Kenwood TS-50S Manual

The Kenwood TS-50S is a compact HF transceiver covering 1.8-30 MHz with 100W output power. It features built-in antenna tuner, DSP noise reduction, multiple operating modes (SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY), memory channels, IF shift, noise blanker, and various scanning functions. Below are key sections for operation, features, installation, setup, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

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 antenna matching
DSP Noise Reduction	Digital signal processing for improved reception
Operating Modes	LSB, USB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY
Memory Channels	100 memory channels for frequency storage
IF Shift	Intermediate frequency shift control
Noise Blanker	Pulse noise reduction
Scan Functions	Programmable and memory scanning
Power Requirements	13.8V DC, 20A max

Installation

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

1. Connect power: Use 13.8V DC power supply with proper polarity.
2. Connect antenna: Use appropriate coaxial cable to ANT connector.
3. Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on front panel.
4. Connect accessories: Use accessory ports for external devices.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and use appropriate fuses. Do not exceed 13.8V DC input.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob or direct frequency entry.
2. Select operating mode: Choose LSB, USB, CW, AM, or FM as needed.
3. Adjust output power: Set appropriate power level for operation.
4. Configure antenna tuner: Run automatic tuning procedure.
5. Set DSP functions: Adjust noise reduction and filter settings.

CAUTION! Ensure antenna is properly connected before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 1.8-30 MHz (amateur bands)
• Output Power: 100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM)
• Modes: LSB, USB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY
• Sensitivity: 0.16μV for 10dB S/N (SSB)
• Selectivity: 2.4kHz (SSB), 500Hz (CW)
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%, 20A max
• Dimensions: 240(W) × 85(H) × 252(D) mm
• Weight: 3.8 kg
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME, SQL, RF POWER, VFO knob, MODE, FUNCTION keys.

Main Controls: POWER (on/off), VOLUME (audio level), SQL (squelch), RF POWER (output power), VFO (frequency selection), MODE (operating mode), FUNCTION (secondary functions).

DSP Settings: Noise reduction level, IF shift, filter bandwidth, notch filter. Memory: Store/recall frequencies and modes. Scan: Programmable scan ranges and memory scan. Tuner: Automatic antenna matching. Display: Backlight, contrast, meter modes.

Connecting Accessories

Microphone: Front panel MIC connector. Antenna: Rear ANT connector. Power: Rear DC input. Accessories: Data port for computer interface.

1. Turn off power before connecting accessories.
2. Use appropriate cables and connectors.
3. Ensure proper grounding for all connections.
4. Connect external speakers or headphones if needed.

Tip: Use shielded cables for audio connections to reduce noise.

Operating Modes

Supports multiple communication modes for various applications.

1. SSB (Single Sideband): LSB for lower frequencies, USB for higher frequencies.
2. CW (Continuous Wave): Morse code operation with adjustable bandwidth.
3. AM (Amplitude Modulation): For AM broadcast and aircraft communications.
4. FM (Frequency Modulation): For local VHF-like operation.
5. RTTY (Radio Teletype): For digital communications.
6. Memory Operation: Store and recall frequently used frequencies.
7. Scan Operation: Automatic frequency scanning with programmable limits.

WARNING! Ensure you have appropriate license for operating frequency and mode.

Memory Functions

100 memory channels for storing frequencies, modes, and settings.

1. Store memory: Tune to desired frequency and mode, press [F] then [MR] to store.
2. Recall memory: Press [MR] and select channel number.
3. Memory scan: Scan through programmed memory channels.
4. Memory clear: Clear individual or all memory channels.
5. Memory lock: Prevent accidental memory changes.

Care & Maintenance

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

Regular maintenance:

• Check connections for corrosion
• Ensure adequate ventilation
• Keep front panel clean
• Store in dry environment

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use liquids on controls.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur radio service. CE compliant for European markets. This device must not cause harmful interference and must accept any interference received. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check DC power connection; verify fuse; ensure proper voltage.
No transmission	Settings/antenna	Check RF power setting; verify antenna connection; check SWR.
Poor reception	Antenna/DSP settings	Adjust antenna; optimize DSP noise reduction; check IF shift.
Memory not saving	Battery/operation	Check internal battery; follow proper memory storage procedure.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; reduce output power; check duty cycle.

Reset: Power off/on or factory reset procedure if available.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.