Kenwood TS-820S Manual

The Kenwood TS-820S is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring SSB, CW, and AM modes with built-in power supply, VFO, and digital frequency display. This manual covers operation, specifications, installation, and maintenance for optimal performance.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Transceiver unit, built-in power supply, digital VFO, antenna connectors, microphone jack, and accessory ports.

Installation

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

1. Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable to SO-239 connector.
2. Connect microphone: Plug into 8-pin microphone jack.
3. Connect power: Use appropriate AC power cord for your region.
4. Connect accessories: External VFO, keyer, or other accessories as needed.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding for safety and RF protection. Allow adequate ventilation space around unit.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; allow warm-up time for stable operation.

1. Set operating mode: Select SSB, CW, or AM as needed.
2. Adjust power output: Use POWER control for desired output level.
3. Set frequency: Use VFO knob or digital entry for desired frequency.
4. Adjust audio: Use AF GAIN and RF GAIN controls for optimal reception.

CAUTION! Ensure antenna is properly connected before transmitting to prevent damage.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 1.8-30 MHz amateur bands
• Modes: USB, LSB, CW, AM
• Power Output: 200W PEP SSB, 80W CW, 40W AM
• Power Supply: Built-in, 100-120V/200-240V AC, 50/60Hz
• Receiver Type: Double conversion superheterodyne
• IF Frequencies: 8.83 MHz, 455 kHz
• Sensitivity: 0.25μV for 10dB S/N (SSB)
• Selectivity: 2.4 kHz (SSB), 500 Hz (CW)
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms unbalanced
• Dimensions: 420mm W × 165mm H × 360mm D
• Weight: Approx. 15 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, VFO knob, MODE selector, AF GAIN, RF GAIN, AGC, NB, RIT, and meter functions.

Main Controls: POWER ON/OFF, MODE (LSB/USB/CW/AM), VFO A/B, RIT ON/OFF, NB ON/OFF, AGC (FAST/SLOW/OFF).

Receiver: RF GAIN, AF GAIN, AGC settings, noise blanker, RIT control. Transmitter: MIC GAIN, CARRIER control, POWER output adjustment. Meter: Functions for S/RF, ALC, PO/Mod, and SWR.

Connecting Accessories

Antenna: SO-239 connector. Microphone: 8-pin DIN connector. External VFO: Accessory port. Keyer: CW key jack.

1. Turn off power before connecting accessories.
2. Match connectors properly (e.g., microphone to 8-pin jack).
3. Ensure secure connections to prevent intermittent operation.

Tip: Use high-quality coaxial cable for antenna connection to minimize loss.

Operating Procedures

Basic operation for receiving and transmitting.

1. Receiving: Select mode and frequency, adjust AF/RF GAIN for comfortable listening level.
2. SSB Operation: Select LSB for frequencies below 10MHz, USB for 10MHz and above.
3. CW Operation: Select CW mode, adjust sidetone and keyer speed as needed.
4. AM Operation: Select AM mode for broadcast and AM amateur communications.
5. Transmitting: Ensure proper mode selection, adjust MIC GAIN and POWER for desired output.
6. Frequency Control: Use VFO knob for tuning, RIT for receive offset during split operation.

WARNING! Always check SWR before high-power transmission. Reduce power if SWR exceeds 2:1.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning and inspection for optimal performance.

Clean exterior with dry cloth only. Keep ventilation openings clear. Check connections periodically for corrosion or looseness.

CAUTION! Unplug from power before cleaning. Do not use liquids or sprays on controls.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Complies with amateur radio service rules. For amateur use only - operator must possess valid amateur radio license. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.