Kenwood D710 Manual

The Kenwood D710 is a dual-band mobile transceiver featuring 144/430MHz operation, built-in GPS, APRS functionality, cross-band repeat capability, wide frequency coverage, large LCD display, and robust construction for mobile amateur radio use. 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. APRS Operation 8. Cross-band Repeat 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-band transceiver unit, Control head with LCD display, Microphone, DC power cable, Mounting bracket, GPS antenna.

FeatureDescription
Frequency Range144-148MHz (VHF), 430-450MHz (UHF)
Output Power50W VHF, 35W UHF (adjustable)
GPS ReceiverBuilt-in with external antenna connection
APRS FunctionAutomatic Packet Reporting System
Cross-band RepeatFull duplex cross-band repeating
Memory ChannelsOver 400 memory channels
DisplayLarge backlit LCD with multiple info lines
Power Requirements13.8V DC negative ground
Data PortFor PC programming and data transfer
Microphone Connector8-pin modular connector

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location in vehicle.

  1. Mount control head: Use provided bracket on dashboard or console.
  2. Install main unit: Secure in trunk or under seat with mounting hardware.
  3. Connect power: Red to positive (+), black to negative (-) vehicle battery.
  4. Connect antennas: Use appropriate VHF/UHF antennas for each band.
  5. Connect GPS antenna: Mount externally for best reception.
  6. Connect control head cable: Route safely away from moving parts.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating. Route cables away from airbags and hot surfaces.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

  1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO dial or direct frequency entry.
  2. Configure squelch: Adjust for minimal background noise.
  3. Program repeaters: Store local repeater frequencies with offsets.
  4. Set APRS parameters: Configure beacon rate and path settings.
  5. Adjust display: Set contrast and backlight timing.
  6. Test GPS: Verify satellite lock and position accuracy.

CAUTION! Verify antenna connections before transmitting.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power button, Volume knob, Channel selector, Function keys, Microphone connector.

Display: Frequency, mode, S/RF meter, GPS status, APRS info, memory channel.

Menu Settings: Squelch levels, APRS parameters, GPS settings, display options, tone encode/decode, power settings, memory management, cross-band configuration, beacon settings, system reset.

Connecting Devices

External Speaker: 8-ohm speaker output. Data: Mini-DIN connector for PC interface. GPS: External antenna connector. Antennas: VHF and UHF antenna connectors.

  1. Turn off power before connecting accessories.
  2. Use appropriate cables and connectors for each device.
  3. Secure all connections to prevent vibration damage.
  4. Test each connection before final installation.

Tip: Use high-quality coaxial cables for best performance.

APRS Operation

Automatic Packet Reporting System for position reporting and messaging.

  1. Enable APRS: Access APRS menu and set to ON.
  2. Configure beacon: Set interval and path (WIDE1-1,WIDE2-1).
  3. Set position: Manual entry or use GPS automatic.
  4. Monitor APRS: View received stations on display.
  5. Send messages: Use message function for text communication.
  6. Emergency beacon: Configure emergency alert function.

WARNING! Follow local regulations for APRS transmission intervals.

Cross-band Repeat

Full duplex repeating between VHF and UHF bands.

  1. Enable cross-band: Access menu and activate cross-band function.
  2. Set frequencies: Program input and output frequencies for each band.
  3. Configure tones: Set CTCSS/DCS as required for linked systems.
  4. Monitor operation: Verify proper repeating with test transmission.
  5. Adjust time-out: Set transmitter time-out timer for safety.

CAUTION! Ensure legal operation and proper frequency coordination.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for display cleaning. Check connections periodically for corrosion.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners on display. Protect from extreme temperatures and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Amateur Radio Service compliant. 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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/fuseCheck power cable connections; verify fuse integrity.
Poor receptionAntenna/connectionsInspect antenna and cables; check connectors.
GPS not workingAntenna/satellite lockEnsure GPS antenna has clear sky view; wait for lock.
APRS not transmittingSettings/digi-pathVerify APRS enabled; check digipeater path settings.
Cross-band not workingConfigurationCheck cross-band settings; verify frequency pairs.
Display issuesContrast/backlightAdjust display contrast; check backlight settings.

Reset: Menu > System > Reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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