Kenwood TS 870S Manual

The Kenwood TS 870S is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring all-mode operation (SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY), 100W output power, built-in antenna tuner, DSP noise reduction, dual VFOs, IF shift, and comprehensive filtering options. Operating from 1.8 to 30 MHz, it includes multiple IF filters, digital signal processing, and extensive connectivity options for external accessories and computer control. 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 Features 9. Maintenance & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main transceiver unit, Front panel controls, Microphone connector, Antenna ports, External accessory connectors, Power input.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	1.8-30 MHz all amateur bands
Output Power	100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM)
Modes	SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY
Built-in Antenna Tuner	Automatic or manual tuning
DSP Functions	Noise reduction, IF filters, notch filter
Dual VFOs	Independent VFO A/B operation
IF Shift	Adjustable IF center frequency
Memory Channels	99 memory channels with alphanumeric tags
Computer Control	CI-V interface compatible
Power Requirements	13.8V DC, 20A typical

Installation

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

Connect power supply: Use 13.8V DC power source with sufficient current capacity.
Connect antenna: Use appropriate coaxial cable to ANT connector.
Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on front panel.
Connect external accessories: Use ACC1 and ACC2 connectors for external tuners, amplifiers, or computer interface.
Connect speakers: Use external speaker if desired.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and use appropriate fuses. Do not exceed maximum power input voltage.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

Set operating mode: Select desired mode (SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY).
Configure antenna tuner: Run automatic tuning or manual setup.
Set DSP functions: Adjust noise reduction and filter settings.
Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies and modes.
Configure VFOs: Set up dual VFO operation for split frequency operation.

CAUTION! Ensure proper antenna matching before transmitting to prevent damage.

Specifications

Frequency Range: 1.8-30 MHz continuous receive, amateur bands transmit
Power Output: SSB/CW: 5-100W, AM: 2-40W, FM: 5-100W
Sensitivity: SSB/CW: 0.25μV for 10dB S/N, AM: 2.0μV for 10dB S/N
Selectivity: Multiple IF filters available (2.3kHz, 500Hz, 250Hz)
DSP Features: Noise reduction, auto notch, manual notch, IF shift
Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms unbalanced
Power Requirement: 13.8V DC ±15%, 22A max
Dimensions: 240(W) × 105(H) × 340(D) mm
Weight: Approximately 7.5 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, RF POWER, AF GAIN, RF GAIN, MODE, FILTER, NB, NR, AGC, VFO A/B, SPLIT, TUNE.

Menu Functions: DSP settings, memory management, display options, CW settings, RTTY setup, computer interface configuration.

DSP Controls: Noise reduction level, notch filter frequency, IF shift width, filter bandwidth selection. Memory: Store/recall 99 channels with mode and filter settings. Display: S-meter, power output, SWR, frequency, mode indication.

Connecting Accessories

External tuners, amplifiers, computer interfaces, external speakers, keyers, RTTY interfaces.

Turn off transceiver before connecting accessories.
Use appropriate cables and connectors for each accessory.
Configure accessory settings in menu system.
Test accessory operation before regular use.

Tip: Use shielded cables for audio and control lines to reduce interference.

Operating Modes

Supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, and RTTY operations.

SSB Operation: Select USB or LSB, adjust RF power and microphone gain.
CW Operation: Set CW pitch, speed, and sideband selection.
AM Operation: Adjust carrier level and modulation.
FM Operation: Set deviation and squelch levels.
RTTY Operation: Configure shift, keying, and filter settings.
Memory Operation: Recall stored frequencies and settings.
Split Operation: Use dual VFOs for cross-band operation.

WARNING! Always check SWR before high-power transmission. Use appropriate duty cycle for continuous operation.

Advanced Features

DSP Noise Reduction: Adjustable from 0-15 levels. IF Shift: Center frequency adjustment. Notch Filter: Automatic and manual operation. Antenna Tuner: Automatic matching for 16-150 ohms. Computer Control: CI-V interface for remote operation.

Maintenance & Care

Keep unit clean and dry. Use compressed air to remove dust from heatsinks and vents.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Disconnect power before cleaning. Ensure adequate ventilation during operation.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Complies with amateur radio service rules. 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 connections; verify fuse condition; ensure proper voltage.
No transmit	Settings/connections	Check PTT operation; verify microphone connection; check mode settings.
Poor reception	Antenna/DSP settings	Verify antenna connection; adjust RF gain; optimize DSP settings.
High SWR	Antenna/tuner	Run antenna tuner; check antenna system; verify coaxial connections.
Computer interface not working	Cables/settings	Verify CI-V cable connection; check baud rate settings; ensure proper addressing.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.