Kenwood TK 353 Manual

The Kenwood TK 353 is a professional VHF two-way portable radio designed for commercial and industrial use. Featuring robust construction, clear audio quality, and reliable performance, this radio operates in the VHF frequency range with 16 channels, programmable functions, and various communication features. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Durable chassis, LCD display, programmable buttons, antenna, battery pack, and charging contacts.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	VHF 136-174 MHz
Channels	16 programmable channels
Power Output	5W (High), 1W (Low)
Battery	Ni-MH or Li-ion battery pack
Display	LCD with backlight
Programmable Buttons	3 programmable function keys
Scan Function	Programmable scan with priority
VOX	Voice-operated transmission
CTCSS/DCS	Tone squelch and digital code squelch
Water Resistance	IP54 or IP55 rated

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 clockwise onto antenna connector.
3. Charge battery: Place radio in charger; ensure charging indicator lights.
4. Attach accessories: Connect belt clip, speaker mic if required.

WARNING! Use only Kenwood-approved batteries and chargers. Do not force antenna during installation.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize settings.

1. Set frequency: Use programming software or front panel to set operating frequency.
2. Program channels: Assign frequencies and tones to channels 1-16.
3. Adjust volume: Turn volume knob to desired level.
4. Set squelch: Adjust squelch control to eliminate background noise.

CAUTION! Ensure proper frequency licensing before operation. Follow local regulations.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: VHF 136-174 MHz
• Channels: 16 programmable
• Power Output: 5W (High), 1W (Low)
• Battery Life: Approx. 8-10 hours (typical use)
• Dimensions: Standard portable radio size
• Weight: Varies with battery (approx. 300-400g)
• Operating Temp: -30°C to +60°C
• Modulation: 16K0F3E (FM)
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms

Controls and Settings

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

Display Indicators: Channel number, Battery level, Transmit indicator, Scan status.

Menu Settings: Channel selection, Power level (High/Low), Scan setup, CTCSS/DCS codes, Time-out timer, VOX sensitivity, Backlight duration, Battery save mode.

Connecting Devices

Accessories: Speaker mic, headset, programming cable, external antenna.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Connect speaker mic to accessory jack.
3. Use programming cable with PC for configuration.
4. For external antenna, use appropriate adapter and cable.

Tip: Ensure all connections are secure and compatible with Kenwood specifications.

Operating Modes

Supports simplex and repeater operation.

1. Channel selection: Rotate channel selector knob.
2. Transmit: Press and hold PTT button; speak clearly into microphone.
3. Receive: Release PTT to listen; adjust volume as needed.
4. Scan: Press scan button to monitor multiple channels.
5. Power level: Toggle between High and Low power settings.
6. VOX operation: Enable for hands-free transmission.
7. Monitor: Press monitor button to open squelch temporarily.

WARNING! Transmit only when necessary. Avoid continuous transmission to prevent overheating.

Programming Features

Use Kenwood programming software and cable to customize settings.

Programmable Features: Channel frequencies, CTCSS/DCS codes, Power levels, Scan lists, Time-out timer, Button functions, Display options, Security settings.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry cloth; avoid solvents. Check battery contacts regularly.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water. Store in dry, cool place. Replace damaged antennas immediately.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90: Certified for land mobile radio service. Complies with relevant industry standards. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Battery/connections	Charge or replace battery; check contacts.
No transmission	PTT/antenna	Check PTT button; ensure antenna connected properly.
Poor reception	Antenna/location	Check antenna connection; move to better location.
Battery drains quickly	Battery age/settings	Replace battery; enable battery save mode.
No audio	Volume/speaker	Adjust volume; check speaker and connections.

Reset: Use programming software to reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.