Kenwood 355U Manual

The Kenwood 355U is a professional-grade two-way radio featuring UHF frequency range, 5-watt output power, 128 channels, built-in scrambler, robust construction with MIL-STD 810 compliance, programmable functions, LCD display with backlight, and IP67 waterproof rating. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: LCD display with backlight, programmable buttons, antenna connector, speaker/microphone, charging contacts, volume/channel knobs.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	UHF 400-470MHz
Output Power	5W (High), 1W (Low)
Channels	128 programmable channels
LCD Display	Backlit display with channel info
Scrambler	Built-in voice inversion scrambler
Battery	Li-ion 2000mAh battery
Waterproof Rating	IP67 submersible protection
Programming	PC programmable via USB cable
Scan Function	Programmable scan with priority
Emergency Alert	Programmable emergency function

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install battery and antenna.

1. Install battery: Align battery contacts, slide until click.
2. Attach antenna: Screw antenna clockwise until secure.
3. Charge battery: Use provided charger for 4 hours initially.
4. Install accessories: Attach belt clip or shoulder microphone.

WARNING! Do not operate without proper antenna. Avoid contact with water during charging.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure basic settings.

1. Power on: Rotate volume knob clockwise.
2. Select channel: Use channel knob to select pre-programmed channels.
3. Adjust volume: Set appropriate listening level.
4. Squelch setting: Adjust squelch to eliminate background noise.
5. Program channels: Use programming software for custom channels.

CAUTION! Ensure proper programming before use in licensed frequencies.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: UHF 400-470MHz
• Output Power: 5W (High), 1W (Low)
• Channels: 128 programmable
• Battery: Li-ion 2000mAh
• Operating Time: Up to 12 hours
• Dimensions: 130mm x 60mm x 40mm
• Weight: 350g with battery
• Waterproof: IP67 rated
• Temperature Range: -30°C to +60°C
• Programming: PC programmable via USB

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power/Volume knob, Channel selector, PTT button, Programmable buttons.

Top Controls: Antenna connector, Channel knob, Power/Volume knob.

Display: Shows channel number, battery level, transmit indicator, scan status. Programming: Use KPG-87D software for channel programming, scan lists, squelch levels, power settings. Audio: Volume control, monitor button, external speaker jack.

Connecting Accessories

Antenna: Standard SMA connector. Speaker/Mic: 3.5mm jack. Programming: USB programming cable.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Use genuine Kenwood accessories for optimal performance.
3. Ensure secure connections to prevent water ingress.
4. Test accessories before field deployment.

Tip: Keep accessory ports clean and dry when not in use.

Programming and Operation

Supports channel programming, scan functions, and special features.

1. Install programming software on PC.
2. Connect radio via USB programming cable.
3. Read current configuration from radio.
4. Program frequencies, CTCSS/DCS codes, power levels.
5. Write configuration to radio.
6. Verify programming by testing channels.
7. Use PTT to transmit on selected channel.
8. Monitor channel activity with monitor function.

WARNING! Only program frequencies for which you have license. Test in low power first.

Advanced Features

Scan Function: Programmable scan with priority channel. Scrambler: Voice inversion for privacy. Emergency Alert: Programmable emergency signal. Dual Watch: Monitor two channels simultaneously.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with damp cloth only; avoid solvents. Store in dry environment. Regular battery maintenance.

CAUTION! Do not immerse while charging. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90 certified for land mobile radio service. Requires proper licensing for operation. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Battery/connections	Charge battery; check contacts; replace if needed.
No transmission	Programming/antenna	Verify programming; check antenna connection.
Poor reception	Antenna/location	Check antenna; move to better location.
Battery drains quickly	Age/usage	Replace battery; reduce transmit power.
Programming failure	Cable/software	Check USB connection; reinstall software.

Reset: Use programming software to reset to factory defaults.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.