Drake R8B User Manual

BW

AUTO

6.0

MODE

AM SYNC



A-B



TIME

MEM

VFO A = B

A = B

PRE ATTN

ANT 1 2 VHF







AGC S F

NOTCH

NB N W

NAME



TIMER

STEP

CLK/FREQ

LOCK

TUNE

SCAN

NOTCH TONE

SCAN

MEM

6.0

4.0

AM/

SYNC

FM

2.3

1.8 LSB USB

0.5

AUTO CW RTTY

BANDWIDTH

MODE

LIST

2

A - B

3

SEEK

4

TIME

5

CARR

6

CLK

7

LAMP

8

BEEP

9

F

DEL

0

V M

M V

SQUELCH

PASSBAND

OFFSET

VOL RF

MIN

0

-

+

R8B Communications Receiver

1 3 5 7 9 20 40 60

S UNITS DECIBLES

SIGNAL

M/KHz

MEM

1

CLR

kHz

®

R8B Communications Receiver

Owner's Manual

© Copyright 1997 R. L. Drake Company P/N: 3851305A-9-1997 Printed in the U. S. A.

is a registered trademark of the R. L. Drake Company

®

Declaration of Conformity

We, Manufacturer/Importer

(Full address)

R. L. Drake Company

Franklin, Ohio 45005 United States of America

(Description of the apparatus, system, installation to which it refers)

R8B Communications Receiver

(reference to the specifications under which conformity is declared)

in accordance with 89/336 EEC-EMC Directive

230 Industrial Drive

declare that the product

1294

is in conformity with

EN 55011

EN 55013

EN 55014

EN 55015

EN 55020

EN 55022

DIN V VDE 0855
part 10
part 12

CE marking

Limits and methods of measurement
of radio disturbance characteristics of
industrial, scientific and medical (ISM)
high frequency equipment

Limits and methods of measurement
of radio disturbance characteristics of
broadcast receivers and associated
equipment

Limits and methods of measurement
of radio disturbance characteristics of
household electrical appliances,
portable tools and similar electrical
apparatus

Limits and methods of measurement
of radio disturbance characteristics of
flourescent lamps and luminaries

immunity from radio interference of
broadcast receivers and associated
equipment

Limits and methods of measurement
of radio disturbance characteristics of
information technology equipment

Cabled distribution systems; Equipment
for receiving and/or distribution from
sound and television signals

EN 61000-3-2*

EN 61000-3-3*

EN 50081-1

EN 50082-1

prEN 55024-2

prEN 55024-3

pr EN 55024-4

prENV 50142

ENV 50141

(EC conformity marking)

Disturbances in supply systems caused
by household appliances and similar
electrical equipment "Harmonics"

Disturbances in supply systems caused
by household appliances and similar
electrical equipment "Voltage fluctuations"

Generic emission standard
Generic immunity standard

Electrostatic discharge requirements
"ESD" (IEC 801-2)

Radiated, radio frequency electromagnetic
field (IEC 801-3)

Electrical fast transient requirements
"Burst" (IEC 801-4)

Surge immunity requirements
(IEC 801-5)

Immunity to conducted disturbances
induced by radio frequency fields
above 9kHz (IEC 801-6)

* Replacement of
EN60555-2/-3

The manufacturer also declares the conformity of above mentioned product

with the actual required safety standards in accordance with LVD 73/23 EEC.

EN 60065

Safety requirements for mains operated
electronic and related apparatus for
household and similar general use

®

(Stamp)

EMC Tested by electronic GmbH

Ref. No. 953427 Name: G. Raithel Dipl.-Ing.

EN 60950

Manufacturer/Importer

Date: July 01, 1997 Name: Ronald E. Wysong____

Date: October 16, 1995 Signature ___________________

Safety for information technology equipment
including electrical business equipment

Signature ____________________

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR

ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT

EXPOSE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

¡WARNING!

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER-SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

Important Safeguards i

An appliance and cart combination should be moved
with care. Quick stops, excessive force and uneven
surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combina­tion to overturn.

The lightning flash with arrow head symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within
the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to
persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of impor­tant operating and maintenance (servicing) instruc­tions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
DO NOT OPEN THE CABINET, REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THE THREE WIRE CORD WITH AN EXTENSION
CORD RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO
PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.

ATTENTION:

POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, NE PAS UTILISER CETTE FICHE POLARISEE
AVEC UN PROLONGATEUR, UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU UNE AUTRE SORTIE DE COUR­ANT, SAUF SI LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE INSEREES A FOND SANS EN LAISSER AUCUNE
PARTIE A DECOUVERT.

1. Read Instructions—All the safety and operating instructions should be
read before the appliance is operated.

2. Retain Instructions—The safety and operating instructions should be
retained for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings—All warnings on the appliance should be adhered to.

4. Follow Instructions—All operating and use instructions should be

followed.

5. Cleaning—Unplug this appliance from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleansers. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.

6. Do Not Use Attachments—not recommended by the manufacturer or
they may cause hazards.

7. Water and Moisture—Do not use this product near water—for example,
near a bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement,
or near a swimming pool—and the like.

8. Accessories—Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a
child or adult, and serious damage to the appliance.

9. Ventilation—This product should never be placed near or over a
radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a built-in
installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided
or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to. Any slots or
openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation. To ensure reliable
operation of the video product and to protect it from overheating, these
openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

10. Grounding or Polarization—This product is equipped with a 3- wire
line cord receptacle. It is intended for use with a 3-wire properly grounded
power socket. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the supplied line cord
and plug.
10A. Mise à la terre ou Polarisation—Cet appareil est équipé avec un
cordon d'alimentation à trois fils. Il est a brancher sur une prise ayant un
connecteur a la terre. Assurez-vous que la connection a la terre ne manque
pas.

11. Power Sources—This product should be operated only from the type
of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the
type of power supplied to your home, consult your appliance dealer or local
power company.

12. Power-cord Protection—Power-supply cords should be routed so
they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them. Pay particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.

13. Lightning—For added protection for this product during a lightning
storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time,
unplug it from the wall outlet.

14. Power Lines—An outside antenna system should not be located in the
vicinity of overhead power lines, other electric light or power circuits, where
it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside
antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such
power lines or circuits as contact with them may be fatal.

ii Important Safeguards, continued

15. Overloading—Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this
can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

16. Object and Liquid Entry—Never push objects of any kind into this
product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or
short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid
of any kind on the product.

17. Servicing—Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening
or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other
hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

18. Damage Requiring Service—Unplug this product from the wall outlet
and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:

a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
b. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.
c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the product does not operate normally by following the operating

instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions. An improper adjustment may result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its
normal operation.

e. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance—this

indicates a need for service.

19. Replacement Parts—When replacement parts are required, be sure
the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the
manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original parts.
Unauthorized substitutes may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.

20. Safety Check—Upon completion of any service or repairs to this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine
that the product is in proper operating condition.

21. Outdoor Antenna Grounding—Before attempting to install this prod­uct, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some
protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges.
a. Use No.10 AWG (5.3mm
No.17 AWG (1.0mm

2

) copper, No.8 AWG (8.4mm2) aluminum,

2

) copper-clad steel or bronze wire or larger, as ground
wire.
b. Secure antenna lead-in and ground wires to house with stand-off
insulators spaced from 4 feet (1.22m) to 6 feet (1.83m) apart.
c. Mount antenna discharge unit as close as possible to where lead-in
enters house.
d. A driven rod may be used as the grounding electrode where other types
of electrode systems do not exist. Refer to the National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA 70-1990for information.
e. Use jumper wire not smaller than No.6 AWG 13.3mm

2

) copper or

equivalent, when a separate antenna grounding electrode is used.

"EFFECTUER LE CABLAGE CONFORMEMENT AU CODE CANADIEN DE L' ELECTRICITE"

" INSTALL WIRING ACCORDING TO THE CANADIAN ELECTRICAL CODE"

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING

ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE

GROUND CLAMP

ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)

ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)

Table of Contents iii

Thank you for purchasing a Drake R8B Communications
Receiver. This receiver has been designed and manu­factured to high quality standards, and will provide
reliable operation for many years.

Important Safeguards

Table of Contents

Introduction

General Description

Specifications / Accessories

Safety Voltage Selection

Installation

Unpacking
Location
Fixed Installation
Mobile Installation
Antenna Requirements
Installation Diagram

Front Panel Description

i

iii

1

1

2

3

4

5

6

Please carefully read the Owner's Manual in order to
take advantage of the many interesting features that
will provide enjoyable listening to radio broadcasts
around the world.

Memory Functions
Memory Channel Programming

Recalling A Memory Channel
Deleting A Memory Channel
Erase All Memory Channels
Locking A Memory Channel

Scan Functions
Scan Memory

Scan Memory List Block
Locking A Memory Channel
Scan A - B
Important Notes About Scanning

Clock and Timer Functions
Time Display

Setting The 24 Hour Clocks
Timer Operation
Setting Timer On/Off Times
Enabling/Disabling Timer Operation
Timer Connector Interface

17
18
18
18
18
18

19
19
20
20
21
21

22
22
22
22
22
23
25

Front Panel Display

Rear Panel Description

Mute Operation of the Receiver

Getting Started

General Operating Information
Microprocessor Reset
Beep Tones
Getting Started
Frequency Step Selection
Dual VFO's
Direct Frequency Entry
Front Panel Lock
Passband Offset Operation
Notch Operation
AM Synchronous Detector
RF Function (Attenuator/Preamplifier)
Noise Blanker
CW Operation
RTTY Operation
SSB Operation
FM Operation
Gain and AGC Operation

8

10

11

12
12
12
12
12
12
13
13
14
14
14
14
15
15
15
15
15
16
16

Special Use Features and Functions
Function Line Invert

Setting Power Off (On) Lamp Brightness
10 kHz/9 kHz Scan
Delete All Memory Locations
Power On Button Functions
Held Button Functions

RS232C Interface

Glossary of Terms

Suggested References

Quick Reference Guide

Troubleshooting
Special Display Messages

Service

Warranty

26
26
26
26
26
26
26

27

31

32

33

35
35

36

37

Warning: The R8B Communications Receiver complies with FCC
rule Part 15. Any changes or modifications to the receiver, without
expressed approval of the R. L. Drake Company, could cause the
receiver to violate the FCC Compliance rules.

iv

This page left intentionally blank.

R8B Communications Receiver

1 3 5 7 9 20 40 60

S UNITS DECIBLES

SIGNAL

SCAN

MEM

SEEK

LIST

TIME

A-B

CARR

VFO A = B

A = B

F

ANT 1 2 VHF

PRE ATTN

 

Introduction - General Description 1

AM/

SYNC

FM

MODE

MEM

TUNE

AGC S F

NOTCH



NB N W

NAME

4.0

BW

AUTO

6.0 4.0

2.3 1.8

0.5

MODE
AM SYNC
LSB USB

CW FM

RTTY

CLK/FREQ

LOCK

MHz
kHz

12 ON OFF



TIMER

STEP

6.0

1.8 LSB USB

2.3

AUTO CW RTTY

0.5

BANDWIDTH

NOTCH TONE

SCAN

LIST

MEM

1

SEEK

4

CLK

7

F

A - B

2

TIME

5

LAMP

8

DEL

0

SCAN

3

CARR

MEM

6

BEEP

V M

9

CLR

M/KHz
M V

The R8B communications receiver is a microprocessor
controlled, synthesized, all mode, world band receiver
with continuous coverage capability from 100 through
30,000 kHz. The receiver offers excellent sensitivity, selec­tivity, high dynamic range and offers features for the most
demanding shortwave reception. Conveniently located
front panel controls allow for rapid operator program­ming and ease of use. Operating mode and correspond­ing bandwidth are quickly selected by front panel but­tons. The selectable AC input allows for operation around
the world. In addition, a DC input is provided for mobile
operation.

A High-Q, 8-pole, electronically switched IF filter provides
a range of five commonly used bandwidths. These band­widths are automatically selected by mode, however
any bandwidth may be selected at the touch of a button.

TUNE

PASSBAND

OFFSET

VOL RF

SQUELCH

0

-

+

MIN

A PASSBAND OFFSET control also aids in reducing or
eliminating interfering signals by electronically shifting the
receiver's IF frequencies without disturbing the operating
frequency. This action allows the operator to electroni­cally move interfering signals out of the receiver’s pass­band thus utilizing the high degree of selectivity provided
by the High-Q, 8-pole IF filter.

Other built-in reception aids include selectable AGC
speed, dual antenna inputs, noise blanker(NB), RF pream­plifier for enhancing weak signals, RF attenuator for further
improvement of strong signal handling capabilities, ad­justable RF gain, NOTCH, TONE and SQUELCH controls.

Two independent, real time clocks provide a local and
alternative time selection. Also provided is a two event
timer.

The front panel liquid crystal display provides visual feed­back to the operator of the current status of the receiver.
The seven digit frequency display allows tuning resolution
to 10 Hz accuracy.

In the AM mode, a selectable sideband synchronous
detector (SYNCHRO) allows for enhanced reception by
eliminating or reducing distortion due to fading signals
and allowing the passband to be shifted toward one
sideband, to reject interference, without causing audio
distortion.

A programmable memory area allows for 1000 independ­ent receive memories. In addition, these memories are
stored in a battery backed-up memory chip to ensure
memory retention during power line failure. Any of these
memories may be altered by the operator and re-stored.
These memory channels may be accessed manually or
by various scanning methods.

Finally, a built-in RS-232 compatible interface allows com­plete digital control of the receiver including memory and
scanning functions.

2 Introduction - Specifications / Accessories

Frequency Range

Modes

Sensitivity: SSB, CW (10dB

S+N/N)

Sensitivity: AM

(10dB S+N/N, 1000 Hz,

30% mod)

Sensitivity: FM

(12 dB SINAD)

Frequency Stability

Frequency Accuracy

Selectivity: AM, LSB, USB,

RTTY, CW

FM Only

100-30,000 kHz
AM, LSB, USB, CW, RTTY, FM

0.5 µV nominal, 100-30,000 kHz
(preamp off)
Less than 0.25µV, 100-30,000 kHz
(preamp on)

1.5 µV nominal, 100-30,000 kHz
(preamp off)
Less than 1.0 µV, 100-30,000 kHz
(preamp on)

Less than 0.5 µV, 100-30,000 kHz

±5ppm, -100 to 500 C
Better than ±100 Hz, -100 to

500 C
6 KHz @ -6 dB, less than 12 kHz

@ -60 dB
4 KHz @ -6 dB, less than 8 kHz
@ - 60 dB

2.3 KHz @ -6 dB, less than

4.5 KHz @ -60 dB

1.8 KHz @ -6 dB, less than

3.6 KHz @ -60 dB
500 Hz @ -6 dB, less than

1.5 KHz @ -60 dB
12 KHz @ -6 dB, less than

25 KHz @ -60 dB

IP3 - Intercept Point

(preamp off)

1st IF

2nd IF

AGC

Ant 1, Converter

Ant 2

Notch Filter Attenuation

External Speaker Output

Line Outputs

AC Power Requirements

DC Power Requirements

+20 dBm @
100 kHz spacing

-20 dBm @
5 kHz spacing

45 MHz
50 kHz

Threshold: 0.8 µV
Attack time: 1mS
Release time: SLOW: 2 Sec
FAST: 300mSec
Nominal 6 dB change in au­dio output for 100 dB input
change above AGC
threshold

50 Ohms unbalanced
50 or 500 Ohms unbal­anced

AF type, 40 dB min. Depth
(500-5000 Hz)

2.5 W, 4 Ohms @ less than
5% distortion

300 mV, 4.7K Ohms

100/120/200/240VAC,
±10%
50 or 60 Hz, 40 Watts
nominal

11-16 VDC @ 2 A

Ultimate Selectivity

Image Rejection

IF Rejection

Dynamic Range

ACCESSORIES

Accessories for the receiver include:

1) A VHF converter with frequency coverage of 35-55 MHz
and 108-174 MHz.

2) A complementary styled MS8 external speaker.

Greater than 95 dB
Greater than 80 dB,

100-30,000 kHz
Greater than 80 dB, 45 MHz

Greater than100 dB, 50 kHz
97 dB, 100-30,000 kHz @ 100 kHz

spacing

Operating Temperature

Weight

CAUTION: The optional VHF Converter accessory should
be installed by a qualified service technician to prevent
personal injury or damage to the equipment.

-100 to +500 Celsius
13 lbs. (5.9 Kg)

Size

Width 13 1/8" (33.4 cm)
Height 5 1/4" (13.4 cm) in­cluding feet
Depth 13" (33 cm), includ­ing front knobs and rear
connectors

SAFETY/VOLTAGE SELECTION

WARNING!!!
Please read before applying power

Introduction - Safety / Voltage Selection 3

The receiver is normally shipped with the input line voltage
selector switch set to 108-132 VAC for operation in the U.S.
and Canada. If your operating voltage is different than
this, please refer to FIGURE 1 below. The voltage select
switch is located on the rear panel and must be set to the
proper voltage range for your area. In addition, the
proper mains fuse may need to be installed. The unit may
be set to operate over the following voltage ranges: 90­110 VAC, 108-132 VAC, 180-220 VAC and 216-264 VAC.
Most countries outside the U.S. and Canada use either
220 VAC or 240 VAC line voltage. Please be certain of the
operating voltage before connecting to the mains source.
The receiver will operate on either 50 Hz or 60 Hz line
frequency.

_________________________________________________________________
Note: The warranty does not cover damage as a result of
improper voltage selection, or replacement of fuse with
ratings other than those specified.
_________________________________________________________________

FIGURE 1 VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCH SETTINGS

Setting for 108-132 VAC
Fuse rating 400mA

Setting for 90-110 VAC
Fuse rating 400mA

Antenna grounding is necessary if the unit is connected to
an outdoor antenna. Grounding of the antenna system
is required to protect against static build up and voltage
surges. Refer to section 810-21 of the National Electric
Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70-1990.

The power cord and antenna lead-in should be discon­nected if the unit is not to be used for an extended period
of time or if threatening weather containing damaging
lightning is likely.

CAUTION

WARNING

DISCONNECT FROM

SUPPLY BEFORE

CHANGING RANGES

108-
132V

90-

110V

180-

220V

264V

216-

Setting for 180-220 VAC
Fuse rating 200mA

WARNING

DISCONNECT FROM

SUPPLY BEFORE

CHANGING RANGES

180-

108-

220V

132V

110V

264V

216-

90-

WARNING

DISCONNECT FROM

SUPPLY BEFORE

CHANGING RANGES

90-
110V

108-

132V

264V

216-

220V

180-

Setting for 216-264 VAC
Fuse rating 200mA

WARNING

DISCONNECT FROM

SUPPLY BEFORE

CHANGING RANGES

216-
264V

220V

180-

132V

110V

108-

90-

In accordance with international safety
standards, this instrument is equipped with
a three-wire power cable receptacle. The
unit is shipped with a detachable type three­wire power cable intended for nominal
115/127 VAC mains supply. When con­nected to an appropriate power line out­let, this cable grounds the instrument cabi­net. For operation of this unit on nominal
220/240 VAC mains supply, use the proper
power cable assembly approved by your
local codes.

For use of this product outside the U. S. A. or
Canada on supply voltages of 220 VAC or
greater, the discharge resistor (4.7 Meg
Ohm) connected from the neutral wire ter­minal of the AC input receptacle to the
receiver chassis must be removed.

Refer modification to a qualified service
technician.

4 Installation

UNPACKING

Carefully remove the receiver from the shipping carton
and examine it for evidence of damage. If any damage
is noted, immediately contact the transportation com­pany responsible for delivery or return the unit to the
dealer from whom it was purchased. Keep the shipping
carton and all packing material for the transportation
company to inspect. The original carton and packing
material should be retained for repackaging should it be
necessary to return the unit. Inspect the packing material
for any accessories or printed material before storing the
box. Locate the registration card, fill out, and immedi­ately return to the R. L. Drake Company to insure registra­tion and validation of warranty.

LOCATION

The location of the receiver is not critical so long as
adequate clearance is provided to allow air circulation in
and around the unit. Do not cover any ventilation slots in
top cover or overheating may result. The ventilation slots
also double as a speaker grill and any blockage may
result in poor sound quality. For added operating conven­ience, the front bail may be flipped down to elevate the
front of the unit. Refer to Figure 2

FIXED INSTALLATION

After unpacking the unit and checking the voltage select
switch for proper setting and correct fusing, connect
antenna system to the appropriate antenna input. Con­nect AC cord to mains voltage. Connect ground system
to ground screw on rear panel of radio. Connect any
other external equipment at this time. Refer to Figure 3 for
the diagram of a typical fixed installation.

MOBILE INSTALLATION

For use in a mobile environment, the receiver includes a
fused external DC input connector. This connector is
located on the rear panel. The receiver works well with a
DC input voltage of 11-16 VDC. Typical automotive
systems supply 13.8 VDC. Due to the relatively low current
draw, the receiver may be powered from the vehicle’s
cigarette lighter socket. Connect DC power cord observ­ing the correct polarity. An internal protection device will
protect the receiver from reverse polarity hookup. Con­nect the mobile antenna(s) to appropriate antenna
input(s). This will typically be a whip antenna with a
coaxial cable thus permitting the cable to be run under
floor mats, etc. Connect a grounding wire from the
grounding screw on the rear panel to the vehicle's chas­sis. To further reduce current draw from the vehicle’s
battery system, it is recommended the LCD backlighting
be turned off for extended listening periods.

Side View of Receiver

FIGURE 2 ADJUSTING FRONT BAIL

ANTENNA REQUIREMENTS

The receiver incorporates internal switching to allow two
separate antenna systems to be connected simulta­neously. Refer to Figure 3. Ant 1 is a 50 Ohm , SO-239
coaxial input requiring a mating PL-259 connector. This
input would typically be used as the primary antenna
input. Antennas such as dipoles, trapped dipoles, verti­cals and beams will provide the best results. Ant 2 is a
compression terminal type connection, providing a choice
of high impedance (500 Ohms typical) or low impedance
(50 Ohms typical). Antennas such as long wires or end fed
Zepps will provide the best results. The best antenna will
depend on the frequency range and time of day for the
particular signal in question. Refer to publications such as
the ARRL Handbook or ARRL Antenna Manual (available
in most public libraries) for help on selection and/or con­struction of the antennas mentioned above.

Installation, continued 5

FOR USE WITH

OPTIONAL VHF

CONVERTER

50 OHM

COAXIAL

CABLE

CONV

50

MADE IN U. S. A.

BY ®

50 OHM COAXIAL CABLE

PL-259

ANT 1

- OR -

50 GND 500

50

INT EXT

BOTH

W A R N I N G



RISK OF ELECTRIC 

SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

AVIS

RISQUE DE CHOC 

ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

DIPOLE

LOW IMPEDANCE

A N T 2

SPEAKER

EXT OUT OUT MUTE

4

LINE AUDIO

OR

- +

EXT 11 - 16 VDC IN

INTERFACE






RS - 232C

LONGWIRE

HIGH IMPEDANCE

2A

TYPE T

TIMER

GND

ATTENTION: LOCATE ANY

RECEIVER ANTENNAS SOME
DISTANCE AWAY FROM
TRANSMITTER ANTENNAS TO
AVOID POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO
THE RECEIVER

DC POWER PLUG TO

VEHICLE'S LIGHTER SOCKET

AC POWER CORD

CONNECTION

WARNING

DC



DISCONNECT FROM

SUPPLY BEFORE

CHANGING RANGES

108-
132V

110V

180-

220V

264V

216-

CAUTION: - RISK OF FIRE - 

REPLACE FUSE AS MARKED AFTER 
DISCONNECTING UNIT FROM AC LINE.

ATTENTION:- RISQUE D'INCENDIE -

REMPLACEZ FUSIBLE DU TYPE INDIQUÉ 
APRÉS DEBRANCHER DU SECTEUR.

AC

90-

40 WATTS 50/60 Hz

100VAC 400 mA
120VAC 400 mA
200VAC 200 mA
240VAC 200 mA
TYPE T

MS8 Speaker

EXTERNAL SPEAKER

(MS8)

EQUIPMENT WITH LINE AUDIO

TO PERIPHERAL

INPUTS SUCH AS CW/RTTY

DEMODULATORS, TAPE

RECORDERS , ETC.

TO GOOD EARTH GROUND
(POWER SERVICE GROUND­ING, ELECTRODE SYSTEM OR
WATER PIPE)

TO PERIPHERAL
EQUIPMENT WITH TIMED ON/
OFF CONTROL SUCH AS
TAPE RECORDERS

TO PERIPHERAL
EQUIPMENT PROVIDING
MUTING CONTROL SUCH AS
TRANSMITTERS

TERMINAL

FIGURE 3 INSTALLATION DIAGRAM

6 Front Panel Description

1 2 3 4

R8B Communications Receiver

1 3 5 7 9 20 40 60

S UNITS DECIBLES

SIGNAL

SCAN

MEM

SEEK

LIST

TIME

A-B

CARR

VFO A = B

A = B

F

ANT 1 2 VHF

PRE ATTN

 

MEM

TUNE

AGC S F

NOTCH



NB N W

NAME

4.0

BW

AUTO

6.0 4.0

2.3 1.8

0.5

MODE
AM SYNC
LSB USB

CW FM

RTTY

CLK/FREQ

LOCK

MHz
kHz

12 ON OFF



TIMER

STEP

6.0

1.8 LSB USB

2.3

AUTO CW RTTY

0.5

BANDWIDTH

AM/

SYNC

FM

MODE

NOTCH TONE

SCAN

LIST

MEM

1

SEEK

4

CLK

7

F

A - B

2

TIME

5

LAMP

8

DEL

0

SCAN

3

CARR

MEM

6

BEEP

V M

9

CLR

M/KHz
M V

TUNE

PASSBAND

OFFSET

VOL RF

SQUELCH

0

-

+

MIN

14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5

FIGURE 4 FRONT PANEL

1) SIGNAL - This meter indicates the relative signal level in
S-units and dB above S9.

2) Display - The backlit, liquid crystal display provides the
current status of the receiver such as frequency, mode,
bandwidth, etc. Refer to the FRONT PANEL DISPLAY
section of this manual for a full description.

3) Function Buttons - These (6) buttons control the various
functions of the receiver which are indicated on the
display directly above each button.

4) MODE/BANDWIDTH Buttons - The operating mode and
bandwidth are directly entered with these front panel
buttons. Press the AUTO button to permit automatic
setting of bandwidth as mode is selected. Press the AM/
SYNC button to enable the synchronous detector in AM

AM/

mode. Press the

button to turn the synchronous

SYNC

detector off before selecting LSB or USB modes.

5) POWER - This button turns the receiver on or off. When
unit is off, the clock will be displayed.

6) VOLUME - This control adjusts the receiver’s audio
speaker level. Turn clockwise to increase level or counter­clockwise to decrease level.

7) RF - This control adjusts the gain of the receiver and is
normally left in the fully clockwise position for maximum
gain.

8) PASSBAND OFFSET - This control alters the position of the
receiver’s IF passband without disturbing the main tuning.
Normally, this control should be set at the “0” or 12 o’clock
position. This control is not active in FM mode.

9) SQUELCH - This control sets the signal level at which the
audio is muted. For normal operation, this control is set
fully counterclockwise.

10) TUNING (VFO) - The tuning wheel and the

buttons are the primary tuning controls of the re-

ceiver. Clockwise rotation of the tuning wheel increases
frequency and counterclockwise rotation decreases fre­quency. The tuning wheel also incorporates variable
speed tuning. The faster the tuning wheel is rotated, the
faster the tuning speed.

TUNING WHEEL STEPS

The receiver can be programmed to tune in three
different resolutions (steps) with the corresponding
display readout. The three choices are as follows:

A) 1 kHz display readout (tuning in 1 kHz steps).
Used for fairly rapid frequency search.
B) 100 Hz display readout (tuning in 100 Hz steps).
Used for tuning AM and FM signals.
C) 10 Hz display readout (tuning in 10 Hz steps).
Used for tuning SSB, CW, or data signals.

and

Front Panel Description, continued 7

V M

F

BEEP

9

F

The step size may be programmed per mode. The re­ceiver, as shipped from the factory, has step sizes pro­grammed as shown in Table 1 below:

Tuning and

Mode

LSB, USB, RTTY, CW

AM, FM

Display Resolution (Hz)

10

100

Table 1

To reset the receiver to the factory settings for STEP size,
AGC setting, BANDWIDTH, etc.:
Press the POWER button to turn the receiver off. Press the

CLR

button and hold while pressing the POWER button to

turn Power on. After three seconds, the receiver will reset.

BUTTON STEPS

The button increases and the button de­creases the frequency by fixed steps with each depres-

sion as programmed. Pressing and holding either button
will allow continuous stepping up or down as long as the
button is depressed. The fixed steps are as follows:

Frequency Range

100-540 kHz

540-1800 kHz

Step

5 kHz

AM mode: 10 kHz

(9 kHz if programmed)

Other modes: 5 kHz

1800-30,000 kHz

To tune in 100 kHz steps, press the

F

displayed, press the / buttons, as desired,

5 kHz

F

button. With the

to tune in 100 kHz increments.

Note that, regardless of the / button step

(VFO to Memory) - Pressing this button in VFO mode

transfers the current status of the receiver, for example,
frequency, mode, bandwidth, etc., into memory. Please
refer to the MEMORY FUNCTIONS section of this manual for
details.

M/KHz

(MHz or kHz Frequency Readout or Memory to VFO)

M V

- Pressing the

F

button followed by the

M/KHz
M V

button,

changes the frequency readout to MHz or kHz as desired.
Pressing this button in memory mode transfers the con­tents of the current memory location, i.e., frequency,
mode, bandwidth, etc. to the selected VFO. Refer to the
MEMORY FUNCTIONS section of this manual for details.

(Function) - Pressing this button accesses secondary

functions, printed in orange, on the numeric buttons 0-9
and switches the function line on the display above the 6
function buttons.

DEL

to

0

- These buttons are normally used for direct

numeric entries in VFO, memory, clock, and timer modes.
Each button also has a secondary function printed in
orange. These secondary functions are used as follows:

Press

F

,

1

to

CARR

for programming scan methods.

6

MEM

Refer to the SCAN FUNCTIONS section of this manual for
details.

F

CLK

,

Press

to access the clock. Refer to the CLOCK

7

& TIMER FUNCTIONS section of this manual for details.

F

LAMP

,

Press

to adjust display and signal meter back-

8

light intensity.

F

Press

BEEP

,

to turn audible beep on or off. Refer to

9

BEEP TONES page 12.

F

DEL

,

Press

to delete a program from a memory

0

location. See DELETING A MEMORY LOCATION page 18.

CLR

(Decimal) - This button is used when entering a

frequency directly with the numeric buttons. Also used in
conjunction with the

button to provide a Clear entry

function. See DIRECT FREQUENCY ENTRY page 13.

increments, the display always indicates the programmed
tuning resolution (step) available by using the tuning
wheel at any frequency.

11) Program Buttons -

SCAN

(Scan) - Pressing this button starts a scan as defined

SCAN

by the scan indicators (

) on the display.

MEM

SEEK

LIST

TIME

A-B

CARR

Please refer to the SCAN FUNCTIONS section of this
manual for details.

MEM

(Memory) - Pressing this button in VFO mode switches

the receiver to memory mode. Please refer to the MEMORY
FUNCTIONS section of this manual for details.

12) TONE - This control is used to modify the tonal quality
of the audio. Counterclockwise rotation increases bass
response. Flat response occurs at the 12 o'clock setting.

13) NOTCH - This control is used to “tune” the notch
frequency and is active when

NOTCH

is displayed. This

control is not active in FM mode.

14)

Headphone - This connector accepts a standard

1/4" diameter 2-circuit (monaural) or 3-circuit (stereo)
phone plug. Audio is monaural in either case. All speaker
outputs are automatically switched off when using head­phones.

8 Front Panel Display

A B CARR

12 ON OFF

F

4

6

7

SCAN

MEM

SEEK

LIST

TIME

A-B

CARR

VFO A = B

A = B

PRE ATTN

 

ANT 1 2 VHF

911210 13 12 15 14

1) 7-Digit Apha/Numeric Display Readout - This display
indicates frequency, in ‘MHz’ or ‘kHz’ as selected, of the
current VFO or Memory channel. The readout will also
display the channel name if assigned and selected in
addition to various programming and error messages. For
memory list scans, the two left-most digits display an Index
number. In the clock mode, indicates either ‘Local’ or
‘Universal’ time in 24 hour format as selected. Time display
is as follows: HH:MM:SS. In the Timer mode, indicates time
in 24 hour format as follows: HH:MM, with no seconds
indicated.

2) MEM/TUNE - This annunciator indicates the current
memory location. ‘MEM’ will light when the receiver
enters the Memory mode and all memory channel
locations can be sequentially tuned by use of the ‘TUNE

/ ’ buttons or Tuning wheel. With 'TUNE'

displayed, use of the Tuning wheel will allow the the user
to tune away from the selected memory channel.

3) BANDWIDTH/MODE Indicators - The currently selected
IF filter Bandwidth and mode of reception are indicated.
For FM mode operation, only the mode (FM) is displayed.
When ‘AUTO’ is illuminated, the appropriate bandwidth is
automatically set for the corresponding selected mode.

Note: The AGC setting, tuning step size, display resolution
and bandwidth are user programmable and stored per
mode. The modes are:
AM - Amplitude Modulation
AM/SYNC - Amplitude Modulation (with Synchronous
Detection)
AM SYNC, LSB, USB - Amplitude Modulation with Synchro­nous Detection of either the selected upper or lower
sideband portion of an AM signal.
FM - Frequency Modulation
CW - Continuous Wave (Morse Code)
RTTY - Radio Teletype or data
LSB - Lower Sideband
USB - Upper Sideband

4)

- The annunciators under this heading indicate

SCAN

the current scan function programming.
when the receiver enters the
Refer to the ‘Scan Functions’ section of this manual.

SCAN

mode.

15

MEM

TUNE



AGC S F

NOTCH

NB N W

NAME

8

FIGURE 5 FRONT PANEL DISPLAY

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ

The function lines of the display, described in callouts 5)
through 17) are activated by the unmarked function
button located directly below the displayed function.
The primary function line is the top most line. Pressing the

F

allows access to the alternate function line (lower

line). Alternate function availability ‘times out’ after any
front panel activity which alters the display.

Function

Lines

Function

Buttons

F

5)

nate function selection is enabled.

6) VFO A/B - This annunciator indicates the VFO in use. A
box

7) A=B - An ‘=’ sign appears between the ‘A’ and ‘B’ of the
top function line to indicate that one of the VFO’s has
been set to the same frequency as the other. This function
serves as a temporary ‘scratchpad’ memory of the first
VFO frequency as the second VFO frequency is changed
by tuning.

8) PREamp/ATTENuator - A box
appropriate legend when the Preamp or attenuator is

activated.

9) ANTenna 1/2/VHF - A box
selected antenna input: ‘ANT 1’, ‘ANT 2’ or the ‘VHF’

('CONV') connector at the rear panel of the receiver.
NOTE: VHF is only accessible when the accessory VHF

SCAN

will light

Converter module is installed.

3

MHz
kHz

BW

AUTO

6.0 4.0

2.3 1.8

12 ON OFF



TIMER

STEP

PRE ATTN

VFO A = B

MEM

1

SEEK

4

CLK

7

F

A = B

SCAN

2

5

8

0

LIST

TIME

LAMP

DEL

 

ANT 1 2 VHF

A - B

3

CARR

6

BEEP

9

CLR

- This annunciator lights to indicate that the alter-

appears around the active VFO.

0.5

CLK/FREQ

AGC S F

NOTCH

SCAN

MEM

V M

M/KHz
M V

MODE

AM SYNC

LSB USB

CW FM

RTTY

LOCK





TIMER

NB N W

NAME

STEP

TUNE

appears around the

appears around the

16

17



CLK/FREQ

LOCK