Kenwood TS-480SAT

The Kenwood TS-480 is a compact and powerful HF and 6-metre transceiver that excels in mobility and flexibility. Designed for both fixed and mobile use, its performance and versatility have made it a popular choice among radio amateurs. The TS-480 is available in two main versions: the TS-480SAT and the TS-480HX. Here are the key details:


1. Models and differences:

  • TS-480SAT:
    • This model has a built-in automatic antenna tuner (ATU) and a maximum output power of 100 watts.
  • TS-480HX:
    • The HX model omits the built-in antenna tuner, but offers a higher output power of 200 watts (on HF bands). This higher output requires an external 13.8V DC power supply to provide additional power to the unit.

 

2. technical specifications:

  • Frequency Coverage: The TS-480 covers all amateur radio bands from 160m to 6m (1.8MHz to 54MHz). It can be used in all common operating modes including SSB, CW, AM and FM.
  • Reception frequency range: The receiver supports a wide frequency range from 500 kHz to 60 MHz.
  • Down-conversion technology: Down-conversion technology is used on the amateur bands up to 20 metres (HF bands), providing improved receiver performance and signal-to-noise ratio.

 

3. Design and ease of use:

  • Compact design: the transceiver is divided into two main modules: the control panel and the main unit. This allows for flexible installation, especially in vehicles where space is often at a premium.
  • Removable front panel: Removable front panel with display and controls can be mounted separately for easy mobile use.
  • Display and controls: The display is backlit and easy to read even in poor lighting conditions. Controls are intuitively arranged for quick access to frequently used functions.

    
4. functions and features:

  • DSP (Digital Signal Processing): The TS-480 has a built-in DSP that provides flexible filtering, noise reduction and audio quality adjustment.
  • CW operation: The transceiver provides extensive CW operation functions, including automatic Morse decoding, adjustable CW filter width and CW memory.
  • Automatic Antenna Tuner (SAT model only): The TS-480SAT's built-in antenna tuner simplifies antenna tuning and enables efficient transmission performance with variable antenna tuning.
  • Dual VFOs: The radio has two independent VFOs (Variable Frequency Oscillators) for easy frequency management and split operation, which is particularly useful for DXpeditions and contests.
  • Integrated RTTY/PSK decoding: The TS-480 can decode and display RTTY and PSK31 signals without external software, simplifying the use of digital modes.

 

5. Connectivity and expansion options:

  • PC Interface: The TS-480 can be connected to a PC via a serial interface (RS-232), allowing remote control and logging.
  • Data mode: Special connectors are available for digital operation, allowing connection to external modems or computers.
  • Optional accessories: Various optional accessories are available for the TS-480, such as external speakers, amplifiers and microphones, to extend the range of applications.

 

6. Applications:

  • Stationary use: The TS-480 can be used as the main transceiver in a stationary radio station, providing all the necessary functions for everyday use and special operating modes.
  • Mobile operation: The TS-480's compact design and detachable front panel make it ideal for mobile use. This makes it ideal for hams who are often on the move, but do not want to do without a powerful transceiver.
  • DXing and Contesting: The TS-480 is also popular with DXers and Contesters for its excellent performance in difficult signal conditions.

 

The Kenwood TS-480 is a versatile and powerful portable transceiver. With its wide range of functions and robust construction, it has earned a good reputation in the amateur radio community.