AOR AR7030 Short Wave Receiver

The standard AR7030 receiver has been awarded a five star rating by Radio Netherlands and Table-top Receiver of the Year award 1996/97 by the World Radio TV Handbook, it has also been awarded five stars by Passport to World Band Radio... truly a remarkable receiver.

The AR7030 stunned the world when first released due to exceptionally high performance, indeed the AR7030 still wins the analogue / DSP battle in respect of high dynamic range and low noise, a testimony to the successful project between internationally acclaimed UK designer John Thorpe and AOR.

High performance coupled to enhanced microprocessor features and facilities forms the cornerstone of its success. Frequency coverage is from 0 - 32 MHz all mode: AM, Synchronous AM, USB, LSB, CW, DATA & NFM. Four 455 kHz IF filters are provided as standard with provision for a further two (including Collins mechanical filters), all of which are ‘self aligned’ by the receiver for optimum performance and passband symmetry; this plus the standard fitted TCXO makes the AR7030 ideal for ECSS applications. The self tuning variable bandwidth synchronous detector is a pleasure to use and ‘hangs on’ to the weakest of signals, audio quality is superb.

Where good strong signal handling, high performance and transportability are of great importance, the AR7030 is the solution offering an IP3 greater than +30dBm (typical +35dBm reduced by 10dB with the preamp on). Intermodulation free dynamic range with the 2.2kHz filter is typically 105dB @ 100/200kHz spacing, 104dB @ 20/40kHz and still better than 90dB @ 5kHz. This fantastic strong signal handling is aided by the innovative configuration of a lateral DMOS FET QUAD first mixer running at 15V, relay switching in the front end (not diodes) and the use of shielded inductors throughout the signal path. All this and GREAT SENSITIVITY better than 0.5uV for 10dB S/N in AM mode and better than 0.3uV for 10dB S/N in SSB.

Selectivity too is razor sharp typically offering greater than 90dB @ 5kHz SSB, almost 100dB @ 10kHz and greater than 100dB @ 20kHz, these excellent figures are achieved by the implementation of a remarkably low phase noise local oscillator <-158dBc/Hz @ 100kHz.

The receiver is built around a TCXO frequency standard which provides the reference for all circuitry ensuring the ultimate in stability and optimum alignment. Single loop DDS provides the clean local oscillator reference essential for low reciprocal mixing levels and seamless tuning in 2.655Hz steps (10.62Hz in AM & NFM modes) with no tuning "plops" at regular intervals. The receiver is a double conversion superheterodyne with intermediate frequencies of 45MHz and 455kHz.

Enhanced features include pass band tuning ±4.2kHz, variable audio pitch tune on CW & data modes and a "variable bandwidth synchronous detector" for AM listening to eliminate the effects of transmitter / receiver drift as well as reducing distortion from selective fading. The pass band tuning may be used in synchronous AM mode to select synchronous USB, LSB, DSB or anything in between. A specially developed AGC release characteristic has been developed to provide very smooth SSB. Noise spike compression has also been included to reduce the effects of noise pulses. A built-in six level attenuator provides levels of sensitivity from +10dB to -40dB.

Assignable controls enable you to place the functions YOU want at your fingertips. It is also possible to save a few of your ‘favourite’ receiver setups for later retrieval. Twin VFOs are provided in addition to the 100 memory channels (400 with the 'features CPU' fitted) with versatile scanning facilities including independent squelch settings for each memory and VFO. Virtually every aspect of the AR7030 is controllable via the standard REMOTE port for straight forward computer connection, optional PC Windows based software is available.

The tape recorder configurable outputs and slave relay may be programmed to operate from the built-in clock timer or from the squelch control. Mute input is available for use with transmitters.

The AR7030 features a stylish custom CNC machined solid aluminium front panel with extruded aluminium shaped sides, metal top, bottom & rear panels. The front panel finish is brushed & anodised with the sides and other surfaces toned in a matching textured paint. Smooth lines, detailed front panel, domed top mounted speaker grille and ergonomically placed controls spell out the attention to detail of the robust cabinet. An internal battery option adds the possibility of transportable operation. An infrared remote controller is supplied as standard along with a low noise power supply and comprehensively illustrated operating manual.

AR7030 PLUS: For those who want the ‘edge’ then this model has been designed for you. All aspects of performance have been carefully studied and specific performance enhancements have been applied making excellent into the ultimate :-

The NB7030 multi-option is not fitted as standard to the AR7030 PLUS, just the ‘features’ CPU is fitted. Should you wish to add the hardware noise blanker and audio notch filter, order the UPNB7030. The AR7030 ‘PLUS’ is the best of the best!

Enhancement continues in production, the latest production features alternative click encoders which provide a smoother and more consistent quality feel and a new-style liquid crystal display with higher contrast and a wider viewing angle. The AR7030 has established itself as the popular performance trendsetting short wave receiver representing the new ‘bench mark’ in excellence and sheer performance.

The AR7030 has been employed for DRM evaluation, take a look at the following links:

Frequency coverage 0 - 32 MHz

Mode reception: USB, LSB, CW, AM, Synchronous AM, NFM, DATA

Advanced IP3 greater than +35dBm

Very high dynamic range
>100dB in AM mode with 7kHz filter
>105dB in SSB mode with 2.2kHz filter
>110dB in CW mode with 500Hz filter

Seamless tuning using single loop DDS, no tuning "plops" at regular intervals

TCXO frequency standard fitted

Variable bandwidth synchronous detector with selection of USB, LSB, DSB or anything in between

Automatically calibrated and aligned filters

Specially developed AGC release charactenstic

Passband tuning +/-5kHz

Audio pitch tune in CW & DATA modes

DOT MATRIX rear illuminated LCD with plenty of on-screen information

Assignable controls

Re-configurable receiver, switch between several favourite set-ups

100 memory channels

Clock and timer facility

Supplied with full function infra-red-hand control

Performance figures relate to a typical production receiver and are not guaranteed levels.
Test signals :- AM mode : Modulated to 70% depth at 1kHz
FM mode : Deviated by 1.5kHz at 1kHz
SSB mode : Unmodulated carrier, resolved at 1kHz

AR7030 Block Diagram

Due to continuous developments, AOR reserves the right to make design and specification changes for product improvement without prior notice. The performance specification figures indicated are nominal values of production units. There may be some deviation from these values in individual units.

Key Points

AR7030 Block Diagram