Note
The Kenwood TS-480 series was an all-mode HF/6-meter transceivers, notable for their detachable remote-control head and compact chassis--the main unit is only slightly larger that the TS-50. There are two primary variations of this radio, distinguished mainly by their power output and internal components.
In terms of its mid-range performance class, the TS-480 stepped into the role previously held by the TS-450S and the legendary TS-440S. These were full-sized desktop radios. The TS-480 offered a significant technological leap over these older models by providing:
– Superior Dynamic Range: Its receiver design was marketed as having a dynamic range comparable to the top-of-the-line TS-950SDX.
– Modern PC Connectivity: The TS-480 introduced much easier integration for digital modes and remote internet control via the ARCP-480 software.
It is also worth noting that the TS-480HX version was somewhat unique in that it didn't have a direct "compact" predecessor that offered 200 Watts of power. This made it a specialized replacement for operators who wanted the punch of a base station amplifier in a mobile-friendly form factor.
The series had a very long production run, remaining a staple in the Kenwood lineup for over 15 years. While it was largely discontinued in 2020, some units were still being manufactured as late as early 2021 according to serial number data.
TS-480SAT (The Standard Model)
This is the most common version of the radio, designed for general mobile and base station use.
– Power Output: 100 watts on HF and 50 MHz.
– Internal Tuner: Includes a built-in automatic antenna tuner (SAT stands for Special Automatic Tuner).
TS-480HX (The High-Power Model)
The "HX" version was designed for operators who wanted extra "punch" without needing a dedicated external amplifier.
– Power Output: 200 watts on HF and 100 watts on 50 MHz.
– No Internal Tuner: Because the high-power components take up the extra physical space, this model does not include an internal antenna tuner.
– Power Requirements: It requires two separate DC power cables (drawing up to 41 Amps) to achieve the full 200W output
Features
– Operating Range: All-mode operation covering the HF and 50 MHz amateur radio bands.
– Digital Signal Processing (DSP): Features a 16-bit AF DSP unit for enhanced interference reduction and improved audio quality.
– Remote Control Panel: A separate, compact control panel designed for flexible mobile or base station installation.
– Interference Rejection: Includes adjustable DSP filter frequencies, Noise Blanker, Digital Noise Limiter (DNL), and Beat Cancel.
– Memory & Scanning: Features 100 memory channels, multiple scan types (VFO, Program, Memory, Group), and Quick Memory for rapid data storage.
– All Mode: SSB, CW, FSK, RTTY, AM, and FM, as well as Packet Radio and Satellite operations.
– Operator Conveniences: Programmable Function (PF) keys, split-frequency operation, VOX, and speech processor.
– Optional Expansion: Compatible with the VGS-1 Voice Guide and Storage Unit for voice recording and announcements.
Other Features
Programmable Function (PF) Keys: Customizable keys on both the panel and microphone.
– Quick Memory: Rapid one-touch frequency storage and recall.
– Auto Power Off (APO): Automatically shuts down the unit after a set period of inactivity.
– Time-out Timer: Limits continuous transmission time to prevent accidental long broadcasts.
Peripheral Integration:
– Crossband Repeater: Capability to function as a crossband repeater when interfaced with a TM-D700.
– DX PacketCluster Tune: Automatic tuning based on PacketCluster data when used with a TM-D700.
– Transverter Mode: Supports use as a transverter exciter with automatic power reduction to 5W.
Technical Specifications
– RF Output Power: * HF/50MHz: 100/200 watts (SSB, CW, FSK, FM) / 25W (AM).
– Minimum Power: 5W (for QRP operation).
– Modulation: SSB (Balanced), FM (Phase), AM (Low Power).
– Spurious Radiation: Less than -50dB (HF) / Less than -60dB (50MHz).
– Carrier Suppression: Better than 40dB.
– Frequency Selection: VFO A/B, direct entry, or MHz step
– Antenna Tuner Matching Range: 16.7 Ω to 150 Ω (1.9 MHz to 50 MHz).
– Receiver Circuitry: Double Superheterodyne (SSB/CW/AM/FSK); Triple Superheterodyne (FM).
– Intermediate Frequencies: 1st IF: 73.095 MHz | 2nd IF: 10.695 MHz | 3rd IF: 455 kHz (FM only).
– Sensitivity (SS/CW/FSK at 10dB S/N):
1.705 – 24.5 MHz: < 0.2 μV.
24.5 – 30 MHz: < 0.13 μV.
50 – 54 MHz: < 0.13 μV.
Selectivity:
SSB/CW/FSK: > 2.4 kHz (-6dB), < 4.4 kHz (-60dB).
AM: > 5.0 kHz (-6dB), < 40 kHz (-60dB).
– Audio Output: More than 2.0W (8 Ω, 10% distortion).
– Audio Output Impedance: 4 to 32 Ω (Headphones)
Input Voltage: 13.8 V DC ±15%
Peak Current (TX)
TS-480HX: Approx. 41A (20.5A + 20.5A)
TS-480SAT: Approx. 20.5A
