output (SDU5000)  ..................... 29
6-19  CONFIG - Computer control BPS  ....................................... 29
6-20  CONFIG - Advanced aerial switching  .................................. 30
6-21  CONFIG - Frequency standard  ............................................ 32
(7)  Memory banks & channels  ............................................................ 33
7-1  Storing receive data into memory - VFO mode  ...................... 33
7-2  Memory recall - Recalling receive data from memory  ............. 34
7-3  Transfer of memory channel to VFO  ...................................... 35
7-4  Changing and deleting memory data  ..................................... 35
7-5  Deleting memory channels and banks  ................................... 36
(8)  SCAN - scanning memory channels & banks  ............................. 37
8-1  SCAN - outline introduction to facilities available  ................... 37
8-2  Starting to SCAN, considerations  .......................................... 37
8-3  SCANNING a memory bank  ................................................. 38
8-4  Selecting a single memory bank to scan  ................................ 38
8-5  Memory bank linking to scan ALL memory banks  .................. 39
8-6  Specifying memory bank linking  ............................................ 39
8-7  Scanning a memory bank which is not linked  ........................ 39
8-8  SCAN channel PASS (lockout)  .............................................. 40
8-9  
Cyber Scan in SCAN mode  .................................................. 41
(9)  Additional SCAN facilities  .............................................................  41
9-1  SCAN - PAUSE  .................................................................... 41
9-2  SCAN - DELAY  .................................................................... 42
9-3  SCAN - LEVEL SQUELCH  ................................................... 42
9-4  SCAN - VOICE  ..................................................................... 42
9-5  SCAN - MODE (receive mode AM, FM etc)  ........................... 43
(10)  SELECT SCAN - special 
select scan list overview  ................... 43
10-1  Tagging scan select channels  .............................................. 43
10-2  SELECT SCAN - while in SCAN MODE  .............................. 44
10-3  SELECT SCAN while in MEMORY RECALL mode  ............. 44
10-4  Starting SELECT SCAN  ..................................................... 44
10-5  Deleting all SELECT SCAN channels in one go  ................... 44
(11)  Priority operation  .......................................................................... 45
11-1  Engaging PRIORITY channel  .............................................. 45
11-2  Changing PRIORITY channel parameters  ............................ 45
(12)  SEARCH  ......................................................................................... 46
12-1  Manual SEARCH between two VFO frequencies (VA, VB)  ... 46
12-2  Simple search (VC, VD, VE)  ............................................... 47
12-3  Optimising VFO search parameters  ..................................... 48
12-4  Program search banks  ........................................................ 49
12-5  Starting program search  ...................................................... 50
12-6  Cancelling, restarting program search  ................................. 50
12-7  Programming and reprogramming SEARCH BANKS  .......... 51
12-8  Deleting PROGRAM SEARCH BANKS  ............................... 53
12-9  SEARCH - outline introduction to additional facilities  ........... 53
12-10  Linking program search banks  ........................................... 54
12-11  Linking only a few search banks  ......................................... 55
12-12  Searching a bank which is not selected in BANK LINK  ...... 55
12-13  Additional PROGRAM SEARCH facilities (introduction)  ..... 55
12-14  PROGRAM SEARCH - PAUSE  ......................................... 55
12-15  PROGRAM SEARCH - DELAY  ......................................... 56
12-16  PROGRAM SEARCH - LEVEL SQUELCH  ....................... 56
12-17  PROGRAM SEARCH - VOICE  ......................................... 57
12-18  
Cyber Search  ................................................................... 57
12-19  AUTO-STORE  .................................................................. 58 
						

							PAGE  2          AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL
(13)  Frequency Pass  .......................................................................... 58
13-1  Register PASS Frequency  ................................................ 59
13-2  Manually adding a PASS frequency  ................................... 59
13-3  Editing pass frequencies  ................................................... 60
13-4  Deleting individual pass frequencies  .................................. 60
13-5  Deleting complete banks of pass frequencies  ..................... 61
(14)  Real time clock  ........................................................................... 61
14-1  Displaying the clock  .......................................................... 61
14-2  Setting time  ...................................................................... 62
14-3  Alarm clock  ...................................................................... 63
14-4  ALARM programming  ....................................................... 63
14-5  ALARM activation  ............................................................. 64
14-6  SLEEP timer  .................................................................... 64
(15)  Option - Descrambler (voice inverter) - DS8000  .................... 65
15-1  Descrambler installation  .................................................... 65
15-2  Descrambler operation  ...................................................... 66
(16)  Option - CTCSS tone squelch - CT5000  .................................. 66
16-1  Installation of the CT5000  ................................................. 67
16-2  Operation of the CT5000 - overview  .................................. 67
16-3  CTCSS SEARCH  ............................................................. 67
16-4  CTCSS SQUELCH  ........................................................... 68
(17)  Optional I.F. filters (500 Hz, 2.5 kHz & 5.5 kHz)  ...................... 68
17-1  Fitting the optional 500 Hz filter  ......................................... 68
17-2  Installation of other filters  .................................................. 69
(18)  Trouble shooting - microprocessor reset  ............................... 70
18-1  Power Off / On  .................................................................. 70
18-2  CPU reset switch  .............................................................. 70
18-3  CPU soft reset  .................................................................. 70
18-4  AF.SET INT/EXT  .............................................................. 71
18-5  What next - dealer support  ................................................ 71
18-6  Power-up special key sequences  ....................................... 71
(19)  Optional accessories  ................................................................. 72
(20)  Aerials (Antennas) and earth systems  .................................... 72
(21)  Propagation - short wave bands  .............................................. 75
(22)  Specification  ............................................................................... 76(2) Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the AOR AR5000 wide band all
mode receiver. The AR5000 uses the very latest NCO
(Numerically Controlled Oscillator) technology to ensure
the highest levels of design, performance and reliability.
It is recommended that you carefully read this handbook
and familiarise yourself with the receiver before placing it
into operation.  Every effort has been made to make this
manual correct and up to date.  Due to continuous
development of the receiver and by error or omissions
anomalies may be found and this is acknowledged.  Most
apparent faults are usually due to accidental misoperation
of the receiver,  carefully read all of the manual before
deciding to return the receiver for repair.
Although carefully designed, this receiver (like all receivers)
suffers from a degree of internal noises known as spurii.
They are a product of the receiver’s circuitry and do not
represent a fault.
© This manual is protected by copyright AOR Ltd 1995,
1996.  No information contained in this manual may be
copied or transferred by any means without the prior
written consent of AOR Ltd.  ® AOR and the AOR logo
are registered trade marks of AOR, Ltd.  All other trade
marks and names acknowledged. E&OE.
If you are very familiar with operating similar
equipment you may choose to refer directly to section
(6) once you are sure the precautions are fully
understood.
Operating manual Conventions
Where text appears in a graphic format such as 
,
the key is to be pressed exactly as shown.
For example:  
  
Means press the 4 key followed by the 9 key followed by
the enter key.
Words contained in speech marks “PASS” or “F-PASS
VFO” refer to indications displayed on the Liquid Crystal
Display.
Where the mode of FM is referred to, this indicates
Frequency Modulation (narrow and wide depending upon
I.F. filter selection).  For clarity,  the triple function [MHz]
[ENT] [TEXT] key is referred to as 
.
Note: If you take too long entering data (about 90
seconds) the display will revert to it’s original
condition. 
						

							AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL          PAGE 3
2-1  Key information and common menus
The five VFOs are assigned special status (6-2):
VFO-A  (VA)Manual search between VFO-A
and VFO-B
VFO-B  (VB)Manual search between VFO-A
and VFO-B
VFO-C  (VC)Simple search
VFO-D  (VD)Simple search & accept
frequency from the search mode
VFO-E  (VE)Simple search & accept
frequency from the scan mode
Memory write (7-1):
Press and hold the 
 key for more than one
second and follow the prompts.
Mode selection (6-9):
To change the receive mode, briefly press the 
key.  The “MODE” legend will flash on the LCD to
confirm that the mode select menu has been activated.
The following modes are available from the MODE
menu:  “AUTO”, “FM”, “AM”, “LSB”, “USB” and
“CW”.  If automode is currently in use, the legend
“AUTO” will be displayed on the LCD. When you have
made selection, press 
 to accept the new mode.
To select automode press and hold the 
 
key for
more than one second, the legend “AUTO” is displayed
on the LCD to confirm operation.
AGC (6-9):
Press 
 
When in automode the legend “AUT” is displayed.
AGC  OFF
AGC  FAST
AGC  MIDDLE
AGC  SLOW
Audio characteristics (6-11):
Press 
 
A-LPF 3.0 kHz
A-HPF 0.05 kHz
DE.EMP 750
CW.PITCH 0.7 kHz
AUDIO INT
Option menu (6-12, 6-13, 15-2, 16-2):
Press 
 
DE-SCR OFF (if DS8000 option is fitted)
CTCSS OFF  (if CT5000 option is fitted)
DTMF OFF
T-ELMT OFFConfig menu (6-16, 6-17, 6-18, 6-19, 6-20, 6-21):
Press 
 
LAMP ON
BEEP 4
EXT-IF OFF
BPS  9600
ANT 1
STD.INT 12.8 MHz
Delete menu (7-5, 10-5, 8-8, 12-8, 13-5):
Press 
 
then press and hold the  
key for more
than one second.
DEL  MEM-CH
DEL  SEL-CH
DEL  M-PASS
DEL  SRCH
DEL  F-PASS
Additional scan facilities (9-1, 9-2, 9-3, 9-4, 9-5):
Press 
  
PAUSE OFF
DELAY  2.0
L-SQ  OFF
VOICE  OFF
MODE ALL
Additional VFO facilities (12-3):
Press 
 
DELAY  2.0
L-SQ  OFF
VOICE  OFF
Programming search banks (12-7):
Press 
 
LO
HI
MODE FM  
(set to AUTO if AUTOMODE is used)
IFBW 0.5  (skipped if AUTOMODE is used)
STEP 1.000  (skipped if AUTOMODE is used)
TXT
Additional search facilities (12-14, 12-15, 12-16,
12-17, 12-19):
Press 
  
PAUSE OFF
DELAY  2.0
L-SQ  OFF
VOICE  OFF
A.STORE OFF 
						

							PAGE  4          AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL
Clock programming (14-2):
Press 
 
then press and hold the  
key for more
than one second.
SELECT 24H / SELECT 12H
6-25-00  1  / AM.6-25-00  1
TXT  1
4-23-30  2  /  PM.4-23-30  2
TXT  2
Alarm clock programming (14-4):
Press 
 
then press and hold the  
key for more
than one second.
ALARM 0-00
ALARM LENGTH 15
ALARM ALM RADIO / ALARM ALM BEEP
ALARM VOLUME 80
2-2 Accessories supplied
a.c. mains power supply
Operating manual
Additional extensions for front feet
(3) Major Features
l  Large LCD
A large rear illuminated liquid crystal display (LCD)
provides display of receive frequency, mode, etc plus alpha
numeric text along with each search bank and memory
channel.
l  Massive memory
A large EEPROM memory store holds a total of 1000
memory channels (100 ch x 10 banks), and 20 search
banks.  Each search bank has a total of 100 PASS
frequencies plus a further 100 for VFO operation.  This
type of memory store does not require external power or
internal battery power to retain the memory contents.  The
real time clock is backed by an additional super capacitor
which will maintain the correct time for approximately 50
hours even with no external power connected to the
receiver.
l  Wide frequency coverage, all mode, automode
The AR5000 has a very wide frequency coverage of
10kHz to 2600MHz (acceptable input from 5 kHz) in FM,
AM, USB, LSB & CW.  The all new receive circuitry
provides high sensitivity and superior strong signal handling
thanks to the clever RF design which is optimised to each
receiving band with electronic tuning (pre-selector) circuits
up to 1GHz.
Comprehensive bandplan information specific to the target
market area has been programmed into the AR5000receiver.  This inclusion will greatly simplify both frequency
entry and search programming.
The receiver will 
automatically select the appropriate mode
and channel step.  Of course, should you wish then both
the mode and channel step may be manually changed as
desired.
l  Wide variety of useful operational features
w High speed Cyber Scan and Cyber Search
w Multi VFO  (5-VFO)
w A minimum of 1 Hz tuning rate by NCO
w Frequency Offset facility to help follow
      duplex transmission
w RF preamp & attenuator
w Auto aerial selection - programmable
w Wide range of search/scan facilities
w Pre-programmed automode (receive mode,
      step size, IF bandwidth)
w Step-adjust for unusual banplans
w Standard TCXO plus external 10 MHz input
w Twin tuning knob (MAIN DIAL has a variable
      torque controller)
l  Other useful features
w Variable beep tone
w Sleep timer On/Off, alarm
w Analogue signal meter for easy reading
w Output terminals for external decoder, etc
w Auto-memory facility (On/Off switchable)
w RS232 PC remote control
w Large capacity EEPROM for memory backup
w Tuning step size from 1Hz to 999.999kHz
(4) Precautions
4-1 Location
Do not use or leave the receiver in direct sunlight
(especially the LCD).  It is best to avoid locations where
excessive heat, humidity, dust and vibration are expected.
Always treat the receiver with care.
Take care to avoid spillage or leakage of liquids into the
receiver and a.c. power supply.  Special care should be
taken to avoid liquid entering via the power jack and
earphone sockets.
Avoid static discharge from discones or long wire aerials,
earth to a central heating radiator or similar earthing point
in order to discharge the wire before connection to the
receiver.  Always  disconnect and earth any external aerial
system if an electrical storm is expected.
Avoid a rapid power switch On/Off sequence.  If switched
off, leave at least two seconds before switching on again.
Ensure the a.c. mains plug connections are tight and other
d.c. connections (such as cigar lighter plugs) are secure.
Avoid strong RF fields from nearby transmitters.  If in doubt,
disconnect the AR5000 from the aerial and switch the set
off. 
						

							AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL          PAGE 5
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 AR5000 is designed for operation from an external
d.c. supply of 12 ~ 16V at approximately 1.0A minimum.
Always use the mains power supply provided, or a
regulated d.c. power supply of 13.5V @ 1.0A or more
using the optional DC3000 connecting lead.  Always switch
the receiver off when connecting or disconnecting the
power lead.
Note:  The d.c. input socket uses a special type of
connector.  This plug / socket is of a moulded type and
pre-wired, positive is the RED wire.  The chassis of the
receiver is negative ground.
The power supply is pre-fitted with the correct mains (a.c.)
plug for the appropriate market.  This AR5000 power
supply has no connection to the EARTH pin of the mains
plug.  A separate earth may be taken to the outer
connection of the SO239, N-type of BNC rear panel
sockets, then to a water pipe, central heating system
radiator or external earth rod.  If fitting a separate external
earth rod, consider the implications carefully if your a.c.
mains supply uses a Protective Multiple Earth (PME)
system.  If in doubt consult an expert electrician.  Never
earth to a gas pipe!
Safety notice: Allow air to circulate around the power
supply, never cover the top with paper, clothing etc.  Always
disconnect the power supply from the a.c. mains supply
when not in use.
4-4 Aerial (antenna) connection
The AR5000 has two 50 OHM aerial input sockets fitted
as standard to the rear panel.  Further aerials may be
connected using the optional aerial switching unit AS5000
with switching data being fed from a rear panel accessory
socket (ACC 2).The aerials input selection may be programmed by the
user for different bands, at default these are:
ANT 1:  50 OHM N-type socket - All frequencies
ANT 2: 50 OHM SO239 socket - User selectable
Aerial inter-series adapters are readily available to convert
from N-type, SO239 etc to BNC or other plugs & sockets
as required allowing straight forward connection to almost
any aerial.
An aerial attenuator system allows selection of AUTO,
0dB, 10dB or 20dB.  The attenuator control switches in /
out of circuit the RF preamplifier and attenuator affecting
the sensitivity of the receiver.  20dB may not be selected
above 230 MHz.  RF gain is also available in all modes
via a front panel rotary control, this is especially useful in
providing optimum audio quality for SSB operation.
Aerial Tuning Units (ATU)
An ATU can improve the selectivity of any receiver when
listening to the short wave bands when connected to long
wire aerials (other than a short wire of a few metres).  This
valuable extra selectivity is created provided by rejecting
out of band signals enabling the receiver to 
single out
one band of frequencies while rejecting potentially strong
unwanted transmissions.  The AR5000 has a built in
automatic preselected front end for frequencies up to
1GHz.
An ATU is usually constructed in a small box with about
two or three controls on the front panel.  One disadvantage
however is the need to constantly retune the ATU when
changing frequency.  An ATU of this type has no active
circuitry so is known as a 
passive device.
Active short wave desktop loop aerials
Designed for the short wave 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 that of an ATU.
* For further information please refer to section 20 of this
manual regarding aerial and earth systems. 
						

							PAGE  6          AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL
(5) Controls and functions
The AR5000 receiver is housed in a strong metal cabinet.
Controls for operation are located on the front of the
cabinet with connections to the rear.
Front panel
5-1 On/Off power switch 
This rectangular shaped plastic button (key) is located in
the top left corner of the front panel and switches the set
On/Off.
To switch the set on, connect a suitable power source
and depress the 
 switch, the microprocessor will
then power the set up.
To switch the receiver off press the 
 switch a second
time, the microprocessor will then switch the set off.
5-2 S-meter (signal strength meter)
The rear illuminated analogue SIGNAL METER is located
to the left hand side of the front panel.  Relative strength
of incoming signal is indicated in standard 
S points where
S1 is weak and S9 is strong.  Calibration above S9 is in
dB up to +60dB.  As with other receivers, the meter is for
relative signal strength comparison and calibration may
not be totally reliable especially on FM mode.
5-3 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
Display of operational information is provided via a high
contrast wide angle backlit green LCD, this includes
frequency, mode, bandwidth, alpha-numeric comments
for memory channels and search banks etc.
LCD test
The LCD may be tested by holding the  
key while
switching on the receiver using the 
 key.
1  Ensure that set is switched off.  Press and hold the
 key... don’t let go of it!
2  Press the 
 key to switch on the AR5000, this
may be a two handed operation.
3  Release the 
 
key.  All LCD characters will be
displayed.
4  Press the 
 key to restore a normal display. 
						

							AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL          PAGE 7
The display is split into 28 specific areas, a summary
of which follows:
1  “BUSY” legend appears when the squelch is open
(signal present).
2  “FUNC” as a reverse legend appears when the 
key is pressed signifying that the receiver’s microprocessor
is awaiting the press of another key, where the SECOND
FUNCTION shown in white (not orange) adjacent to the
keys will be activated... an example is 
  
to
activate the keylock.  When the second function is
activated, the “FUNC” legend disappears and often a new
LCD legend appears to confirm selection.
3  “ANT” aerial (ANTENNA) number currently in use.  As
standard this will be “ANT 1” or “ANT 2” but may be higher
if the optional aerial switch AS5000 is in use.
4  “RMT” signifies whether the receiver is under normal
keypad control or by a REMOTE device such as the
optional SDU5000 spectrum display unit or computer.
RMT = ReMoTe, 
no legend indicates standard keypad
operation.
5  “KEY” indicates that KEY LOCK has been selected,
this is activated by the key sequence 
 .  Key
lock prevents accidental changing of the receiver’s front
panel controls.  When in the locked condition only the
Volume, Squelch, Power and 
 controls will respond.
6  “ALARM” indicates that the alarm facility has been
activated.  The legend “ALARM” will be displayed on the
LCD even when the AR5000 is switched off (as long as
power is maintained to the receiver).  At the prescribed
time, the receiver will automatically switch on.  It is possible
to program the switch on time, select radio or beep, volume
level and duration before switch off.
To activate the alarm use the sequence 
 , the
same sequence cancels the alarm as a toggle.  This is
very useful for setting up unattended recording or when
using the AR5000 as an alarm clock!
7  “SLEEP” indicates that the sleep timer circuit has been
activated.  When the prescribed time for sleep has elapsed
the receiver will switch off automatically... very useful when
listening to the radio in bed.
To program the sleep time press 
 
then press and
hold  
for more than one second.  A sleep selection
menu will be displayed, use the MAIN DIAL or SUB DIAL to
select the required time (between 1 & 120 minutes) then
press 
To activate / deactivate the SLEEP facility use the toggle
sequence 
 
8  “PRIO” indicates when the PRIORITY facility has been
activated by pressing the 
 
key.
9  “N-SQL” and “L-SQL” indicate that the receiver is set
to operate from its squelch circuit, the “BUSY” legend
appearing during activity.  In normal use “N-SQL” noise
squelch is used but “L-SQL” (level squelch) may be
selected for search and scan operations.  If neither legend
is displayed, the RF GAIN facility has been activated.
10  “TONE” is displayed when the optional CTCSS board
has been selected for tone decoding, often used by
amateur radio repeaters and utility users.
11  “FM”, “AM”, “LSB”, “USB” or “CW” - indicates AR5000
receive mode.
12  “SCAN” is displayed when the memory banks are
SCANNED (automatically checked for activity).
13  “PAUSE” is a selectable parameter for SCAN and
SEARCH modes, the legend indicates that the facility is
in operation.  The AR5000 will wait the specified duration
of pause time on a busy frequency before moving off again
even if the frequency is still busy.
14  “VCS” is a selectable parameter (VOICE) for SCAN
and SEARCH modes, the legend indicates that the facility
is in operation.  The AR5000 may be programmed to
ignore certain types of blank carriers and unwanted signals.
The value may be selected between 1 to 255 and OFF
while in the scan and search parameter program sub
menus.
15  “L-BANK” as opposed to “BANK” indicates that more
than one scan or search bank has been selected to be
scanned or searched as a group.  In other works the banks
have been LINKED, bank link.
16  “BANK” indicates that the receiver is currently in
memory recall mode (no SCAN legend), scan mode (two
lines of bank & channel numbers) or search mode. 
						

							PAGE  8          AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL
In search mode only a bank number and the legend “SR”
is displayed - but no channel number.
17  The one or two digit number indicates which scan or
search banks have been selected.  In scan mode the range
is 0 to 9 (ten banks) and in search mode 00 to 19 (twenty
banks).
18  Attenuator setting.  The display is always proceeded
by “AT T” (for attenuator) and followed with dB for level
(decibel).  “ATT 00 dB” indicates attenuator OFF, “AT T
10 dB” indicates that 10dB of attenuation has been
applied and “ATT 20 dB” indicates that 20dB of
attenuation has been applied.  The attenuator menu is
activated by the 
 
key.
Note: Above 230 MHz only 0dB & 10dB are available
and the RF preamplifier is always in circuit (“AMP” legend
displayed).  Below 230 MHz the “AMP” is displayed in the
“00” position.
19  Frequency, text and various status messages are
displayed in this area.  There are a maximum of ten digits
providing frequency read-out down to 1Hz resolution.  In
text mode a maximum of eight characters may be
displayed for search bank and memory channel
recognition.  The frequency red-out is always followed by
the legends kHz or MHz.
Note: frequencies below 3.0 MHz (3000 kHz) are always
shown as kHz.
20  “AMP” is displayed when the RF preamplifier is
switched on. The amplifier is selected in the
ATTENUATOR sub menu accessed by pressing 
Note: Above 230 MHz the RF preamplifier “AMP” legend
is always displayed.  Below 230 MHz the “AMP” is
displayed in the “00” attenuator position.
21  “STEP” is displayed during entry of STEP SIZE (tuning
increment) for manual tuning or search operations.
“STEP-ADJ” is displayed when the STEP-ADJUST facility
is in use so that unusual bandplans may be correctly
tracked.
22  “AUTO” is displayed when the receive mode selection
is set to AUTO.  In this condition the AR5000 will select
the appropriate receive mode, channel step (and many
other parameters) for the frequency entered in VFO mode
and during search programming.  This simplifies operation
and speeds up manual changes in frequency.
23  “FR-OFS” is displayed when the FREQUENCY
OFFSET facility is selected.  This enables a fixed offset
frequency to be stored in a special bank allowing quick
frequency change and monitoring of duplex pairs such as
inputs to amateur band repeaters or VHF marine traffic.
24  “=” AGC OFF indication.  When the AGC (Automatic
Gain Control) is switched off, strong signals may sound
distorted... however AGC off may be useful for DX’ing
when the optional 500 Hz Collins mechanical CW filter is
fitted.  To ensure that the AGC is not switched off
unintentionally, two parallel bars are displayed betweenthe MHz / kHz LCD legends.  The available selection of
AGC is: OFF, FAST, MIDDLE & SLOW.
25  I.F. filter bandwidth is displayed on the LCD in kHz.
The options are:
“220”, “110”, “30”, “15”, “6”, “3”, (“0.5” optional),
i.e. “3K” for 3.0 kHz.
26  “PASS” is displayed to indicate that a memory channel
has been LOCKED OUT so that it will not be scanned,
similarly with a frequency in search mode, it will be skipped.
27  “AS-M” indicates that active frequencies found while
in search mode will be automatically added to memory
bank “0” (Auto Store to Memory).  Auto-store is switched
on.
28  The two digit number ranging from 00 to 99 indicates
that the AR5000 is in MEMORY RECALL or SCAN mode
(if the scan legend is also displayed).  The two digit number
represents the memory channel number.  The 
 
keys or SUB DIAL select bank, the MAIN DIAL selects
memory channel number and the keypad allows direct
access to the three digit bank/channel number i.e. 
  
for bank 1 channel 23, there is no need to press
enter.
In SEARCH mode the letters “SR” are displayed in this
lower right corner of the LCD with the bank number
displayed above.
5-4 Main rotary tuning control - MAIN DIAL
The large rotary tuning control is prominently located on
the front of the cabinet.  This control changes the received
frequency up and down in whatever step increment has
been selected between 1 Hz ~ 999.999 kHz.  This control
is often referred to as the 
VFO (Variable Frequency
Oscillator), a rather historic name for a tuning mechanism.
In this operating manual it is referred to as the MAIN DIAL.
5-5 Sub rotary tuning control - SUB DIAL
This smaller control may be programmed in a number of
different ways.  It too is largely used to tune the receiver
and is intended to make channel tuning easier where
channelised bandplans are in force (such as 2m amateur
band FM allocations etc).  The control is extensively used
during the input and changing of operational parameters
such as attenuator, IFBW etc.  In this operating manual
the control is referred to as the SUB DIAL.
5-6 Torque adjustment (MAIN DIAL brake)
This small slide control affects the free movement of the
large rotary tuning control (MAIN DIAL), this is useful to help
prevent unintentional frequency change due to accidental
movement of the MAIN DIAL.  When the lever is in the
UPWARD position, the MAIN DIAL is FREE RUNNING,
moving the lever downward adds friction to dampen the
control. 
						

							AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL          PAGE 9
Note: A microprocessor reset switch is hidden behind
the upper section of the lever’s slot.  Reset can be useful
if the receivers operation has been upset due to static
discharge or power supply transients.  Details are given in
section 18 of this operating manual.
5-7 Removable feet
The front of the receiver is lifted up clear of the table top
to allow easy access to the front panel controls and clear
visibility of the LCD.  The front feet may however be
removed (unscrewing by hand in an anti-clockwise
direction using the knurled disk) for mobile operation.
Additional height may be added by fitting the two spacers
provided with the receiver in the accessories bag.
5-8 Internal speaker
The AR5000 is fitted with a lower case mounted speaker.
In order to provide best projection of audio from the
receiver, a custom horn has been designed and fitted to
the receivers underside (visible from the front panel).
5-9 SQ - squelch control (plus RF control)
The squelch control is used to eliminate unwanted
background noise when monitoring a normally inactive
frequency and is also used by the AR5000 microprocessor
to determine when a channel is 
active (busy).  The
receiver cannot scan or search when the background
noise is present.
The squelch control requires careful setting to achieve
optimum operating performance.  Rotate the controlclockwise until the background noise just disappears
(threshold), this is the most sensitive setting of the control.
In practice the control is usually rotated a little further
clockwise beyond the threshold point to prevent the
receiver from stopping on noise or very weak and
unreadable signals.
If the control is rotated too far clockwise then weaker
signals will be totally lost and only local strong signals will
be heard.
When the squelch control is rotated anticlockwise so that
background noise is audible, the squelch is referred to as
being 
OPEN.  In a similar manner, when the squelch
control is rotated clockwise so that the background noise
is muted, the squelch is referred to as being 
CLOSED.
The squelch is not normally used when listening to short
wave transmissions due to the relatively high short wave
background noise, the usual setting for the control when
listening to short wave is fully anticlockwise (squelch open).
When the squelch is OPEN (busy), a “BUSY” legend is
displayed on the left of the LCD.
Note:  Even when the squelch is fully CLOSED a very
low level background noise may still be audible.  This is
because the receiver’s audio amplifier circuit is
permanently operational in order to provide fast search /
scan rates and an efficient squelch opening characteristic.
This phenomenon is common with other wide band
receivers on the market today.
When the squelch is set up for normal operation, the
legend “N-SQL” is displayed on the top line of the LCD
slightly centre-right, this stands for Noise SQueLch.
RF GAIN
It is possible to configure the squelch control to function
as RF GAIN by selecting 
  
on the keypad, the
“N-SQL” legend is removed from the LCD to confirm
operation.  The RF GAIN control reduces the level of
amplification applied to the receiver’s I.F. circuits.  This
has the effect of reducing the  sensitivity of the receiver in
much the same way as the attenuator but is more
controllable.
The usual position for the AR5000 RF GAIN control is
fully anti-clockwise when the set is at its most sensitive.
As the control is rotated clockwise the S-meter will
advance to indicate what strength signal is required to
produce solid and readable results.
The control is most useful on SSB where the RF GAIN
should be adjusted so that the 
peaks of SSB signals just
deflect the S-meter.  This will greatly reduce the level of
background noise especially during pauses in speech or
inactivity.
When RF GAIN is used (squelch switched off), the word
“N-SQL” is removed from the top line of the LCD. 
						

							PAGE  10          AR5000 OPERATING MANUAL
5-10  Volume control (AF GAIN)
The volume control is located to the left of the front panel
underneath the signal meter. It is used to set the required
audio output through the loudspeaker or headphone.
When turned fully clockwise the volume is at maximum,
when rotated fully anti-clockwise the volume is reduced
to minimum.
5-11  ACC 1  accessory number one socket
A front panel accessory socket is located to the lower left
corner of the front panel which provides outputs for audio,
tape motor switching and discriminator.
A standard 8-pin mini-din connector is used (which is widely
available or the optional CR5000 tape lead may be used).
The pin-outs for ACC 1 are as follows:
1  12V d.c. output with a maximum available current of
30mA (useful for feeding electret microphones and other
low power devices).  The voltage will fluctuate depending
upon supply voltage being fed to the AR5000.
2  Detector output (without audio filtering), useful for
improving performance of certain decoders such as
pagers etc.  The level output is 180mV RMS and
impedance is 100k OHMS or greater.
3  Audio input.  The receiver’s audio amplifier stage can
be configured to use signal from an external device rather
than from its own receive circuits.  This permits
break-out of signal for processing (DSP etc) which is then
reapplied to the receiver for amplification.  The input circuit
is configured for a level of 180mV at a nominal impedance
of 100k OHMS.
As the internal audio path needs to be 
cut as part of the
break-out  set-up, the microprocessor has to be
configured accordingly.  To select EXTERNAL AUDIO
INPUT press  
  
then press the  
key
four times to display “AUDIO INT”.  Rotate the SUB DIAL
to display “AUDIO EXT” then press 
.  The usual
sound from the receiver will be muted until an external
audio signal is applied (fed back in).
Of course, the set’s own audio may be fed out through
the ACC 1 socket and back in again which increases the
receivers flexibility under certain professional monitoring
applications.
Note: At high volume levels, a low level leakage of internal
audio signal may still be heard from the receiver’s
speaker... this is normal and does not represent a fault
(or problem).4 & 5  Tape record motor switching using a non-polarised
photo-MOS relay.  The switched output is designed for
low voltage (12V) d.c. with a maximum current of 350mA,
the insulating voltage is 40V.  The 
switch-on-impedance
is 1.2 OHMS.
6  High level audio output.  The AR5000 provides both
high and low level audio output for feeding tape recorders
and other remote devices, the output is independent of
volume control level.  Pin 6 provides a level of 700mV
RMS @ 600 OHMS, ideal for line output.
7  Low level audio output.  Pin 7 provides a level of 2mV
RMS @ 600 OHMS, ideal for microphone input of tape
recorders.
8  Ground.
5-12  Headphone socket
This quarter inch (6.3mm) socket is located on the left
hand side of the front cabinet directly underneath the power
and 
 
keys.  A pair of headphones or earphone may
be connected with an impedance of 8 OHMS or greater.
When this headphone socket is used, the internal speaker
and any external speaker will be automatically
disconnected.
5-13 Front panel keys
 
- POWER
This rectangular shaped plastic key located in the upper
left corner of the front panel switches the set On/Off.
 
- FUNCTION
This key is located to the upper left of the front panel and
selects SECOND FUNCTION of the front panel keys.
When pressed a reverse “FUNC” appears in the top left
of the LCD.  The FIRST function of the keys are printed
on their faces (in orange for words and white for numbers),
the SECOND functions are printed in white directly above
the corresponding key.
For example, the select KEY LOCK, press 
followed by 
If you wish to cancel “FUNC” press  a second time,
or 
 
or  
or tune the receiver using the MAIN
DIAL or SUB DIAL.