AOR ARD9800 User manual

FAST RADIO MODEM

ARD9800

Instruction Manual

Multi-Mode And Digital Voice Interface

$25/7'

Authority On Radio Communications

1

Thank you for purchasing the AOR ARD9800 Multimode And Digital Voice Interface.

The ARD9800 is designed to convert your HF radio equipment to a multi mode and
digital voice radio without performing any modifications to your transceiver.

Please read through this instruction manual and familiarise yourself with the
operation of the ARD9800. We suggest you to keep this instruction manual for future
reference.

We believe you will enjoy using the ARD9800 as an enhan cement t o your enjoyment
of amateur radio.

AOR LTD.

2

Features:

zDigital voice communications using existing analogue 2 way radios. The ARD9800

uses the same audio frequencies (300 Hz ~ 2500 Hz) as microphone audio uses to
modulate the signal. This allows you to use an analogue radio as a digital voice
transceiver.

z Digital voice communications in Single Side Band (SSB) mode. The
automatic frequency clarifier function adjusts frequency drift automatically in the SSB
mode. (Approximately up to +/- 125 Hz). Utilises an ODFM (Multi-carrier Modulation)
circuit that is effective against multi-path or selective fading.

z Automatic digital receive. Automatic voice signal detector recognises the
received signal as analogue or digital, automatically switching to the appropriate mode.

z Digital Slow Scan TV (SSTV) -- Optional memory module (ME-1)
required for built-in video capture function (PAL or NTSC depending on the region in
which the unit is purchased). This feature compresses the signal into our original
adaptive JPEG which enables send and receive of images (similar to analogue slow scan
TV, but higher resolution) in the Digital mode. Built-in video output connector allows
viewing of the picture on an external monitor.

z Built–in high grade Vocoder (AMBE). Uses high-grade digital voice
compression to deliver quality digital voice communications.

z Built-in FEC error correction. A powerful error correction circuit delivers
stable and reliable communications.

z Data communications on the HF bands. Data communication is possible on
the HF (High frequency) bands at no extra cost. (Speed may be limited by regulations in
certain jurisdictions.)

zSmall and compact unit. Easy to operate. Simply connect the ARD9800 to the

microphone jack. No complicated or risky radio modifications are necessary.

zUtilises a uniquely designed high performance DSP (Digital Signal Processor)

engine.

zBattery operation possible for field use.

3

Precautions

To prevent fire, personal injury, or damage to the unit, please observe the following
precautions:

zDo not attempt to adjust this unit unless instructed to do so by this manual.
zDo not expose the unit to direct sunlight or place the unit close to heating appliances.
zDo not place the unit in excessively dusty, humid or wet areas.
zWe are not responsible for any damage to the radio equipment due to improper

settings or interfacing.

zWe are not responsible for any loss of communications due to an unexpected change

in propagation or the operating environment.

Please note that it is a m andatory requirement within terms of the UK

Amateur Radio License that the call sign of the stat ion is given at either

the beginning and end of each transmission, or at fifteen minute intervals

throughout the contact. This should be done by putting the ARD9800

back into analogue mode and making the announcement.

4

Table of Contents

Page

Supplied Accessories and Optional Accessories 5
Controls and functions 6
Front Panel 6
Rear Panel 9
Top Panel 11
Internal View 12
Bottom View 13
Interfacing the ARD9800 14
Connection to a Radio 14
Connection to a Microphone 15
Connection to a PC 15
Connection to a Power supply 15
Connection to an external speaker 16
Pre-setting 17
Output Level to Radio Transceiver 17
Microphone Level 18
User ID Setting 19
TX Channel Setting 19
Operation 22
Voice Communication 22
Digital Voice Communication 22
Analogue Voice Communication 23
Data Communication 23
Receive 23
Transmit 23
Digital Image Communication 24
Receive 24
Transmit 24
Specifications 26
Control Commands 27
Command List 29

5

Supplied Accessories

The following items are provided in the box:

Accessory Quantity

Speaker Microphone 1
PC interface cable 1
Speaker Cable 1
DC Power cable 1
8P metal plug (for radio cable) 1
Instruction manual (this booklet) 1

O ptional Accessories

The following items are available as optional accessories:

Accessory

Memory module ME-1 required for video capture function
Microphone cables for interface with most current amateur transceivers

Please note that the video functions are either PAL OR NTSC depending on the country in

which the unit was purchased. Both formats are not supported simultaneously.

6

Controls and Functions

Front Panel

MMFEDOOIDARTSA

DRA

a. Power on/off switch
b. TX switch

c. 2 colour LED

0089

•b

•›

POWER

a

BUS

c d

b

SP CHANTX STA MODE

e

This switch performs two functions, firstly it enables the capture and
sending of video images.

(Note: This function is available only when an optional memory unit,
model ME-1 has been installed)

Press this switch to capture the video image and send. When the Video
Through Function is activated (AVT command is ON). Pressing this switch
will enable output of the video signal connected to the Video Input to be
bypassed to the video output so that you can monitor the video image. Press
this switch again to capture the image and then transmit it through the radio
equipment.

When the Video Through Function is de-activated (AVT command is OFF),
pressing this switch will automatically capture the video image and then
transmit it through the radio equipment.

Refer to Operation -- Digital Image Communication on page 24 for details.

Secondly it enables the resynchronisation of digital communication if
synchronisation is lost during a communication session.

Refer to Operation – Digital Voice Communication on page 22 for details

Illuminated red The unit is in the transmit mode
Blinking red In the digital communication mode, it blinks while

the header information is being sent (approx imately

one (1) second).
Illuminated Green The unit is in the receive mode
Unlit The unit is in the receive standby mode or in the

analogue voice receive mode.

7

6

5

MaxMin

4

3

2

1

f

10101

9

A

B

C

D

E

F

0

OVER

h

g

MIC

i

j

7

d. Status LED (STA LED)

It is lit when unsent data remains in the memory.
It is illuminated when the Video Through Function is activated in digital
video communication mode.
It is not lit when Video Through Function is deactivated by the dedicated
command (AVT_OFF) u sing the PC because the TX swit ch then activates a
sequential function of capturing and transmitting the data.

It is also illuminated orange when unsent data remains in the memory in the
video transmission mode.

e. Speaker volume adjustment

Adjustment for internal speaker output level. When an external

speaker is connected, external speaker level is also adjusted.

f. Operation Mode LED (3 colours)

Indicates the current operation mode:

Green colour Digital Voice mode
Red Colour Analogue Voice mode

Orange Colour Data Communication mode

Not lit Digital Image Communication mode

g. Transmitting channel (Rotary Switch)

There are 16 channels. Each channel can be programmed with the remote

stations unique digital ID, an appropriate NETMASK and digital squelch
setting, depending on the type of communication you are involved in. It can
be freely programmed to suit your requirements (see page 19 for details).

h. OVER-LED (overload indicator)

Lit when the microphone input is overloaded.

The correct microphone input level will light the LED from time to time
when speaking into the microphone at a normal voice level. The microphone
level can be changed by adjusting the microphone level setting.

Refer to Level Adjustment - Microphone Level on page 17 for details.

In addition, the OVER-LED operates in receive mode as an input level
indicator:

To set the optimum level of audio from the transceiver (crucial for good
decoding of digital signals), OVER-LED operates as an input lev el indicator
in receive mode in the following ways:

8

Operation of input level indicator (transceiver squelch control fully
open)

Input level indicator flashes whilst receiving Input level is too low
Input level indicator extinguished Input level is optimally set
Input level indicator is solidly lit Input level is too high

NB: When the squelch is closed on the transceiver the OVER–LED will
flash continuously indicating that no signal is being fed to the ARD9800.

i. Mode switch

Use to select the Digital voice mode (10101) or Analogue voice mode (~).
When the Analogue voice mode (~) is selected, ordinary analogue voice
communications will be made. In receive mode however, the ARD9800 will
automatically detect the mode of the incoming signal and decode signals
accordingly. The LED indicates the appropriate operation mode.

j. Microphone connector

Connect the supplied microphone to this connector. Below are the pin
assignments of the connector:

1. Speaker output (SP-OUT).
Monitor output signal is present at this pin.

2. BIAS
Power source for an electret condenser type microphone (5V DC
through 2.2Kohm resistor).

3. GND
Chassis ground.

4. TX

Taking this pin to ground will enable the transmit mode
(Same operation as the TX switch on the front panel).

5. D/A

Taking this pin to ground will force the unit into the digital voice
communication mode. When this pin is left open, the operation mode
will be set by the mode switch on the front panel.

6. PTT
PTT (Push To Talk) input.

7. MIC GND
Microphone ground.

8. MIC IN
Microphone signal input.

9

Rear Panel

1 TX ARD9800----->PC
2 DTR ARD9800----->PC
3 DSR ARD9800<-----PC
4 GND GND
5 RX ARD9800<-----PC
6 RTS ARD9800----->PC

8 NC No Connection

Synchronisation: Asynchronous

AOR,LTD.

VIDEO

IN OUT

k

l

m n

RADIO

k. Communication Connector (mini DIN 8 pin)

Connector to PC (RS-232C)

Pin Number Signal Signal Direction

7 CTS ARD9800<-----PC

Shell FG Frame ground

Baud Rate: 9600bps
Data Length: 8
Start bit: 1
Stop bit: 1
Parity: None

Flow control: Hardware

l. VIDEO - IN connector PAL/NTSC depending on region (1V p–p, 75 ohm)

Connect a video signal source such as a video camera, VCR output, etc.

m. VIDEO – OUT connector PAL/NTSC depending on region (1V p–p, 75ohm)

Connect a video monitor to this connector to monitor received image or a
picture to be sent.

n. RADIO Connector

Using the supplied 8-pin connector or one of the optional cables, connect the

OUT

SP

IN

o

pq r

+-

DC IN

10

ARD9800 to your radio equipment. If you do not use one of the optional
cables You will need to wire a cable according to the microphone connector
specifications of your radio (refer to your radio operator’s manual).

Below are the pin assignments of the ARD9800 connector, which for your
convenience has been configured using the pin assignments chosen by the
popular commercial manufacturer Adonis:

Pin number Signal Details

1 MIC GND Microphone ground
2 MIC OUT Microphone Output
3 PTT (H) PTT (Push To Talk) output (PTT)
4 PTT (L) PTT (Push To Talk) output (Ground)
5 NC No connection
6 NC No connection
7 GND Ground
8 NC No connection

Note: MIC GND and GND must not be connected together in the ARD9800
connector, or RF feedback will result.

o. SP IN Connector (3.5 mm mono jack)

Connect to the radio equipment’s external speaker jack. (Input level: 0.5 V – 5
V p-p). NB: output from any other accessory connector on your transceiver may not
be at a high enough level.

p. SP OUT Connector (3.5 mm mono jack)

Connect an external speaker to this jack to disable internal speaker.

q. DC IN Connector (EIAJ Type 4)

Connect to a regulated power supply. (10.7 ~ 16.0 V DC, Centre pin – positive)
For lower voltage battery operation, set the internal jumper terminal for battery
operation, and then connect external batteries.

! If you have changed the internal jumper for low-voltage battery operation,
battery voltage must be within the range of 5.6 ~ 6.5 V DC. DO NOT apply

12.0 V or severe damage will result, and the warranty will be void!

Note: There is no low battery voltage detector built-into the ARD9800.

11

r. FG Screw

Frame ground

Top Panel

s. Internal Speaker

s

12

Internal View

Factory setting jumper (JP 8)

t.

Must be set between 2-3. (Do not change this setting at any time.)

Optional Memory module connector

u.

Insert the optional Memory module (ME-1) to use Digital SSTV functions.

Refer to Memory Module Installation Manual for details.

Battery operation selector

v.

Place the jumper between 1 – 2 (NOR) for normal operation. Change it

between 2-3 (BATT) for battery operation.

v

t

u

w

x

If you have changed the internal jumper for low-voltage battery operation,

!

battery voltage must be within the range of 5.6 ~ 6.5 VDC. DO NOT apply 12.0

V or severe damage will result, and the warranty will be void!

Note: There is no low battery voltage detector built into the ARD9800.

Internal speaker setting (JP 9)

w.

Jumper setting

1 – 2 [INI] Activates internal speaker (default)
2 -- 3 [MIC] Disables internal speaker and enables output from

Pin #1 of the microphone Connector.

Note: The SP OUT (external speaker output) has priority regardless of the
above jumper setting.

13

x. Output level setting (JP 10)

Jumper setting
1 – 2 Normal level (default) (LOW)
2 – 3 High level (HIGH)

If the ARD9800 output level is too low to drive your radio equipment, place
the jumper in the 2-3 position.

Refer to Level Adjustment - Output Level to Radio Transceiver, page 17 for details.

Bottom View

y. Output Level Adjusting Volume

Refer to Level Adjustment - Output level to Radio Transceiver at page 17
for details

y

14

Interfacing the ARD9800

Connection to a Radio

NB: For your convenience the microphone socket on the rear of the ARD9800 is wired
using the pin out configuration used by the manufacturer Adonis. It is not possible to
include pre wired cables to suit every transceiver with the ARD9800, so before using
your ARD9800 you will need either to wire the cable between your radio equipment and
the ARD9800, or purchase a suitable cable. To assist you, an 8-pin microphone
connector for the ARD9800 is included, however you will need to supply and prepare
your own microphone connector for your radio equipment.

Alternatively, you may purchase a suitable lead from the AOR range, pre wired to suit
your transceiver. Most current transceivers are catered for.

Below are the pin assignments of the 8-pin RADIO connector on the rear panel of the
ARD9800:

Pin number Signal Details

1 MIC GND Microphone ground
2 MIC OUT Microphone Output
3 PTT (H) PTT (Push To Talk) Output (PTT)
4 PTT (L) PTT (Push To Talk) Output (PTT ground)
5 NC No connection
6 NC No connection
7 GND Ground
8 NC No connection

Note: MIC GND and GND must not be connected together in the
ARD9800 connector or RF feedback will result.

You will require both a microphone plug and a cable for your radio transceiver

15

Connection to a Microphone

A speaker microphone is included with your ARD9800. As supplied the speaker
output to the front panel microphone is configured off. Refer to page 12 if you wish to
enable this. If you wish to use your own microphone with the ARD9800 you may do
so by wiring your microphone to the ARD9800. Below are the pin assignments of the
Microphone connector of the ARD9800:

1. SP-OUT (Speaker output)
Monitor output signal is present at this pin.

2. BIAS

Power source for an electret condenser type microphone.
5V DC through 2.2Kohm resistor.

3. GND

Chassis ground.

4. TX

Taking this pin to ground will enable transmit
(Same as operation of the TX switch on the front panel).

5. D/A

Taking this pin to ground will force the ARD9800 into the
Digital voice communication mode. When this pin is left
open, the operation mode will be set by the mode switch on
the front panel.

6. MIC PTT

PTT (Push To Talk) input.

7. MIC GND

Microphone ground signal.

8. MIC IN

Microphone signal input.

Connection to a PC

A PC interface cable is included with the ARD9800. Parameter settings can be made
by using terminal software such as Windows HyperTerminal.

Refer to Control Commands on page 27 for details

Connection to a Power Supply

To operate your ARD9800, use a regulated power supply. The operating voltage must
be within the range of 10.7 ~ 16.0 V DC (approximately 200mA).

A DC power cable is included with the ARD9800.

RED Positive (+)
BLACK Negative ( - )

Colour

Polarity

16

For battery operation refer to page 12 for details

! If you have changed the internal jumper for low-voltage battery operation, supply
voltage must be within the range of 5.6 ~ 6.5 VDC. DO NOT apply 12.0 V or severe
damage will result, and the warranty will be void!

Note: There is no low battery voltage detector built-into the ARD9800.

.

Connection to an External Speaker

If an external speaker is desired, connect it to the SP OUT jack. This will also disable
the internal speaker.

17

Pre-setting

Output Level to Radio Transceiver

This level must be correctly set to enable effective operation with your transceiver.

1. Connect the supplied hand microphone to the ARD9800 first, then connect
your radio to the RADIO terminal on the ARD9800 by using your prepared
connection cable. Now turn ON the ARD9800.

2. Make sure that the output level adjusting volume (y) accessible through the
bottom of the ARD9800) is set to minimum (page 13 refers).

3. Select the mode switch (i) to [10101] digital position.

4. Press the PTT switch on the supplied hand microphone and speak normally
into the microphone.

5. Adjust microphone gain control on the radio transceiver to a suitable level. It is
recommended that you adjust the level so that the ALC function is activated. If
the ALC function activates too much indicating the transceiver is being
overdriven, it might create audio distortion and as a result, the communication
link with the distant station may be broken.

6. Adjust the output level adjusting volume (y) supplied on the bottom side of
the ARD9800 when the microphone gain control on the radio transceiver does
not adjust for sufficient level.

7. If the microphone gain is still not enough despite carrying out the above
procedure in step 6, turn OFF the ARD9800 then:

8. Take off the upper case of the ARD9800 and reposition the jumper pin for

Output level setting. (The default setting is inserted between 1-2) set the
jumper to link 2-3 for high level output. Replace the upper case. (page 13
refers).

After changing the jumper setting, repeat steps 1 to 6 above again.

9. If the microphone gain is still not enough even after carrying out the above
process in 8, the ATT command available on the ARD9800 through PC control
should be turned OFF. Now repeat steps 1 to 6 again (page 33 refers).

Microphone Input Level

The microphone level has been properly adjusted at the factory with the provided
microphone therefore no further adjustment should be needed for normal operation.

If you wish to use your own microphone rather than the included one, you will need to
wire your microphone connector to match the pi ns of the ARD9800, and then adjust

18

the microphone level as described in the following steps:

1. Connect your microphone to the Microphone connector on the ARD9800.
(Note: The microphone cable to the radio MUST be unplugged at this time.)

2. Select the mode switch (i) to the digital [10101] position.

3. Select the 0 (zero) transmitting channel [CHAN].

4. Turn ON the ARD9800 while pressing the TX switch. The status LED will
blink orange indicating the ARD9800 is now in the microphone level-adjusting
mode.

5. Now speak into the microphone whilst pressing PTT button. Rotate the
transmitting channel [CHAN] control clockwise until the [OVER] LED is lit
on speech peaks.

6. After you have chosen the appropriate microphone level, press TX switch
while pressing PTT button. The TX LED will illuminate orange and the new
microphone level will have been memorised.

7. Release the PTT button and select Mode switch to analogue (~) position.

8. The microphone level adjustment in Analogue mode is not normally required
however, if the audio signal level is weak at the distant station, you can carr y
out the same process from 1 to 4 above even though it is for analogue mode.
Pressing TX switch while pressing the PTT button will confirm the new setting
as before.

9. Turn the power OFF on the ARD9800 to terminate the microphone level­adjusting mode.

Audio Input From Transceiver To ARD9800

a. Connect the speaker output of the transceiver to the ARD9800 and

turn the power switch on.

b. Set the squelch control on the transceiver fully off, i.e. permanent

background noise.
c. Set the volume control on the transceiver to zero.
d. Confirm the OVER-LED is flashing at this stage.
e. Gradually turn the volume on the transceiver up until the OVER-

LED stops flashing and is extinguished.
f. If you continue to rotate the volume control further the LED will

become solidly lit, if this happens, rotate the volume control counter

clockwise until the LED is extinguished.
g. Use the SP control on the front panel of the ARD9800 to adjust the

audio volume output to a comfortable level for listening.

NB: When the squelch is closed on the transceiver the OVER–LED will

19

flash continuously indicating that no signal is being fed to the ARD9800.

User ID Setting

The ARD9800 provides a function of user ID that allows the assigning of your own unique
identification number using the AUI command. In digital mode you can then specify the
ID number for the chosen destination’s station or combine this with the NETMASK
(Group Code) and SQUELCH (DCS) function to have a contact that is accessible to either
one specified individual or a specified group, but no other ARD9800 users. The ARD9800
has 16 channels to enable setting of 16 separate communication scenarios and this feature
is discussed in greater detail below.

NB: This function is only effective in digital mode.

TX Channel Setting

The ARD9800 provides 16 channels (
remote ID of your chosen contacts, and use the NETMASK feature to set up group
communications. Depending on your desired communication scenario, you can then select
the channel number suitable. Take the following steps to perform the channel setting.

1. Connect the supplied PC interface cable between ARD9800 and a PC.

2. Set up terminal software on your PC such as Windows HyperTerminal (note
that all communication with the ARD9800 is only possible using upper case).

3. Decide on your own individual identification number and program this using
the AUI command. Type AUI at the command prompt, press return and the
current 5 digit setting will be displayed. To change this to your chosen number
type AUI_xxxxx (where xxxxx is your chosen 5 digit code) and press return.
The AUI number is now saved in the memory of the ARD9800. Note that only
numbers not letters or any other characters are acceptable.

4. Select the TX channel [
and SQUELCH parameters using the front panel switch.

5. At the command prompt: on the terminal software, type
the current channel setting.

For example,

cmd>ACP<CR>
CH:A_ID:BBBBB_NM:CCCCC_MD:D

cmd>

<CR> Carriage Return to confirm the command entry.
A Channel number that you selected with [
_ Space

A~F, 0~9

CHAN

). You can assign each channel for the

] where you want to assign the ID, NETM ASK

ACP<CR>

CHAN

to display

] switch.

20

BBBBB Destination ID. You can only assign a number from

00000 to 99999. No other characters can be used.

_ Space
CCCCC Assign the NETMASK activity. You can only select 0

(=zero) or 1.
1= Activate
0= Deactivate

Note that 1 indicates as F on the terminal software in Windows.

D Activate or Deactivate Digital Squelch function.
1= Activate
0= Deactivate

You can use either the spacebar key or the underscore key ( _ ) both are equally effective.

The system works by using the ID (AU I) of the st ation you are attempti ng to comm unicate
with and the NETMASK to define how much of that ID is used. If you are contacting
someone with an ID of 12345 and you use a NETMASK of 11111 this means you are
requiring all five of the digits of the other user to match before their digital squelch will be
broken and communication can take place.

Example

Consider setting an ID of 12345 and a NETMASK of 11100 with the digital squelch set on.
The NETMASK you have set enables contact with any remote station that contains the
numbers 123 in the first part on the AUI code set on the remote ARD9800. This means
that someone with an AUI of 12345 or 12366 or 12367 etc will all hear your transmission.
If you consider this carefully, this enables you to have an exclusive net by using
appropriate AUI codes within your group. You have 16 channels that can be set with
varying ID and NETMASK settings so it is possible to store many communication
scenarios.

21

The diagram below illustrates the types of communication possibilities:

Tx 1 Rx 1
ID:12345 AUI:12345
NM:FFF00 MD:1
MD:1

Tx2 Rx 2
ID:12345 AUI:12355
NM:FFFF0 MD:1
MD:1

Tx3 Rx3
ID:12345 AUI:12348
NM:FFFFF MD:1
MD:1

Tx4 Rx4
ID:12345 AUI:13345
NM:FFFFF MD:1
MD:0

Rx5
AUI:12345
MD:0

Note: All adjustments must be properly performed before operation.

22

O peration

Voice Communication

Your ARD9800 is capable of Digital Voice Communication and Analogue Voice
Communication. In receive mode, the ARD9800 will automatically recognise the
type of communication and set the appropriate operation mode.
In transmit mode, the operation mode can be selected by using the front panel
Mode switch.

Digital Voice Communication

Set the mode switch [10101 - ~] upward to the digital mode position. [10101]
Press and hold the PTT switch of the microphone. The STA (Status) LED will flash
for about one (1) second while sending a data header si gnal. When the LED stops
flashing, speak into the microphone normally.

Under normal circumstances the ARD9800 will synchronise on the header tones at
the initial contact with the other ARD9800 user. If at any point it is unable to
correctly decode the OFDM signal it is possible to initiate re-synchronisation using
the following methods:

If the optional memory module (ME-1) is fitted:

a. If the signal is received but not correctly decoded with only digital noise

being heard, press and hold the TX button.

b. If this is successful, the received signal will gradually be decoded to

produce legible audio.

c. Release the TX button when audio is completely recovered.

If the optional memory unit is not fitted:

a. If the signal is r eceived but not correctly decoded, with only digital noise

being heard, flip the digital analogue selector switch to the analogue
position.

b. Press and hold the TX button.
c. If successful, the received signal will gradually be decoded to produce

legible audio.

d. Release the TX button when the audio is completely recovered.

NB: the forced synchronisation facility is not applicable to the data communication
mode, or digital image communication mode.

To further help you achieve good digital communication, the OVER-LED acts as
an audio level indicator in receive mode. Optimum audio level from the transceiver
audio line to the SP in socket on the ARD9800 is critical for successful
communication when decoding digital signals. To help with this, the OVER-LED
is active in receive mode to show the operator whether the input audio level is
optimum or not. It operates in the following way:

23

Flashing whilst receiving Input level is too low
Extinguished Input level is optimal
Solidly lit Input level is too high

To set up the input audio carry out the following procedure:

a. Connect the speaker output of the transceiver to the ARD9800 and turn the

power switch on.

b. If the set has a squelch control make sure the squelch is fully open (i.e.

audio can be heard), now turn the volume control to zero so that no audio i s
present and confirm the OVER-LED is flashing at this stage.

c. Gradually begin to increase the volume.
d. Stop increasing the volume when the OVER-LED has stopped flashing and

is extinguished. At this point you have the optimum audio input level.

e. If you rotate the volume control any further the OVER-LED will become

solidly lit indicating the audio level is too high. If this happens, back the
volume control off until the OVER-LED is just extinguished.

Use the SP control on the front panel of the ARD9800 to achieve the audio level
you find comfortable for normal listening.

Analogue Voice Communication

Set the mode switch [10101 - ~ ] downward to the analogue mode position. [~]
Press and hold the PTT switch of the microphone, and speak into the microphone
normally.

Data Communication

Run a terminal software program such as Windows HyperTerminal to control the
ARD9800, and to enter control commands. NB commands are only accepted in

upper case.

Refer to Control Commands on page 27 for details

Two different types of data, ASCII data or binary data, can be used.
Both types of data can be mixed as communication data.

Receive

Enter the command [ACO] to go into the converse mode.
The received valid data will be decoded and displayed on the PC screen.

If received data is missing, (which may occur during poor propagation conditions)
“garbage” data may be displayed on the PC screen.

Transmit

Enter the command [ACO] to go into the converse mode. Type text from the
keyboard, then hit the enter key at the end of the text.

NNNNNNNN [CR]

24

NNNNNNNN ASCII character
[CR] Carriage Return

Note: The maximum data length is 2046 bytes per packet.

To send binary data, add [FE] (hexadecimal) to the header and footer of the data.

FE BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB FE

BBBBBBBBBBBBBBB Binary data
FE Binary data ID

Note: If you need to insert the data [FE] in hexadecimal in the middle of
the text, convert it into two (2) bytes of hexadecimal data.

FE Æ FDD8

If you need to insert the data [FD] in hexadecimal in the middle of the text,
convert it into two (2) bytes of hexadecimal data.

FD Æ FDDD

Note: The maximum data length is 2046 bytes per packet.

At the receive side, the data will be automatically decoded and displayed on
the PC screen. If the [ALF] command is set ON, the LF (line feed) code will
be added at the end of received data.

Digital Image Communication PAL/NTSC

Note: An optional memory module (ME-1) is required to use this function.

Receive

When valid digital image data is received, it will be decoded and output as a
video image from the VIDEO OUT connector.

If received data is missing during a transmission, that portion will be displayed
as invalid (like noise).

Transmit

Push the TX switch to send the image.
(When pin - 4 of the microphone connector is grounded this is the same as
pressing the TX switch.)

Note: When the Video Through Function is activated (

default

), pressing the TX switch will enable output of the video signal connected

(depending on region)

AVT command is ON=

25

to the Video Input to also be sent to the video output, so that you can monitor the
video image. Press the TX switch again to capture the image and then transmit it
through the radio equipment.

When the Video Through Function is de-activated (AVT command is OFF),
pressing the TX switch will automatically capture the video image and then
transmit it through the radio equipment.

The Progress indicator will display on the monitor during image transmission.

26

Specifications

Modulation
Method

OFD Band Width: 300 Hz ~ 2.5 kHz, 36 carrier
Symbol Rate 20 ms (50 Baud)
Guard Interval 4 ms
Tone Space 62.5 Hz
Individual Tone

36 carrier: DQPSK(3.6K)
Modulation
Method

Auto Frequency

+/- 125 Hz

Offset
Error Correction Data: Reed Solomon + Vitabi Decoder

Voice: Golay + Hamming

Header 1 second, 3 tone + BPSK training pattern for synchronisation
Digital Audio AMBE ® 2020 Coder/Decoder
Mode Selection Receive: Automatic selection

Transmit:
Data communication mode: Automati c exchange according to TX
request from PC
Digital voice mode: Manual select by the mode switch
Digital Image mode: Manual select by pressing the TX switch

Analogue voice mode: Manual select by the mode switch

Video

AOR original JPEG format

Compression
Video

PAL or NTSC depending on region ( 1Vp-p 75ohm)

Input/output
Power
Requirement

10.7 ~ 16 V DC (Approximately 200 mA @ 12 V DC)

6.0 V DC with battery operation ( 5.6 ~ 6.5 V DC)

Communication RS-232C Asynchronous, 9600 bps (setting / data)

115.2 kbps (image)

I/O Connectors Microphone: 8 – pin metal

Radio: 8 – pin metal
PC interface: Mini 8 – pin DIN
Video In/Out: RCA
Speaker In/Out: 3.5 mm mono jack
Power: EIAJ type 4

Dimension 100 (w) x 32 (h) x 156 (d) (mm)

4 (w) x 1.3 (h) x 6.2 (d) (inch)
Projections not included
Weight: Approximately 600 g (1 lb. – 5 oz)

27

Control Com m ands

Interfacing to a PC

Using the supplied PC interface cable to connect between the COM connector at the
rear panel (marked as [10101] ) and the serial port of a PC.

NOTE: Be sure your PC’s serial port is active. Check for correct hardware and
software settings!

Below are the pin assignments of the COM connector of the ARD9800.

ARD9800 COM connector Serial connector to the PC (D-Sub 9 – pin)

Pin # Pin #

1 -------------------------- 2
2 -------------------------- 6
3 -------------------------- 4
4 -------------------------- 5
5 -------------------------- 3
6 -------------------------- 8
7 -------------------------- 7
8 -------------------------- 1
GND -------------------------- GND

Terminal Settings

Communication Speed: 9600 bps

Data Length: 8 bit
Start Bit: 1
Stop Bit: 1
Parity: None
Flow Control: Hardware
Local Echo: None
Specification: RS-232C compatible

28

Command Format

Run a terminal software program such as Windows HyperTerminal and then
turn on the power to the ARD9800. The following message should appear on
the PC screen:

cmd>

This indicates the ARD9800 is ready to accept commands from the PC.

Each command consists of three (3) alphabetical ch aracters and must be
entered in upper case.

cmd>CCC_NN [CR]

CCC: Command (Must be in capital letters)
_ : Space
NN: Parameter
[CR]: Carriage Return

Entering a command without a parameter will display the current parameter
(value) setting.

cmd>CCC[CR]

If an invalid parameter or command is entered, the ARD9800 will respond as
follows:

cmd>
?
cmd>

29

Command List

Command Function
AAQ Send VIDEO In signal to VIDEO OUT (to a monitor screen)

Capture image into memory of the ARD9800
ACO Enter the Converse mode
ACP TX channel settings
ADC List the current commands
ADS Display current settings
AFC Activate AFC (Automatic Frequency control) function
AHL Set the duration of the synchronisation header
ALF Add the LF (Line Feed) code at the end of the CR code
APR Reset the unit to factory default settings
ARA Monitor both digital/analogue voice signal or monitor digital voice

only
ATT Select output level for the radio equipment
ATX Send digital image
AUI Sets the five digit ID of the ARD9800
AVT Activate the Video through function when capturing an image
AVR Display the current firmware version

30

Com m and details

AAQ
Function Send V IDEO In signal to VIDEO OUT port (to the monitor screen)

Capture image into memory of the ARD9800
Default None
Format AAQ {0 / 1} [CR]
Parameter 1: Send VIDEO In signal to a VIDEO OUT (to the monitor screen)

0: Capture image into memory of the ARD9800
Details While AVT command is OFF, [AAQ 0] will be accepted.

Entering AAQ[CR] will respond with the current status.

AAQ ON --- Video signal is passed to the VIDEO OUT port

AAQ OFF---- Video signal is not passed to VIDEO OUT port

Note: Optional memory module MUST be installed to use this

function.
Example AAQ_0 [CR]

ACO
Function Change from the Command mode to the Converse mode
Default None

Format ACO [CR]
Parameter None
Details Change from the Command mode (while cmd> appears on the PC

screen) into the Converse mode

In the Converse mode, data from the PC keyboard can be sent.

To return to the Command mode, enter [Ctrl – C] (holding the

Control key while entering the character C)
Example ACO [CR]

31

ACP
Function Assign parameters on each TX channel
Default CH:* ID:00000 NM:00000 MD:0

Format ADC_ [00000-99999][CR]
Parameter ID: 00000 – 99999

(No other figures are acceptable.)

NM: Place: 1/0

(No other figures are acceptable)

MD: 0----- Deactivate

1----- Activate

NM: ----- NetMask

MD ----- Digital Squelch

Details The ARD9800 provides a function of us er ID that allows assi gning

your own identified number. In operation with digital mode, you

can assign the ID number for the specified destination’s station

along with NETMASK (Group Code) and SQUELCH (DCS)

functions together. This function is only effective in digital mode.

The ARD9800 provides 16 channels (A~F, 0~9). You can assign

each channel for ID, NETMASK and SQUELCH parameters

individually. Depending on your communication requirement, you

can select the appropriate channel number.
Example In case of:

Channel: 8

Destination ID :12345

Netmask: 11100

Squelch: 1 (= activate)

ACP_12345_11100_1[CR]

ADC
Function List the current commands
Default None

Format ADC [CR]
Parameter None
Details Lists the current commands
Example ADC [CR]

32

ADS
Function Display current settings
Default Headerlen : 1.00

AFC = ON

Analogue : ON

User ID: 77777

CH:0 00000 00000 0
Format ADS [CR]
Parameter None
Details Displays the current parameter settings
Example ADS [CR]

AFC
Function Activate AFC (Automatic Frequency control) function
Default On

Format AFC {ON/OFF} [CR]
Parameter ON: Activates the AFC function

OFF: Deactivates the AFC function
Details Must be set to ON for the SSB mode

Set to OFF for the FM mode
Example AFC_ON [CR]

AHL
Function Set the duration of the synchronisation header
Default 100 (1 second)

Format AHL {050 – 198} [CR]
Parameter 050 – 198 (0.02 increments)
Details Sets the duration of the synchronisation header

{100} represents 1.00 second .
Example AHL_146 [CR] Æ Set duration to 1.46 seconds.

ALF
Function Add the LF (Line Feed) code at the end of the CR code
Default ON
Format ALF {ON/OFF} [CR]
Parameter ON : Add the LF code at the end of the CR code

OFF : The LF will not be added to the end of the CR code
Details When this command is set to ON, it facilitates the entry of new data

from the transmit terminal, as a new line is automatically started

(and the previous line is automatically sent).
Example ALF_ON [CR]

33

APR
Function Reset unit to factory default settings
Default None

Format APR [CR]

ARA
Function Monitor both digital/analogue voice signals or monitor digital voice

only
Default ON

Format ARA_ {ON/OFF} [CR]
Parameter ON : Monitor digital voice and Analogue voice

OFF : Monitor Digital voice only
Details Monitor both digital/analogue voice signal or monitor digital voice

only
Example ARA_ON [CR]

ATT
Function Selects the output level to the radio equipment
Default ON

Format ATT_ {ON/OFF} [CR]
Parameter ON : Lower level

OFF : Higher level

Details Selects the output level to the radio equipment
Example ATT_ON [CR]

ATX
Function Send digital image
Default None

Format ATX [CR]
Parameter None
Details An image must be captured and stored into memory before it can be

sent.

Note: Optional memory module MUST be installed to use this
function.

Example ATX [CR]

34

AUI
Function Set the unique ID value for the ARD9800
Default 77777
Format AUI_[ID] [CR]
Parameter None
Details This is your own identifier for use with the digital squelch function
Example AUI_12345 [CR] sets ID as 12345

AVT
Function Activate the Video through function when capturing an image
Default ON

Format AVT_ {ON/OFF} [CR]
Parameter ON : Activate the Video through function

OFF : Deactivate the Video through function

Details When the AVT command is ON, pressing the TX switch will enable

output of the video signal connected to the Video Input to be passed
to the video output port so that you can monitor the video image.
Press the TX switch again to capture the image and then transmit it
through the radio equipment.

When the AVT command is OFF, pressing the TX switch will
automatically capture the video image and then transmit it through
the radio equipment.

Example AVT_ON [CR]

AVR
Function Display the current firmware version
Default None

Format AVR [CR]
Parameter None
Details Displays the current firmware version
Example AVR [CR]

35

AOR, LTD.
2-6-4, Misuji, Taito-Ku
Tokyo 111-0055, Japan
Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

http://www.aorja.com

e-mail:

[e-mail]

AOR (UK) LTD

4E East Mill, Bridgefoot

Belper

Derbys

DE56 2UA

England

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

http://www.aoruk.com

e-mail:

[e-mail]

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All rights reserved