kenwood at 180 manual

The Kenwood AT 180 is a high-performance car stereo system featuring AM/FM radio with RDS, CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, front auxiliary input, detachable front panel with carry case, 4x50W maximum power output, preset stations, loudness control, bass/treble/midrange adjustments, and security code protection. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable front panel, remote control, wiring harness, mounting sleeve, user manual.

Feature	Description
AM/FM Tuner	With RDS and 24 preset stations
CD Player	Plays CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA formats
Power Output	4x50W maximum power
Front AUX Input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Detachable Front Panel	Security feature with carry case
Audio Controls	Bass, treble, midrange, loudness, fader, balance
Display	Multi-color LCD with dimmer control
Security Code	Anti-theft protection system
Remote Control	Full function remote included
Power Requirements	12V DC negative ground

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Ensure vehicle battery is disconnected before beginning.

1. Remove existing stereo: Use removal keys to release current unit.
2. Connect wiring harness: Match color-coded wires to vehicle harness.
3. Install mounting sleeve: Secure in dashboard opening.
4. Connect antenna: Plug antenna cable into rear port.
5. Test functions: Reconnect battery and test all features before final assembly.

WARNING! Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation to prevent electrical shorts.

First-Time Setup

After installation, complete initial setup for optimal performance.

1. Set security code: Enter 4-digit code in security menu.
2. Program radio stations: Use auto-store or manual tuning for presets.
3. Adjust audio settings: Set bass, treble, midrange to preference.
4. Configure display: Set dimmer and color preferences.
5. Test all inputs: Verify CD, radio, and AUX input functionality.

CAUTION! Record security code in safe place; unit will be inoperable without correct code.

Specifications

• Power Output: 4 x 50W Max (4 x 22W RMS)
• Tuner: FM/AM with RDS
• Preset Stations: 24 (18 FM, 6 AM)
• CD Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB
• Separation: >55dB
• Power Supply: 12V DC negative ground
• Dimensions: 178mm (W) x 50mm (H) x 153mm (D)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND button, AUDIO button, eject button.

Remote Control: Power, volume, track selection, preset buttons, audio controls, menu navigation.

Audio Settings: Bass (-10 to +10), Treble (-10 to +10), Midrange (-10 to +10), Loudness (On/Off), Fader (F7 to R7), Balance (L7 to R7). Radio Settings: Auto store, manual tuning, RDS (On/Off). Display: Dimmer (3 levels), color selection. Security: Code entry, code reset.

Connecting Devices

AUX Input: Front 3.5mm jack for MP3 players, smartphones. Speaker Connections: 4-channel output.

1. External devices: Connect to front AUX input using 3.5mm cable.
2. Speakers: Connect positive and negative wires correctly.
3. Power antenna: Connect blue remote wire if applicable.
4. Amplifier: Use pre-out connections if adding external amp.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance from external devices.

Playing Media

Supports CD, MP3, WMA playback and AM/FM radio reception.

1. Insert CD: Press eject button, load disc label side up.
2. Play/Pause: Use play button to start/stop playback.
3. Track Selection: Use forward/back buttons or numeric keys.
4. Radio Tuning: Manual tune with tuning buttons or auto-store for presets.
5. MP3 Navigation: Folder and file navigation for MP3 CDs.
6. Repeat/Shuffle: Available for CD and MP3 playback.
7. Scan: Brief sampling of stations or tracks.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or improperly burned CDs. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

Security Features

Detachable Front Panel: Remove when parked for security. Security Code: 4-digit code prevents unauthorized use. Unit will display "CODE" if power disconnected without entering code.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep discs clean and store properly. Remove front panel in extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not insert foreign objects into CD slot. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC compliant. CE marked. RoHS compliant. Manufactured under license. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit won't power on	Power connection/security code	Check fuse and wiring; enter security code if prompted.
No sound from speakers	Speaker connections/fader setting	Verify speaker wires; check fader/balance settings.
CD won't play	Disc format/damage	Ensure compatible format; clean disc; check for scratches.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Check antenna cable; ensure proper connection.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstructions	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to unit.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset unit (security code required after).

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.