Kenwood TS-850S Manual

The Kenwood TS-850S is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring all-mode operation (SSB, CW, AM, FM), 100W output power, built-in antenna tuner, DSP filtering, general coverage receiver (100kHz-30MHz), multiple IF filters, memory channels, and comprehensive connectivity options. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main transceiver unit, Front panel controls, Microphone connector, Antenna ports, Data interface, Power connector.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	Transmit: 1.8-30MHz; Receive: 100kHz-30MHz
Output Power	100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM), 25W (FM)
Modes	LSB/USB, CW, AM, FM
Antenna Tuner	Built-in automatic antenna tuner
DSP	Digital Signal Processing for enhanced filtering
Memory Channels	99 memory channels with alphanumeric labels
IF Filters	Multiple IF filter options for each mode
Power Requirement	13.8V DC, 22A max
Connections	ACC, DATA, CW KEY, PHONES, SPKR
Display	Multi-function LCD with S/RF meter

Installation

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

1. Connect power supply: Use 13.8V DC power source with sufficient current capacity.
2. Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable to ANT connector; ensure proper impedance matching.
3. Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on front panel.
4. Connect accessories: Use ACC socket for external equipment.
5. Ground the station: Connect ground terminal to proper earth ground.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block cooling vents. Use appropriate fuses in power line.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; initialize basic settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob or keypad to select desired frequency.
2. Select operating mode: Press MODE button to cycle through LSB/USB/CW/AM/FM.
3. Adjust RF power: Use PWR control to set output power level.
4. Tune antenna: Use TUNE function for automatic antenna matching.
5. Set filters: Adjust IF filter bandwidth for each mode as needed.
6. Configure DSP: Set noise reduction and filter parameters.

CAUTION! Verify antenna and transmission line integrity before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: RX: 100kHz-30MHz; TX: 1.8-30MHz (amateur bands)
• Power Output: 100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM), 25W (FM)
• Sensitivity: SSB/CW: 0.25μV; AM: 1.0μV; FM: 0.5μV
• Selectivity: SSB: 2.4kHz; CW: 500Hz; AM: 6kHz; FM: 15kHz
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms unbalanced
• Power Requirement: 13.8V DC ±15%, 22A max
• Dimensions: 140H × 360W × 340D mm
• Weight: 8.5 kg
• Temperature Range: -10°C to +50°C operating

Controls and Settings

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

Main Controls: VFO knob (frequency selection), MODE (mode selection), FILTER (bandwidth selection), RF PWR (power adjustment), NB/NR (noise reduction), AGC (automatic gain control).

Menu Functions: Display contrast, key beep, time-out timer, CW keyer speed, CW weight, CW sidetone, memory functions, scan settings, IF shift, RIT/XIT, antenna tuner settings.

Connecting Accessories

Microphone: 8-pin DIN connector. Antenna: SO-239 connector. Data: ACC socket for computer interface. Key: CW KEY jack for straight key or keyer.

1. Turn off power before connecting accessories.
2. Use proper cables and connectors for each interface.
3. Verify accessory compatibility before connection.
4. Set appropriate menu options for connected accessories.

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

Operating Modes

Supports SSB, CW, AM, and FM operations.

1. SSB Operation: Select LSB/USB; adjust RF gain and microphone gain for optimal performance.
2. CW Operation: Set keyer speed and weight; use RIT for receive frequency offset.
3. AM Operation: Adjust carrier level and modulation; use for AM broadcast reception.
4. FM Operation: Set deviation and squelch; primarily for 10m FM operation.
5. Memory Operation: Store and recall frequently used frequencies and settings.
6. Scan Functions: Programmable band scan and memory scan.
7. Split Operation: Transmit and receive on different frequencies.

WARNING! Always verify frequency and mode are appropriate for your license class.

Memory Functions

99 memory channels with alphanumeric labeling. Store frequency, mode, filter settings, and other parameters.

1. Store Memory: Tune to desired frequency/settings, press M.IN, select channel.
2. Recall Memory: Press VFO/MR, select memory channel.
3. Memory Clear: Press F, then M.IN to clear specific memory.
4. Memory Scan: Scan through programmed memory channels.

Maintenance & Care

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for exterior cleaning. Ensure adequate ventilation. Check connections periodically.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners. 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. Always operate in compliance with local amateur radio regulations.

Troubleshooting

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

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.