Kenwood D710A Manual

The Kenwood D710A is a dual-band mobile transceiver featuring 144/430MHz bands, 50W output on VHF and 35W on UHF, built-in GPS receiver, APRS functionality, wideband receiver coverage, cross-band repeat capability, large LCD display, and multiple operating modes. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	144-148MHz (VHF), 430-450MHz (UHF)
Output Power	50W VHF, 35W UHF (adjustable)
GPS Receiver	Built-in for APRS and position reporting
APRS Functionality	Automatic Packet Reporting System
Cross-band Repeat	Simultaneous receive/transmit on different bands
Memory Channels	Over 400 memory channels
Display	Large backlit LCD with multiple info displays
Power Input	13.8V DC negative ground
Microphone Connector	8-pin modular connector
Data Port	For PC programming and data transfer

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Mount main unit: Use provided bracket in vehicle or fixed location.
2. Connect power: Red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of 13.8V DC source.
3. Connect antenna: Use appropriate VHF/UHF dual-band antenna.
4. Connect microphone: Plug into 8-pin connector on front panel.
5. Connect GPS antenna: If external GPS antenna is used.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating and secure all connections. Do not operate without proper antenna.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO mode to select desired frequency.
2. Configure squelch: Adjust for proper noise suppression.
3. Set power level: Choose appropriate output power for operation.
4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies.
5. Enable GPS: Ensure GPS receiver is active for APRS functions.
6. Configure APRS: Set call sign and basic APRS parameters.

CAUTION! Verify frequency authorization and power limits for your license class.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 144-148MHz (VHF), 430-450MHz (UHF)
• Output Power: 50W VHF, 35W UHF (adjustable)
• Modulation: FM
• Memory Channels: 400+ memory channels
• GPS: Built-in receiver with external antenna capability
• APRS: 1200/9600 bps packet capability
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15% negative ground
• Current Consumption: Approx. 13A max transmit, 1.3A receive
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: 140(W) × 40(H) × 158(D) mm

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, volume control, squelch control, function keys, microphone connector.

Microphone: PTT, up/down buttons, function keys, numeric keypad.

Basic Settings: Frequency selection, power level, squelch level, tone encode/decode. Advanced Settings: APRS configuration, cross-band repeat, memory management, scan settings, GPS parameters. Display: Backlight control, contrast adjustment, information display modes.

Connecting Devices

Antenna: VHF/UHF dual-band antenna connector. External Speaker: 3.5mm jack. Data: Mini-DIN connector for PC programming. GPS: External antenna connector.

1. Turn off power before making connections.
2. Use appropriate cables and connectors for each device.
3. Ensure proper impedance matching for antenna system.
4. Verify all connections are secure before operation.

Tip: Use high-quality coaxial cable for antenna connection to minimize signal loss.

Operating Modes

Supports simplex, repeater, cross-band, and data modes.

1. VFO Mode: Direct frequency entry and tuning.
2. Memory Mode: Recall stored frequencies and settings.
3. Repeater Operation: Set offset and tone squelch for repeater access.
4. Cross-band Repeat: Receive on one band and transmit on another.
5. Scan Operation: Scan memory channels or frequency range.
6. Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
7. APRS Operation: Automatic position reporting and messaging.
8. Data Modes: Support for packet radio and other digital modes.

WARNING! Observe proper operating procedures and frequency allocations.

APRS Functionality

Automatic Packet Reporting System: Position reporting, messaging, object reporting, weather reporting.

Configuration: Set call sign, symbol, beacon interval, path settings. Operation: Automatic position beacons, direct messaging, object tracking, weather station interface.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemicals. Regular inspection of connections and cables.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Protect from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Amateur Radio Service compliant. This device must accept any interference received. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support and service, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

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/connections	Verify antenna connection; check cable integrity; adjust squelch.
GPS not working	Antenna/settings	Ensure GPS antenna connected; verify GPS enabled in settings.
APRS not functioning	Configuration	Verify APRS settings; check digipeater path; confirm GPS lock.
Memory lost	Power interruption	Re-program memory channels; ensure continuous power backup.

Reset: Function + Power for factory reset if available.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center; www.kenwood.com