Kenwood TH G71A Manual

The Kenwood TH G71A is a compact dual-band FM transceiver operating on 144/430MHz bands with wide frequency coverage, 5W output power, 128 memory channels, CTCSS/DCS encode/decode, auto repeater shift, weather alert function, and multiple scanning modes. Features include large LCD display, keypad backlight, Ni-MH battery pack, and rugged construction for amateur radio use. 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 control, Antenna connector, DC input, Speaker/Microphone jack.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	144-148MHz, 430-450MHz (amateur bands)
Output Power	5W/2.5W/0.5W (144MHz), 5W/2.5W/0.5W (430MHz)
Memory Channels	128 channels (100 regular + 28 special)
CTCSS/DCS	50 CTCSS tones, 104 DCS codes
Scanning Modes	Programmable scan, memory scan, band scan
Weather Alert	NOAA weather channels with alert function
Battery	7.2V 1200mAh Ni-MH battery pack
Display	Large LCD with backlight
Antenna Connector	BNC type
DC Input	13.8V DC external power

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install battery and antenna.

1. Install battery: Align battery pack with terminals, slide until it clicks.
2. Attach antenna: Screw BNC antenna connector clockwise until secure.
3. Charge battery: Use supplied charger for initial 8-hour charge.
4. Connect external power: Use 13.8V DC adapter for extended operation.

WARNING! Do not transmit without antenna attached. Ensure proper charging to maintain battery life.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure basic settings.

1. Set frequency: Use keypad to enter desired frequency.
2. Adjust squelch: Turn SQL control until background noise disappears.
3. Set CTCSS/DCS: Access TONE menu to set sub-audible tones if needed.
4. Program memories: Store frequently used frequencies in memory channels.
5. Configure scan: Set up memory scan or band scan as required.

CAUTION! Verify frequency authorization before transmitting. Follow local amateur radio regulations.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 144-148MHz, 430-450MHz
• Output Power: 5W/2.5W/0.5W selectable
• Modulation: FM (16F3)
• Power Supply: 7.2V Ni-MH battery or 13.8V DC
• Current Drain: 1.2A max (5W TX), 150mA (RX max volume)
• Dimensions: 58(W) x 110(H) x 32(D) mm
• Weight: Approx. 300g (with battery)
• Temperature Range: -10°C to +60°C
• Memory Channels: 128 channels
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOL, SQL, Function keys, Keypad, PTT switch.

Key Functions: F key (function access), V/M (VFO/Memory mode), A/B (Band select), MR (Memory recall), CALL (Weather alert), HM/RV (Home/Reverse), LAMP (Backlight).

Menu Settings: TONE (CTCSS/DCS), SQL (Squelch level), STEP (Frequency step), SHIFT (Repeater offset), REV (Reverse shift), TOT (Time-out timer), BCL (Busy channel lockout), APO (Auto power off), BEEP (Key beep), SAVE (Battery save).

Connecting Accessories

External Speaker/Mic: Use 3.5mm jack. DC Power: 13.8V DC input. Antenna: BNC connector.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Match impedance for external antennas (50 ohms).
3. Use approved Kenwood accessories for optimal performance.

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

Operating Modes

Supports simplex, repeater, and cross-band operation.

1. VFO Mode: Direct frequency entry using keypad.
2. Memory Mode: Recall stored frequencies from memory channels.
3. Repeater Operation: Set offset frequency and CTCSS/DCS tones.
4. Scan Operation: Memory scan, band scan, programmed scan.
5. Weather Alert: Monitor NOAA weather channels with alert function.
6. Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
7. Battery Save: Automatic power saving during receive.

WARNING! Transmit only on authorized frequencies. Observe proper operating procedures.

Memory Functions

Store frequencies, tones, and settings in 128 memory channels.

1. Store Memory: Tune to frequency → Press F → Press MR → Select channel.
2. Recall Memory: Press MR → Select channel → Press PTT to transmit.
3. Memory Clear: Press F → Press V/M → Select channel to clear.
4. Memory Name: Assign alphanumeric names to important channels.

Note: Memory channels retain settings even when power is removed.

Care & Maintenance

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

Battery Care: Charge fully before first use. Avoid complete discharge. Store in cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Use only approved chargers.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15/97: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. For amateur radio use only - operator must possess valid amateur radio license. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Battery/connections	Charge battery; check DC connection; verify power switch.
No transmission	Settings/antenna	Check PTT function; verify antenna connection; check power setting.
Poor reception	Antenna/squelch	Adjust squelch; check antenna; verify frequency.
Memory lost	Battery	Replace battery; memory cleared due to complete discharge.
No CTCSS/DCS	Settings	Verify tone settings; check encode/decode mode.
Scan not working	Programming	Check scan settings; verify memory channels programmed.

Reset: Turn off → Hold F + HM/RV + Power on to factory reset.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.