Kenwood TH D72 Manual

The Kenwood TH D72 is a dual-band VHF/UHF amateur radio transceiver featuring APRS functionality, 144/430MHz coverage, wide receiver range, digital signal processing, large LCD display, GPS receiver, USB connectivity, 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, LCD display, Function keys, Microphone jack, USB port, Speaker, Antenna connector.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	VHF: 136-174MHz, UHF: 420-470MHz
Output Power	5W (high), 2.5W (medium), 0.5W (low)
APRS Function	Automatic Packet Reporting System with GPS
Memory Channels	Up to 450 memory channels
GPS Receiver	Built-in GPS for position reporting
USB Interface	For PC connection and programming
Battery	Li-ion battery pack (standard)
Display	Large LCD with backlight
Operating Modes	FM, APRS, Packet, DV (Digital Voice)
Scan Functions	Programmable scan, memory scan, band scan

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 onto antenna connector clockwise.
3. Charge battery: Connect charger to DC input jack and AC power.
4. Install optional accessories: Connect microphone, speaker, or data cables.

WARNING! Use only Kenwood-approved accessories. Do not transmit without antenna attached.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure basic settings.

1. Set frequency: Use dial or keypad to enter desired frequency.
2. Configure squelch: Adjust squelch level for clear reception.
3. Set output power: Select high/medium/low power as needed.
4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies.
5. Configure APRS: Set beacon interval and position format.

CAUTION! Ensure proper antenna installation before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174MHz, UHF: 420-470MHz
• Output Power: 5W (max), adjustable in three steps
• Receiver System: Double conversion superheterodyne
• Memory Channels: 450 channels total
• GPS: Built-in receiver with position reporting
• APRS: 1200/9600 bps packet communication
• Power Supply: 7.4V DC (battery) or 13.8V DC (external)
• Operating Temp: -10°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: 58(W) x 140(H) x 37.5(D) mm

Controls and Settings

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

Key Functions: PWR (power), VOL (volume), SQL (squelch), F (function), V/M (VFO/memory), A/B (band select), GPS (GPS functions), APRS (APRS mode).

Menu Settings: Frequency step, Time-out timer, APRS beacon, Display contrast, Backlight, Battery save, Scan settings, Memory management.

Connecting Devices

External speaker: Use speaker jack. PC connection: USB port. GPS: Built-in. External antenna: Antenna connector.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Connect microphone to MIC jack.
3. Connect PC via USB for programming.
4. Use external power supply for extended operation.

Tip: Use quality cables for best performance.

APRS Operation

Automatic Packet Reporting System with GPS tracking.

1. Enable APRS: Press APRS key to enter APRS mode.
2. Set beacon: Configure beacon interval and message.
3. View stations: See nearby APRS stations on display.
4. Send messages: Compose and send text messages.
5. Position reporting: Transmit GPS position automatically.
6. Weather reports: Receive and display weather data.
7. Digipeating: Configure as digipeater if desired.

WARNING! Follow local regulations for APRS operation.

Memory Functions

Store and recall frequencies and settings.

1. Store memory: Tune to frequency, press F then MR to store.
2. Recall memory: Press V/M to switch to memory mode, select channel.
3. Memory scan: Scan stored memory channels.
4. Bank system: Organize memories into banks.
5. Skip function: Mark channels to skip during scan.
6. Name memories: Assign names to memory channels.

Care & Maintenance

Keep radio clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or solvents. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. FCC Part 97: Amateur Radio Service. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Battery/connections	Check battery charge; ensure proper connection.
No transmission	Settings/antenna	Check PTT function; verify antenna connection.
Poor reception	Antenna/squelch	Adjust squelch; check antenna connection.
GPS not working	Location/settings	Move to open area; check GPS settings.
APRS not functioning	Settings/digipeater	Verify APRS settings; check digipeater configuration.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.