Kenwood TK 480 Manual

The Kenwood TK 480 is a VHF mobile radio designed for commercial and professional use, featuring 32 channels, 45W output power, MIL-STD 810G compliance for durability, wide frequency range (136-174 MHz), programmable functions, CTCSS/DCS capabilities, IP54/55 weatherproof rating, and versatile mounting options. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, programming, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Programming and Operation 8. Advanced Features 9. Maintenance & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main radio unit, Control head, Microphone, Mounting bracket, Power cable, Antenna connector, External speaker jack, Data port.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	136-174 MHz VHF
Output Power	45W (high), 25W (medium), 5W (low)
Channels	32 programmable channels
Durability	MIL-STD 810G compliant
Weatherproof	IP54/55 rating
CTCSS/DCS	38 CTCSS tones, 104 DCS codes
Power Input	13.8V DC nominal
Dimensions	140(W) × 40(H) × 155(D) mm
Weight	Approx. 1.1 kg
Operating Temp	-30°C to +60°C

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Select suitable mounting location in vehicle.

Mount radio unit: Secure using provided bracket in stable, ventilated area.
Connect power: Red wire to positive terminal, black wire to negative/ground.
Install antenna: Connect antenna cable to ANT connector on radio unit.
Connect control head: Attach to dashboard or convenient location.
Connect microphone: Plug into MIC connector on control head.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Do not install near airbags or critical vehicle controls.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; perform initial configuration.

Power connection: Verify 13.8V DC power source with proper polarity.
Antenna check: Ensure antenna is properly connected and mounted.
Basic programming: Use programming software to set initial channels.
Volume/Squelch: Adjust volume knob and squelch level for clear reception.
Channel selection: Rotate channel selector knob to desired channel.

CAUTION! Use only Kenwood-approved accessories. Verify all connections before powering on.

Specifications

Frequency Range: 136-174 MHz VHF
Channel Capacity: 32 channels
Output Power: 45W max (programmable)
Modulation: 16KΦF3E (FM)
Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
Current Consumption: 12A max (45W transmit)
Operating Temperature: -30°C to +60°C
Humidity: 5% to 95% relative humidity
Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms
Audio Output: 4W at 10% distortion

Controls and Settings

Control Head: POWER/VOLUME knob, CHANNEL selector, SQUELCH knob, 16-key keypad, LCD display, Function buttons.

Microphone: PTT button, channel up/down, monitor, programmable buttons.

Display: Shows channel number, transmit indicator, busy indicator, function status. Programming: Use KPG-87D software for channel frequencies, CTCSS/DCS, power levels, scan lists, timeout timer. Audio: Volume control, squelch levels (0-9), tone control. Functions: Scan, priority channel, busy channel lockout, time-out timer, battery save.

Connecting Accessories

External Speaker: Use SP connector for additional audio output. Data Port: For programming cable connection. Remote Head: Optional extension cable for remote mounting.

Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
Match connectors to appropriate ports.
Secure all connections to prevent disconnection during vehicle movement.
Test accessory functionality after installation.

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

Programming and Operation

Requires KPG-87D programming software and programming cable.

Connect programming cable to data port and computer.
Launch KPG-87D software and read current configuration.
Program frequencies: Set transmit/receive frequencies for each channel.
Set CTCSS/DCS: Configure sub-audible tones as required.
Configure functions: Set power levels, scan lists, time-out timer.
Write configuration to radio and verify operation.
Normal operation: Select channel, adjust volume, press PTT to transmit.

WARNING! Only qualified personnel should program frequencies. Ensure compliance with local regulations.

Advanced Features

Scan Function: Monitor multiple channels. Priority Channel: Designate important channel for periodic checking. Time-Out Timer: Prevents extended transmissions (1-10 minutes). Busy Channel Lockout: Prevents transmission on occupied channels. Battery Save: Reduces power consumption during receive mode.

Maintenance & Care

Regular inspection of connections and antenna. Clean with dry cloth only; avoid solvents. Check mounting hardware periodically for tightness.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners or compressed air.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90 certified for land mobile radio service. Complies with relevant industry standards. This device must accept any interference received. For technical support and service, contact Kenwood authorized service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power cable connections; verify fuse integrity; test voltage at terminals.
No transmission	PTT/microphone	Check microphone connection; verify PTT function; check channel programming.
Poor reception	Antenna/connections	Inspect antenna and cable; check connectors; verify proper mounting.
No audio	Volume/speaker	Adjust volume control; check external speaker connection; test with headphones.
Display issues	Power/connections	Verify control head connection; check power supply; reset if possible.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.