Kenwood TH D7A Manual

The Kenwood TH D7A is a dual-band amateur radio transceiver featuring 2-meter and 70-cm operation, APRS capability, wideband receiver, cross-band repeat function, 200 memory channels, CTCSS/DCS encode/decode, weather alert, and rugged 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, Microphone jack, Speaker, DC power input, Antenna connector.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	144-148 MHz (2m), 430-450 MHz (70cm)
Output Power	5W (High), 1W (Low) selectable
Memory Channels	200 memory channels with alphanumeric tags
APRS Function	Automatic Packet Reporting System capability
Cross-band Repeat	Full duplex cross-band repeating function
Wideband Receiver	0.5-999 MHz receive capability
CTCSS/DCS	Encode and decode for tone squelch
Weather Alert	NOAA weather radio reception with alert
Battery	Li-ion battery pack with DC input
Display	LCD with backlight and multiple indicators

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

1. Install battery: Attach battery pack to rear of unit, ensuring proper alignment.
2. Connect antenna: Screw appropriate dual-band antenna onto antenna connector.
3. Charge battery: Connect DC adapter to unit and wall outlet for initial charge.
4. Attach accessories: Connect microphone, speaker, or other accessories as needed.

WARNING! Do not transmit without proper antenna connected. Ensure battery is fully charged before first use.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initialize settings for first use.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO mode to select desired frequency band.
2. Configure squelch: Adjust squelch control for proper background noise suppression.
3. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies in memory locations.
4. Set APRS parameters: Configure APRS settings for position reporting if used.
5. Adjust display contrast: Use menu to set optimal LCD contrast for viewing.

CAUTION! Verify frequency authorization for your license class before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Coverage: 144-148 MHz (TX/RX), 430-450 MHz (TX/RX), 0.5-999 MHz (RX only)
• Output Power: 5W/1W selectable (both bands)
• Modulation: 16KΦF3E (FM)
• Power Supply: 7.4V DC (Li-ion battery) or 13.8V DC external
• Current Drain: Approx. 1.2A (TX at 5W), 150mA (RX)
• Dimensions: 140(W) × 65(H) × 40(D) mm (excluding projections)
• Weight: Approx. 550g (with battery and antenna)
• Operating Temp: -10°C to +60°C
• Memory Channels: 200 regular + 10 scan edges + 1 call channel

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel controls and menu system.

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SQL knob, Channel selector, Function keys, PTT switch, Microphone connector.

Menu Functions: Display contrast, Time-out timer, APRS settings, CTCSS/DCS tones, Scan modes, Memory operations, Cross-band settings, Battery save, Backlight control, Reset functions.

Display Indicators: Frequency, Memory channel, Battery level, TX/RX, SQL, TONE, DCS, APRS, Repeater offset, Power level.

Connecting Accessories

Various accessories can be connected to enhance functionality.

1. External microphone: Connect to MIC jack for improved audio.
2. External speaker: Use SP jack for better audio output.
3. DC power: Connect 13.8V DC source for extended operation.
4. Data interface: Use DATA jack for packet or computer control.
5. Headset: Connect compatible headset for hands-free operation.

Tip: Use only Kenwood-approved accessories to ensure proper operation and safety.

Operating Modes

Multiple operating modes available for different applications.

1. VFO Mode: Direct frequency entry and tuning.
2. Memory Mode: Recall stored frequencies and settings.
3. APRS Mode: Automatic position reporting and messaging.
4. Cross-band Repeat: Retransmit received signals on opposite band.
5. Scan Modes: Programmable scan with priority and memory scan.
6. Weather Alert: Monitor NOAA weather channels with alert function.
7. Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
8. Tone Operations: CTCSS and DCS encode/decode for repeater access.

WARNING! Ensure cross-band repeat is authorized in your area before use.

Memory Operations

Store and recall frequencies with various memory functions.

1. Store Memory: Save current frequency and settings to memory channel.
2. Recall Memory: Select stored channel using channel selector.
3. Memory Name: Assign alphanumeric names to memory channels.
4. Memory Group: Organize memories into groups for easier access.
5. Memory Lock: Protect important memories from accidental changes.
6. Memory Clear: Delete individual or all memory contents.
7. Memory Scan: Scan through programmed memory channels.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care ensures long-term reliability and performance.

1. Cleaning: Use soft, dry cloth for exterior cleaning.
2. Battery Care: Charge battery regularly and store properly.
3. Antenna Maintenance: Check antenna connector and whip regularly.
4. Storage: Store in cool, dry place when not in use.
5. Moisture Protection: Avoid exposure to rain and high humidity.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or solvents for cleaning. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 and Part 97 compliant. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Amateur radio operation requires appropriate FCC license. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Battery/connections	Check battery charge; verify power connections; inspect fuse.
No transmission	Settings/antenna	Verify PTT function; check antenna connection; confirm frequency authorization.
Poor reception	Antenna/squelch	Adjust squelch setting; check antenna; verify frequency programming.
Memory loss	Battery backup	Replace backup battery; reprogram memories.
APRS not working	Settings/GPS	Verify APRS settings; check GPS connection; confirm digipeater availability.
Display issues	Contrast/backlight	Adjust display contrast; check backlight settings; reset if necessary.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for technical support and repairs.