Kenwood TK 730 Manual

The Kenwood TK 730 is a VHF mobile transceiver designed for professional and commercial use. This robust radio features 45 watts output power, 128 channels, programmable functions, wide frequency coverage, and durable construction suitable for demanding environments. Below are key sections covering operation, programming, installation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Programming 7. Advanced Features 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit, control head, microphone, mounting bracket, power cable, and connection harness.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	VHF 136-174 MHz
Output Power	45 watts (adjustable)
Channels	128 programmable channels
CTCSS/DCS	Programmable tone squelch
Scanning	Programmable scan functions
Display	LCD with backlight
Power Input	13.8V DC nominal
Operating Temp	-30°C to +60°C
Dimensions	Main unit: 140W × 40H × 180D mm
Weight	Approx. 1.2 kg

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose suitable mounting location.

Mounting: Secure main unit in vehicle using mounting bracket.
Power connection: Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of vehicle battery.
Antenna installation: Install compatible VHF antenna with proper grounding.
Control head: Mount control head in accessible location and connect to main unit.
Microphone: Connect microphone to control head.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse protection. Disconnect battery before installation to prevent short circuits.

Basic Operation

Power on radio; verify proper operation.

Channel selection: Rotate channel selector knob or use up/down buttons.
Transmit: Press and hold PTT button on microphone; speak clearly.
Receive: Release PTT to listen; adjust volume as needed.
Squelch control: Adjust squelch knob to eliminate background noise.
Power level: Select high/low power as required.

CAUTION! Ensure antenna is properly connected before transmitting to prevent damage.

Specifications

Frequency Range: VHF 136-174 MHz
Output Power: 45W (high), 5W (low) programmable
Channel Capacity: 128 channels
Modulation: 16K0F3E (FM)
Spurious Emission: -60 dB or better
Audio Output: 2W at 8 ohms
Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
Current Drain: 15A max (transmit), 1.5A (receive)
Operating Temperature: -30°C to +60°C
Humidity: 95% relative humidity

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SQUELCH knob, CHANNEL selector, FUNCTION button, LCD display.

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

Display Indicators: Channel number, transmit/receive, busy, power level, scan status, CTCSS/DCS. Function Menu: Access by pressing FUNCTION button - includes scan setup, tone settings, power level, time-out timer, lock functions.

Programming

Requires programming cable and software.

Install programming software on PC.
Connect radio to PC using programming cable.
Read current configuration from radio.
Program frequencies, tones, and functions as required.
Write configuration back to radio.
Verify programming by testing all channels.

Tip: Always backup current configuration before making changes.

Advanced Features

Scanning: Programmable scan with priority channel. CTCSS/DCS: Sub-audible tones for selective calling. Time-out Timer: Prevents extended transmissions. Busy Channel Lockout: Prevents transmission on busy channels. Dual Watch: Monitors two channels simultaneously.

Maintenance

Regular inspection and cleaning recommended.

Exterior cleaning: Use soft, dry cloth only.
Connectors: Check for corrosion or damage.
Mounting: Ensure all mounting hardware is secure.
Cables: Inspect for wear or damage.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90 certified for land mobile radio service. This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. For technical support and service, contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power connections; verify fuse integrity; test voltage at connector.
No transmission	PTT/microphone	Check microphone connection; verify PTT function; test with known good microphone.
Poor reception	Antenna/connections	Inspect antenna and cables; check connectors; verify SWR.
No audio	Volume/speaker	Check volume setting; verify speaker connection; test external speaker.
Display issues	Power/connections	Check control head connections; verify power supply; reset radio.

Reset: Power cycle radio; if issues persist, reprogram or factory reset.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.