Kenwood TK 2180 Manual

The Kenwood TK 2180 is a professional VHF two-way portable radio designed for commercial and industrial use. This rugged radio features 16 channels, 5W output power, MIL-STD 810 C/D/E compliance for durability, programmable functions, wide frequency range (136-174MHz), built-in scrambler, and multiple signaling options. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, programming, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. Programming 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Operating Instructions 7. Battery Information 8. Accessories 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Durable housing, LCD display, programmable buttons, antenna, battery pack, and belt clip.

FeatureDescription
Frequency Range136-174MHz VHF
Channels16 programmable channels
Output Power5W (High), 1W (Low) selectable
Battery7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion standard
DisplayLCD with backlight
ProgrammingKPG-89D software required
DurabilityMIL-STD 810 C/D/E compliant
Signaling2-tone, 5-tone, DTMF capabilities
ScramblerBuilt-in inversion scrambler
Size/Weight130 x 58 x 37mm / 450g (with battery)

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Install battery and antenna before first use.

  1. Battery Installation: Align battery contacts, slide battery upward until it clicks.
  2. Antenna Installation: Screw antenna clockwise until snug.
  3. Belt Clip: Attach to rear of radio for portable use.
  4. Charging: Place radio in charging cradle; ensure charging indicator lights.

WARNING! Do not transmit without antenna attached. This may damage the radio.

Programming

Programming requires KPG-89D software and programming cable.

  1. Connect programming cable to radio and PC.
  2. Launch KPG-89D software and read radio data.
  3. Program frequencies, CTCSS/DCS, power levels, and functions.
  4. Write data to radio and verify programming.

CAUTION! Only qualified personnel should program radios. Incorrect programming may violate FCC regulations.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Power/Volume knob, Channel selector, PTT button, Programmable buttons.

Display Indicators: Channel number, Battery level, TX/RX status, Busy channel lockout, Scan status.

Programmable Functions: Monitor, Scan, Power level selection, Time-out timer, Busy channel lockout, Scrambler, Signaling functions.

Operating Instructions

Basic operation procedures for daily use.

  1. Power On: Rotate volume knob clockwise.
  2. Channel Selection: Use channel selector knob.
  3. Transmit: Press and hold PTT button; speak clearly into microphone.
  4. Receive: Release PTT button; adjust volume as needed.
  5. Monitor: Press monitor button to temporarily disable squelch.
  6. Scan: Press scan button to enable channel scanning.

Tip: Hold radio vertically about 2-3 inches from mouth for best transmission quality.

Battery Information

Standard battery: 7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion pack.

  1. Charging: Use approved charging cradle only.
  2. Initial Charge: Charge for 8 hours before first use.
  3. Battery Life: Approximately 10 hours normal use.
  4. Battery Saving: Radio automatically enters power save mode when not in use.

WARNING! Use only Kenwood approved batteries and chargers. Improper charging may cause fire or explosion.

Accessories

Available accessories for enhanced functionality.

AccessoryPart NumberDescription
Battery PackKNB-14L7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion
Charging CradleKSC-25Single unit rapid charger
EarpieceKMC-35Speaker microphone
Belt ClipN/AStandard carrying clip
Programming CableKPG-22PC programming interface

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Cleaning: Use soft, dry cloth only.
  2. Antenna: Check for damage regularly.
  3. Battery Contacts: Clean with alcohol if corroded.
  4. Case: Inspect for cracks or damage.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90 certified for land mobile radio service. This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to license requirements. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. All rights reserved. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood dealer or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBattery dead/not connectedCharge battery; ensure proper connection.
No transmissionPTT button/antennaCheck PTT function; ensure antenna attached.
Poor receptionAntenna/squelch settingCheck antenna connection; adjust squelch.
Battery drains quicklyBattery age/usageReplace battery; check for excessive transmission.
No audioVolume setting/speakerAdjust volume; check speaker connection.

Reset: Requires reprogramming via KPG-89D software.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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