AOR AR800 Operating Manual

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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.
Use the UP/DOWN key to select the “BPS” option.
This sets the BITS PER SECOND (baud) rate and is
default to 9600 bps.  Rotate the  [DIAL] to change the
value to either 2400/4800/9600 bps.
Use the UP/DOWN key to select the “DELI” option.  This sets the DELIMITER
(end of line / command).  Rotate the [DIAL] to select either CR,LF or CR.
Press [ENT] to accept the new parameters and return to SEARCH, SCAN or
VFO mode (whichever was previously in use).
Due to the characteristics of the EEPROM and receiver circuits, the choice of
RS232 communications speed between the receiver and computer may not
greatly affect the operational efficiency.  Of course, correct operation will only
be achieved when the parameters are all matched between the computer and
AR8000.
18-2 Changing data input between computer and keypad
When data is received via the AR8000 remote port, operation is transferred to
the computer.
In order to transfer manual “LOCAL” operation to the AR8000 keypad press
[LOCAL].  Operation will be transferred back to the AR8000.  When new data
is received via the remote port, operation will again automatically revert to the
computer. 
						

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(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.
There are two levels of clone
(copy), NEWUSER and EXPERT.
19-1 CLONE (copy) in NEWUSER status
Connect the two AR8000 receivers together using the optional CU-8232
interface and cables.  Decide which receiver is going to SEND the data and
which is going to RECEIVE.  You cannot specify what data is to be transferred,
ALL data must be sent.
The process of copying data is initiated using the “SET COPY” menu which is
accessed by pressing [FUNC] [0] while in NEWUSER status.
Use the [DIAL] to select “SEND-MODE” for the receiver which will SEND the
data and “RCV-MODE” for the receiver which will RECEIVE the data.
Press [CLEAR] now to suspend the copy process.  Should you press
[CLEAR] while copying, the receiver may become operationally unstable.
Press [ENT] to start the copy process.  The display “=>” will appear on the
LCD to indicate that COPY is in progress.
The legend “=” will increase in length as the copy process progresses “===>”.
Each line of “===========” will add one S-meter reading to the fourth line of
the LCD and the copy process ends with S-8.
It will normally take about 5 to 6 minutes to complete copy between receivers.
At the end of the copy process the receiver will return to normal display as
before the copy process was initiated.
19-2 CLONE (copy) in EXPERT status - additional facilities
Additional facilities become available in EXPERT status.
Ensure that the receiver is in EXPERT status.  If it is not press [FUNC]
[LOCAL]. 
						

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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.
Use the [DIAL] to select “SEND-MODE” for the receiver which will SEND the
data and “RCV-MODE” for the receiver which will RECEIVE the data.
There are three options for copy:
1. ALL-DATA: To duplicate an exact copy of one AR8000 with another.  This
is identical to using NEWUSER mode and takes about 5 to 6 minutes.
2. SYS-DATA: To duplicate only the system data such as AUTO MODE and
takes about 1 to 2 minutes.
3. BANK-DATA: To duplicate the MEMORY and SEARCH banks of one set
to another.  Select the appropriate bank by rotating the DIAL before
initiating copy.
Press [CLEAR] now to suspend the copy process.  Should you press
[CLEAR] while copying, the receiver may become operationally unstable.
Press [ENT] to start the copy process.  The display “=>” will appear on the
LCD to indicate that COPY is in progress.
In order to successfully run the copy functions, the two sets must be in the
SAME COPY MODE.
When copying BANK DATA, you may select a different bank in each set.  For
example, you may copy the data from bank “A” of the first set to bank “B” of
the second.
(20)  Trouble shooting
Should you experience problems with the receiver “apparently doing something
unexpected”,  simply switch Off the receiver using the main power switch and
leave it for about 10 seconds.  Switch the receiver back on again and check if
the problem has been cleared.
If an error message appears on the display, refer to section 20-3 of this
message for an explanation.
20-1 Microprocessor reset
Should the receiver still refuse to operate correctly, switch the receiver OFF,
hold the [CLEAR] key while switching the receiver On. 
						

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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.
Search / scan data will need to be manually keyed into the receiver unless the
SYS-DATA has been previously cloned (copied) to another AR8000 so may be
cloned back.
If this does not appear to solve the problem disconnect all connections and
peripherals such as tape recorders, computers, aerials.  Switch the receiver off
and remove one battery then leave the receiver for one minute.
Refit the battery and switch On and test again.
20-2 Other possible apparent operational problems
Missing activity which another receiver may monitor
Ensue that the receiver is not automatically switching Off / On due to the
settings of the “POWER SAVE” facility.  Refer to section 16 of this manual.
Signals are weak
Make sure that the correct or appropriate aerial is fitted.  If monitoring medium
wave transmissions such as 1215 kHz (1.125 MHz) rotate the receiver as the
internal ferrite bar aerial is directional.
Check that the attenuator is not switched On (the letter “A” is displayed on the
top line of the LCD when On).
Ensure the correct receive mode is being used (AM for airband, NFM for point
to point communications - not WFM etc).
Frequency jumps a few kHz
If you have altered the tuning step size for VFO or SEARCH mode, remember
that the receiver frequency must be divisible by the step size.  If it is not, the
AR8000 will correct the displayed frequency to the nearest kHz which is
divisible.
Frequencies and memory channels are skipped
Ensure that the frequencies are not in the PASS list and memory channels not
locked out by reviewing memory contents in memory recall.
The receiver stops on blank carriers
The receiver may stop on blank carriers.  It may be that these are true 
						

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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.
Receiver does not switch on
In using NiCad batteries, charge them using the charger provided or connect
the receiver to a vehicle cigar lighter socket using the DC lead provided.  If you
are using dry batteries, replace them with a fresh set.
If this does not help
If the above does not help, please contact your supplier for assistance.
20-3 Other LCD indications and error messages
“BEEP” & “BOOP”
The keypad usually produces a high pitch “beep” when the correct key or
sequence is followed.  Should an inappropriate key be pressed, a lower pitch
“BOOP” will be produced.  It is possible to switch the beep & boop On/Off
using the CONFIG menu [FUNC] [LOCAL].
“BATTERY LOW” or “BATT ERR”
If using NiCad batteries, charge them using the charger provided or connect
the receiver to a vehicle cigar lighter socket using the DC lead provided.  If you
are using dry batteries, replace them with a fresh set.
“NOT FOUND”
The memory channel or bank specified cannot be found.  This may happen in
SCAN mode with no memory channels with valid data (empty bank) or when
no memory channels have the selected receive mode.  The message may also
be displayed in SELECT SCAN if no channels have been “tagged”.  The
receiver will return to 2VFO mode after approximately 3 seconds.
“MAX ERROR”
This error message will be displayed if you attempt to “tag” or select more that
100 select scan channels.  The error message will also be displayed if you
attempt to PASS more than 50 frequencies in a search bank. 
						

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“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.  Ensure that you
have not set the “special” PLL LOCK DETECT inappropriately [FUNC] [1] while
switching on.
(21)  Optional accessories
SC8000
An optional soft leatherette case is available to add protection to the plastic
cabinet when used on the move.
CU-8232
Computer control and clone (copy) data between two AR8000 receivers is
possible but this optional small interface and lead is required.
CR-8000
Control of a tape recorder motor
(On/Off) and low level record
audio is available from the
AR8000 but an optional small
interface is required.  Note: It is
not possible to simultaneously
connect both the CR-8000 and
CU-8232 interfaces.
Computer control software
A hands off IBM-PC computer program is planned to control the AR8000 via
the remote connector using the optional CU-8232 interface.  A separate serial
connecting lead will also be required to connect to your computer.
LA320 loop aerial
Desktop active loop aerial for portable operation away from a base aerial such
as when while travelling on business or holiday.  Frequency coverage is 1.6 to
15MHz with optional elements to cover 0.2 to 0.54MHz and 0.54 to 1.6MHz. 
						

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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.
ABF125
VHF civil airband filter to reduce the chances of breakthrough especially from
powerful VHF band-2 transmitters.
(22)  Aerials (Antennas) and earth systems
The subject of aerial choice and earth can be quite complex. There are many
advantages and disadvantages to consider before connecting an external aerial
to your receiver.
Theory and practice
One interesting phenomena is that aerial theory and practice can be
surprisingly different.  Keeping common sense in mind it is one of the few
remaining areas for listeners to easily experiment and often achieve fantastic
results.
Whip aerial
The supplied 16cm semi-flexible whip aerial should give adequate results for
general hand-held operation on the VHF and UHF bands.
A longer wire aerial or telescopic whip should be considered for listening to the
shortwave bands.
The AR8000 has an internal ferrite bar aerial for medium wave reception.  For
best signal rotate the receiver as the bar aerial is directional.
Mounting location
It is important to mount any external aerial as high as possible and in clear
space although this is more important at VHF frequencies than for shortwave.
If possible the aerial should have a clear path to the horizon.  Results are
usually disappointing when an installation is in a loft space. 
						

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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.  Instead attach a
small length (one metre) of insulating material such as nylon to each support
(house or tree for example) and then onto the aerial wire.  Allow the wire aerial
to drop diagonally into the window and receiver rather than straight down the
wall.
Keeping the aerial away from supports and building will reduce the loss of
signal from the wire aerial and prevent unwanted noise from entering the aerial
system.
Magnetic balun long wire aerials are becoming very popular as they allow
coaxial cable to be used as the down-lead from the wire aerial into the receiver.
The balun transforms the impedance to a low level suitable for 50 OHM coaxial
cable.  In this instance the path of feeder is unimportant and chances of noise
entering the aerial system reduced.  The 50 OHM BNC aerial input of the
AR8000 is ideally suited for connection of a magnetic balun.
Dipoles
For the very best results you should consider a dedicated aerial  such as a
single or multi-band dipole or similar aerial. The problem with a wide coverage
receiver like the AR8000 is that for the ultimate results many dedicated aerials
are required to cover the whole spectrum.  This may involve complex aerial
switching and reduces the ability to quickly monitor many bands. 
						

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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.
Shortwave dipoles on the other hand are usually mounted horizontally
It is worth noting that dipoles are also quite effective on two and three times
their design frequency so you can cover a few bands at once.  Reception using
a half wave dipole is best at 90 degrees to the direction the aerial is laying,
however if used at two or three times it’s fundamental design frequency,
reception is best closer to the direction the aerial is lying.
A dipole has two legs running in opposite directions and can be mounted
vertically or horizontally (most VHF activity is vertical). One leg is connected to
the centre conductor the coaxial feeder cable while the other leg is connected
to the outer screen of the coaxial feeder cable.  If mounted vertically the centre
of the coaxial feeder should be connected to the leg facing upward.
A simple formulae can be used to calculate the required length of each leg for
a half wave dipole:
           75
————————     =  Length of each leg in metres
Frequency in MHz
i.e.  For 14.2 MHz
         75
———————       =  5.28 metres (i.e. the total length of
        14.2                             the aerial is twice 5.28m.) 
						

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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.  These ATUs are normally constructed in small boxes
with about 3 controls on the front. The disadvantage is the need to constantly
retune the ATU when changing frequency. An ATU of this nature is “passive”,
this means that no power is required to operate the ATU and no extra
circuit-noise is introduced into the receiver.
Loop Aerials
Short wave desktop loop aerials have the advantage of small
size (such as the AOR LA320).  They too have tuning controls
to reject unwanted signals.  As the loop is within easy reach of
the operator it can be rotated to provide directivity.  They can
be particularly useful for DX’ing the lower bands.
Generally speaking they offer excellent portability but cannot compare on the
higher bands with a well sighted long wire aerial.
Active aerials
Active aerials are normally quite compact (AOR WA7000)
and combine a wide coverage aerial (30 kHz - 2 GHz) with
a preamplifier mounted within the aerial its-self.  They
require power to enable them to operate.  Not all designs
allow you to switch the preamplifier off although some have
a gain control.
As with loop aerials they tend to provide good results on the lower bands when
compared to poorly sighted short’ish wire aerials.  Overload can be a problem
on the busy 7 and 9 MHz bands.  If you have a small garden space,  an active
aerial may be worth considering.
Discone
For wide coverage in the VHF-UHF bands a compromise has
to be met and the most popular aerial is a discone (AOR
DA3000). Their appearance is like a large spider or umbrella
without the covering material, the better models have about 16
elements.