●Standalone control panel
In the compact size range, virtually all transceivers are designed so the control panel can be removed and replaced. While this is convenient, owing to the small dimensions of the main unit, the area of the front panel is necessarily limited. Consequently, in order to access the many functions that are used in HF operations using only a limited number of switches, hierarchical menus are unavoidable.
As explained in the section on development objectives, we started out with the premise that the TS-480 would not be limited to mobile applications but that it would be able to serve as a reasonably priced 200W fixed station. So rather than going for a simple appearance, we decided on a standalone control panel in order to provide true operating ease.
By separating the control panel from the main unit, its size can be decided independently of the cross-sectional area of the main unit. As a result, we were able to realize just about the same operability as one would expect of a conventional base station. Naturally, at the same time we adopted a large TN LCD, thus ensuring a responsive, easy-to-view display.
For the main encoder, we picked a magnetic encoder with 250-pulse resolution made by Copal Electronics Corp., using software to quadruple resolution to 1000 pulses per revolution. Since this encoder uses the same components used in virtually all of the models in Kenwood’s HF fixed station lineup, even during mobile operations it should offer the same operability as during fixed station operations. In addition, by ringing the main encoded dial with rubber we have further improved operating ease, since it provides a good grip and is more pleasing to the touch.
In addition, installed inside this standalone panel is a 66mm-diameter speaker. Since the speaker grill is on the rear of the panel, you might wonder whether it can deliver sufficient volume. However, when you are actually using the standalone panel, you will find that the sound is reflected off your desk, the dashboard of your car, or the windshield, that is indeed loud enough.
●Design concept
The standalone panel of the TS-480 Series draws on the design of the TS-2000. While inheriting the best aspects of the former model’s design, the new series represents an evolution in design with added emphasis on the 3D look, sharpness, and the power that is associated with 200W output. Also, the case of the main unit has been given a rounded form so as not to appear simply as a box; its design creates the impression of aesthetic unity.
The TS-2000 was mainly designed for fixed station operations, so it has a silver-colored control panel. The TS-480 is of course expected to be used more frequently for mobile operations so a black color scheme was chosen. Black helps to minimize light reflection when used outside in sunny conditions.
Of course the part of the transceiver that is most frequently touched is the main encoder dial. Each one is carefully machined and processed. After spin finishing, it is treated with titanium-colored alumite. The design of this main encoder dial is one of those features the TS-480 has inherited from the acclaimed TS-2000.
Of course, we were not exclusively concerned with design aspects – for example, adopting backlit rubber keys with a creamy-white base in order to improve visibility, and mounting the speaker in the rear of the standalone panel. We believe that our design enhances visibility and operating ease in both fixed and mobile operating environments.
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