Kenwood 271A Manual

The Kenwood 271A is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring 2-meter VHF operation, 50W output power, wide frequency coverage, CTCSS/DCS encode/decode, 207 memory channels, cross-band repeater function, and robust construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operating Modes 8. Memory Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with LCD display, microphone, DC power cable, mounting bracket, and user manual.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	136-174 MHz (RX), 144-148 MHz (TX)
Output Power	50W/20W/5W selectable
Memory Channels	207 channels (200 regular + 6 scan edges + 1 call)
CTCSS/DCS	50 CTCSS tones, 104 DCS codes
Cross-band Repeater	Full duplex cross-band operation
Power Supply	13.8V DC nominal
Antenna Connector	SO-239 (UHF female)
Display	LCD with backlight
Size/Weight	140W × 40H × 180D mm, 1.1 kg
Operating Temp	-20°C to +60°C

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

Connect antenna: Use proper coaxial cable to SO-239 connector.
Connect power: Red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of 13.8V DC source.
Mount unit: Use provided bracket for secure mounting in vehicle or base station.
Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on front panel.

WARNING! Ensure proper polarity when connecting power. Use fuse of correct rating (15A recommended).

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initialize settings.

Set frequency: Use main dial or keypad to enter desired frequency.
Configure squelch: Adjust SQL control for optimal reception.
Set power level: Select appropriate power (HI/MID/LOW) for operation.
Program memories: Store frequently used frequencies in memory channels.
Configure tones: Set CTCSS/DCS tones if required for repeater access.

CAUTION! Ensure proper licensing before transmitting. Follow local regulations.

Specifications

Frequency Coverage: RX: 136-174 MHz, TX: 144-148 MHz
Output Power: 50W (HI), 20W (MID), 5W (LOW)
Modulation: 16KΦF3E (FM)
Spurious Emission: -60 dB or better
Sensitivity: 0.16 μV typical (12 dB SINAD)
Selectivity: 12 kHz/-6 dB, 20 kHz/-60 dB
Audio Output: 2W at 10% distortion
Power Requirement: 13.8V DC ±15% (negative ground)
Current Drain: RX: 0.5A (squelched), TX: 9A max (50W)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SQL control, main dial, function keys, microphone connector.

Microphone: PTT, UP/DOWN keys, function buttons, numeric keypad.

Basic Operations: Frequency selection (dial or keypad), volume/squelch adjustment, power selection, tone encode/decode. Advanced Functions: Memory operations, scan functions, repeater offset, cross-band operation, DTMF encoding.

Connecting Devices

Antenna: SO-239 connector. External Speaker: 3.5mm jack. Data: Mini-DIN connector for programming.

Turn off power before making connections.
Use quality coaxial cable (RG-58 or better) for antenna connection.
Ensure all connections are secure and weatherproof if used outdoors.
Connect external devices only when unit is powered off.

Tip: Use SWR meter to verify antenna system performance.

Operating Modes

Supports simplex, repeater, and cross-band repeater operations.

Simplex Operation: Direct communication on same frequency.
Repeater Operation: Set offset frequency (+/- 600 kHz typical) and CTCSS/DCS tones.
Cross-band Repeater: Receive on one band, transmit on another (requires second unit).
Memory Recall: Quick access to stored frequencies and settings.
Scan Modes: Memory scan, program scan, band scan.
Priority Watch: Monitor priority channel while operating on current frequency.
DTMF Operation: Encode DTMF tones for remote control or signaling.

WARNING! Transmit only on authorized frequencies with proper license.

Memory Functions

Store and recall frequencies with associated settings.

Memory Operations: Store current settings to memory channel, recall memory channels, memory name tagging, memory grouping. Scan Functions: Memory scan with skip function, programmable scan edges, tone scan for CTCSS/DCS detection.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Regular inspection of cables and connectors recommended.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Complies with amateur radio service rules. This device must accept any interference received. For amateur use only. Requires appropriate amateur radio license. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power connections; verify fuse; ensure proper voltage.
No transmission	PTT/microphone	Check microphone connection; verify PTT operation; check antenna.
Poor reception	Antenna/squelch	Verify antenna connection; adjust squelch; check coaxial cable.
Memory loss	Backup battery	Memory settings lost when power disconnected for extended period.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; reduce transmit power if necessary.

Reset: Power off/on or use reset function in menu if available.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.