Kenwood TM 241A Manual

The Kenwood TM 241A is a 2-meter amateur radio transceiver offering 45W output power, 200 memory channels, CTCSS/DCS encode and decode, wide frequency coverage from 136-174MHz, large LCD display, and robust construction for mobile operation. Features include priority watch, scanning functions, weather alert, and programmable functions. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, programming, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with LCD display, microphone, mounting bracket, DC power cable, and operation manual.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	136-174MHz (TX/RX)
Output Power	45W/5W selectable
Memory Channels	200 channels
CTCSS/DCS	Encode and decode functions
Scanning	Memory, program, and band scan
Display	Large LCD with backlight
Priority Watch	Dual watch and priority functions
Weather Alert	NOAA weather channels with alert
Power Requirements	13.8V DC nominal
Dimensions	140(W) x 40(H) x 170(D) mm

Installation

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

1. Mounting: Use provided bracket to securely mount unit under dash or on console.
2. Power Connection: Connect red wire to positive terminal, black wire to negative terminal of vehicle battery.
3. Antenna Installation: Install 2-meter antenna on vehicle roof or trunk lid using appropriate mount.
4. Microphone Connection: Plug microphone into front panel connector.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse protection in power line. Route cables away from moving parts and hot surfaces.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; configure basic settings.

1. Set frequency: Use main dial to select desired operating frequency.
2. Adjust squelch: Turn SQL control until background noise disappears.
3. Set power level: Press LOW key to toggle between 45W and 5W output.
4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies (see Programming section).

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

Specifications

• Frequency Coverage: 136-174MHz (TX and RX)
• Output Power: 45W high, 5W low (selectable)
• Memory Channels: 200 (including 10 scan edges)
• Modulation System: 16KΦF3E (FM)
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15% negative ground
• Current Consumption: 12A max (TX), 1.2A (RX max audio)
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: 140(W) x 40(H) x 170(D) mm
• Weight: 1.1 kg

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SQL control, main tuning dial, function keys, microphone jack.

Microphone: PTT, UP/DOWN buttons, function key, numeric keypad.

Main Functions: POWER/VOL - Power on/off and volume control. SQL - Squelch control. LOW - Power level selection. LAMP - Display backlight. FUNC - Function key for accessing secondary functions. SCAN - Scanning functions. PRI - Priority watch. TONE - CTCSS/DCS tone selection. MHz - MHz step selection. V/M - Toggle between VFO and memory modes.

Programming Memory Channels

Store frequencies with optional tone settings for quick recall.

1. Select frequency: Use main dial to choose desired frequency.
2. Enter programming: Press FUNC then M.IN (memory in).
3. Select memory channel: Use UP/DOWN or numeric keys to choose memory location.
4. Store settings: Press PTT to store frequency and settings.
5. Add tone: While programming, press TONE to add CTCSS or DCS tones.

Tip: Use memory channels for repeater frequencies with appropriate offset and tones.

Scanning Operations

Multiple scanning modes available for monitoring frequencies.

1. Memory Scan: Press SCAN to scan all programmed memory channels.
2. Program Scan: Scan only selected memory channels.
3. Band Scan: Scan entire 2-meter band or selected segment.
4. Priority Watch: Monitor priority channel while scanning.
5. Weather Scan: Scan NOAA weather channels.

To stop scan, press SCAN again or PTT to transmit on current frequency.

Tone and Sub-tone Functions

CTCSS and DCS encode/decode for repeater access and selective calling.

1. CTCSS Encode: Press TONE to activate continuous tone.
2. CTCSS Encode/Decode: Press FUNC then TONE for both encode and decode.
3. DCS Functions: Access through FUNC + TONE combinations.
4. Tone Frequency Selection: Use UP/DOWN keys while in tone mode.

Note: Proper tone settings required for repeater access.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemical solvents.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Keep unit away from excessive moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. For amateur radio use only - operator must possess valid amateur radio license. 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 is intact; ensure proper voltage.
No transmission	PTT/microphone	Check microphone connection; verify PTT operation; check antenna.
Poor reception	Antenna/squelch	Verify antenna connection; adjust squelch setting; check location.
Memory lost	Power interruption	Re-program memory channels; ensure continuous power to memory circuit.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; check power settings; reduce transmit time.

Reset: Turn off unit, press FUNC while turning on for factory reset.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.