kenwood rc 406 manual

The Kenwood RC-406 is a professional marine VHF radio designed for reliable communication on waterways. This compact and durable radio features DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability, 25W/1W power output, 55 channels including weather channels, large LCD display, waterproof construction, and intuitive controls. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, operation, programming, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof chassis, LCD display with backlight, DSC distress button, channel selector, volume/squelch control, microphone connector, antenna port.

Feature	Description
DSC Capability	Digital Selective Calling for emergency and selective calling
Power Output	25W high power / 1W low power selection
Channels	55 marine channels plus weather channels
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 submersible protection
Display	Large LCD with adjustable backlight
Memory Channels	10 programmable memory channels
Dual Watch	Monitor two channels simultaneously
Scan Function	Automatic channel scanning
Emergency Button	Red distress button for emergency DSC calls
Audio Output	Built-in speaker with external speaker option

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Mounting: Select location with good ventilation and accessibility.
2. Antenna connection: Connect marine VHF antenna to antenna port.
3. Power connection: Connect to 12-24V DC power source with proper fuse.
4. Microphone: Connect supplied microphone to microphone jack.
5. Grounding: Ensure proper grounding for optimal performance.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block cooling vents. Use marine-grade wiring.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure initial settings.

1. Power connection: Connect to 12-24V DC power source.
2. Antenna check: Ensure antenna is properly connected.
3. Initial settings: Set squelch level, backlight, and volume.
4. DSC setup: Program MMSI number (required for DSC functions).
5. Channel scan: Initialize channel scanning preferences.

CAUTION! Program MMSI number correctly; cannot be changed once set.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 156.000 - 157.425 MHz (Rx/Tx)
• Power Output: 25W (high), 1W (low)
• Channels: 55 ITU marine channels + 10 WX channels
• DSC: Class D compliant
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard
• Power Supply: 12-24V DC
• Current Drain: 5A max (25W transmit)
• Operating Temp: -15°C to +55°C
• Dimensions: 185W × 65H × 150D mm
• Weight: 1.2 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power button, channel selector, volume/squelch control, LCD display.

Controls: POWER, CHANNEL UP/DOWN, VOLUME/SQUELCH, 16/9W, SCAN, DUAL WATCH, LIGHT, MENU, ENT.

Display Settings: Backlight intensity, contrast, timeout. Audio Settings: Volume, squelch level, tone. Channel Settings: Memory channels, scan lists, priority channels. DSC Settings: MMSI programming, distress call setup, position data.

Connecting Antennas

Marine VHF antenna with proper impedance matching required.

1. Turn off radio before antenna connection.
2. Use marine-grade coaxial cable (50 ohm).
3. Ensure proper weatherproofing of connections.
4. Check SWR after installation (should be below 2:1).

Tip: Mount antenna as high as possible for maximum range.

DSC Operation

Digital Selective Calling for emergency and routine communications.

1. Distress Call: Press and hold red distress button for 3 seconds.
2. Individual Call: Select station MMSI, press CALL button.
3. Group Call: Program group MMSI for multiple station calling.
4. Position Reporting: Connect GPS for automatic position updates.
5. DSC Ack: Acknowledge received DSC calls.

WARNING! Distress calls are for emergencies only; false calls may result in penalties.

Channel Programming

Program and manage communication channels.

1. Memory Channels: Store up to 10 frequently used channels.
2. Scan Lists: Create custom scan lists for automatic monitoring.
3. Dual Watch: Monitor channel 16 and selected channel simultaneously.
4. Weather Channels: Access NOAA weather broadcasts.
5. Channel Lock: Lock channels to prevent accidental changes.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Cleaning: Use damp cloth with mild detergent; avoid harsh chemicals.
2. Connections: Check antenna and power connections regularly.
3. Moisture: Ensure drainage holes are clear; dry thoroughly if wet.
4. Storage: Store in dry location when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not submerge while powered on; ensure proper drainage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 80: Marine VHF radio compliant with US regulations. CE certified for European markets. Requires operator license for transmission. MMSI registration required for DSC functions. For technical support, contact Kenwood authorized service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power connections; verify fuse; test voltage.
Poor reception	Antenna/SWR	Check antenna connections; measure SWR; reposition antenna.
DSC not working	MMSI/GPS	Verify MMSI programming; check GPS connection.
No transmission	Antenna/Power	Ensure antenna connected; check power output setting.
Display issues	Backlight/contrast	Adjust backlight settings; check contrast; reset display.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if available.

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