Kenwood TH-79A Manual

The Kenwood TH-79A is a dual-band amateur radio transceiver covering 144MHz and 430MHz bands with cross-band repeating capability, wide frequency coverage, multiple operating modes including FM, AM, and SSB, CTCSS/DCS encode/decode, memory channels, scanning functions, and robust construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-band transceiver, LCD display, Function keys, Volume/Squelch controls, Microphone jack, Antenna connector, DC power input.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	144-148MHz (VHF), 430-450MHz (UHF)
Operating Modes	FM, AM, SSB (selectable)
Output Power	5W (high), 1W (low) selectable
Memory Channels	100 memory channels with alphanumeric naming
Cross-band Repeat	Full duplex cross-band repeating function
CTCSS/DCS	Tone encode/decode with multiple tones
Scanning	Programmable memory and band scanning
Display	Multi-function LCD with backlight
Power Input	13.8V DC nominal
Antenna Connector	SO-239 for main antenna

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Connect antenna: Use appropriate coaxial cable to SO-239 connector.
2. Connect power: Use supplied DC cable to 13.8V power source with proper polarity.
3. Connect microphone: Plug microphone into front panel jack.
4. Mount securely: Use appropriate mounting bracket for mobile or base operation.

WARNING! Ensure proper antenna installation and secure mounting. Verify correct power polarity to prevent damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize basic settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO mode to select desired frequency.
2. Adjust squelch: Set squelch control to eliminate background noise.
3. Configure tone codes: Set CTCSS/DCS as required for repeater access.
4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies and settings.
5. Set display contrast: Adjust for optimal viewing conditions.

CAUTION! Verify proper licensing for intended frequency usage. Follow local regulations.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 144-148MHz (VHF), 430-450MHz (UHF)
• Mode: FM, AM, SSB (selectable)
• Output Power: 5W (high), 1W (low) selectable
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
• Current Drain: Approx. 1.5A (max transmit)
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms
• Memory Channels: 100 channels
• Dimensions: Standard mobile radio size
• Weight: Approximately 1.5kg
• Operating Temp: -10°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, Volume control, Squelch control, Function keys, Channel selector, Microphone jack.

Display Indicators: Frequency, Mode, Memory channel, CTCSS/DCS status, Power level, Battery indicator.

Basic Settings: Frequency selection, Mode selection (FM/AM/SSB), Power level (high/low), Squelch level, Tone encode/decode settings. Advanced Settings: Scan functions, Memory management, Cross-band repeat setup, Display contrast, Time-out timer.

Connecting Accessories

Antenna: SO-239 connector. Power: DC input jack. Audio: External speaker jack. Data: Optional data interface.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Use appropriate cables and connectors for each accessory.
3. Ensure proper grounding for optimal performance.
4. Verify accessory compatibility before connection.

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

Operating Modes

Supports FM, AM, and SSB operation with various functions.

1. VFO Mode: Direct frequency entry and tuning.
2. Memory Mode: Recall stored frequencies and settings.
3. Scan Mode: Automatic scanning of memory channels or frequency bands.
4. Cross-band Repeat: Simultaneous receive and transmit on different bands.
5. Tone Operations: CTCSS/DCS encode and decode for repeater access.
6. Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
7. Priority Channel: Designate priority channel for monitoring.

WARNING! Ensure proper mode selection for intended operation. Verify frequency authorization.

Memory Functions

100 memory channels with comprehensive storage capabilities.

1. Channel Storage: Store frequency, mode, tone, and offset settings.
2. Channel Naming: Alphanumeric names for easy identification.
3. Memory Groups: Organize channels into logical groups.
4. Memory Scan: Scan selected memory channels.
5. Memory Lock: Protect important channels from accidental changes.
6. Channel Delete: Remove unused memory channels.

Care & Maintenance

Keep radio clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Store in dry location when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur radio service. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check DC cable connection; verify fuse condition; check power source.
No transmission	Settings/antenna	Verify PTT operation; check antenna connection; confirm frequency authorization.
Poor reception	Antenna/settings	Check antenna connection; adjust squelch; verify frequency settings.
Memory loss	Backup battery	Replace internal backup battery; reprogram memory channels.
Display issues	Contrast/power	Adjust display contrast; check power supply voltage.

Reset: Function + Power for system reset if available.

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