6 COMMUNICATING

CW TRANSMISSION

CW operators know that this mode is a reliable method of communicating under the worst conditions. Although itÕs true that newer digital modes rival CW as being equally as useful in poor conditions, these modes do not have the long history of service yet nor the simplicity that CW can have. Therefore, functions required by CW operators were given serious consideration from the start of the TS-870S design.

Refer, if necessary, to ÒOPERATING BASICSÓ beginning on page 19 for complete receiving details for any mode.

1Select the operating frequency.

2Press [CW/–R]to select CW mode.

AGC AUTO

CW

3Select the ALC meter function by pressing [METER].

S

1

3

5

7

9

20

40

60

dB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

 

25

50

 

100

 

 

 

0

 

 

FILTER

 

W

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALC

 

 

 

 

 

 

4Press [SEND].

¥The ÒON AIRÓ indicator lights.

¥Refer to ÒSEMI BREAK-INÓ {page 31} or ÒFULL BREAK-INÓ {page 31} for information on automatic TX/RX switching.

5With a key down condition, adjust the CAR control so that the meter reads in the ALC zone but doesnÕt exceed the upper ALC zone limit.

6After completing your transmission, press [SEND] again to return to the receive mode.

¥ The ÒON AIRÓ indicator goes out.

TX SIDETONE/ RX PITCH FREQUENCY

The transmit sidetone is the monitor tone you hear from your transceiver as you send CW. It is necessary so you can hear what you are transmitting. It is also useful for checking that your key contacts are closing, the keyer is functioning, or for sending practice without putting a signal on the air. The volume of the sidetone is adjusted by the MONI control.

Receive pitch refers to the frequency of the CW note that you hear after tuning your receiver for maximum receive signal strength. On the TS-870S, the frequency of the sidetone and receive pitch are equal and selectable. You can select the frequency that is most comfortable for you via Menu No. 24 (PITCH). The default is 800 Hz.

The following selections are available:

¥400 ~ 1000 Hz inclusive in 50 Hz steps

Note: Changing the RX pitch frequency does not shift the center frequency of the receive filter pass band. If a CW signal becomes inaudible, shift the pass band by adjusting the HI/SHIFT control.

Refer to ÒIF SHIFTÓ {page 51}.

ZERO-BEATING

Zero-beating means matching your transmit frequency with the station that you are receiving. This is important if you expect other stations to hear you without them retuning their receivers. Zero-beating also saves space on the band since only a single frequency is used by you and the other station for your contact. If you are part of a ÒroundtableÓ where more than two stations are participating but each is on a different frequency, itÕs frustrating to keep retuning to a different frequency each time one of the roundtable stations begins sending. Learn to zero-beat accurately and quickly.

1Press [VOX] and press [RIT] to switch OFF the VOX and RIT functions respectively.

¥ ÒVOXÓ and ÒRITÓ go out.

2With CW mode selected, turn the Tuning control to tune in a CW station for maximum signal strength.

3Close your key to activate the sidetone. ¥ You will hear a steady tone.

4Turn the Tuning control until the note from the received CW signal matches the sidetone note, then release the key.

¥To double check that you are zero beat, press [CW/–R]to switch to the opposite sideband. You should hear no difference in tone of the received CW signal.

SWITCHING TX/RX MANUALLY

1Select CW mode by pressing [CW/–R].¥ ÒCWÓ lights.

AGC AUTO

CW

2Press [SEND].

¥The receive audio is muted.

¥Holding down Microphone [PTT] also switches between receive and transmit.

3Send CW.

4When finished sending, release [SEND] or [PTT].

30

Page 36
Image 36
Kenwood TS-870S CW Transmission, Communicating, TX SIDETONE/ RX Pitch Frequency, Zero-Beating, Switching TX/RX Manually

TS-870S specifications

The Kenwood TS-870S is a distinguished transceiver that stands out in the world of amateur radio, particularly for enthusiasts who seek a blend of advanced technology and user-friendly features. Introduced in the early 1990s, this HF transceiver quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional performance, versatility, and reliability, making it a favorite among operators worldwide.

One of the most noteworthy features of the TS-870S is its direct-sampling technology, which allows for superior signal fidelity and processing. This technology enables the transceiver to operate across a range of 160 meters to 10 meters, catering to both casual and serious operators. Its high-performance 16-bit digital signal processing (DSP) facilitates effective noise reduction and filtering capabilities, enhancing the overall clarity during transmission and reception.

In terms of power, the TS-870S boasts an output of 100 watts, providing ample power for various communication needs. The transceiver is equipped with an automatic antenna tuner, which simplifies the task of matching the antenna to the operating frequency, ensuring optimal performance without the hassle of manual adjustments.

Another significant aspect of the Kenwood TS-870S is its user interface, featuring a large, easy-to-read display, and a logically arranged control layout. This makes it accessible for both novice and experienced operators. The built-in memories allow for quick storage and access to favorite frequencies and settings, enhancing operational efficiency.

The Kenwood TS-870S also includes various advanced features such as an optional 2.4 kHz and 6 kHz roofing filter which provides improved performance in crowded band conditions. The receiver's dual VFOs (Variable Frequency Oscillators) enable simultaneous monitoring of two frequencies, which is particularly useful for operators who need to keep track of multiple signals or engage in cross-band communication.

Apart from its technical specifications, the TS-870S is constructed with durability in mind, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use. It supports various operating modes, including SSB, CW, AM, and FM, making it a versatile choice for diverse amateur radio activities.

In conclusion, the Kenwood TS-870S combines advanced technology with user-friendly characteristics, offering amateur radio operators an exceptional tool for communication. With its innovative features, robust performance, and flexibility, it continues to be a respected choice among radio enthusiasts, solidifying its legacy in the realm of amateur radio.