kenwood d72a manual

The Kenwood D72A is a dual-band amateur radio transceiver featuring 144/430MHz coverage, APRS capability, GPS receiver, wideband receiver, digital signal processing, 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: Dual-band transceiver, GPS receiver, APRS functionality, Large LCD display, Microphone connector, Speaker, Antenna connectors, DC power input.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	144MHz (RX: 118-524MHz, 800-1300MHz) / 430MHz (RX: 420-450MHz)
Output Power	5W (UHF), 5W (VHF) - adjustable
APRS Function	Automatic Packet Reporting System with GPS
GPS Receiver	Built-in GPS for position reporting
Memory Channels	Over 400 memory channels
Display	Large dot matrix LCD with backlight
Power Supply	13.8V DC nominal
Antenna Connectors	BNC type for VHF/UHF
Data Interface	USB port for PC connection
Operating Modes	FM, WFM, AM, APRS

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Connect antenna: Attach VHF/UHF antenna to BNC connectors.
2. Connect power: Use 13.8V DC power supply with correct polarity.
3. Connect microphone: Plug microphone into front panel connector.
4. Connect external devices: Use USB port for PC connection if needed.

WARNING! Ensure proper antenna connection before transmitting. Use correct power supply to avoid damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob to select desired frequency.
2. Configure squelch: Adjust squelch control for proper operation.
3. Set output power: Select appropriate power level for operation.
4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies.
5. GPS setup: Allow GPS to acquire satellite signals.
6. APRS configuration: Set up APRS parameters if used.

CAUTION! Ensure proper licensing for amateur radio operation in your region.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 144MHz/430MHz dual band
• Output Power: 5W (both bands, adjustable)
• Receiver System: Double conversion superheterodyne
• GPS: Built-in GPS receiver
• APRS: 1200/9600bps packet communication
• Memory Channels: 400+ memory channels
• Power Requirement: 13.8V DC ±15%
• Current Drain: RX: 0.5A, TX: 1.5A (max)
• Operating Temperature: -10°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: 140(W) × 40(H) × 180(D) mm

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, Volume control, Squelch control, VFO knob, Function keys, Microphone connector.

Display: Frequency, mode, S-meter, GPS status, APRS information.

Menu Settings: Frequency step, Scan settings, APRS parameters, GPS settings, Display contrast, Timeout timer, Power save mode.

Connecting Devices

Antenna: BNC connectors for VHF/UHF. Power: 13.8V DC input. Audio: External speaker jack. Data: USB port.

1. Turn off radio before connecting devices.
2. Connect antennas to appropriate BNC connectors.
3. Connect power supply observing correct polarity.
4. Connect microphone for transmission.
5. Use USB cable for PC connection and programming.

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

Operating Modes

Supports FM, WFM, AM, and APRS modes.

1. FM Mode: Standard FM communication for voice.
2. WFM Mode: Wide FM for broadcast reception.
3. AM Mode: Amplitude Modulation reception.
4. APRS Mode: Automatic Packet Reporting System.
5. Memory Operation: Recall stored frequencies.
6. Scan Operation: Automatic frequency scanning.
7. Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
8. Repeater Operation: Access repeater stations with offset.

WARNING! Transmit only on authorized frequencies with proper license.

APRS Features

APRS Functionality: Position reporting, Message handling, Weather reporting, Object tracking.

GPS Integration: Automatic position updates, Beacon transmission, Path setting, Symbol selection.

Message Handling: Send/receive text messages, Bulletins, Announcements.

Care & Maintenance

Keep radio clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or solvents. Store in dry location when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Amateur Radio Service. This device complies with part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection	Check power cable and connections; verify voltage.
No reception	Antenna/settings	Check antenna connection; verify squelch setting.
Poor transmission	Antenna/power	Verify antenna SWR; check power output setting.
GPS not working	Signal acquisition	Ensure clear view of sky; allow time for signal lock.
APRS not functioning	Settings/digi-path	Verify APRS settings; check digipeater path.
Display issues	Contrast/brightness	Adjust display contrast in menu settings.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.