FTdx-3000D QST review – Comparison Table – NPR test VA7OJ – New Firmware Ver.0112

FTdx-3000D Firmware now updated Main CPU Ver. 0112 and TFT Ver. 0106 for the HF 50MHz Transceiver. – The April QST Magazine has a favorable review of the FTdx-3000 ( - The QST Reviews Comparison Table by PA1HR, Hans, link below - Here is the link to VA7OJ FTdx-3000 FT-950 TS-590 IC-7700 IC-7600 IC-7410 and K3 etc. NPR Test Results, Analod/DSP radios.

The FTDX-3000 new Firmware Main CPU Ver. 0112 and TFT Ver. 0106 has just been posted 03/29/2013 by YAESU USA on his web-site. - Please read the latest version of the Yaesu FTDX3000 Firmware Upgrade Manual before proceeding! Checking current version on your Transceiver before download new upgrade!

[Note] There are four different Software installations (Yaesu still uses the multiple software systems installations! Icom and Kenwood instead use a unified software environment) - Each one must be followed carefully. Installing the wrong type software may cause difficulties.

[Note] The rig has to be started in different ways for each of these two updates to work!  The Yaesu “Firmware Upgrade Manual” has the update procedure for all of the Firmware-Modules & extention type (MAIN .SFL – DSP .dat – TFT .bin – FFT .dat), and for all Trasfer-Softwares (!! FSW018 – FW-DSP – TFW – FW-FFT !!) - See this Yaesu complex procedure step-by-step!

FTDX-3000D Implements & Improvements and Manuals see the Link below

Link to: Yaesu USA (Main V0112 Tft V00106) Update Information (ENG)
Link to: Yaesu USA FTDX3000 Latest Firmware Upgrade Manual (ENG)
Link to: Yaesu FTdx-3000D  >Files, USB Driver, Manuals, Software (ENG)

QST reviews the  FTDX-3000 on April, 2013 - An favorable overview of the YAESU FTdx3000 100W HF/50MHz Transceiver on the QST magazine. ARRL labs including high close-in IMD3 data, but only -82 dBc at 2 kHz RMDR figure.

Reciprocal Mixing Dynamic Range (RMDR) is noise generated in a superheterodyne receiver when noise from the local oscillator (LO) mixes with strong, adjacent signals. – (See the QST April 2012,  pag. 55 [Large Box] Reciprocal Mixing Testing: What Is It?, written by Bob Allison, WB1GCM)

QST 4/2013 “Key Summary” – (Intercept values ..determined using -97 dBm reference)
Qui vengono riportati solo i numeri a 14 MHz, Pre OFF – RTX  FTdx-3000 / IC-7410

• ………………………………………………Yaesu FTdx-3000………Kwd TS-590S
• …………………………………………………QST April 2013.…….….. QST May 2011
• Spacing 20 kHz blocking gain compression….137 dB*………….…….141 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz blocking gain compression….127 dB*……….……….121 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range…….110 dB……………..….106 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range….…100 dB…………….…… 97 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order intercept……………+40 dBm……………. +26 dBm
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order intercept………… +  23 dBm……………. + 22 dBm
• Reciprocal mixing dynamic range: 20/5/2 kHz  ofset:  -106/-93/-82 dBc

See the April, 2013 issue of QST magazine for the complete review by ARRL Labs
[Note]: Area Members Only – to log-in; -
Link to: ARRL – American Radio Relay League for Amateur Radio Home-page

Noise Power Ratio (NPR) Testing of HF Receivers -© by Adam, VA7OJ/AB4OJ
- Using notched noise to evaluate dynamic receiver performance

Noise Power Ratio (NPR) Testing of HF Receivers – Using notched noise to evaluate dynamic receiver performance – (…. To put the impact of the NPR test into perspective, a -9 dBm Ptot level at 5.6 MHz BRF is equivalent to 1200 simultaneous SSB signals at -43 dBm each, i.e. S9 + 30 dB!) etc. etc…. by Adam Farson, VA7OJ/AB4OJ- (!! updated in March, 2013 – see the link below)

Con il Test NPR Adam, spiega che il Generatore di Rumore Bianco (W&G RS-50 il suo) immette un segnale a banda larga al connettore d’antenna e quindi carica tutti gli stati del ricevitore, il Front-end, i Filtri e l’eventuale Preselettore, simulando la risposta alla ricezione di multi-segnali del DUT in prova (come in realtà succede collegandovi un’antenna). Dice poi Adam che questo Test equivale a 1200 segnali in SSB simultanei! a -43 dBm ciascuno i.e. a S9+30 dB! – Il rumore bianco viene rimosso con una tacca alla frequenza sintonizzata del ricevitore da un adatto filtro notch, inserito in serie tra generatore e antenna imput – A causa della distorsione dei circuiti del ricevitore (DUT imput), questa tacca (notch) tende a riempirsi con prodotti di intermodulazione, i cui effetti verranno oppurtunamente misurati in uscita (DUT output). - Here is the link to VA7OJ’s FTdx-3000 FT-950 TS-590S IC-7700 and IC-7410 K3 etc. NPR testing report in PDF of March 2013.

Link to: Download the NPR Testing  HF Receivers by VA7OJ Adam (ENG)

The QST Reviews Comparison Table by PA1HR’s – Transceivers/receivers sorted by 2 kHz 3rd-Order dynamic range with the QST Key measurements summary figure.

[Note] This overview is provided for your convenience by Hans PA1HR; it is a summary of measurement figures and gives no indication of the ergonomics,the features and/or the operational characteristics of the transceivers/receivers.

Link to: QST Reviews Comparison Table here is the Link PA1HR Hans (ENG)

[Note] All specifications are subject to change without notice – All trademarks belong to their respective holders -  These events and news are reported for information only!

QST reviews KX3 on Dec, 2012 – SDR with a 0 Hz IF – KX3 Datasheet & Schematics

KX3 a SDR with a ØHz IF (Direct Conversion) – QST Magazine reviews the Elecraft KX3 HF and 6 Meter QRP 10W on Dec., 2012 by W1ZR, Joel and K1RO, Mark. – IMD3 dynamic range, Blocking gain compression and Reciprocal mixing it is at the “top of the heap”! – See below the QST 14MHz Key Summary and Internal pictures.  Watch  the Video KX3 with iSDR app. Link to Schematics & Block Diagram pdf !

QST 12月号のProduct ReviewにKX3が掲載されます。

See the December 2012 issue of QST magazine for the complete review and ARRL Lab test results – [Note] Area Members Only.
Link to: ARRL – American Radio Relay League for Amateur Radio

The authors write: To say that the KX3 is a Direct Conversion Radio misses the point. It would probably be more descriptive to say that the KX3 is a Software Defined Radio (SDR) with a Ø Hz IF and I/Q quadrature component receiver processing that provides single-signal reception. Those signals allow a PC running your SDR software to display the spectrum and usual rig control management. – Elecraft provides your choice of a cable that connects to a PC USB2 port or an RS-232 socket (add. $29.95 or so!) -

Link to: Elecraft KX3 the Schematics & Block Diagram pdf (ENG)

Link to: Elecraft KX3 Datasheet (pdf 5.5MB) ver. May 2012 (ENG)

Source: QST Reviews, we show only… the Key figures at 14 MHz

• Band: 14 MHz – Pre OFF - (500 Hz BW,  500 Hz  roofing filter)
• Spacing 20 kHz blocking gain compression….130 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz blocking gain compression….128 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range…….103 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range….…100 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order intercept…………..+34 dBm
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order intercept…………..+34 dBm

How To Connect Elecraft KX3 To iPad by WD9E - This video shows how to use the iSDR app with the Elecraft KX3 SDR Transceiver – (a great video, thanks WD9E!)

Link to: QST Reviews the Kenwood TS.590S on May, 2011 (TS-590 > K3 Key)
Link to: QST Magazine Product Reviews Key Soummary List by PA1HR, Hans

[Note] All marks are property of their respective owners. – Specifications are subject to change without notice!  - This page is just a non-official overview, where no one should draw any conclusions.  -  Non si assume alcuna responsabilità per eventuali inesattezze nella visualizzazione dei dati e notizie. (Tnx)

IC-9100 Up. Firmware V.E1 – QST review April 2012 and the “NPR rx Testing” by VA7OJ

IC-9100 update the Firmware Version V.E1 of April, 2012 – Checking Version on your rtx – The NPR Testing of many HF Receivers by VA7OJ, Adam (latest NPR updated in March, 2013) see link below –  QST reviews IC-9100 on April, 2012 by WW3DE, see the summary key 14MHz below - RS-BA1® remote control system … really cool stuff and Linck, Video and more.

IC-9100 Checking the Version installed – (idem for the IC-7410)

1) – Press and hold [F4] and [F5] while turning [ON] the IC-9100 – (idem for the IC-7410)
2) – Do NOT release [F4] and [F5] until you have READ the Version results (3)
3) – Results will appear at the bottom of the display

Results for latest V.E1 - F: 3.01-000 = Front (currently no updates) - M: 3.42-E00 = Main (currently no updates) - DM: 3.03 <00> = DSP Main (Previous version should read 3.02) - DS: 3.04 <00> = DSP Sub (Previous version should read 3.03) – (!! Read the Icom information)

[Note] for the IC-7410 HF/50MHz  is NOT granted any firmware, for now

The IC-9100 Firmware V.E1 has just been posted 13/3/2012. – This upgrade is applied from a PC via the rear-panel [USB B] port. – The IC-9100’s firmware can be updated if desired. By updating the firmware, new function(s) can be added and performance can be improved. – This capability ends months of speculation: “Is it or isn’t it?”  - - See the Utility Link, the QST Review, the latest NPR rx Testing (3/2013) by VA7OJ  and RS-BA1 remote control … below !

IC-9100 la Versione V.E1 del Firmware è disponibile dal 13/03/2012.

Con questo terminano le incertezze e le voci varie, sì l’IC-9100 ha il suo Firmware aggiornabile!
Come verificare la Versione del Firmware nell’IC-9100 e IC-7410: vedere comandi riportati più sopra; –  I dati identificativi dell’ultima Versione E1 rilascita da ICOM Inc. solo per l’IC-9100,  ove già installata a bordo oppure  dopo aver fatto l’aggiornamento, apparirano sulla parte bassa del Display con una serie di valori (vedere più sopra) - [Nota] Per l’IC-7410 non risultano ancora aggiornamenti ad oggi – (NB: Informarsi tramite tutte le news ufficiali di Icom!)

Il firmware del IC-9100 può essere aggiornato, se uno lo desidera, tramite un PC e via porta [USB-B] sul pannello posteriore. Con l’aggiornamento del firmware, naturalmente, possono essere aggiunte nuove funzioni e migliorate le prestazioni via, via da parte del costruttore. -
[Note]: A USB cable type A-B  is required. - Please read Icom ”Firmware update instructions” PDF

Link to: Icom Co. Jp Firmware V.E1 Official download page
Link to: Icom Co. Jp Firmware Update Manual Istructions

Noise Power Ratio (NPR) Testing of HF Receivers -© by Adam, VA7OJ/AB4OJ
- Using notched noise to evaluate dynamic receiver performance

Noise Power Ratio (NPR) Testing of HF Receivers – Using notched noise to evaluate dynamic receiver performance – (…. To put the impact of the NPR test into perspective, a -9 dBm Ptot level at 5.6 MHz BRF is equivalent to 1200 simultaneous SSB signals at -43 dBm each, i.e. S9 + 30 dB!) etc. etc…. by Adam Farson, VA7OJ/AB4OJ- (!! updated in March, 2013 – see the link below)

Con il Test NPR Adam, dimostra che il generatore di rumore bianco immette un segnale a banda larga che carica tutti gli stati del ricevitore, il Front-end, i Filtri e l’eventuale Preselettore, simulando la risposta alla ricezione di multi-segnali del DUT (come in realtà succede collegandovi un’antenna). – Il rumore bianco viene rimosso alla frequenza sintonizzata del ricevitore da un adatto filtro notch, inserito in serie. – A causa della distorsione dei circuiti del ricevitore (DUT imput), questa tacca (notch) tende a riempirsi con prodotti di intermodulazione, i cui effetti verranno oppurtunamente misurati in uscita (DUT output).

Link to: Download the NPR test in PDF by VA7OJ Adam (pdf ENG)

QST reviews the  IC-9100 on April, 2012 - An overview of the ICOM IC-9100 MF/HF/VHF/UHF Transceiver on the QST magazine by Rick, WW3DE  NCJ Managing Editor (ARRL).

Da: “Key Summary” – (Intercept values ..determined using -97 dBm reference)
Qui vengono riportati solo i numeri a 14 MHz, Pre OFF – RTX  IC-7410 / IC-9100

• …………………………………..Icom IC-7410……………..Icom IC-9100
• …………………………………QST October 2011.………….. QST April 2012
• Spacing 20 kHz blocking gain compression….144 dB…………….…….142 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz blocking gain compression….111 dB………….……….111 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range……106 dB…………….…….108 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range….….88 dB…………….………87 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order intercept……………+29 dBm……………….+29 dBm
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order intercept……………+  5 dBm…………….….+  2 dBm

See the April, 2012 issue of QST magazine for the complete review and ARRL Lab test results.
[Note]: Area Members Only – to log-in; -
Link to: ARRL – American Radio Relay League for Amateur Radio Home-page

QST pag. 55 [Large Box] RMRD, written by Bob Allison, WB1GCM
- From this review forward, we will include RMDR in the Key Measurements Summary.
Reciprocal Mixing Testing: What Is It?
You may notice two new color bars in the “Key Measurements Summary” at the top of this review. These are for Reciprocal Mixing Dynamic Range (RMDR), with measurements at 20 and 2 kHz spacing. …….omissis …….. Reciprocal mixing is noise generated in a superheterodyne receiver when noise from the local oscillator (LO) mixes with strong, adjacent signals.

RS-BA1® Remote control system (QST… Now for the Really Cool Stuff )

An RS-BA1® remote control system consists of at least one PC, which is used as a Base station (Server) and at least one PC, which is used as a Remote station (Client). Both PCs have to be connected with a network and VAC. The Icom USB driver must be installed.
Link to: Watch the Video RS-BA1 setting (IC-7410) by GoospeedGoo

QST, verso la fine, tratta anche il Software RS-BA1® opzionale della ICOM, che consente di operare l’IC-9100 in remoto tramite Internet o una rete locale LAN. (Porta USB ad  un PC locale (Server),  un’altro PC remoto (Client). Uso di Porte audio virtuali (VAC), oltre ad uno specifico USB Driver da installare prima di collegare l’apparato al PC)
Per caricare il software, dovrete inserire l’ID del prodotto e la chiave di licenza dall’etichetta del CD acquistato. – Icom dopo la prima versione ha rilasciato un aggiornamento: Ver. 1.20 – 01/04/2011

Link to: Manuale PDF dal sito web di VA7OJ, Adam, www.ab4oj.com.
Link to: ICOM America  RS-BA1® Guida rapida di riferimento on-line
Link to: Icom USB Driver(Ver.1.10) –  Driver Utility and manuals.

[Note] – Detailed specifications: please see the official ICOM Inc. sources - All specifications are subject to change without notice – All trademarks belong to their respective holders.

FTdx-5000 Update Software Main V.0123 – SP1NY OLED’s display replacement tutorial

FTdx-5000′s Update Software Main Ver.0123 released 10/22/2012. The Yaesu USA information PDF (link) –  SP1NY OLED’s sub-display replacement DIY (do it yourself) tutorial – Step-by-step procedure to replace the faulty OLEDs (EL) on the FTDX-5000 Front panel – See the Software Info (link),  QST review PDF (link) below.

FTDX-5000 OLED change DIY tutorial and more info.

On the FTdx-5000′s three EL “OLED” Electro Luminescence displays maximize your operation with useful and tactical supportive information. -
[Issue]:) OLED subdisplay broken (see the picture) one vertical white line or plus lines appear in them! – More people had the same issue (see the FTdx-5000′s Yahoo Group). - It seems that it’s an mortality of the OLED driver chip that is integrated into the ribbon connector of the display or so.

Step-by-step procedure to replace the faulty OLEDs – (! other by link below)

  
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
 On the first OLED one line starts faint and then become brighter and brighter. In the mean time second one showed up with it’s full brightness and thikness.
On the second OLED first line starts with almost full brightness then after about two weeks second one appeared dummy and thick, increasing brightness, day by day then starts slowly dimming or so – [Note] !! These events are reported for information only!

Link to: FTDX-5000 OLED change DIY tutorial (many items) by SP1NY

FTDX-5000 Yaesu USA Update Software with Main Ver.0123 (10/22/2012)

You need a serial cable from your computer to the serial port on the FTdx-5000′s. - If you use a USB port to serial interface adapter, make sure it is the FTDI chipset or so. – Update Software in the FTdx-5000 it takes a little practice for the many “DIY” steps procedures. – By the way, each update has all the previous updates, so you only have to do the latest one. - The tricky part is throwing the programming switch inside the back of the Transceiver!

!! Please see the versions list on the PDF Yaesu and be sure to read the entire package before doing anything.

The latest versions are listed below with the release dates (! partial list).
・ MAIN Software Version 0123 (10/22/12)
・ EDSP Software Version 0537 (7/20/11)
・ OEL (OLED) Software Version 0110 (3/23/10)
・ SM-5000 Software Version 0107 (3/23/10)
Link to: Official Yaesu USA Sofware Information released 10/22/2012
Link to: HB9ZS FT-5000 Utilities and Memory Saver – Fine Swiss utility!

FTDX5000′s QST Review -  Both receivers cover from 0.03 to 60 MHz. Receiver A is double conversion, with the first IF at 9 MHz and the second DSP IF at 30 kHz for SSB and CW and 24 kHz for AM and FM modes. Receiver B is a tripleconversion design, with the first and second IFs at 40.455 MHz and 455 kHz, respectively, and the DSP third IF identical to the second IF in the main receiver

Link to: Download the December 2010 QST review here (link-ML&S !)

[Note] All specifications are subject to change without notice – All trademarks belong to their respective holders -  These events and news are reported for information only!

FT-450D HF/50MHz Tranceiver, Product Review, QST, 11/2011 by Mike, W5MPC

Yaesu FT-450D HF/50MHz Transceiver, Product review, QST, November 2011. Reviewed by Mike Corey, W5MPC. – Following in the line of the FT-100D, FT-817ND, FT-857D…. arrived it the FT-450D!

The FT-450D adds a standard internal ATU that cover the 6 to 160 meter bands (operation is very easy), and several ergonomic upgrades to the original FT-450. – New knob design, new standard hand mic., Button illumination and 500 and 300 Hz CW filters. (…please click the thumbnail to enlarge!) – See …..the link below !

QST Key summary 20m only: 500 Hz bw, Pre-off… 20 kHz spacing blocking gain compression 134 dB / IMD3 20 kHz 97 dB / IP3 +17 dBm. – FT-450D performance is about the same as the previous ’450! - See the November 2011 issue of QST magazine for the complete review and ARRL Lab test results (members only….login)

A big improvement to the front pannel is backlighting for the buttons, strong enough that buttons can be seen from several feet away ub a dark room, and a significant improvement over the CW filter in the previous FT-450 Transceiver.

Link to: ARRL – American Radio Relay League for Amateur Radio Home
Link to: Vertex Standard >Company Profile >Historical Highlights !!!

QST reviews IC-7410 on web 25.08.2011 – IC-9100 and IC-7410 Test reports by VA7OJ

An overview of the ICOM IC-7410 HF 50MHz Transceiver on the QST magazine by Rick, WW3DE  NCJ Managing Editor.  - QST reviews the  IC-7410 on October, 2011 -

Adam Farson, VA7OJ released  Ic-9100 and IC-7410 Test reports. Here are the links:

Link to: Download the IC-9100 Test Report in .PDF by Adam  !!(54 pag.)
Link to: Download the IC-7410 Test Report in .PDF  by Adam !!(41 pag.)

Many thanks Adam for doing all those tests – and for writing them up so thoroughly – and for publishing your reports! really appreciate your hard work – IØgej RadioCronache

Molte grazie Adam per aver fatto tutti i test sui Transceiver IC-9100 e IC-7410 della Icom – per ever scritto i risultati e le valutazioni in modo molto approfondito e professionale – ed anche per la loro pubblicazione! apprezzo molto il  grande lavoro – IØgej RadioCronache

 !! See the QST 14MHz Key Summary data and the Video QST Reviews by ARRLHQ (TNX to Lab Engineer Bob Allison, WB1GCM) below

Guarda  QST i dati a 14MHz da  Key Summary  e il testo più ampio in italiano riportato più sotto e segue su full story (below)…

The ARRL has posted their review (October QST) of the IC-7410 on their website. – The basic numbers for the IC-7600 and IC-7410 are not significantly different; they are all up-conversion rigs with relatively wide roofing filters. – Receiver employs a double conversion superheterodyne system which has an image rejection mixer I/Q for the 2nd mixer stage. – The IC-7410 employs a higher speed DSP Unit: ADSP21369 with internal Clock 333MHz, 2000MFLOPS and the AD/DA converter AK4620B.

See the October 2011 issue of QST magazine for the complete review and ARRL Lab test results – [Note] Area Members Only – to log-in; -
Link to: ARRL – American Radio Relay League for Amateur Radio Home-page

Video QST Review: ICOM IC-7410 – It is nice watching this video in 1080p full screen mode.

Da: “Key Summary” – (Intercept values ..determined using -97 dBm reference)
Qui vengono riportati solo i numeri a 14 MHz, Pre OFF – RTX  TS-590S / IC-7410

• …………………………………..Kenwood TS-590S……………..Icom IC-7410
• ……………………………………QST May 2011…….…………..QST October 2011
• ……………………………….. with a down conversion ………. with a up conversion
• ………………………….……(500Hz,  roofing filter)..…(500Hz DSP bw, 3kHz roofing)
• Band: 14 MHz – Pre Off
• Spacing 20 kHz blocking gain compression….141 dB…………………….144 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz blocking gain compression….121 dB…………………….111 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range….…106 dB…………………….106 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range….….97 dB………………………88 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order intercept……………+26 dBm………………….+29 dBm
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order intercept……………+22 dBm………………….+  5 dBm

QST 07  2010 DR3 of the FTdx-9000 pep Yaesu flagship rig is 85 dB 2kHz spacing
QST 03 2007   DR3 of the IC-7800 Icom inc.  flagship rig is 86 dB  2kHz spacing

Sul sito web della ARRL QST è stato pubblicato il Test review dell’IC-7410 HF 50MHz Icom dal 25.08.2011 in formato PDF (solo per soci con log-in) –  Poi l’articolo si troverà nella Rivista QST del prossimo  mese di Ottobre 2011.

Pertanto la recensione completa del Transceiver ICOM IC-7410, a cura di Rick, WW3DE NCJ Managing Editor, sarà sulla rivista QST del mese di ottobre prossimo. I dati di base rilevati in laboratorio per l’IC-7600 e ora per l’IC-7410 non mostrano differenze significative tra i due apparati, sennò come struttura complessiva, DW, Display TFT a Colori, Analisi di spettro, decodifica RX e TX per RTTY e PSK31 . – Come si vedrà dal sommario qui sopra i numeri con 20kHz sono simili al TS-590S  settato, quest’ultimo, in up-conversion e Roofing da 500Hz contro i 3kHz dell’Icom!! con una certa differenza, invece, a 2kHz.  - A proposito di valori di DR3 (IMD3), che non sarebbe la primaria misura da valutare,  guardate la DR3 dei due flagship Yesu e Icom. ….continua…>

(continua…)

QST reviews the TS-590S on May, 2011 – Top class performance at a middle price

QST Magazine reviews the TS-590S on May, 2011 by N0AX, H. Ward Silver . The review radio originally shipped with firmware Ver 1.00 (S/N B0900113 September, 2010) but was upgraded to firmware Ver. 1.02 for final testing on the ARRL Laboratory.

N0AX also writes: The TS-590 is a very interesting superhetero-dyne that operates as either a double-down conversion (RX1), used on the 160, 80, 40, 20 and 15 meter bands for SSB, CW and FSK only; Triple up-conversion (RX2) chain on other bands, including 10 and 6 meters is used for wider IF BW such as for AM and FM, in addition to the SSB, CW and FSK.

Source: QST reviews, we show only the figures at 14 MHz, Pre OFF ( K3 /  TS-590S)

• …………………………………………..Elecraft K3………………..Kenwood TS-590S
• ………………………………………...QST Jan 2009……………………..QST May 2011
• ………………………………………..In both operate with a double down conversion
• ……………………………………(400 Hz, 8-pole roofing)………(500 Hz, roofing filter)
• Band: 14 MHz – Pre Off
• Spacing 20 kHz blocking gain compression….142 dB…………………….141 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz blocking gain compression….140 dB…………………….121 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range……106 dB…………………….106 dB
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order dynamic range……103 dB………………………97 dB
• Spacing 20 kHz 3rd-order intercept…………..+29 dBm………………….+26 dBm
• Spacing    2 kHz 3rd-order intercept…………..+28 dBm………………….+22 dBm

I found the adjustable AGC action to be quite clean — no clicks, thumps or pops. It’s possible for a very close signal to be inside the roofing filter but outside a narrower DSP filter, causing the audio level to fall dramatically, but the signal has to be really close.
When either NR system is turned up to its most aggressive setting audible artifacts are created (NR2 artifacts sound like the band is “boiling”) but both are far better than the noise they have replaced.

The only problem I encountered was a significant power overshoot on the leading edge of a first dot or dash before recovering to the intended level. That caused the ACOM Series amplifier to trip offline unless we reduced drive, dropping amp output to 800-1000 W. – The problem was eliminated by a Ver. 1.02 firmware upgrade  from Kenwood and verified by testing with the same amplifier at W1AW at the legal limit. –
Link to: Web-page Firmware Ver.1.02  01/20/ 2011 and Download full RadCom Review!
Link to: Web-page TS-590S News On air test Video! Download User Manual & more info

QST fa il test al TS-590S su Maggio 2011 – Top performance ad un prezzo medio basso

QST Magazine n. 5/2011,  esamina il nuovo Kenwood con N0AX, H. Ward Silver; Un transceiver di classe top a prezzo medio basso scrivono. – Il TS-590S esaminato è arrivato alla ARRL in imballo originale con il Firmware 1st Ver. 1.00 (S/N B0900113 di Settembre, 2010), poi  per il test finale è stato aggiornato con la nuova Ver. 1.02 nello stesso Laboratorio della ARRL.

Power overshoot? Nell’impiego del TS-590S con amplificatori, in particolare con la serie ACOM, sono stati riscontrati problemi di picchi di potenza di millisecondi all’atto dell’inizio trasmissione, questo problema risulta risolto da Kenwood con il nuovo Firmware Ver. 1.02 del 20.01.2011 che al punto 5) riporta la questione tra le varie migliorie apportate con l’aggiornamento ..Vedere il link più sopra che porta alla pagina web con info sul Firmware 1.02 e al Test completo del TS-590S di RadCom di Gennaio 2011 della RSGB
Le caratteristiche del TS-590S  si trovano  anche in Italiano su Kenwood Electronics Italia
Link to: Kenwood Electronics Italia – Comunicazioni TS-590S

TS-590 Kenwood USA advertising in the QST June,10 – Down conversion 11 MHz 1st IF

The Kenwood “TS-590″ utilizes Kenwood’s proven 32 bit IF DP technology – Features selectable Roofing filters at 2.8 kHz, and 500 Hz on  1st IF – including down-conversion wtih the 1st IF at 11 MHz (like TenTec, Elecraft and Vertex Standard Yesu in the FTdx-5000 series), USB port, HF and 6M Antenna Jacks, Dual VFO Display, Automatic Tuner, etc. -

Kenwood has not yet announced final features, specifications, pricing or availability. The model number is tentative! – The June QST on the back cover is TS-590S seems to be a picture of. This back cover advertisement Kenwood is, first. – The Legend Continues and there TS-520, TS-570, TS-590S and is introduced from above. TS-590S on the front panel seems to be why do the characters TS-590 missing. – The Next Generation – Coming Soon and there.

Latest rumors: Size (WxHxD mm) 270x96x291 – TX Power 100W – High Dynaming range – IP3 +30dBm class at 2KHz separation – 32bit floating-point DSP – Sky Command – USB port for PC control and Sound inteface….?? — Wait for the official news updates Kenwood!!

Il nuovo “TS-590″ utilizza la tecnologia a 32 bit IF DSP della Kenwood, ha la possibilità di selezionare due Roofing filters da 2.8 kHz e 500 Hz BW nella 1st IF, comprende la conversione in basso nella prima IF a 11 MHz (come già fatto dalla Ten-Tec, dalla Elecraft ed da ultimo da Yaesu con la recente serie FTdx-5000), prevede una porta USB, due connettorri per HF e 6m, due VFO sul Display,  l’Accordatore automatico e altre features. La Kenwood non ha ancora rilasciato tutte le specifiche effettive, nè il prezzo. Il numero del modello per ora è un ipotesi “590″!

La rivista della ARRL QST di Giugno, 2010, sul retro della copertina, riporta la prima pubblicità per il TS-590, indicato come discendente del noto TS-520 del 1973, poi del TS-570D/S del 2000 e quindi la foto che dovrebbe essere del TS-590 perchè non riporta nel frontale tale sigla (in corso di conferma!). Questo annuncio di Kenwood USA sulla IV di copertina di QST mette in primo luogo: “La Leggenda Continua”, poi in grande: “The Next Generation – Coming Soon” – Aspettiamo !

Link to: Dayton Hamvention 2010 – news, video and more

IC-7600 ARRL Review on Nov. 2009 QST – 2kHz 3rd-ODR, way better than the 7700 @ 87db

IC-7600 ARRL Review on the November 2009 QST – 2kHz  88 dB 3rd-Order Dynamic Range, way better than the 7700 @ 87 dB! -
On the photo the I0GEJ’s Shack  and the IC7600 cw test-drive by IK0FUX, (N0FUX) Francesco (No 327 DXCC worked, CTC #1433, Mainly uses CW and him likes different keyers) – Link to ik0fux home-page

IC-7600 featured in the November 2009 QST review, reviewed by NCJ Managing Editor Rick Lindquist, WW3DE. 2kHz 88dB 3rd-Order Dynamic Range, way better than the 7700 @ 87dB! some data drawn from ARRL product reviews are summarized in the table on following image, compared to Icom IC-7600 IC-7700 IC-7800 and Yaesu FT-2000D.

[Note] These reviews are worth reading in their entirety on the QST, so as to obtain a systematic comparison between the most recent rigs.  – This new Icom is reviewed by Rick Lindquist, WW3DE National Contest Journal Managing Editor.

See the Link at PA1HR’s QST Key Measurements Summary web page, with QST data table for Icom Yesu Elecraft Flex Microtelecom (Perseus) and Tecn-Tec -  See Link and the table on following image and more…..>

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IC-7200 Product Review from June 2009 QST by © ARRL. Recenzione completa QST di Giugno 2009

IC-7200 HF 6m Review from June 2009 QST

Product Review from QST magazine. Reviewed by Steve Sant Andrea, AG1YK ARRL Assistant Editor
——Clik to enlarger ————————————
ENG: Some data drawn from ARRL product reviews are summarized in the table on image. These reviews are worth reading in their entirety, so as to obtain a systematic comparison between the most recent rigs entry-levl or portable type : IC-7200, IC-7000, FT-950 e FT-450.

Source QST 06/2009:  “Bottom Line”
The IC-7200 is a compact, easytooperate HF and 6 meter transceiver that offers many features for voice, CW and  digital mode operating. Rugged, water-resistant packaging makes it attractive for portable and emergency stations

IC-7200 recenzione completa su QST di Giugno 2009 della ARRL. Sulla rivista QST di Giugno è riportata una ampia recenzione del recente  IC-7200 HF 50MHz 100W Transceiver della Icom. L’apparato è stato recensito da Steve Sant Ander, AG1YK ARRL Assistant Editor. Nella Tabelllina riportata nell’immagine, qui sopra, sono indicati sommariamente solo alcuni dati, tratti dal “Key Summary” di QST per gli apparati IC-7200, IC-7000, FT-950 e FT-450 più o meno classificabili nella classe entry-levl o portatili.  Certamente le recenzioni tecniche meritano di essere  lette per intero sui vari numeri del QST Magazine per un confronto completo e sistematico di tutte le performance  degli apparati stessi.
Link to:   ARRL Home-Page – www.arrl.org

[Note]: ARRL Members Only can now download the June, 2009 QST Product Review.