Kenwood TS-590SG Manual

The Kenwood TS-590SG is a high-performance HF/50MHz all-mode transceiver featuring advanced DSP technology, 32-bit floating point processing, built-in antenna tuner, dual receive capability, USB connectivity for PC control, and robust construction for amateur radio operations. Below are key sections covering features, installation, operation, specifications, 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. Advanced Functions 9. Maintenance & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main transceiver unit, microphone, power cable, remote control, USB cable for PC interface.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	1.8-50MHz (amateur bands) + general coverage receiver
Output Power	100W (HF), 50W (50MHz)
Modes	SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY, PSK
DSP Functions	Noise reduction, auto notch, digital filters
Antenna Tuner	Built-in automatic antenna tuner
Dual Receive	Independent VFO A/B with dual watch
IF DSP	32-bit floating point processing
Connectivity	USB, CI-V, ACC, phone jack, key jack
Display	Multi-function LCD with spectrum scope
Memory Channels	99 regular + 1 call channel

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface with adequate ventilation.

Connect power: Use supplied power cable to 13.8V DC power source (positive to +, negative to -).
Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable to ANT connector (50 ohm impedance recommended).
Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on front panel.
Connect accessories: Use USB for PC control, ACC for external devices.
Grounding: Connect ground terminal to proper earth ground.

WARNING! Ensure proper polarity when connecting power. Reverse polarity may damage the unit.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

Set operating frequency: Use main dial to select desired amateur band.
Configure mode: Press MODE button to select SSB, CW, AM, FM, or digital modes.
Adjust power output: Use RF POWER control to set appropriate output level.
Configure antenna tuner: Press TUNER button to match antenna impedance.
Set squelch: Adjust SQL control for noise suppression.
Configure DSP: Access MENU to set noise reduction, filters, and other DSP functions.

CAUTION! Ensure antenna is properly connected before transmitting.

Specifications

Frequency Range: Receive: 0.03-60MHz, Transmit: 1.8-50MHz (amateur bands)
Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15% (negative ground)
Current Drain: Receive: 2A max, Transmit: 22A max
Impedance: 50 ohms unbalanced
Modulation System: SSB: balanced, AM: low-level, FM: phase
Microphone Connector: 8-pin modular jack
Dimensions: 240(W) × 95(H) × 280(D) mm
Weight: 4.5 kg
Operating Temp: -10°C to +50°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, RF POWER, AF GAIN, SQL, NB, NR, AGC, VOX, TUNER, MODE, FILTER, F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4 function keys.

Main Controls: Main dial for frequency selection, multi-function keys for quick access to common functions, MENU for detailed settings.

DSP Settings: Noise reduction (NR), noise blanker (NB), auto notch filter, digital IF filters, speech processor. Memory: Store/recall frequencies and modes in 99 memory channels. Scanning: Programmable band scan and memory scan functions.

Connecting Accessories

USB: For PC control and digital mode operation. ACC: For external amplifiers, tuners, or other accessories. Phone Jack: For headphone or external speaker. Key Jack: For CW key or paddle.

Turn off power before connecting accessories.
Use appropriate cables and connectors.
Configure accessory settings in MENU system.
Test accessory operation before regular use.

Tip: Use high-quality shielded cables for best performance and reduced interference.

Operating Modes

Supports multiple operating modes for various communication needs.

SSB (USB/LSB): For voice communications.
CW: For Morse code operation with adjustable sidetone and keyer speed.
AM: For amplitude modulation reception and transmission.
FM: For frequency modulation on 10m and 6m bands.
Digital Modes: RTTY, PSK31 with proper computer interface.
Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
Split Operation: Transmit and receive on different frequencies.

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

Advanced Functions

Spectrum Scope: Visual display of band activity. Auto Tuning: Automatic antenna matching. Memory Channels: Store frequently used settings. IF Shift: Adjust IF frequency to eliminate interference. Speech Processor: Enhance voice transmission clarity. VOX: Voice-operated transmission.

Maintenance & Care

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemicals. Ensure adequate ventilation during operation. Periodically check connections and cables.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur radio service. CE compliant for European markets. Manufactured to meet international amateur radio equipment standards. 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 connection	Check power cable connections; verify 13.8V DC supply; check fuse.
No transmission	Settings/connections	Verify PTT operation; check microphone connection; confirm transmit settings.
Poor reception	Antenna/tuning	Check antenna connection; use antenna tuner; verify antenna system.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; reduce transmit power; check duty cycle.
USB not working	Drivers/cables	Install proper drivers; check USB cable; verify PC settings.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.