Kenwood NX 300 Manual

The Kenwood NX 300 is a professional digital two-way radio featuring NXDN digital technology, VHF/UHF frequency bands, 256 channels, IP54/55 water and dust resistance, MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G compliance, programmable buttons, built-in voice encryption, GPS capability, and robust construction for demanding environments. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital display, programmable buttons, antenna connector, accessory port, speaker/microphone, battery pack, charging contacts.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	VHF: 136-174 MHz / UHF: 400-470 MHz
Channels	256 programmable channels
Digital Technology	NXDN digital and analog operation
Display	Backlit LCD with status indicators
Programmable Buttons	6 programmable function keys
Battery Life	Up to 12 hours typical use
Water/Dust Resistance	IP54/55 rated
Encryption	Built-in voice scrambling
GPS Option	Built-in GPS receiver
Durability	MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G compliant

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install battery and antenna.

1. Install battery: Align battery with contacts, slide until it clicks into place.
2. Attach antenna: Screw antenna clockwise onto antenna connector.
3. Charge battery: Place radio in charger or use desktop charger.
4. Install accessories: Connect speaker mic, headphones, or other accessories to accessory port.

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: Rotate volume knob clockwise; press POWER button.
2. Select channel: Use channel selector knob or up/down buttons.
3. Set squelch: Adjust squelch level in menu for clear reception.
4. Configure display: Set contrast, backlight duration, and language.
5. Program channels: Use programming software to set frequencies and functions.

CAUTION! Ensure proper antenna is installed before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: VHF 136-174 MHz / UHF 400-470 MHz
• Channels: 256 programmable
• Output Power: 5W (VHF) / 4W (UHF)
• Modulation: NXDN digital and FM analog
• Battery: Li-ion 1800 mAh typical
• Operating Temp: -30°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: 58W x 130H x 37D mm (without antenna)
• Weight: Approx. 350g with battery
• Water Resistance: IP54/55
• Compliance: MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G

Controls and Settings

Access menu via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, CHANNEL selector, PTT button, programmable buttons.

Display: Channel number, battery level, signal strength, mode indicator, GPS status.

Basic Settings: Volume, squelch, channel selection, backlight, contrast. Advanced Settings: Digital/analog mode, encryption, scan lists, GPS settings, programmable functions. Menu: System settings, user preferences, reset options.

Connecting Accessories

Accessory port: For speaker mics, headphones, programming cables. Antenna connector: Standard SMA female.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Align accessory connector with port; push firmly until click.
3. For programming: Connect programming cable to PC and accessory port.
4. For audio: Connect speaker mic or headset to accessory port.

Tip: Use only Kenwood-approved accessories for optimal performance.

Programming and Operation

Supports NXDN digital and analog FM operation.

1. Transmit: Press and hold PTT button; speak clearly into microphone.
2. Receive: Release PTT to listen; adjust volume as needed.
3. Channel selection: Rotate channel knob or use up/down buttons.
4. Scan: Enable scan function to monitor multiple channels.
5. Programming: Use KPG-111D programming software to configure channels and features.
6. Encryption: Enable in menu for secure communications.
7. GPS: View location data when GPS accessory is installed.

WARNING! Do not transmit without antenna; may damage radio.

Advanced Features

Digital Operation: NXDN mode for clear audio and enhanced features. Encryption: Built-in voice scrambling for privacy. GPS: Optional location tracking. Scan: Programmable scan lists. Data: Support for text messaging and data applications.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry cloth only; avoid liquids and solvents. Regularly inspect antenna and battery contacts.

CAUTION! Do not submerge in water beyond IP54/55 rating. Store in dry, cool place.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90: Certified for land mobile radio service. CE compliant for European markets. Copyright © 2025 Kenwood Corporation; trademarks of JVCKENWOOD Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Battery/connections	Charge battery; check battery contacts; ensure proper installation.
No transmission	PTT/antenna	Check PTT button; ensure antenna properly attached; check channel programming.
Poor reception	Antenna/location	Check antenna connection; move to better location; adjust squelch.
No audio	Volume/settings	Adjust volume; check audio settings; test with different accessory.
Programming failure	Cable/software	Check programming cable connection; verify software version; restart programming process.

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

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