Kenwood TK 980 Manual

The Kenwood TK 980 is a professional VHF/UHF mobile radio designed for commercial and public safety applications. This robust radio features 256 channels, 45W output power (VHF) or 40W (UHF), wide frequency coverage, programmable functions, built-in CTCSS/DCS, emergency alarm, and IP54/55 weatherproof rating. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, programming, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main radio unit, Control head, Microphone, Mounting bracket, Power cable, Antenna connector.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	VHF: 136-174MHz / UHF: 400-470MHz
Output Power	VHF: 45W / UHF: 40W (programmable)
Channels	256 programmable channels
CTCSS/DCS	Built-in encode/decode
Emergency Alarm	Programmable emergency function
Weatherproof	IP54/55 rating
Display	Backlit LCD with channel info
Scanning	Programmable scan functions
Power Input	13.8V DC nominal
Connectors	Antenna, DC power, accessory, speaker

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Mount in vehicle using provided bracket.

1. Mount radio: Secure main unit in vehicle using mounting bracket.
2. Install control head: Mount control head in accessible location.
3. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive terminal, black wire to negative/ground.
4. Install antenna: Connect antenna cable to antenna connector.
5. Connect accessories: Connect microphone and other accessories.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Do not operate while driving.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize settings.

1. Power connection: Connect to 13.8V DC power source.
2. Initial power on: Radio will display startup screen.
3. Channel selection: Use channel selector knob to browse channels.
4. Volume adjustment: Set appropriate volume level.
5. Squelch adjustment: Adjust squelch control for clear reception.

CAUTION! Verify proper voltage before connecting. Use correct fuse rating.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174MHz / UHF: 400-470MHz
• Output Power: VHF: 45W / UHF: 40W (programmable)
• Channels: 256 programmable channels
• Modulation: 16KΦF3E / 11KΦF3E
• CTCSS/DCS: 50 CTCSS / 104 DCS codes
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
• Current Drain: Approx. 13A (max power)
• Operating Temp: -30°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: Main unit: 140W × 40H × 180D mm
• Weight: Approx. 1.2 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, CHANNEL selector, FUNCTION button, MIC connector, Speaker.

Control Head: LCD display, Channel selector, Volume control, Programmable buttons, Microphone connector.

Basic Settings: Channel selection, Volume adjustment, Squelch control, CTCSS/DCS settings, Power level selection. Advanced Settings: Scan programming, Emergency alarm setup, Time-out timer, Busy channel lockout, Priority channel selection.

Connecting Accessories

Standard accessories: Microphone, External speaker, Programming cable.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Connect microphone to MIC connector.
3. Connect external speaker to SP connector if needed.
4. For programming: Connect programming cable to accessory port.

Tip: Use only Kenwood-approved accessories for optimal performance.

Programming and Operation

Requires KPG-89D programming software and cable.

1. Install programming software on PC.
2. Connect radio to PC using programming cable.
3. Read current configuration from radio.
4. Program channels: Set frequencies, CTCSS/DCS, power levels.
5. Program functions: Assign buttons, set scan lists, configure emergency.
6. Write configuration to radio.
7. Verify operation on all programmed channels.

WARNING! Only qualified personnel should program radios. Follow local regulations.

Advanced Features

Scanning: Programmable scan with priority channel. Emergency Alarm: Programmable emergency transmission. Dual Watch: Monitor two channels simultaneously. Time-out Timer: Prevents extended transmissions. Busy Channel Lockout: Prevents transmission on busy channels.

Maintenance & Care

Regular inspection: Check connections, antenna, mounting. Cleaning: Use dry cloth only; no liquids or solvents.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power connections; verify fuse; check voltage.
No transmission	Settings/antenna	Verify channel programming; check antenna connection.
Poor reception	Antenna/settings	Check antenna; adjust squelch; verify frequency.
Display issues	Power/connections	Check control head connection; verify power.
Programming failure	Cable/software	Verify cable connection; reinstall software; check COM port.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.