Kenwood R-5000 Manual

The Kenwood R-5000 is a professional communications receiver featuring general coverage reception from 100kHz to 30MHz, dual conversion superheterodyne system, digital PLL synthesizer, multiple operating modes including AM, SSB, CW, and FM, built-in noise blanker, RF attenuator, selectable AGC, and comprehensive frequency control. Below are key sections for operation, specifications, controls, setup, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Antennas 7. Operating Modes 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main receiver unit, front panel controls, rear panel connectors, power supply input, antenna terminals.

FeatureDescription
Frequency Range100kHz to 30MHz continuous coverage
Receiver SystemDual conversion superheterodyne
Frequency ControlDigital PLL synthesizer
Operating ModesAM, LSB, USB, CW, FM
IF BandwidthSelectable 2.4kHz, 6kHz, 15kHz
AGC SystemFast/Slow/Off selectable
Noise BlankerBuilt-in pulse noise reduction
RF Attenuator0dB, 10dB, 20dB selectable
Power Requirements13.8V DC ±15%
Antenna Input50 ohm SO-239 connector

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface away from heat sources.

  1. Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable with PL-259 connector to SO-239 antenna input.
  2. Connect power: Use 13.8V DC power supply with correct polarity.
  3. Connect audio: Use external speaker or headphones to audio output jack.
  4. Ground connection: Connect ground terminal for optimal performance.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block cooling vents. Use correct power supply polarity.

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; initialize settings.

  1. Set operating frequency: Use main tuning knob or direct frequency entry.
  2. Select operating mode: Choose AM, SSB, CW, or FM based on signal type.
  3. Adjust audio: Set volume and tone controls for comfortable listening.
  4. Configure AGC: Select Fast for SSB/CW, Slow for AM broadcast.
  5. Set squelch: Adjust for background noise suppression in FM mode.

CAUTION! Avoid strong RF fields during initial setup to prevent front-end overload.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME, SQUELCH, MODE selector, TUNING, RF GAIN, AGC, NB, ATT.

Main Controls: MODE (AM/LSB/USB/CW/FM), TUNING (main knob and fine tune), RF GAIN (manual sensitivity), AGC (Fast/Slow/Off), NB (Noise Blanker On/Off), ATT (RF attenuator 0/10/20dB).

Audio: VOLUME, TONE (bass/treble adjustment). Display: Frequency readout, S-meter, mode indicator. Special Functions: Clarifier for SSB fine tuning, Passband Tuning for selective reception, Memory channels for frequency storage.

Connecting Antennas

Primary antenna: SO-239 connector for 50 ohm coaxial feed. External antenna tuner compatible.

  1. Use quality coaxial cable (RG-8, RG-58, etc.) with PL-259 connector.
  2. Ensure proper antenna grounding for lightning protection.
  3. For longwire antennas, use appropriate balun or matching network.
  4. Keep antenna cables away from power lines and noise sources.

Tip: Experiment with antenna placement and orientation for best reception on desired bands.

Operating Modes

Supports multiple reception modes for different signal types.

  1. AM: For broadcast and amateur radio communications
  2. LSB: Lower Sideband for amateur radio below 10MHz
  3. USB: Upper Sideband for amateur radio above 10MHz
  4. CW: Continuous Wave for Morse code reception
  5. FM: Frequency Modulation for certain utility stations

Mode Selection: Use MODE button to cycle through available modes. Optimal settings vary by mode and frequency band.

Advanced Features

Noise Blanker: Effective against pulse-type interference. RF Attenuator: Reduces strong signal overload. Passband Tuning: Adjusts effective bandwidth. Memory Channels: Store up to 10 frequently used frequencies.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemical solvents. Periodically check connections and cables.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Store in dry environment.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B computing device compliance. Manufactured by Kenwood Corporation. For technical support and service, contact authorized Kenwood service centers. This device is intended for reception of radio communications only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No receptionAntenna/powerCheck antenna connection; verify power supply; check fuse.
Poor sensitivitySettings/antennaAdjust RF gain; check attenuator setting; verify antenna.
Excessive noiseLocal interferenceEngage noise blanker; use RF attenuator; check grounding.
Frequency driftWarm-up timeAllow 15-30 minutes for thermal stabilization.
Display issuesPower/brightnessCheck power voltage; adjust display contrast control.

Reset: Power cycle if unit becomes unresponsive.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.

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