Kenwood TH D72A Manual

The Kenwood TH D72A is a dual-band amateur radio transceiver featuring 2m/70cm coverage, APRS functionality, built-in GPS, wideband receiver, digital signal processing, cross-band repeat, and multiple operating modes. 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 Accessories 7. APRS Operation 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-band transceiver, built-in GPS, APRS functionality, cross-band repeat, wideband receiver, LCD display, microphone jack, speaker output, DC power input.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	144-148 MHz (2m), 430-450 MHz (70cm)
Output Power	5W (high), 2.5W (medium), 0.5W (low)
GPS Receiver	Built-in with external antenna connector
APRS Functionality	Automatic Packet Reporting System
Cross-band Repeat	Full duplex cross-band repeating
Wideband Receiver	0.495-999.990 MHz (AM/FM)
Memory Channels	Over 400 memory channels
Power Input	13.8V DC nominal
Display	Backlit LCD with GPS information
Antenna Connector	SMA female

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

Connect antenna: Attach dual-band antenna to SMA connector.
Connect power: Use supplied DC cable to 13.8V power source.
Connect microphone: Plug microphone into front panel jack.
Connect GPS antenna: Attach external GPS antenna if needed.

WARNING! Ensure proper antenna connection before transmitting. Use correct power polarity.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize settings.

Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob to select desired frequency.
Configure squelch: Adjust squelch control for noise reduction.
Set power level: Select appropriate power setting for operation.
Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies.
Configure APRS: Set APRS parameters and beacon intervals.

CAUTION! Verify frequency authorization before transmitting.

Specifications

Frequency Range: 144-148 MHz, 430-450 MHz
Output Power: 5W/2.5W/0.5W selectable
Receiver Type: Double conversion superheterodyne
GPS: Built-in with external antenna capability
APRS: 1200/9600 bps packet communication
Memory Channels: 400+ with alphanumeric tags
Power Requirement: 13.8V DC ±15%
Current Consumption: 1.3A max (transmit), 0.5A (receive)
Operating Temperature: -10°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, Volume control, Squelch control, VFO knob, Function keys, Microphone jack.

Display: Frequency, mode, S/RF meter, GPS status, APRS information.

Menu Settings: APRS configuration, GPS settings, memory management, cross-band repeat, tone encode/decode, power save modes, display contrast, backlight settings.

Connecting Accessories

External Speaker: Use external speaker jack for enhanced audio. Data Interface: Connect to PC for programming. GPS Antenna: External GPS antenna connector. Headset: Compatible with VOX operation.

Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
Use Kenwood-approved accessories for optimal performance.
Ensure proper cable routing to avoid interference.

Tip: Use quality coaxial cables for antenna connections.

APRS Operation

Automatic Packet Reporting System for position reporting and messaging.

Enable APRS: Access APRS menu and enable functionality.
Set beacon rate: Configure position transmission interval.
Configure messaging: Set up text message capabilities.
Monitor APRS traffic: View nearby stations and messages.
Position reporting: Automatic GPS position transmission.
Weather reporting: Compatible with weather station data.
Emergency beacon: Manual emergency position reporting.

WARNING! Follow FCC regulations for APRS operation.

Advanced Functions

Cross-band Repeat: Full duplex repeating between bands. Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously. Memory Scan: Scan programmed memory channels. Priority Watch: Monitor priority channel while scanning. Tone Encode/Decode: CTCSS/DCS tone operation. Wideband Receive: General coverage receiver capabilities.

Care & Maintenance

Keep radio clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners. Store in dry environment.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 and Part 97 compliant. For amateur radio service use only. Requires appropriate amateur radio license. Manufactured by Kenwood Corporation. For support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection	Check DC cable connection; verify power source.
Poor reception	Antenna/connections	Check antenna connection; verify antenna integrity.
GPS not acquiring	Signal obstruction	Move to open area; check GPS antenna connection.
APRS not working	Settings/digipeater	Verify APRS settings; check digipeater availability.
No transmit	Settings/license	Verify frequency authorization; check power settings.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.