Section 1 (1) AR8200 Index (1) Index ............................................................................................................................ 1-1 Introduction .................................................................................................................. 1-2 Take care of your radio ................................................................................................ 1-3 Attention while operating ...............................................................
4-3-2 Starting VFO search ................................................................................................. 4-3-3 Forcing VFO search to resume & changing search direction ................................... 4-3-4 Locking out unwanted frequencies (PASS) .............................................................. 4-3-5 Saving active frequencies to memory ...................................................................... 4-3-6 Exiting VFO search ..........................................
7-9-4 Editing the contents of the select scan list ............................................................... 7-9-5 Deleting all select scan channels ............................................................................. (8) Search mode ............................................................................................................... 8-1 Search types ................................................................................................................
(14) Configuration menu ................................................................................................. 14-1 CONFIG BEEP .......................................................................................................... 14-2 CONFIG LAMP .......................................................................................................... 14-3 CONFIG CONTRAST ................................................................................................ 14-4 CONFIG Power save .
Section 1-1, 1-2 1-1 Introduction Thank you for purchasing the AR8200 hand held wide band all mode receiver. The AR8200 is designed using the very latest technology to ensure the highest levels of performance and reliability. To get the best possible results from your AR8200 we recommend that you read this manual and familiarise yourself with the receiver. Although carefully designed, this receiver (like all receivers) suffers from a degree of internal noises known as spurii.
Section 1-2, 1-3 Operating anomalies Should the AR8200 appear to behave strangely, normal operation may be easily achieved by resetting the microprocessor. Two scenarios may be encountered due to power transients etc: Symptom: LCD remains on, no control of the keypad. Action: Remove any connection to external power such as the charger or cigar lead, remove one NiCad battery and count to thirty! Re-fit the battery and press the power switch again.
Section 1-3, 1-4 more efficient means of monitoring the most wanted frequencies as you have targeted 100% what you most want to hear, by contrast searching is very inefficient for day-to-day monitoring. &Note: It is very important that the squelch is advanced to cancel background noise for the search & scan facilities to operate. This is because the AR8200 believes that it has found an active frequency when the squelch opens and “S” ‘squelch open’ legend is displayed to the left of the signal meter.
Section 1-5 1-5 Controls & functions Controls are located on the top, front and left hand side of the AR8200, a brief identification is given here: 1. Rotary volume control 2. Rotary squelch control 3. BNC aerial socket 4. Function key 5. Main dial (thumb rotary) 6. Key Lock key 7. Monitor key 8. Arrow keys 9. Eject slider for optional SLOT CARD 10. LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 11. Keypad 12. Loudspeaker 13. Lid for optional SLOT CARD 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Section 1-5-1 1-5-1 Keypad Keypad conventions Most keys have multiple functions, their functions are printed on the cabinet. However due the restriction of available size, not all facilities can be shown on the keypad printing. To ease access to the many facilities, two formats are employed:Push and release the key quickly to access the required facility. This applies to primary facilities of keys such as numeric 1, 2, 3 etc.
Section 1-5-2 1-5-2 Summary of keys The main keypad is located on the front cabinet of the AR8200 with other keys located on the left hand side. When powered from internal batteries with the lamp configured to AUTO, the lamp will automatically illuminate when keys are pressed and will stay illuminated for five seconds after the last key press.
Section 1-5-2 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”.
Section 1-5-2 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.
Section 1-5-2 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.
Section 1-5-2 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”.
Section 1-5-3 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.
Section 1-5-3, 1-6, 1-6-1 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.
Section 1-6-1 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.
Section 1-6-2, 1-6-3 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.
Section 1-6-3, 1-6-4 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.
Section 2, 2-1 (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. switch the AR8200 on, and hold the key then . 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.
Section 2-1, 2-2, 2-3 2-2 Connect the aerial (antenna) Two aerials are supplied with the AR8200: l l BNC mounted whip aerial MW bar aerial For general reception on the VHF/UHF bands, connect the supplied whip aerial to the BNC socket on the top panel of AR8200. This is a bayonet connector, line up the slots, press down firmly and twist clockwise, the guides will position, then let go.
Section 2-4, 2-4-1, 2-4-2, 2-4-3 2-4 Keypad and knobs... what you need to know ‘most’ Several of the keys have special characteristics, a summary was given in section 1-5-1 of this manual where it was explained that several keys have two of three functions associated with them. &IMPORTANT Note: Make sure you understand the PASS (LOCKOUT / SKIP) operation before using the PASS facility, this applies to the PROTECT facility too, make sure both facilities are understood before you attempt to use them.
Section 2-4-4, 2-4-5, 2-4-6 2-4-4 CLEAR key to abort entry via the keypad... if in doubt, to return to the previous display menu or operating mode. to select an option when an optional SLOT CARD is used. 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. 2-4-5 MONITOR key The MONITOR key is used to force the squelch open to manually intervene ensuring that no weak signals are missed.
Section 3, 3-1, 3-2 (3) Basic manual operation of the receiver The following information explains how to tune to a specific frequency, change receive mode etc. &Note: When the AR8200 is switched OFF, all VFO data will be automatically stored into flash-ROM memory storage. No battery or capacitor is required for memory backup. Should the NiCad cells (or dry batteries if in use) become completely exhausted, the last stored memory channel or last VFO data ‘may’ be lost.
Section 3-2 Both VFO frequencies are displayed in parallel format on the LCD, one above the other. The ‘active’ VFO (the one which is currently receiving) is displayed using a large font centrally on the LCD, the ‘standby’ VFO is shown on a lower line using a smaller font size. the Each time the key to first select ‘VFO mode’ (should the receiver be scanning or searching etc). key is pushed VFO “V-A” and VFO “V-B” alternate between active and standby.
Section 3-2, 3-3 Transfer to active VFO When the AR8200 has stopped on an active frequency in memory read, scan or search mode, use the key sequence to transfer the frequency to the active (upper VFO). The AR8200 will revert to 2VFO mode where the frequency may be monitored. 3-3 Entering a frequency using the numeric keypad While in VFO mode, enter the required frequency using MHz format followed by . Example of frequency entry 80.
Section 3-3, 3-4, 3-5 displayed to the right of the kHz position. This is to ensure easy recognition of short wave frequencies which are often listed as ‘kHz’ in frequency guides. If an attempt is made to enter an ‘out of range’ or invalid frequency (such as 2345 MHz or 0.09 MHz) the error beep will sound (if beep is enabled) and the LCD returns to the previous frequency prior to frequency input. Acceptable input range is 0.1 MHz to 2040 MHz.
Section 3-5, 3-6 &Note: In AM and FM modes with the squelch open, reception will be momentarily interrupted while tuning and the “S” squelch legend will flash as tuning progresses, a ‘chuff-chuff’ sound will accompany tuning, this is normal. Fast tuning The ï and ð keys may be used to tune the receiver at a rate TEN TIMES FASTER than the selected step size.
Section 3-7, 3-7-1, 3-7-2 3-7 Changing receive mode Due to the necessities of signal bandwidth, channel occupancy and transmission efficiency, different receive modes are used by various services. In addition to this the specification for tuning step and receive mode are allocated by departments of Governments following International discussions so are not consistent throughout the world. For this reason, it is necessary to change receive mode in order to monitor various transmissions.
Section 3-7-2 Generally speaking the following modes will apply: AUTO Receive mode and tuning step will be selected automatically using the pre-programmed auto bandplan data. WFM Wide band Frequency Modulation - used by VHF and UHF broadcast stations as excellent audio quality is available due to the relatively wide frequency bandwidth employed. Used only for local services such as VHF Band-II stereo (received as mono on the AR8200) and UHF TV sound channels.
Section 3-7-2, 3-8 All long range shipping and oceanic air traffic (as well as long range military aircraft) use USB. DATA modes such as RTTY, SITOR, PACKET, FAX etc may be resolved using USB. SSB is a very efficient method of transmission as the unwanted second sideband and carrier have been removed. This allows the full transmitter power to be employed in conveying useful information within the wanted sideband.
Section 3-8 Should you wish to change the default tuning step size . The third main text line of the LCD will display the current default size (perhaps “25.00” kHz). If the reverse LCD legend “AUT” displayed in the upper right corner of the LCD, this indicates that AUTO MODE / STEP is currently selected. The bottom line of the LCD displays the legend “STEP SET” to indicate that the AR8200 is inviting you to change the step size. Use the main dial or ï and ð keys to select the required step size.
Section 3-8, 3-9, 3-9-1 The display doesn’t correct immediately upon frequency entry to allow you to enter the ‘STEP-ADJUST’ menu to change the step size and step-adjust in order to help track unusual band plans. &Note: AUTO-STEP, STEP-ADJUST and AUTO-MODE are linked to the pre-programmed bandplan data. When one of the parameters is changed from the default “AUTO” the bandplan will be ignored.
Section 3-9-1, 3-9-2, 3-93 Access the STEP menu using the key sequence . Use the main dial to select a step size of 20 kHz (do NOT press enter!). to access the STEP-ADJUST menu. Accessing this menu will activate the step-adjust facility, the “ADJ” legend will be displayed on the LCD to confirm selection. You will note that the calculated step adjust value is displayed on the bottom of the LCD as “ADJ+ 10.00” representing a positive offset of +10 kHz with a step size of 20 kHz.
Section 3-93 However, the STEP-ADJUST facility is used to address this situation. With the above in mind, 58.445 MHz with 15 kHz steps in mind, while in VFO mode, key in the start frequency of 58.445 MHz Access the STEP menu using the key sequence . 15 kHz is not a standard size provided by rotating the main dial so key in the required 15 kHz step size. (do NOT press enter!). to access the STEP-ADJUST menu.
Section 3-9-3, 3-10, 3-10-1 With this example of 145.210 MHz with 14 kHz steps in mind, while in VFO mode, key in the start frequency of 145.210 MHz Access the STEP menu using the key sequence . 14 kHz is not a standard size provided by rotating the main dial so key in the required 15 kHz step size. (do NOT press enter!). to access the STEP-ADJUST menu.
Section 3-10-1, 3-10-2 The third line will display “OFFSET 00” with “00” indicating that frequency offset is currently off, there will be no “DUP” legend displayed when the frequency offset is OFF. The bottom line of LCD will display “- - - . - - - -“ indicating that no offset is stored. Use the main dial or ï ð keys to review the offset locations, particularly numbers 20 to 47 where useful factory programmed offsets may be stored.
Section 3-10-2, 3-11, 3-12 For example, use the main dial until the LCD displays “OFFSET 01”, the bottom line of LCD will display “- - - . - - - -“ indicating that no offset has been previously stored. If data is stored, the offset value will be displayed on the bottom line of the LCD and may be overridden. Key in the desired offset in MHz format, the ð key may be used as a backspace should an error be made. i.e. for an offset of +1.
Section 3-12, 3-13 The noise limiter has two settings, on and off. When the noise limiter is ON, the legend “NL” appears on LCD. To toggle the noise limiter on/off , the legend “NL” confirms selection and the noise limiter will be active in AM and SSB modes. To toggle on/off again just repeat the sequence , the legend “NL” is extinguished when the noise limiter is OFF.
Section 3-13 The distance in kHz which the AR8200 can ‘pull’ depends upon receive mode, IF bandwidth and signal strength… the wider the filter and stronger the signal then the further AFC can pull. Typically AFC will pull in the region of ± 5 kHz to ± 15 kHz, the maximum value for AFC is set to ± 25 kHz so that the receiver does not continually tune across the frequency spectrum looking for ‘anything’ to centre tune.
Section 4, 4-1, 4-1-1 (4) VFO enhanced facilities As well as providing a tuning data storage, the two VFOs offer additional features including quick memory, VFO scan, VFO search and VFO environment. 4-1 Quick memories While monitoring in 2VFO mode, 10 ‘quick memories’ are provided for easy saving of current VFO data and simple recall at a later time. When all 10 quick memories have been used and further data is stored, the oldest quick memory will be overwritten.
Section 4-1-2, 4-2 4-1-2 Recalling quick memories Once a few quick memory channels have been stored, key a different frequency into the VFO to assist identification of recalled data (until you fully understand the process). While in 2VFO mode ð The LCD will display one of the quick memory channels which have been stored, use the ï ð keys to scroll through the list which contains up to ten frequencies.
Section 4-2, 4-2-1, 4-3, 4-3-1, 4-3-2 on the next line. The third line displays “ON” and “OFF” with the “OFF” legend displayed in reverse contrast to show that it is currently selected (default). To toggle the VFO SCAN on/off the key or use the main dial or ï ð keys. To accept the changes . While VFO SCAN is active, the “2VFO” legend is replaced with the legend “V-SC” representing VFO SCAN. To toggle VFO scan off, use the same key sequence and menu.
Section 4-3-2, 4-3-3, 4-3-4 &Note: While in VFO mode, if the keypad or key is used, the current status of the audio with respect to the squelch control will be maintained. If the squelch is closed before you PUSH a key, the audio will remain muted until the key sequence is completed even if the frequency becomes active (and vice-versa… if the squelch is open, audio remains even when the squelch closes).
Section 4-3-4, 4-3-5 If PASS channels have already been tagged for VFO SEARCH the legend “PASS xx” will be displayed where “xx” indicates that data is present. If no pass frequencies have been tagged, the legend “PASS 00 ----.----” will be displayed. The frequency pass contents may be reviewed using the ï ð keys or main dial. To delete the current VFO pass frequency, key in a nul value (zero) . The frequency pass channel will be deleted and the list will re-shuffle.
Section 4-3-6, 4-4, 4-4-1, 4-4-2 4-3-6 Exiting VFO search To exit VFO search, to return to the VFO mode (the frequencies in use before VFO search was initiated will be displayed). Alternatively use the or keys to exit VFO search. 4-4 VFO environment menu The VFO has a special menu to enable VFO scan to be toggled, VFO search to be customised, VFO auto store to be toggled on/off, memory bank “J” (which is used as the target for auto store) to be deleted and quick memory auto write to be configured.
Section 4-4-2, 4-4-3 VFO search DELAY is configured via the VFO environment menu, use the key sequence the ò key once to move to the to access the VFO environment menu. DELAY parameter. to toggle the status between 2.0s / HOLD / OFF, the default is 2.0s. Use the main dial to increment in 0.1s or the ï ð keys to increment in 1.0s. 2.0s The AR8200 will wait the specified time after the squelch closes before resuming VFO search.
Section 4-4-3, 4-4-4, 4-4-5 to accept the changes and return to the display prior to accessing the VFO environment menu. Alternatively you may move to the next option (VFO VOICE squelch) by pressing the ò key. While in VFO or VFO search, the LCD legend “LSQ” is displayed to indicate that VFO level squelch is in operation.
Section 4-4-5, 4-4-6, 4-4-7 VFO FREE search is configured via the VFO environment menu, use the key sequence to access the VFO environment menu. FREE parameter. the ò key four times to move to the to toggle between OFF and 5 seconds (the default is off). Use the main dial to increment value by 1s or use the ï ð keys to increment by 5s. to accept the changes and return to the display prior to accessing the VFO environment menu.
Section 4-4-7, 4-4-8 If bank “J” contains data, the legend “J00” will be displayed (the number indicating the presence of data), if no data is held in bank “J” the legend “J--“ will be displayed. to delete the contents of bank “J”, this will take a few seconds to action by the CPU. The legend “J--“ will be displayed to confirm deletion. to return to the display prior to accessing the VFO environment menu. Alternatively you may move to the next option (QUICK MEMORY) by pressing the ò key.
