AOR The New Classic AR3030 User manual

AR3030
General Coverage Receiver
30kHz ~ 30MHz ALL MODE
*Collins mechanical filter inside
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AR3030 operating manual
1
(1) Introduction & accessories
Thank you for purchasing the AOR AR3030 General Coverage Receiver. The
AR3030 uses the very latest DDS (Direct Digital Synthesizer) technology to
ensure the highest levels of design, performance and reliability. A TCXO
(Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator) is provided for high stability and
the legendary Collins 6kHz AM filter for the ultimate in AM selectivity.
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, the 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 1993. 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 trade marks of AOR,
Ltd. * Collins is a trade name of Rockwell International. The use of Collins and
“Collins inside” has been authorised by Rockwell International.
All other trade marks and names acknowledged. E&OE.
© 1993 AOR Ltd.
Operating manual Conventions
Where text appears in [BOLD UPPERCASE] the keys are to be pressed
exactly as shown.
For example: [4] [9] [mtr]
Means press the 4key followed by the 9key followed by the mtr key.
Words contained in speech marks “PASS” refer to indications displayed on the
Liquid Crystal Display.
Where the mode of FM is referred to, this indicates NFM (Narrow FM).
For clarity, the LCD diagrams for key sequences often have highlights ""
above digits to signify they are flashing. These highlights do not actually
appear on the LCD.
1-1 Accessories supplied
Mains power supply
Operating manual

AR3030 operating manual
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(2) Table of contents
1 Introduction... 1
1-1 Accessories supplied... 1
2 Table of contents... 2
3 Major features... 4
4 Precautions... 8
4-1 Location... 8
4-2 Looking after your receiver... 8
4-3 Power requirements.. 8
4-4 Aerial (antenna) connection... 9
5 Controls and functions... 10
Front panel 11
5-1 On/Off power switch... 10
5-2 Headphone socket... 12
5-3 Mode keys and indicators... 12
5-4 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)... 12
5-5 VFO key... 12
5-6 SCAN key... 13
5-7 MEMO key... 13
5-8 BW - Bandwidth key... 13
5-9 TONE key... 14
5-10 PASS key... 14
5-11 AGC - Automatic Gain Control key... 14
5-12 ATT - Attenuator key... 15
5-13 M.in - Memory input key... 15
5-14 Numeric keypad 0 - 9... 15
5-15 [.] decimal and separator key... 15
5-16 [MHz] MHz key... 16
5-17 [kHz] kHz key... 16
5-18 [mtr] metre key... 16
5-19 ENT/BS - Enter and Backspace key... 16
5-20 Volume control... 17
5-21 BFO pitch control... 17
5-22 SQL - Squelch control.. 17
5-23 RF gain control... 18
5-24 Rotary tuning control... 18
5-25 S-meter - (signal strength meter)... 18
5-26 Loudspeaker (internal)... 18
Rear panel 19
5-27 EX power - external power connection... 20
5-28 AUX socket... 20
5-29 SP - Speaker output socket... 20
5-30 FAX - FAX audio output socket... 21
5-31 RS232C - Computer control port... 21
5-32 GND - Ground connection... 21
5-33 Wire ANT - (aerial) connector... 21
5-34 ANT selection - Selection switch... 22
5-35 WHIP ANT / 50 OHM / LW-HF ANT socket... 22

AR3030 operating manual
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5-36 VHF ANT - VHF socket... 22
5-37 LIGHT switch... 22
5-38 BATT compartment... 22
6 Basic manual operation on the receiver... 23
6-1 Tuning the receiver using the rotary control... 24
6-2 Changing receive mode... 24
6-3 Changing VFO A/B... 26
6-4 Tone - Audio tailoring... 27
6-5 Bandwidth and filters... 27
6-6 AGC - Automatic Gain Control... 28
6-7 ATT - Attenuator operation... 28
6-8 RF gain control... 29
6-9 Squelch control... 29
6-10 BFO pitch control... 29
6-11 VFO and keypad lock... 30
6-12 Entering a frequency via the keypad... 31
6-13 Memory mode... 32
6-14 Memory write... 33
6-15 Deleting memory contents... 34
6-16 Memory channel scan... 36
6-17 Program memory channel scan... 37
6-18 Pass channel operation... 38
6-19 Pause time programming in scan mode... 38
6-20 Delay time programming in scan mode (VHF only)... 39
7 Computer control (RS232C)... 40
7-1 Connection... 40
7-2 Communication parameters... 41
7-3 Start up and end... 41
7-4 Command transmission in terminal mode... 41
7-5 Monitoring the contents of received serial data... 42
7-6 FORMAT 1 - Contents of the received signal... 42
7-7 FORMAT 2 - Reading the receiver’s signal strength... 43
7-8 FORMAT 3 - Transmitting the memory contents... 43
7-9 Change the receive modes or Make new entries... 43
8 Optional accessories... 45
9 Trouble shooting - (microprocessor reset)... 46
10 Aerials (antennas) and earth systems... 47
11 Propagation - shortwave bands... 51
12 Specification... 54

AR3030 operating manual
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(3) Major features
General
The AR3030 offers the very latest technology through use of its’ DDS (Direct
Digital Synthesizer). The legendary Collins 6kHz AM filter is fitted as standard
to provide the highest levels of AM selectivity. High stability is accomplished by
the standard fitting of a TCXO (Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator).
As the model name would suggest, the tunable coverage is 30kHz - 30 MHz
(with 29.999995 MHz being the actual upper limit of tuning) using silky-smooth
5Hz steps. The AR3030 offers all mode operation as standard: AM, S.AM
(double side band synchronous), USB, LSB, CW, FAX & FM. All necessary
information relating to frequency, filter setting etc is presented via a highly
visible switchable backlit custom LCD. Mode selection is displayed via a series
of LEDs.
Although 5Hz tuning steps are available in all modes coupled to true automatic
carrier insertion in USB, LSB, FAX & CW, a separate BFO control is selectable
in USB, LSB, FAX & CW to provide even greater flexibility
producing a manual form of pass band tuning.
While in any receive mode it is possible to increase the tuning steps from five
Hz (display resolution 10Hz) to hundreds of Hz and kHz by pressing the kHz
key while in VFO mode. Selection of MHz tuning may also be accomplished in
VFO mode by pressing the MHz key. The position of the underscore character
“_” indicates selected tuning rate.
A smooth action rotary tuning control with a finger-tip-hollow is provided to
ensure a high level of operating pleasure, convenience and versatility.
Frequencies may be entered directly via the numeric keypad, great versatility is
provided by careful attention to firmware programming. Frequencies may be
entered as kHz i.e. [6] [0] [9] [0] [kHz], MHz i.e. [6] [.] [0] [9] [0] [MHz] or the
“band” may be selected i.e. [4] [9] [mtr] returns to the last frequency used on
that band, probably no other receiver offers such convenience. All broadcast
bands are recognised as well as region 1,2 & 3 Amateur bands... i.e. 80, 75,
49m etc.
Twin VFOs retain all necessary information such as frequency, mode, I.F.
bandwidth, audio filter, attenuator setting and tuning step size and BFO status
On/Off. 100 memories also hold the full range of settings making transfer to
and from memory straight forward and very convenient.
Optional VHF converters
Two optional VHF converters are planned:
AM 108.00000 MHz to 139.99999 MHz
FM 140.00000 MHz to 169.99999 MHz

AR3030 operating manual
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One converter may be internally fitted to further extend the receive coverage of
the receiver. A separate 50 OHM BNC aerial socket is fitted to the rear case of
the AR3030 in order to simplify connection to a dedicated VHF aerial.
SSB (Single Side-Band) - who uses it?
SSB is a general term given to two additional modes of operation USB for
upper-side-band and LSB for lower-side-band. Generally speaking, SSB is
used by long range services such as oceanic airband, ship to shore and
Amateur band to increase the operational coverage of the radio transceivers.
Most point-to-point services use USB including Amateur band. By convention,
Radio Amateurs use LSB below 10MHz.
True carrier insertion is used for USB, LSB and CW with a separate SSB highly
selective filter being used for these modes. A BFO control (which operates in
CW, USB, LSB & FAX modes) has also been provided so that the CW note
may be optimised to suit individual preferences and to form a simple manual
form of passband tuning, particularly helpful on a crowded frequency.
The inclusion of SSB on the AR3030 adds a new dimension to the listening
potential of the receiver when compared to AM broadcast-only shortwave
receivers.
All Mode
As well as SSB, the AR3030 can receive all other popular modes: AM
(Amplitude Modulation) used mainly by broadcast stations and some other
services (such as VHF commercial airband with the optional VHF converter
fitted). Synchronous AM (double side band) used to combat fading on the
shortwave bands. NFM (Narrow band Frequency Modulation) little used on
the shortwave bands but found on the UK CB radio and 10m Amateur Bands.
Bandwidth and filters
The AR3030 is fitted with several standard IF bandwidths including a cascade
8kHz/-6dB ceramic filter (CFU455G2) for AM/SSB/FAX/CW plus two audio
bandwidths:
AM/S.AM
6kHz/-3dB in the normal position using the legendary Collins eight resonator
mechanical filter (526 8636 010) and a 2.4kHz/-6dB Murata ceramic filter
(CFJ455K6) in the narrow position. Should the narrow CW optional PCB
position not be used, it is possible to fit an additional wider filter for AM such as
Collins 8.5kHz/-3dB 526 8561 020. Due to the I.F. cascade filter, the widest
possible filter is 8.5kHz.
USB/LSB/FAX
2.4kHz Murata ceramic filter (CFJ455K6). An optional 2.5kHz/-3dB Collins
eight resonator mechanical filter (526 8635 010) of higher specification may be

AR3030 operating manual
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optionally fitted (workshop fitting) to replace the 2.4kHz filter. Should the narrow
CW optional PCB position not be used, it is possible to fit the optional Collins
2.5kHz filter as an addition which will be selected in the narrow position.
CW
2.4kHz Murata ceramic filter in the Normal position. An optional 500Hz/-3dB
Collins seven resonator mechanical filter (526 8634 010) may be optionally
fitted (workshop fitting)in the Narrow position.
FM
15kHz Murata ceramic filter (CFU455E2) fixed. Selection of Normal/Narrow is
disabled.
Attenuator, whip amplifier and aerial input & AGC
The AR3030 does not contain RF amplification prior to the band-pass filters, all
gain is applied in the more selective IF stages. This ensures the highest
immunity to intermodulation effects often caused by the high number of strong
signals encountered on the shortwave bands.
There are two aerial inputs. The first is of the standard BNC type allowing
straight forward connection to almost any low impedance shortwave dipole or
multiband aerial system. The second is a “jaw” designed for a high impedance
long wire. An earth connection is also provided on the rear panel.
A rear panel three position slide switch selects the 50 OHM BNC connector or
high impedance wire input. The third position applies a preamplifier and
impedance matching network to the BNC aerial socket which may be used in
conjunction with a telescopic whip aerial to enable a fair level of operation away
from a long wire aerial or more elaborate system.
An aerial attenuator system allows selection of 0db, 10dB or 20dB from the
front panel. RF gain is also available via a front panel rotary control, this is
especially useful in providing optimum audio quality for SSB operation. AGC
attack / decay may also be selected from the front panel either fast or slow but
cannot be switched off.
Memories & SCAN
There are 100 memory channels which can store frequency, mode, AGC,
attenuator, bandwidth, AF filter (tone), BFO and lockout status. The memories
may be used to store shortwave or VHF frequencies if the VHF converter option
has been fitted.
Program scan allows only a selected block of channels to be scanned while
lockout permits certain channels to be skipped. Pause and delay scan add to
flexibility.
Data may be easily entered into memory and back to VFO where it may be
tuned.

AR3030 operating manual
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There is a massive EEPROM store for all memory channels and VFO data
so that no memory backup battery is required. The memories may be over-
written time and time again.
RS232 computer port
A 9 pin D type socket is fitted to the rear case, this will permitcontrol of many
receiver facilities via a computer.
Loudspeaker and audio output
The AR3030 has a built-in 66mm 3 WATT loudspeaker. A 3.5mm jack socket
is located on the rear panel of the receiver for external speaker connection.
Connection to this socket automatically cancels audio from the internal speaker.
Audio output is also available through a quarter inch headphone jack plug
located on the front panel of the receiver. Use of this headphone socket
automatically cancels output from both the internal and external loudspeaker
if used.
A low level audio output suitable for tape recording is available through via the
AUX socket located on the rear panel. Switching to control a tape motor is also
available via the AUX socket. A second constant level slightly higher output is
available via a second rear panel 3.5mm socket suitable for connection to a
facsimile decoder.
AGC and IF outputs are also available via an 8 pin DIN socket located on the
rear panel.
Versatility & power connection
The AR3030 can meet a number of requirements to satisfy Broadcast, Amateur
band, Airband or Marine enthusiasts, Professional off air monitoring and of
course casual listening too. The World’s shortwave and Amateur bands can be
monitored, even the longer range Oceanic Airband and ship to shore.
The receiver is designed to operate from either an external DC supply (such as
that provided) of a nominal 13.8V DC or from internally fitted batteries (8 x AA
dry cells which may not have been provided). Although rechargeable batteries
may be used with the receiver, they must be externally recharged.
The receiver must never be connected directly to the mains supply.

AR3030 operating manual
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(4) Precautions
4-1 Location
Do not use or leave the receiver in direct sunlight. 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 AC
power supply. Special care should be taken to avoid liquid entering via the
power jack. Always remove batteries if the receiver is not going to be used
for a while.
Avoid static discharge from wire aerials, earth to a central heating radiator or
similar in order to discharge the wire before connection to the AR3030. Always
disconnect and earth an aerial system if an electrical storm is expected.
Avoid connecting / disconnecting the power connection or batteries with the
set switched on. Avoid a rapid switch On/Off sequence. If switched off, leave
at least ten seconds before switching on again. Ensure the mains plug
connections are tight and DC connections such as cigar lighters secure.
Avoid strong RF fields from near by transmitters. If in doubt, disconnect the
AR3030 from the aerial and switch the set off.
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 AR3030 is designed for operation from an external DC supply of 11 - 16V
DC at approximately 0.7A minimum or from internal fitted dry batteries.
Always use the mains power supply provided, or from a regulated DC power
supply of 13.8V @ 0.7A or more using the optional DC3000 connecting lead.
Always switch the receiver off when connecting or disconnecting the receiver.
Note: The DC 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 UK power supply has two cables attached. One is terminated in the
appropriate power jack plug to fit the DC input socket of the AR3030. The
second has two bared wires ready for connection to a standard 3-pin mains
plug. A 3 Ampere fuse should be used in the plug and the cable is colour
coded as follows:

AR3030 operating manual
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Brown: Live
Blue: Neutral
The AR3030 power supply has no connection to the EARTH pin of the mains
plug. However a separate earth point is provided on the rear panel of the
AR3030 for connection to a water pipe, central heating system radiator or
external earth rod. If fitting a separate external earth rod, consider the
implications carefully is your mains supply uses Protective Multiple Earth (PME)
system. If in doubt consult an expert electrician. Never earth to a
gas pipe!
Always disconnect the power supply from the AC mains supply when not in use.
Always remove dry batteries when exhausted or if the AR3030 is not going to
be used for a while. This will avoid leakage which could seriously damage the
receiver.
Access to the battery compartment is via a removable sub-panel on the rear
panel. Always switch the receiver off when inserting or removing batteries. If
fitting batteries always select a quality brand, 8 x AA size 1.2 or 1.5V cells are
required.
4-4 Aerial (antenna) connection
The low impedance aerial input is of a high quality BNC type as preferred by
commercial users rather than the cheaper SO239 type. Adaptors are readily
available to convert from a BNC to almost any other plug or socket as required
allowing straight forward connection to almost any shortwave aerial.
The second input is a “jaw” designed for a high impedance long wire. An earth
connection is also provided on the rear panel.
A rear panel three position slide switch selects the 50 OHM BNC connector or
high impedance wire input. The third position applies a preamplifier and
impedance matching network to the BNC aerial socket which may be used in
conjunction with a telescopic whip aerial to enable a level of operation away
from a long wire aerial or more elaborate system.
The AR3030 does not contain RF amplification prior to the band-pass filters, all
gain is applied in the more selective IF stages. This ensures the highest
immunity to intermodulation effects often caused by the high number of strong
signals encountered on the shortwave bands.
An aerial attenuator system allows selection of 0db, 10dB or 20dB from the
front panel. RF gain is also available via a front panel rotary control, this is
especially useful in providing optimum audio quality for SSB operation. AGC
attack / decay may also be selected from the front panel either fast or slow but
cannot be switched off.