Kenwood TS-480 Manual

The Kenwood TS-480 is a high-performance HF/50MHz transceiver featuring 200W output power, advanced DSP filtering, built-in automatic antenna tuner, dual VFOs, multiple operating modes including SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes, large LCD display, and comprehensive connectivity options. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main transceiver unit, microphone, power cable, mounting brackets, and remote control head option.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	1.8-50MHz (amateur bands) + general coverage receiver
Output Power	200W (HF), 100W (50MHz)
Operating Modes	SSB, CW, AM, FM, Digital (RTTY, PSK)
DSP Functions	Digital filtering, noise reduction, auto notch
Antenna Tuner	Built-in automatic (3:1 SWR range)
Memory Channels	200 regular + 6 scan edges
VFO System	Dual VFOs with split operation
Display	Large LCD with multi-function meter
Connectivity	ACC, DATA, CW key, speaker, remote
Power Requirements	13.8V DC ±15%

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Connect power: Use supplied cable to 13.8V DC source with proper polarity.
2. Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable to antenna connector; ensure proper SWR.
3. Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on front panel.
4. Mount transceiver: Use supplied brackets for secure mounting.
5. Connect accessories: Use ACC socket for external devices.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Do not exceed 30A current draw.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use main dial to select desired band.
2. Configure basic settings: Menu > Initial Set for language, time, etc.
3. Adjust audio: Set microphone gain and audio levels.
4. Configure DSP: Enable noise reduction and filtering as needed.
5. Test antenna tuner: Press TUNE button to match antenna.

CAUTION! Always use proper antenna and ensure good ventilation during operation.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 1.8-50MHz (TX amateur), 0.5-60MHz (RX)
• Power Output: 200W PEP (HF), 100W (50MHz)
• Modes: LSB/USB, CW, AM, FM, FSK
• Sensitivity: SSB: 0.25μV, CW: 0.06μV
• Selectivity: SSB: 2.4kHz, CW: 500Hz
• DSP Features: IF filter, noise reduction, auto notch
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC, 22A max
• Dimensions: 240W × 85H × 260D mm
• Weight: 3.8kg (main unit)

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power, Volume, SQL, RF PWR, NB, NR, AGC, V/M, F-IN, A/B, SPLIT.

Menu System: Press F key + dial for quick menu access. Full menu: Hold F for 1 second.

Basic Settings: RF power, microphone gain, monitor level, AGC speed. DSP Settings: Filter width, noise reduction level, auto notch, manual notch. Memory: Store/recall frequencies and modes. Scan: Programmable band and memory scanning.

Connecting Accessories

ACC socket: For external speakers, data interfaces, amplifiers. DATA jack: For digital mode interfaces. CW key: For straight key or paddle.

1. Turn off power before connecting accessories.
2. Use proper cables and connectors.
3. Configure menu settings for accessory operation.

Tip: Use shielded cables for data connections to reduce interference.

Operating Modes

SSB Operation: Select LSB/USB, adjust microphone gain, use clarifier for fine tuning. CW Operation: Set CW pitch, speed, weight; use break-in mode. Digital Modes: Connect data interface, select FSK mode, adjust audio levels.

1. Select mode: Use MODE button to choose operating mode.
2. Adjust settings: Set filter width and DSP functions.
3. Transmit: Use PTT or VOX for transmission.
4. Monitor: Use S-meter and ALC for proper operation.

WARNING! Always check frequency and mode legality for your license class.

Advanced Features

Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously. Memory Scan: Scan stored memory channels. Band Scan: Automatic band scanning. Auto Tuner: Automatic antenna matching. VOX: Voice-operated transmission. IF Shift: Adjust IF frequency to eliminate interference.

Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Check connections regularly. Update firmware as needed.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Use only dry cloth; avoid liquids.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Complies with amateur radio service rules. CE compliant for European market. Manufacturer: Kenwood Corporation. For technical support and service, contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cable/fuse	Check power connections; replace fuse if blown.
No transmit	Settings/connections	Check PTT operation; verify microphone connection.
Poor reception	Antenna/tuning	Check antenna connections; use antenna tuner.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; reduce power output.
Display issues	Connections/settings	Check remote head cable; reset display settings.

Reset: Menu > Set Mode > All Reset to restore factory defaults.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.