Kenwood TS-950SD Manual

The Kenwood TS-950SD is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring all-mode operation (SSB, CW, AM, FM), 100W output power, built-in antenna tuner, DSP filtering, dual VFOs, general coverage receiver, IF shift, noise blanker, and comprehensive memory functions. Operating from 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, 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. Memory Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main transceiver unit, microphone connector, antenna ports, accessory jacks, front panel controls.

FeatureDescription
Frequency coverageReceive: 100kHz-30MHz; Transmit: 1.8-30MHz amateur bands
Output power100W PEP (SSB), 100W (CW), 40W (AM), 25W (FM)
ModesSSB, CW, AM, FM, FSK
Built-in antenna tunerAutomatic and manual tuning capability
DSP filteringDigital signal processing for enhanced reception
Dual VFOsIndependent VFO A and VFO B operation
IF shiftIntermediate frequency shift control
Noise blankerPulse noise reduction circuit
Memory channels99 memory channels with alphanumeric labeling
Power requirements100-240V AC, 50/60Hz

Installation

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

  1. Connect antenna: Use appropriate coaxial cable to ANTENNA port.
  2. Connect microphone: Plug microphone into MIC connector on front panel.
  3. Connect power: Use supplied power cable to appropriate AC outlet.
  4. Connect accessories: Use accessory jacks for external speakers, keyers, etc.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

  1. Set operating frequency: Use main dial to select desired frequency band.
  2. Configure mode: Select SSB, CW, AM, or FM as required.
  3. Adjust audio: Set RF gain, AF gain, and speaker volume.
  4. Calibrate antenna tuner: Perform automatic or manual antenna tuning.
  5. Set DSP filters: Configure filter bandwidth and shape for current mode.

CAUTION! Verify antenna system before transmitting. Start with low power settings.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel: POWER, RF GAIN, AF GAIN, MODE, FILTER, NB, AGC, VFO A/B, MEMORY, FUNCTION.

Main controls: Frequency dial, mode selection, filter bandwidth, AGC settings, noise blanker, IF shift, RIT/XIT, antenna tuner controls.

Audio: AF gain, speaker volume, microphone gain, monitor function. Filter: Selectable bandwidths for each mode, DSP filtering options. Memory: Store/recall frequencies and modes, memory scan functions. Display: Frequency readout, S/RF meter, mode indication, function status.

Connecting Accessories

Microphone: Front panel MIC jack. Antenna: Rear ANTENNA port. External speakers: SPKR jack. CW key: KEY jack. Data: ACC jack for digital modes.

  1. Turn off power before connecting accessories.
  2. Use appropriate cables and connectors for each accessory.
  3. Verify proper impedance matching for antenna system.
  4. Configure accessory settings in FUNCTION menu as needed.

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

Operating Modes

Supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, and FSK operation.

  1. SSB operation: Select LSB or USB, adjust clarifier as needed.
  2. CW operation: Set CW mode, adjust sidetone volume, keyer speed.
  3. AM operation: Select AM mode for broadcast and AM amateur operation.
  4. FM operation: Choose FM mode for repeater and simplex FM use.
  5. FSK operation: Configure for RTTY and other digital modes.
  6. Dual watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously using VFO A and B.
  7. Split operation: Transmit and receive on different frequencies.
  8. Scan functions: Band scan, memory scan, program scan modes available.

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

Memory Functions

99 memory channels with alphanumeric labeling. Memory scan, memory grouping, quick memory access.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use compressed air for dust removal. Avoid liquid cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Keep ventilation openings clear.

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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cable/outletCheck power cable connection; verify outlet function; check fuse.
No transmitMicrophone/PTTVerify microphone connection; check PTT operation; confirm antenna.
Poor receptionAntenna/tuningCheck antenna connections; retune antenna; verify antenna system.
OverheatingVentilationEnsure adequate ventilation; reduce power output; check fan operation.
Memory lossBackup batteryReplace internal backup battery; reprogram memory channels.

Reset: Function menu > System > Reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center; www.kenwood.com

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