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KSM Kenwood Smart Memory is a program to read and update the memory channels of a Kenwood amateur radio. The current supported types are: TS-450S, TS-570D, TS-570S, TS-690S, TS-870S, TS-940S,TS-950S.

Info on this discontinued HF Transceiver

Lot's of info on 950sdx tranceiver by Jeff King ZL4AI/DU7

Collection of modifications notes for the Kenwood TS850

Collection of TS-50 mods, LCD display dark, TS50<-->AT50 communication, TS-50 Power Mod for QRP, TX Coverage mod TS-50, CAT control for TS-50S

TS-850S typical faults and solutions

Must modern HF transceivers be treated as black box appliances? VE1FA doesn’t think so, and his experience with the Kenwood TS-850SAT bears him out.

The Kenwood TS-950S and TS-950SD HF transceivers are fine radios. However, many, if not all, of them were produced with a design flaw which allows the RG GAIN control to cease function in the presence of a strong signal IF the AGC has been turned OFF

RigPix Database picture of the TS-850

The NCDXF/IARU International Beacon Project operates a worldwide network of 18 high-frequency radio beacons, continuously transmitting on 14.100, 18.110, 21.150, 24.930, and 28.200 MHz. These beacons, initially launched in 1979 with a single station and expanded to the current 18-beacon system in 1995, provide reliable signals for both amateur and commercial users to assess current **ionospheric propagation** conditions. The system's design, construction, and operation are managed by volunteers, covering hardware and shipping costs. The resource details the evolution of the beacon network, including the transition from Kenwood TS-50s transmitters to Icom IC-7200 radios with a new controller design implemented in 2015. It explains how listening for these 100-watt signals, transmitted to vertical antennas, allows operators to determine band openings and optimal propagation paths globally. The content also references three QST articles providing historical context and technical specifics of the beacon project. Practical information includes methods for identifying transmitting beacons via a schedule or specialized software like FAROS and Skimmer, which integrates with the **Reverse Beacon Network** for automated monitoring.

Official Kenwood page about the TS-50 HF Transceiver

This modification will allow the use of separate receive and transmit antennas on the Kenwood TS-850S/AT.

Over two decades ago, the Kenwood TS-850S HF transceiver established itself as a robust performer, known for its excellent receiver and versatile operating features. This vintage rig, often found on the used market, continues to be a favorite among many amateur radio operators for its solid construction and reliable performance across the HF bands. Adrian's Yahoo! Group provided a dedicated forum for TS-850S owners to exchange insights, troubleshoot issues, and share modifications or operational tips. Such community-driven platforms were crucial for extending the operational life and maximizing the utility of classic transceivers, fostering a spirit of mutual aid among hams. Discussions frequently covered topics like DSP unit upgrades, common repair challenges, and optimizing the rig for contesting or DXing, reflecting the enduring interest in this particular Kenwood model.

Kenwood TS-450S/TS-690S MARS modification video

QST Magazine, 1991 July, review of the Kenwood TS-850S 160-10 Meter Transceiver

RigPix Database: Kenwood TS-50, pic and specifications, link to user manual

Eham users Kenwood TS-50 review

Mods for Kenwood TS-950SD / SDX

Kenwood TS-690S Preventive Maintenance

The Kenwood TS-450S is a formidable transceiver covering 160 through 10 meters including the WARC bands with 100 watts input

DSP-100 Hi-Fi TX and RX Mods for the TS-850S by KA0KA

Kenwood TS-950SDX ESSB audio mods by voodoo labs

Users review for the Kenwood TS-450S

KA0KA ESSB with the Kenwood TS-850/DSP-100 project

Resources for Kenwood TS-850SAT transceiver modifications, cables and tips

The author fixed a friend's Kenwood TS-850S radio, which suffered from Capacitor Plague, a common problem in 1990s electronics where capacitors leak and damage circuit boards. The CAR board, responsible for generating signals, was especially affected. The author cleaned the board, replaced the capacitors, and repaired a broken trace. Although the radio mostly functioned afterward, the "Slope Tune" control behaved abnormally. The cause seems to be a software issue, not a hardware one.