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AR4 & AR5 onboard test mode (Firmware v1.73)

This guide explains how to use the built-in test tools on AR4 and AR5 acoustic recorders running firmware v1.73.

These tests help you quickly confirm your device is working correctly before field deployment. No technical knowledge is required.

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Getting to the Test Menu

From the Main Menu, navigate to Test, then choose either Bat Test or Peripherals.

Bat Test

This confirms your ultrasonic bat microphone is picking up sound correctly.

Select Test → Bat Test to start the device listening
Open the DOC Bat Tester app and play a test bat call near your recorder.
If the microphone is working, your recorder will display "Bat Detected" on screen.
The LED will flash once the call is written to the SD card.

if you don't see the bat detected message try the test again. Ensur the volume on your mobile is set quite low, 10 to 20% and the mobile is approximately 50-75cm away from the recorder.

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Peripherals Test

This runs an automated check of your recorder's key hardware components, no input needed for most of it. The recorder will work through the following in sequence:

Data EEPROM — checks the memory that stores your protocol settings
DSP EEPROM — checks the memory that stores audio processing code
RTC (Real-Time Clock) — verifies the clock hardware is connected
Alarm — confirms the device will wake up at the correct scheduled start time
Battery — fresh alkaline batteries should read around 6V re-chargeables will be closer to 5V. Do not deploy if the reading is below 4.5V
DSP Comms — checks the connection to the audio processing hardware
SD Card — confirms a card is inserted, readable, and correctly formatted
Test Switch — press each button on the device to confirm they're all working
Audio Test (Low & High) — checks the connections to the audio input hardware

Work through each result as it appears. Any failed check will indicate which component needs attention before deployment.

Tips

Run both tests before every deployment, especially with new or replacement hardware.
Always use freshly charged or new alkaline batteries if your battery reading is borderline.
Make sure your SD card is inserted before running the Peripherals test so the card check can complete.
Different phone models will play the ultrasonic bat sound differently. Try different distances and volumes to test what works with your phone.
The DOC bat app is for Android only. Download here

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