Kenwood NEXEDGE NX-320 Manual

The Kenwood NEXEDGE NX-320 is a professional digital two-way portable radio featuring NEXEDGE digital technology, 256-channel capacity, MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G compliance for rugged environments, IP54/55/57 waterproof rating, 5W UHF output power, wide frequency range, and advanced digital features including encryption, text messaging, and GPS capability. 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. Programming and Operation 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital portable radio, LCD display, programmable buttons, antenna, battery pack, charger, belt clip.

FeatureDescription
NEXEDGE Digital TechnologyDigital voice and data communication
Channel Capacity256 channels programmable
Frequency RangeUHF: 400-470MHz, VHF: 136-174MHz
Output Power5W UHF, 5W VHF (programmable)
IP RatingIP54/55/57 waterproof and dustproof
MIL-STD Compliance810 C/D/E/F/G for rugged use
Battery LifeUp to 12 hours typical use
DisplayBacklit LCD with status indicators
EncryptionBasic and advanced encryption options
GPS CapabilityBuilt-in GPS for location tracking

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install battery and antenna.

  1. Install battery: Align battery with radio contacts, slide until click.
  2. Attach antenna: Screw antenna clockwise until snug.
  3. Charge battery: Place radio in charger until full charge indicated.
  4. Attach belt clip: Secure to back of radio if needed.

WARNING! Use only Kenwood-approved batteries and accessories. Do not use damaged batteries.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure basic settings.

  1. Power on: Turn volume knob clockwise.
  2. Select channel: Use channel selector knob.
  3. Adjust volume: Turn volume knob to desired level.
  4. Program channels: Use programming software for custom configurations.
  5. Set squelch: Adjust squelch level to minimize background noise.

CAUTION! Program radio using authorized Kenwood software only.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

Top Controls: Antenna connector, On/Off/Volume knob, Channel selector.

Display Indicators: Channel number, Battery level, Transmit indicator, Mode (Digital/Analog), Encryption status. Programmable Functions: Side buttons programmable for scan, monitor, emergency, etc. Audio Settings: Volume, squelch levels, tone settings. Digital Features: Encryption enable/disable, text messaging, GPS functions.

Connecting Devices

Accessories: Speaker mic, headset, programming cable, charger.

  1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
  2. Connect speaker mic: Plug into accessory jack.
  3. Programming cable: Connect to PC for configuration.
  4. Charger: Place radio in charging cradle.

Tip: Ensure connectors are clean and properly seated.

Programming and Operation

Basic radio operation and programming procedures.

  1. Transmit: Press and hold PTT button, speak clearly, release to listen.
  2. Receive: Monitor selected channel for incoming transmissions.
  3. Channel selection: Turn channel selector knob.
  4. Volume adjustment: Turn volume knob.
  5. Programming: Use KPG-111D/112D software to program frequencies, tones, and features.
  6. Scanning: Enable scan function to monitor multiple channels.
  7. Emergency: Program emergency button for quick alert transmission.

WARNING! Transmit only on authorized frequencies with proper license.

Advanced Features

Digital Features: NEXEDGE digital operation, encryption capability, text messaging, GPS tracking. Analog Features: CTCSS/DCS tones, 2-tone/5-tone signaling, DTMF operation.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off radio before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth; mild soap solution if needed.

CAUTION! Do not submerge unless IP57 rated. Avoid harsh chemicals.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90 compliance for land mobile radio service. This device must accept interference and not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBattery discharged/defectiveCharge battery; replace if defective.
No transmissionPTT issue/channel programmingCheck PTT button; verify channel programming.
Poor receptionAntenna/weak signalCheck antenna connection; move to better location.
No audioVolume/squelch settingsAdjust volume; lower squelch level.
Not chargingCharger/contactsClean charging contacts; check charger.

Reset: Use programming software to reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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