Kenwood TKR 720 Manual

The Kenwood TKR 720 is a professional-grade dual-band mobile radio designed for commercial and public safety applications. This VHF/UHF transceiver features robust construction, wide frequency coverage, high power output, and advanced communication capabilities. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, programming, operation, and maintenance.

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: Dual-band transceiver, Control Head, Microphone, Power Cable, Mounting Bracket, Remote Speaker.

FeatureDescription
Frequency RangeVHF: 136-174 MHz; UHF: 400-470 MHz
Power OutputVHF: 45W; UHF: 40W (adjustable)
ChannelsUp to 512 channels programmable
DisplayLCD with backlight, dual frequency display
Power Input13.8V DC nominal
Audio OutputInternal speaker + external speaker jack
Data PortFor programming and data applications
Scan FunctionProgrammable scan with priority
CTCSS/DCSTone squelch and digital coded squelch
Emergency FunctionEmergency call and alarm features

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Select appropriate mounting location.

  1. Mount main unit: Secure in well-ventilated area using mounting bracket.
  2. Install control head: Mount in accessible location with clear view of display.
  3. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of 13.8V DC source.
  4. Connect antenna: Use appropriate VHF/UHF antenna with proper connector.
  5. Connect accessories: Microphone, external speaker, and data cables as needed.

WARNING! Ensure proper polarity when connecting power. Reverse polarity may damage the unit.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; initialize basic settings.

  1. Power connection: Verify 13.8V DC power source is stable and properly connected.
  2. Antenna check: Ensure antenna is properly connected before transmitting.
  3. Basic programming: Use programming software to set initial frequencies and tones.
  4. Audio adjustment: Set volume and squelch levels for optimal reception.
  5. Channel setup: Program frequently used channels for quick access.

CAUTION! Do not transmit without proper antenna connection. This may damage the radio.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel Controls: POWER/VOLUME knob, Channel Selector, Function keys, Microphone connector.

Control Head: LCD Display, Soft keys, Menu button, Up/Down arrows, PTT switch, Speaker.

Basic Settings: Channel selection, Volume control, Squelch adjustment, Transmit power selection. Advanced Settings: CTCSS/DCS tones, Scan lists, Time-out timer, Priority channels, Emergency settings. Display Settings: Backlight, Contrast, Display mode (frequency/channel name).

Connecting Accessories

External Speaker: Use 8-ohm speaker with proper connector. Programming Cable: Connect to data port for PC programming. Microphone: Standard Kenwood microphone connector.

  1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
  2. Use only Kenwood-approved accessories for optimal performance.
  3. Ensure all connections are secure and weatherproof if used outdoors.

Tip: Use high-quality coaxial cable for antenna connection to minimize signal loss.

Programming and Operation

Requires KPG-89D programming software and programming cable.

  1. Install software: Load KPG-89D on compatible Windows PC.
  2. Connect radio: Use programming cable to connect radio data port to PC.
  3. Read current data: Download existing configuration from radio.
  4. Program channels: Set frequencies, tones, power levels, and scan lists.
  5. Write to radio: Upload new configuration to radio memory.
  6. Verify operation: Test all programmed channels and functions.

WARNING! Always backup current configuration before making changes.

Advanced Features

Dual Watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously. Scan Functions: Programmable scan with priority and talk-back. CTCSS/DCS: Private line tones for selective calling. Emergency Operation: Emergency call and alarm functions. DTMF Operation: Telephone interconnect capabilities.

Maintenance & Care

Regular cleaning with dry cloth. Check connections periodically. Keep unit dry and avoid extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or solvents for cleaning. Keep ventilation openings clear.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 90 certified for land mobile radio service. Complies with relevant industry standards. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. For technical support and service, contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connectionCheck power cable connections; verify 13.8V DC source
No transmissionAntenna/PTTVerify antenna connection; check PTT switch operation
Poor receptionAntenna/squelchAdjust squelch; check antenna and coaxial cable
No audioVolume/speakerCheck volume setting; verify speaker connection
Programming failureCable/softwareVerify programming cable connection; reinstall software

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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