Kenwood TS-50 User Manual

The Kenwood TS-50 is a compact HF transceiver covering 1.8-30 MHz with 100W output power, featuring built-in antenna tuner, DSP noise reduction, multiple operating modes (SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY), dual VFOs, memory channels, IF shift, and comprehensive filtering options. Designed for amateur radio operators seeking portable and base station operation capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main transceiver unit, Front panel controls, Microphone connector, Antenna ports, DC power input, Accessory connectors.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	1.8-30 MHz all amateur bands
Output Power	100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM)
Built-in Antenna Tuner	Automatic matching for 1.8-30 MHz
Operating Modes	LSB, USB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY
DSP Functions	Noise reduction, IF shift, notch filter
Dual VFOs	Independent A/B VFO operation
Memory Channels	100 memory channels
IF Filter	2.3 kHz CW, 2.4/1.8 kHz SSB
Power Requirements	13.8V DC ±15%
Dimensions	240W × 85H × 260D mm

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface with adequate ventilation.

Connect power supply: Use 13.8V DC input with proper polarity.
Connect antenna: Use SO-239 connector for main antenna.
Connect microphone: Use 8-pin DIN connector.
Connect accessories: Use rear panel accessory ports for external devices.
Ground connection: Connect ground terminal for safety and RF grounding.

WARNING! Ensure proper power supply polarity to prevent damage. Use adequate antenna system for transmitted power.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob to select desired band.
Select operating mode: Press MODE button to choose SSB, CW, AM, etc.
Adjust power output: Use PWR control to set appropriate power level.
Tune antenna: Press TUNE for automatic antenna matching.
Set squelch: Adjust SQL for noise suppression in receive mode.
Configure DSP: Enable noise reduction and filter settings.

CAUTION! Ensure proper licensing for amateur radio operation. Follow local regulations.

Specifications

Frequency Range: 1.8-30 MHz (amateur bands)
Output Power: 100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM)
Receiver Sensitivity: 0.25μV for 10dB S+N/N (SSB)
Selectivity: 2.3 kHz (CW), 2.4/1.8 kHz (SSB)
Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%, 20A max
Current Drain: 20A max transmit, 1.5A receive
Impedance: 50 ohms unbalanced
Operating Temp: -10°C to +50°C
Weight: 3.5 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME, SQL, RF PWR, VFO A/B, MODE, TUNE, NB, NR, AGC.

Main Controls: VFO knob for frequency selection, Function keys for menu access, Multi-function display for status information.

Menu Settings: DSP functions (noise reduction, IF shift), Filter bandwidths, AGC timing, Keyer speed, Memory management, Display contrast, Backlight settings, Time functions.

Connecting Accessories

Microphone: 8-pin DIN connector. Antenna: SO-239 connector. Data: ACC connector for packet, RTTY. External speaker: SP jack.

Turn off power before connecting accessories.
Use proper cables and connectors for each accessory.
Configure accessory settings in menu system.
Test accessory operation before regular use.

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

Operating Modes

Supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY operation.

SSB Operation: Select LSB/USB, adjust clarifier for precise tuning.
CW Operation: Enable CW mode, set keyer speed, use built-in keyer or external paddle.
AM Operation: Select AM mode for broadcast reception and AM phone operation.
FM Operation: Choose FM mode for repeater and simplex operation.
RTTY Operation: Enable RTTY mode for digital communications.
Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously using VFO A/B.
Split Operation: Transmit and receive on different frequencies.

WARNING! Ensure proper mode selection for intended operation. Verify frequency allocations.

Memory Functions

100 memory channels for frequency and mode storage.

Store Memory: Tune to desired frequency/mode, press M.IN, select channel.
Recall Memory: Press MR, select channel number.
Memory Scan: Scan stored memory channels for activity.
Memory Lock: Prevent accidental memory changes.
Memory Groups: Organize memories by band or purpose.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemicals.

Regular maintenance: Check connections, verify power supply voltage, inspect antenna system.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur radio service. CE compliant for European markets. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support and service, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power supply/power cord	Check DC power connection; verify 13.8V supply; check fuse.
No transmit	Settings/microphone	Check PTT operation; verify microphone connection; check power settings.
Poor reception	Antenna/tuning	Verify antenna connection; use antenna tuner; check antenna system.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; reduce power output; check duty cycle.
Memory loss	Backup battery	Replace internal backup battery; reprogram memories.

Reset: Menu > System > Reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.