Kenwood TK 860 User Manual

The Kenwood TK 860 is a professional VHF mobile radio designed for commercial and public safety applications. This rugged radio features 45W output power, 128 channels, programmable functions, robust construction, and reliable communication performance. Below are key sections covering 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.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	VHF 136-174 MHz
Output Power	45W (high), 25W (medium), 5W (low)
Channels	128 programmable channels
Power Supply	13.8V DC negative ground
Antenna Connector	SO-239 for mobile antenna
Microphone Connector	8-pin modular connector
Data Port	For programming and data applications
Scan Function	Programmable scan with priority
CTCSS/DCS	Tone squelch and digital coded squelch
Dimensions	Main unit: 140W x 40H x 170D mm

Installation

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

Mount radio unit: Secure main unit under dash or in trunk using mounting bracket.
Connect power: Red wire to positive battery terminal, black wire to vehicle ground.
Install antenna: Connect mobile antenna to SO-239 connector.
Connect control head: Attach control head cable to main unit.
Connect microphone: Plug microphone into 8-pin connector.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse protection. Disconnect vehicle battery before installation.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize programming.

Basic programming: Use programming software to set frequencies and tones.
Channel setup: Program at least one channel with frequency and CTCSS if required.
Power level: Set appropriate output power for application.
Scan setup: Configure scan lists and priority channels.
Test operation: Verify transmission and reception on programmed channels.

CAUTION! Program radio before installation in vehicle for easier access.

Specifications

Frequency Range: VHF 136-174 MHz
Output Power: 45W (high), 25W (medium), 5W (low)
Channels: 128 programmable channels
Modulation: 16KΦF3E (FM)
Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15% negative ground
Current Drain: 15A max at 45W transmit
Operating Temp: -30°C to +60°C
Dimensions: Main unit 140W x 40H x 170D mm
Weight: Approximately 1.2 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, Channel selector, Function buttons, LCD display.

Microphone: PTT, Channel up/down, Monitor, Programmable buttons.

Basic Controls: Power/Volume knob (push for power, rotate for volume), Channel selector knob, SQL knob (squelch control), Function key for additional features. Display shows channel number, frequency, status icons. Programming via KPG-56D software for frequencies, tones, scan lists, and advanced functions.

Connecting Accessories

External Speaker: Use external speaker jack for additional audio output. Data: Connect programming cable to data port. Remote Head: Use extension cable for remote mounting.

Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
Match connectors properly (external speaker, data cable).
Secure all connections to prevent disconnection during vehicle operation.

Tip: Use Kenwood-approved accessories for optimal performance.

Programming and Operation

Requires KPG-56D programming software and programming cable.

Connect programming cable to radio data port and computer.
Launch KPG-56D software and read current configuration.
Program frequencies: Enter receive and transmit frequencies for each channel.
Set tones: Configure CTCSS/DCS encode and decode as required.
Set power levels: Assign high/medium/low power per channel.
Configure scan: Set scan lists and priority channels.
Write configuration to radio and verify operation.

WARNING! Only program frequencies for which you are licensed.

Advanced Features

Scan Function: Programmable scan with priority channel. Time-out Timer: Automatic transmission time limit. Busy Channel Lockout: Prevents transmission on busy channels. DTMF Signaling: For selective calling and remote control.

Maintenance & Care

Regular inspection of connections and antenna. Clean exterior with dry cloth only. Check power connections for corrosion.

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

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. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, contact authorized Kenwood dealer or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power connections; verify fuse; check vehicle battery.
No transmission	PTT/microphone	Check microphone connection; verify PTT function; check programming.
Poor reception	Antenna/connections	Verify antenna connection; check antenna for damage; check squelch setting.
No audio	Volume/speaker	Adjust volume control; check speaker connection; verify squelch setting.
Programming failure	Cable/software	Verify programming cable connection; restart software; check COM port settings.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.