AOR AR8200 Receiver Manual

							11
PUSH this key to place the AR8200 into 2VFO mode where you may receive spot frequencies and
‘generally monitor activity’.  The LCD displays two lines of frequency readout, the upper (larger) being the
current receive frequency.  The LCD legend “2VFO” confirms selection with each VFO being identified as
“V-A” and “V-B”.
   again to toggle between VFO-A “V-A” and VFO-B “V-B”.
  to initiate VFO search between the two displayed frequency limits set by VFO-A and
VFO-B, the legend “V-SR” confirms selection of VFO SEARCH.
    to access the VFO MODE select menu where the following parameters
may be configured:-
VFO SCAN ON / OFF (default = OFF)
DELAY OFF / HOLD / 0.1s to 9.9s (default = OFF)
LEVEL OFF / 1 to 255 (default = OFF)
VOICE OFF / 1 to 255 (default = OFF)
FREE OFF / 1s to 60s (default = OFF)
AUTOSTORE ON / OFF (default = OFF)
DELETE J (deletes the current data from bank J)
QUICK MEMORY OFF / 10s to 990s (default = OFF)
PRESS this key to switch the AR8200 on and off as a toggle.  To prevent accidental switch on and off,
the power key is placed between two ridges and has to be held for more than one second for the press to
be registered.  The ridges also help location of the power key when operated in areas of low level
lighting.
PUSH this key to activate the band scope,  the ,  or  key to return to
normal operation.
&Note: Priority operation is disabled when the band scope facility is in use.
Traces will be overwritten as the band scope is written from left to right on the LCD.  To build up a long
term activity display, 
    to toggle the PEAK HOLD facility on / off, the LCD
legend “HLD” confirms operation.
The key sequence 
    recalls a previously saved band scope trace.
PUSH this key to PASS (lockout) memory channels during memory read & scan mode and to PASS
(skip) unwanted frequencies in search mode.  Also acts as select ON/OFF/DEFAULT toggle in various
menus.
Section 1-5-2 
						

							12
  in 2VFO mode to access the VFO PASS menu which extends to include the
SEARCH bank pass edit menu.
    in 2VFO, SEARCH or SCAN mode to access the SELECT SCAN edit
menu.
PUSH to abort entry via the keypad.
  to select the optional SLOT CARD when fitted.
 and HOLD the  key while powering On the AR8200 to soft reset the microprocessor
should the AR8200 appear to behave strangely... no memory contents will be lost.
Numeric figure one during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “A” or “a” and search bank
“A” or “a” or “K” or “k”.
    to toggle the attenuator on / off, the LCD legend “ATT” confirms
operation.
    to toggle the noise limiter on / off, the LCD legend “NL” confirms
operation.
Numeric figure two during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “B” or “b” and search bank
“B” or “b” or “L” or “l”.
    to access the tuning STEP size (increment) menu.
Numeric figure three during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “C” or “c” and search bank
“C” or “c” or “M” or “m”.
    to access the receive mode selection menu.
    to select AUTO-MODE where the receiver mode and tuning step are
automatically selected by the AR8200 microprocessor from the pre-programmed band plan data (this is
a short cut to save using the receive mode menu).  The LCD legend “AUT” confirms that auto-mode is
in operation.
Section 1-5-2 
						

							13
Numeric figure four during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “D” or “d” and search bank
“D” or “d” or “N” or “n”.
    toggles the priority facility on/off (assuming that one has already been
assigned using the priority menu).  The LCD legend “PRI” confirms when priority has been selected.
    to access the priority menu where the data from a memory channel may
be assigned for priority use.  The interval sampling time may also be specified.
Numeric figure five during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “E” or “e” and search bank
“E” or “e” or “O” or “o”.
    to initiate select scan (assuming that more than one memory channel
has already been tagged for select scan).  The LCD legend “SEL” indicates when select scan is active.
  or  or  to exit select scan.
Numeric figure six during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “F” or “f” and search bank “F”
or “f” or “P” or “p”.
    to access the program search menu where upper / lower frequency
limits etc for search mode may be entered.
Numeric figure seven during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “G” or “g” and search bank
“G” or “g” or “Q” or “q”.
    to access the configuration menu where the beep, lamp, LCD contrast,
RS232 etc. may be configured.
Numeric figure eight during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “H” or “h” and search bank
“H” or “h” or “R” or “r”.
    to access the edit menu when memory channels and search banks may
be amended and copy protection configured.
Section 1-5-2 
						

							14
Numeric figure nine during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “I” or “i” and search bank “I”
or “i” or “S” or “s”.
    will delete the currently displayed memory channel during memory read
or scan.
    accesses the delete menu where search banks, VFO pass frequencies,
memory banks, select channel tags, channel protect status & memory pass tags may be deleted.
Numeric figure zero during frequency input.  Selection of memory/scan bank “J” or “j” and search bank
“J” or “j” or “T” or “t”.
    to toggle the AFC (Automatic Frequency Control) facility on/off, the LCD
legend “AFC” confirms selection.
    to access the clone (copy between radio) menu.
Numeric decimal during MHz format frequency input.  Used in memory and search as a CASE SHIFT
key to toggle between UPPER and LOWER case banks.
    to access the frequency offset menu.
    to access the sleep timer menu.
Used as an ENTER key to accept data entry.
  during VFO operation to write the current frequency to QUICK MEMORY where the
key sequence 
   ð recalls quick memory.  The ïð keys may be used to cycle
through the quick memories, the LCD legend “
«” indicates when a quick memory has been recalled.
  to enter the current frequency in to one of the 1,000 memory channels.
    to access the text search menu.
Section 1-5-2 
						

							15
1-5-3  Side panel
The left hand side of the AR8200 comprises of three push keys, a nest of four
arrow keys and a rotary main dial.  An eject slider is also provided to release the
optional SLOT CARD.
FUNCTION KEY 
The function (shift) key is used to select the second function of keypad facilities.
  to toggle the function status on/off.  A solid reverse legend LCD
“FUNC” indicates when function shift is in operation.  The function status is
terminated automatically in the normal course of entry.
  to initiate double-shift which is used in certain menus as a short-cut.  The reverse
“FUNC” legend flashes when 
double-shift is engaged.
&Note: When the “FUNC” legend is displayed in VFO mode, the tuning speed will be
increased to assist rapid frequency change using the arrow keys and main dial.
The KEY LOCK is intentionally small to reduce the chances of accidental operation.  Key lock is useful
when you do not wish an important frequency to be lost or the AR8200 to be incorrectly set to a different
frequency.  The key lock status is 
not deactivated by switch off / on, the  and  keys are
not affected by key lock.
  to toggle the key lock on /off, an LCD key symbol “” indicates status.
The MONITOR key is used to force the squelch open so that you may manually intervene to ensure that
no weak signals are missed.  
 and hold the  key to defeat the squelch control (saves
turning the squelch control fully anti-clockwise then back to threshold position).
When the “DUP” legend is displayed during frequency offset or VFO SCAN (DUPLEX) operation, the
 key forces the AR8200 to switch to the alternative frequency.
In SCOPE mode, the 
 key enables the reception of the marker frequency.
MAIN DIAL
This recessed rotary control is intended to be scrolled up and down using the thumb of your left hand
(although you may adjust it using the middle finger of your right hand etc).  Primarily this is the tuning
control, upward rotation tunes the AR8200 upward in frequency and downward rotation tunes downward
in frequency using the selected tuning step size.  When the “FUNC” legend is displayed, the tuning
speed will be increased.  The main dial is also used to move between menus and manipulate input
through menus (generally mimicking the arrow keys).
&Note: The main dial also has a switch capability, this is why the main dial has lateral
movement.  However, this switch capability is not used by the AR8200.
Section 1-5-3 
						

							16
ARROW KEYS
The arrow keys 
ïðñò are laid out as a group of four keys (up, down, left
and right).  This format is particularly convenient when used with the thumb of
the left hand (although you may use it with the middle finger of your right hand
etc) for navigation through on-screen menus.
ð
The right arrow key is used as a backspace when entering frequency via the
keypad.  Also selects bank in memory read mode, moves the cursor position
(especially during text input), tunes the receiver and changes values in
menus.
ï
The left arrow key selects bank in memory read mode, moves the cursor
position (especially during text input), tunes the receiver and changes
values in menus.
ñ
The up arrow key increments to next memory channel in memory read
mode, tunes the receiver in VFO mode, selects menu items, changes
values in on-screen menus and forces scan & search to resume when
stopped on a busy channel.
ò
The down arrow key increments memory channel in memory read mode, tunes the receiver in VFO
mode, selects menu items, changes values in on-screen menus and forces scan & search to resume
when stopped on a busy channel.
&Note: It is possible to push two of the arrow keys at the same time (in error) by using
diagonal force, ensure that the arrow keys are operated cleanly and one at a time.
1-6  Power supply and battery charging
The AR8200 is designed for operation from internal batteries or from its supplied a.c.-to-d.c. charger.
Operation is possible from another good quality regulated d.c. supply of 12 to 14V, which should be
capable of supplying 300mA.  Never connect the AR8200 directly to the a.c. supply.
The d.c. input socket uses a mini 1.3mm power connector.  This connector is configured CENTRE
POSITIVE, the chassis of the receiver is at negative ground. The charger supplied is pre-wired and
provides a nominal 12V d.c. output with suitable connectors being fitted as standard for the a.c. power
input and connection to the AR8200.
SAFETY NOTICE - Always disconnect the charger from the a.c. socket when not in use.
If you are not going to use the AR8200 on batteries for a while, remove the batteries from the radio
(to prevent dry cells leaking) and charge NiCads before placing them into storage.
1-6-1  Internal batteries
The AR8200 is supplied with four AA size NiCad rechargeable batteries.  These batteries are not
charged at the factory before shipping, so you will need to charge them before use.
Section 1-5-3, 1-6, 1-6-1 
						

							17
Dry cells such as Alkaline or Zinc / Manganese may be used but cannot be charged inside the
AR8200, if dry cells are fitted to the AR8200, remove dry cells before using the cigar lead or
connecting the charger or external power.
The AR8200 charging circuit is not designed to recharge dry cells or NiMHi batteries, if these are to be
recharged, they must be removed from the AR8200 and charged in a specialist external charger
following the manufacturers recommendations.
Fitting batteries
The battery compartment is located on the rear cabinet of the AR8200.  A hinge is located at the bottom
edge with a ‘locking mechanism’ on the top edge of the compartment cover.  To release the battery
compartment locking mechanism, slide the release upward (using a thumb is the best method) then lift
the compartment using a rotating action (using the thumb and forefinger of the other hand).  Do not use
excessive force, the cover is completely detachable.
Insert the four NiCads supplied (or alternative AA sized batteries) observing the correct polarity
(head to toe positive / negative).  Refit the battery compartment cover into the closed position.
&Note: Always switch the AR8200 off before fitting / removing batteries or when
connecting / disconnecting external power.
Section 1-6-1 
						

							18
1-6-2  Charging the NiCads
It is possible to charge the supplied NiCad
batteries while still fitted inside the AR8200
using the charging unit provided.  Switch off
the AR8200 then connect the plug from the
charging unit to the 12V d.c. input socket on
the right hand side of the AR8200 cabinet.
Connect the charger to the a.c. supply and
switch the power to the charger on.
When fully discharged, the NiCad batteries
will take 12 hours to fully charge while the
AR8200 is switched off.  It is possible to charge
the AR8200 while the radio is switched on and being used, however the charging cycle will take longer
(16 hours is typical) and a degree of hum superimposed on reception may be encountered as the
charger is not regulated.
The AR8200 will provide around 4 hours of continuous operation with one third volume and constant
reception.  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 AR8200 many be used for continuous operation.
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 the charger to continue operation or replace the exhausted cells.
1-6-3  Cigar lighter lead
It is possible to use the supplied cigar lead to charge the AR8200 NiCads and to power
the radio in exactly the same manner as the a.c. charger (except that it is connected to
a vehicle 12V d.c. supply).  Ensure that the vehicle has a 12V d.c. battery, do not
connect to a truck / H.G.V. 24V battery.
The tip on the cigar plug is positive (+), the vehicle must be negative ground.  A 1A
fuse is fitted inside the cigar lead, should this fuse blow for some reason, ensure it is
replaced with the correct type.  Avoid short circuits.
Switch off the AR8200, connect the cigar lead to the
AR8200 12V d.c. input socket THEN connect the
cigar plug to the vehicle and switch the AR8200 on.
Section 1-6-2, 1-6-3 
						

							19
It is advisable to switch the AR8200 off when starting the vehicle as the starter motor often causes
power surges.  Some vehicles require their ignition to be ON for the cigar socket to operate.
1-6-4  Battery considerations
The supplied NiCads are not factory charged.  Fit them to the AR8200 and charge for about 12 hours.
After this time the NiCads should never be left in a flat condition or internal filaments will form (inside the
NiCads) shorting its terminals rendering it useless.  If you are not going to use the NiCads for a while,
charge them before placing them into storage.  NiCads have a memory effect, for longevity, once a
month flatten them completely then fully charge them again.  Avoid excessive ‘topping up’, when
possible, it is best to charge NiCads when they are totally flat.
If you have not used the cells for a long time, specialist external chargers may help ‘bring them back to
life’ by first discharging them COMPLETELY then charging at a higher rate than the AR8200 can provide.
It is common practice to place exhausted NiCads into a torch to ensure that they are totally flat before
charging, this ensures the best life span.  Regular charging in a rapid external charger may be
convenient but will reduce the life span of the cells.
Do not over-charge, charging for more than 24 hours may significantly shorten the life span of the
NiCads.  If the NiCads are left charging permanently, there is a small chance of explosion due to the
build up of heat.  If you intend permanently using the AR8200 from an external power supply, remove
one battery to prevent over-charging... or better still remove all the batteries and store them away.
Do not short NiCads as they can provide high current levels.
The supplied NiCads will typically provide around 300 charge / discharge cycles.
If dry cells are used (Alkaline, Zinc, Manganese) make sure they are removed if external power is
connected to the AR8200.  Do not mix cells of different types and do not mix new and used cells.
Section 1-6-3, 1-6-4 
						

							20
(2)  Making the AR8200 ready for operation
2-1  LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
All relevant operational information is provided via the large LCD.  To see all the available LCD legends,
and to test the LCD, an LCD test routine has been provided.  
 and hold the  key then
switch the AR8200 on, 
 .  When the sign-on message has been displayed all LCD
graphics will be displayed.  To exit the LCD test 
 .  The LCD contrast is adjustable
using the configuration menu as is the rear LCD & keypad illumination.
1  Priority
2  Search hold / band scope peak hold
3  Voice squelch
4  Free search / scan
5  Level squelch
6  Low battery
7  Auto store
8  Attenuator
9  Automatic Frequency Control
10  Step-adjust
11  Duplex
12  Sleep
13  Key lock
14  Function
15  Pass (lockout)
16  Select scan
17  Noise limiter
18  RS232 remote
19  Band scope peak
      search / quick memory
20  Auto-mode
21  Operating mode (2VFO,
      SRCH, SCAN etc)
22  Receive mode
23  Tuning step size
24  Active receive frequency
25  Squelch open legend
26  Signal meter
Typical examples of LCD:-
   
Section 2, 2-1