Kenwood TS 870 Manual

The Kenwood TS 870 is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring 100W output power, general coverage receiver (100kHz-30MHz), built-in antenna tuner, DSP filtering, multiple operating modes (SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY), dual VFOs, IF shift, noise blanker, 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, microphone connector, antenna ports, data interface, external speaker jack, power connector.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	Receive: 100kHz-30MHz; Transmit: Amateur bands 1.8-30MHz
Output Power	5-100W adjustable (SSB/CW/AM/FM)
Built-in Antenna Tuner	Automatic and manual tuning capabilities
DSP System	Digital Signal Processing for filtering and noise reduction
Dual VFOs	Independent A/B VFO operation
IF Shift	Adjustable intermediate frequency shift control
Noise Blanker	Pulse noise reduction circuit
Operating Modes	LSB/USB/CW/AM/FM/RTTY
Memory Channels	99 memory channels with alphanumeric labeling
Power Requirements	13.8V DC ±15%

Installation

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

1. Connect power supply: Use 13.8V DC power source with proper polarity.
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 external speaker: Use SP connector if external audio required.
5. Connect data interface: For computer control or digital modes.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding; use appropriate fuses in power line. Do not operate without antenna connected.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use main dial to select desired amateur band.
2. Configure mode: Select LSB/USB/CW/AM/FM as required.
3. Adjust power output: Set appropriate power level for band and conditions.
4. Set antenna tuner: Use auto-tune function or manual tuning.
5. Configure DSP filters: Adjust bandwidth and notch filters as needed.

CAUTION! Verify antenna system before transmitting. Start with low power for initial tests.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: RX: 100kHz-30MHz; TX: 1.8-30MHz (amateur bands)
• Power Output: SSB/CW/FM: 5-100W; AM: 5-40W carrier
• Sensitivity: SSB/CW: 0.25μV; AM: 1.0μV
• Selectivity: SSB: 2.4kHz; CW: 500Hz; AM: 6kHz; FM: 15kHz
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms unbalanced
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC, 20A max
• Dimensions: 280(W) × 115(H) × 350(D) mm
• Weight: Approx. 7.5 kg
• Operating Temp: -10°C to +50°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, RF POWER, AF GAIN, RF GAIN, MODE, A/B VFO, FILTER, NB, ANL, IF SHIFT.

Main Controls: Frequency dial, mode selection, filter bandwidth, AGC settings, meter functions.

Audio: AF GAIN, MONI control, speech processor. RF: RF POWER, RF GAIN, preamp, attenuator. DSP: Filter selection, noise reduction, notch filter, IF shift. Memory: Channel storage/recall, scanning functions. Tuner: Auto/manual antenna tuning, tuner memory.

Connecting Devices

Antenna: SO-239 connector. Microphone: 8-pin DIN. Data: RS-232 interface. External speaker: Phone jack.

1. Turn off power before making connections.
2. Use quality coaxial cables for antenna connections.
3. Ensure proper microphone impedance matching.
4. Use shielded cables for data interfaces.

Tip: Keep cables away from power lines and other interference sources.

Operating Modes

Supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes.

1. SSB Operation: Select LSB/USB; adjust clarifier for precise frequency.
2. CW Operation: Use CW filter; adjust keyer speed and weight.
3. AM Operation: Select AM mode; adjust carrier power appropriately.
4. FM Operation: Use FM mode for repeater or simplex operation.
5. Digital Modes: Connect to computer via data interface for RTTY/PSK.
6. Memory Operation: Store/recall frequencies and settings.
7. Scanning: Program and execute frequency scans.

WARNING! Always identify your station according to regulations. Check band plans for proper operating frequencies.

Advanced Features

DSP Filtering: Adjustable bandwidth and shape factor. IF Shift: Reject interfering signals. Noise Blanker: Pulse noise suppression. Speech Processor: Improve SSB audio intelligibility. Antenna Tuner: Automatic impedance matching.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid solvents. Ensure adequate ventilation during operation.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not block ventilation openings.

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 connection/fuse	Check power cable; verify fuse; ensure proper voltage.
No transmit	Microphone/PTT	Check microphone connection; verify PTT operation.
Poor reception	Antenna/tuning	Check antenna connections; retune antenna system.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate airflow; reduce power output.
Display issues	Connections/settings	Check ribbon cables; reset display contrast.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.