Kenwood R-599D All Band Communications Receiver
OPERATING MANUAL
R-599D SPECIFICATIONS
| RECEIVING FREQUENCY RANGE | 1.8 MHz BAND | 1.80 | 2.30 | MHz | ||
| 3.5 MHz BAND | 3.50 | 4.00 | MHz | |||
| 7.0 MHz BAND | 7.00 | 7.50 | MHz | |||
| 14.0 MHz BAND | 14.00 | 14.50 | MHz | |||
| 21.0 MHz BAND | 21.00 | 21.50 | MHz | |||
| 28.0 MHz BAND | 28.00 | 28.50 | MHz | |||
| 28.5 MHz BAND | 28.50 | 29.10 | MHz | |||
| 29.1 MHz BAND | 29.10 | 29.70 | MHz | |||
| 50.0 MHz BAND | 50.0 | 53.4 | MHz (with accessory converter) | |||
| 144.0 MHz BAND | 144.0 | 147.4 | MHz (with accessory converter) | |||
| WWV | 10.00 | MHz | ||||
| MODE | SSB, CW, AM and FM | |||||
| POWER RECIREMENTS | 100/117/220/240VAC, 50/60 Hz, 12 ~ 15 VDC | |||||
| POWER CONSUMPTION | Less than 15 watts (AC) Less than 1A (at 13.8VDC) | |||||
| AUDIO OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | 4 to 16 ohms (speaker or headphones) | |||||
| AUDIO OUTPUT | More than one watt (with less than 10% distortion) into an 8 ohm load | |||||
| ANTENNA INPUT IMPEDANCE | 50 to 75 ohms (Unbalanced) | |||||
| FREQUENCY STABILITY | Within 100 Hz during any 30 minute period after warmup. Within ±2 kHz during the first hour after 1 minute of warmup. | |||||
| IMAGE RATIO | Better than 50db | |||||
| IF REJECTION | Better than 50db | |||||
| SENSITIVITY | SSB - 1.8 ~ 28 MHz BAND: 0.25 μV S+N/N 10db or more | |||||
| 50 MHz BAND: 0.5 μV S+N/N 10db or more (with accessory converter) | ||||||
| 144 MHz BAND: 0.5 μV S+N/N 10db or more (with accessory converter) | ||||||
| WWV: 0.25 μV S+N/N 10db or more | ||||||
| AM - 1.8 ~ 28 MHz BAND: 1.5 μV S+N/N 10db or more | ||||||
| 50 MHz BAND: 3.0 μV S+N/N 10db or more (with accessory converter) | ||||||
| 144 MHz BAND: 3.0 μV S+N/N 10db or more (with accessory converter) | ||||||
| WWV: 1.5 μV S+N/N 10db or more | ||||||
| SELECTIVITY | SSB: Better than 2.4 kHz (6db down), Better than 4.4 kHz (60db down) | |||||
| CW: Better than 500 Hz (6db down), Better than 1.5 kHz (60db down) | ||||||
| AM: Better than 5 kHz (6db down), Better than 12 kHz (60db down) | ||||||
| FM: Better than 20 kHz (6db down), Better than 120 kHz (40db down) | ||||||
| SEMICONDUCTOR COMPLEMENT | 8 FET, 1 IC, 32 transistors, 51 diodes, 2 zener diodes and 1 variable capacity diode | |||||
| DIMENSIONS | 10-1/8" W × 5-1/2" H × 12-7/32" D (inches) 270 W × 140 H × 310 D (mm) | |||||
| WEIGHT | 12.5 lbs. (5.7 kg) | |||||
R-599D FEATURES
- All solid state circuits for high-quality reception across amateur bands from 1.8 to 29.7 MHz and WWV standard signal.
- Field Effect Transistors (FET) used as RF amplifier and mixer provide superior S/N, cross-modulation, and image characteristics compared to vacuum tubes.
- Integrated Circuit (IC) used as IF amplifier ensures high stability and gain.
- FET-based VFO offers highly-stable, low noise-factor output.
- Precision double gear mechanism and variable capacitor with linear characteristic for the main tuning dial, covering a 100 kHz band per revolution, allowing frequency readability to the nearest 1 kHz.
- Self-contained fixed channel oscillators for 5-channel spot reception without using VFO.
- Amplifier type AGC circuit with time-constant selector switch for distortionless reception of high input signals, particularly useful for SSB.
- 25 kHz crystal controlled calibrator circuit for precise frequency calibration and use as a frequency measuring set.
- Receiver Incremental Tuning (RIT) circuit for fine adjustment or correction of receiving frequency without main tuning dial manipulation during combined transmitter-receiver operation.
- Ring, linear, and ratio detectors for SSB, AM, and FM signal receptions, respectively.
- Selectable crystal and LC filters for SSB, FM, AM, and CW receptions via the SELECTIVITY switch, with an AUTO position interlocking with the MODE switch.
- Beat Frequency Oscillator (BFO) controlled by crystals for SSB and CW, with an electronic switch for crystal selection.
- Built-in high-performance solid-state noise blanker effective against impulse noise for clear QSOs.
- Output Transformerless (OTL) type audio frequency circuit for high power output with low distortion.
- High-stability regulated power supply using zener diodes.
- Operable from AC 100, 117, 220, or 240 V sources, or a DC 12 V source, selected by a voltage selector switch.
- Combined transmitter-receiver operation available with the T-599D Transmitter.
- High-degree transmitter-receiver operation (cross-operated VFO) is practicable with the R-599D and T-599D combination.
- Human-engineered panel and dial design for a pleasant shack environment when combined with the T-599D transmitter.
SECTION 1. CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The R-599D Receiver operates on a double superheterodyne system. Receiving signals from 1.8 to 29.7 MHz and the WWV 10 MHz standard signal are converted by the 1st mixer into 1st IF signals ranging from 8.895 to 8.295 MHz, and then by the 2nd mixer into a 2nd IF signal of 3.395 MHz.
1. RF Unit (X44-0020-00)
Signals enter through protective diodes to the ANT coil, selected by frequency band. The signal is amplified by RF amplifier Q1 (FET 3SK22). FETs provide better cross-modulation characteristics and higher output impedance than ordinary transistors, allowing for higher Q in the RF coil. The AGC circuit biases the source at 4V via a zener diode, with gates 1 and 2 receiving 4V in the absence of signals. Gate voltage decreases with incoming signal strength, providing better AGC characteristics. RF coils are band-specific. The amplified RF signal is fed to the 1st mixer Q2 (FET 3SK22), where it is heterodyned with the 1st local oscillator voltage to produce the 1st IF signal. The 1st local oscillator Q3 (overtone oscillator using FET 2SK19) is powered by a regulated 9V supply. Oscillation coils and crystals are incorporated in a coil pack. The output of Q3 is applied to Q2, with a portion fed through buffer Q4 (2SC460) to the remote terminal for use as the 2nd mixer signal in combined transmitter-receiver operations.
2. IF Unit (X48-0011-00)
The 1st IF signal is fed to a band-pass filter (BPF) with a passband of 600 kHz (8.895 to 8.295 MHz). It then enters the 2nd mixer Q1 (FET 3SK22), where it is heterodyned with the VFO output to become the 2nd IF signal. This signal passes through the NB unit (if activated) and a filter before being amplified by IC IF amplifier Q2 (TA7045M) and transistor Q3 (2SC460). The amplified signal is then fed to three detector circuits: a ring detector (diodes D4-D7) for SSB and CW, an AM detector (C14, D3) for AM, and a ratio detector (following limiter Q8) for FM. Part of the 2nd IF amplifier output is fed to an AGC detector (D1), amplified by AGC amplifier Q4 (2SC733), and then applied to transistor Q5 (2SA495) for S-meter driving and AGC voltage. The AGC circuit features a time-constant selector for fast or slow release. The output of Q5 also controls the squelch amplifier Q6 (2SC733) and buffer Q7 (2SC1000), which in turn controls the AF amplifier Q1 in the AF unit for squelch operation. Buffer Q7 also acts as an emitter follower, providing a stable output to the AF volume control.
3. NB Unit (X54-1080-10)
The NB unit processes the 2nd mixer signal through a bandpass filter. Q1 (3SK22) compensates for signal loss. Q2, Q3, Q7, and Q4 (2SC460) form a noise amplifier. The amplified noise is rectified by diodes D5 and D6 (1N60) and fed to the base of switching transistor Q5 (2SC733). Part of this rectified output also feeds Q6 (2SC733), providing AGC voltage to Q3, Q7, and Q4. The AGC circuit's time constant is designed to respond to continuous signals, not pulsating noises. This allows the noise amplifier to have maximum gain on pulsating noises while reducing gain on continuous signals. Transistor Q5's emitter is connected to the NB switch (activated by pulling the AF GAIN knob). When Q5 conducts due to noise, its collector voltage drops, biasing the balanced diode switch (D1-D4) in reverse polarity to close the signal line, thus eliminating pulsating noises.
4. Filter Unit (X51-1050-10)
This unit contains four filters (SSB, CW, AM, FM) with diode switches. When the MODE switch selects a reception mode, a voltage is applied to the corresponding terminal, activating the diode switch. For example, in CW mode, voltage is applied to the CW terminal, forward-biasing diodes D1 and D2, and reverse-biasing D3-D14. This allows only the CW signal to pass through filter XF-1 to the 2nd IF amplifier. The filters require external resistance and capacitance, which are provided by internal components. Similar switching mechanisms are used for SSB, AM, and FM filters.
5. VFO Unit (X40-0016-08)
The VFO Unit contains a variable frequency oscillator circuit that outputs frequencies from 5.5 to 4.9 MHz to the 2nd mixer. The oscillator uses a modified Clapp circuit with FET Q1 (3SK22) and buffer Q2 (2SK19) for stability. The output is filtered and then amplified by a Darlington circuit (Q3, Q4). The unit also includes a Receive Incremental Tuning (RIT) circuit, controlled by RIT voltage from the X43-0010-00 unit, which varies the VFO frequency independently of the dial setting during combined transmitter-receiver operation. The RIT control on the front panel adjusts this voltage. The VFO Unit requires specialized adjustment and should not be modified internally.
6. Carrier (BFO) Unit (X50-0002-00)
This unit houses the Beat Frequency Oscillator (BFO) circuit, consisting of oscillator Q1 (2SC460), buffer Q2 (2SC460), and crystals X-1, X-2, X-3 with a diode switch (D1-D4). It inserts a beat or carrier frequency into the ring detector for SSB or CW reception. Crystal selection for LSB, USB, or CW is done via the diode switch, activated by the MODE switch. For CW reception, the BFO frequency is shifted slightly lower than the crystal frequency to produce a beat tone, adjustable via trimmer capacitor TC1.
7. 25 kHz Marker Unit (X52-0005-01)
This unit generates a 25 kHz marker signal for calibrating the main tuning dial across the 3.5 to 28 MHz range. The signal is selected using the FUNCTION switch. The circuit uses four transistors (Q1-Q4, 2SC373) and a 100 kHz crystal. Q1 oscillates at 100 kHz, with frequency fine-tuning via TC1. The output is shaped into a pulsed waveform at 25 kHz by a multivibrator (Q2, Q3) and then amplified and shaped into a rectangular waveform by Q4 before being sent to the RF Unit.
8. Regulated Power Supply Unit (X43-0010-00)
This unit provides stable operating voltages for the VFO, BFO, and 1st local oscillator. It uses transistors Q1 (2SA606), Q2/Q3 (2SC372), and zener diode D1 (WZ-061). Q1 controls current, Q2/Q3 amplify error voltage, and Q4 detects error voltage and cancels temperature characteristics with Q3. Zener diode D1 provides a stable reference voltage. The circuit offers excellent voltage stability against temperature changes. It also includes protection against excessive current when the output is shorted. Resistors R10, R11, and VR2 are used to generate RIT voltages for the VFO unit.
9. AF Unit (X49-1040-10)
This unit amplifies the audio frequency (AF) output from the squelch buffer transistor to drive the speaker. It consists of four amplifier transistors (Q1: 2SC1000, Q2: 2SC734, Q3: 2SD90, Q4: 2SB473) in an Output Transformerless (OTL) circuit for low distortion. Negative feedback is applied to reduce distortion and improve the damping factor. Coil L1 and capacitor C2 form an LC filter to block audio frequencies above 3 kHz. The AF unit also provides different audio responses for SSB/AM/FM and CW modes. In CW mode, audio frequencies above 1 kHz are cut off to reduce listening fatigue. This tone control is automatically engaged by the MODE switch. VR1 is used for side-tone level adjustment during CW transmission.
10. Fixed Channel Unit (X50-1140-10)
This unit contains a fixed channel oscillator circuit using Pierce C-B oscillator Q1 and buffer transistors Q2, Q3. It works with a selected fixed channel crystal via the CH SELECT switch to control the 1st mixer output for spot frequency reception. Five channel crystal holders are mounted on a printed circuit board, allowing selection of specific frequencies. The document provides an example of crystal frequencies needed for receiving specific frequencies in the 14 MHz band.
SECTION 2. OPERATING CONTROLS
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS (See Fig. 2.)
- BAND (Main Band Selector Switch): 10-position rotary switch for selecting receiving bands from 1.8 to 29.1 MHz and WWV 10 MHz.
- BAND (Auxiliary Band Selector Switch): 5-position rotary switch to select HF or VHF bands. When set to HF, the main BAND switch is active. Other positions enable optional 50 or 144 MHz crystal converters.
- POWER (Power Switch): Turns the receiver ON/OFF.
- RIT (Receiver Incremental Tuning Control): For fine-tuning the receiving frequency during combined transmitter-receiver operation with the T-599D. Allows frequency adjustment without moving the main tuning dial.
- PRESELECTOR (RF Amplifier Tuning Control): Adjusts the RF amplifier for maximum sensitivity.
- RF GAIN (RF Gain Control) - RIT PULL OFF: Adjusts the receiver's RF gain. Pulling the knob out turns RIT OFF.
- VFO SELECT: Selects the VFO for combined transmitter-receiver operation with the T-599D (NORM, RX, TX, REV positions).
- SELECTIVITY SWITCH: Selects the IF passband based on emission type or interference conditions for optimal audio clarity.
- SQUELCH (Squelch Control): Adjusts squelch to disable the audio circuit when no signal is present, preventing noise.
- AF GAIN (Volume Control) - NB PULL ON: Controls audio volume. Pulling the knob ON activates the noise blanker.
- PHONES (Phone Jack): For connecting headphones.
- FUNCTION (Function Selector Switch): 6-position switch for STBY, MONI, SLOW, FAST, OFF, and 25 kHz CAL modes.
- MODE (Receiver Mode Selector Switch): 6-position switch for selecting reception modes: CW, LSB, USB, AM, AM.N (Automatic Noise Suppression), and FM.
- S METER: Indicates signal strength in dB, calibrated so S-9 is 34 dB.
- SUB-DIAL SCALE: Calibrated 0-600 kHz in 25 kHz intervals, shifts with the main tuning dial.
- MAIN DIAL SCALE (VFO): Calibrated 1 kHz per graduation for 100 kHz per revolution, reduced gear ratio for easier tuning.
- MAIN TUNING DIAL: Tunes the receiver within a 600 kHz bandwidth. Has a limit to prevent damage to the reduction gear mechanism.
REAR PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
- HF ANT: Antenna terminal for 50-75 ohm HF antennas (1.8-28 MHz).
- SPEAKER: AF output terminals for an external 8 ohm speaker (4-16 ohm compatible).
- REMOTE: Connecting terminals for combined transmitter-receiver operation.
- DC INPUT TERMINALS: For connecting a 12-15 VDC, 1A power source.
- AC - DC SELECTOR SWITCH: Selects between AC and DC power sources.
- VOLTAGE SELECTOR: Plug socket with a 0.5A fuse for AC input, with terminals for 100, 117, 220, and 240 V selection.
- AC POWER CORD: Connects to AC power source (50/60 Hz).
SECTION 3. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. ACCESSORIES
The R-599D comes with a 16-pin connector, a 2-pin connector, spare legs, and an operating manual.
2. INSTALLATION PLACE
Install in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
3. POWER SOURCE
Operable from AC 100, 117, 220, 240 V (50/60 Hz) or DC 12-15 V. Use a voltage regulator if input voltage deviates by more than ±10%. A 0.5A fuse is required for AC operation.
4. ANTENNA
Use a suitable antenna (vertical, inverted-L, dipole, Yagi) for optimal performance. Ensure the receiver is properly grounded.
5. SPEAKER
Use a high-quality speaker with 4-16 ohm impedance. The KENWOOD S-599 speaker is recommended.
6. RECEIVING PROCEDURE
Connect power, antenna, and speaker. Set controls as follows:
- POWER: OFF
- BAND: Desired band and HF
- RF GAIN: Fully clockwise (RIT ON)
- AF GAIN: Centered (NB OFF)
- MODE: Desired mode
- FUNCTION: Centered
- RIT: "0"
- VFO SELECT: "NORM"
- SELECTIVITY: "AUTO"
- SQUELCH: Fully counterclockwise
Turn POWER ON. Tune the main tuning dial to the desired signal. Adjust PRESELECTOR for maximum gain. Set AF GAIN for adequate volume. Use FUNCTION switch (SLOW/FAST) for signal fluctuation. Adjust RF GAIN if the signal is too strong. Set SQUELCH to cut off noise during no-signal periods. Use RIT for fine-tuning. The MODE switch should match the signal's emission type (LSB for <7 MHz, USB for >14 MHz). AM.N is for heavy noise on AM. FM mode requires SELECTIVITY in AUTO or 25 kHz. Reading frequency involves summing sub-dial and main dial readings. Calibrate the main dial using the 25 kHz CAL position and the FUNCTION switch.
7. COMBINED TRANSMITTER-RECEIVER OPERATION USING A COMBINATION OF MODEL R-599D AND T-599D
Connect the REMOTE terminals of R-599D and T-599D with the supplied cable. Connect the antenna to the transmitter's ANT terminal and the transmitter's RX ANT terminal to the R-599D's HF ANT terminal. Set the transmitter to TRCV. Refer to the T-599D manual for its operation. The VFO SELECT switch on the R-599D controls VFO operation: NORM (separate operation), RX (R-599D VFO for both), TX (T-599D VFO for both), REV (reversed VFO operation). The FUNCTION switch in MONI position allows monitoring of the transmitted signal.
8. COMBINED TRANSMITTER-RECEIVER OPERATION USING A COMBINATION OF MODEL R-599D AND A TRANSMITTER OTHER THAN MODEL T-599D.
Connect the R-599D's REMOTE terminal to the transmitter's STAND-BY switch or control relay. Connect the receiver's antenna terminals to the transmitter's antenna duplexer relay.
9. OPERATION OF MODEL R-599D FROM A DC POWER SOURCE
Set the AC-DC selector switch to DC. Connect a 2-pin connector to the DC power source and plug it into the DC socket. Ensure correct polarity. A 2A fuse is recommended in the power leads.
10. AC VOLTAGE SELECTION
The Voltage Selector on the rear panel must be set to match the local AC line voltage (100, 117, 220, or 240 V). The fuse holder is part of this selector.
SECTION 4. ACCESSORY CIRCUITRY
1. FIXED CHANNEL CRYSTALS
The R-599D includes a fixed channel oscillator with 5 crystal holders for spot frequency reception. The document provides a table of crystal frequencies required for specific receiving frequencies in the 14 MHz band and a test circuit diagram (Fig. 9) for determining crystal frequencies.
SECTION 5. ALIGNMENT
The R-599D is factory-adjusted but may require re-adjustment every two to three years. Adjustments using only a circuit tester are described. Users should not attempt to adjust the VFO, crystal filter, coil pack, or BPF due to the high skill required. Contact dealers for these adjustments or repairs.
1. MARKER OSCILLATOR (X52-0005-01)
If the marker oscillator has a frequency error, adjust trimmer TC1 to zero beat with the WWV 10 MHz standard signal.
2. AVR UNIT (X43-0010-00)
Adjust VR1 to obtain 9V at the OUT terminal. For RIT control zero adjustment, set RIT control to 0, tune to the 25 kHz standard signal, and adjust VR2 for zero beat tone.
3. AF UNIT (X49-1040-10)
Adjust semi-fixed resistor VR1 for a comfortable side-tone volume during CW operation.
4. FIXED CHANNEL UNIT (X50-1140-10)
If the crystal frequency is a multiple of the 25 kHz marker signal, adjust the trimmer capacitor in parallel with the crystal for zero beat tone when the FUNCTION switch is set to 25 kHz CAL.
5. MONITOR CIRCUIT
When operating with a transmitter, adjust VR2 in the R-599D to set the monitoring output volume to an appropriate level.
SECTION 6. MAINTENANCE
1. REMOVAL OF CABINET CASE
Screws on the top and side plates allow removal of the top cover. Six setscrews secure the bottom plate.
2. GEAR
Clean and lubricate gears annually to reduce friction.
3. PILOT LAMP
Replace blown tubular pilot lamps (14 V, 200 mA) with new ones. Meter pilot lamps may require removing metal fittings.
4. FUSE
Replace a blown 0.5A glass-tube fuse after inspecting the circuit for the cause of the failure.
5. CLEANING
Clean control knobs with neutral cleaner. Wipe panels and case with a soft, dry cloth. Clean the interior of the receiver semi-annually to prevent issues from dust accumulation.
TOP VIEW OF THE R-599D (Fig 13)
The top view shows the locations of the RELAY RL1, PT, CARRIER UNIT (X50-0002-00), FILTER UNIT (X51-1050-10), VFO UNIT (X40-0016-08), S METER, AF UNIT (X49-1040-10), FIXED CHANNEL UNIT (X50-1140-10), RF UNIT (X44-0020-00), and NB UNIT (X54-1080-10).
BOTTOM VIEW OF THE R-599D (Fig 14)
The bottom view indicates the positions of AF CHOKE, VR1, VR2, BPF, IF UNIT (X48-0011-00), VR2 FOR MONITOR, VR1, MKR UNIT (X52-0005-01), 100kHz XTAL, TC1, AVR UNIT (X43-0010-00), and RF UNIT (X44-0020-00).
R-599D SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
A detailed schematic diagram of the R-599D is provided.
NOTE
This section provides an example for adding a 15 MHz WWV band using specific parts (L31-0016-04, L31-0023-04, L32-0007-04, L77-0180-15). It details the installation process, including removing the bottom cover and shield plate, loosening the band switch shaft, and replacing coil packs. Alignment procedures for the oscillator, antenna, and RF tuning coils are also described, involving setting the FUNCTION switch to 25 kHz CAL and adjusting for maximum S meter reading.
