Kenwood TM 741A Manual

The Kenwood TM 741A is a multi-band amateur radio transceiver featuring 2m/70cm/23cm/6m operation, 50W output on VHF/UHF bands, 10W on 23cm band, all-mode capability (FM/SSB/CW), built-in CTCSS/DCS encoder/decoder, cross-band repeater function, memory channels, scanning functions, and comprehensive DSP features. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Multi-band transceiver unit, microphone, power cable, mounting brackets. Main features include four-band operation, cross-band repeat, and comprehensive DSP processing.

Feature	Description
Frequency Coverage	50-54 MHz, 144-148 MHz, 430-450 MHz, 1240-1300 MHz
Output Power	50W (2m/70cm), 10W (23cm), 5W (6m SSB)
Operating Modes	FM, SSB, CW
Memory Channels	200 regular + 10 scan edges
CTCSS/DCS	Built-in encoder/decoder with 50 CTCSS tones
Cross-band Repeat	Full duplex cross-band repeating function
DSP Functions	Noise reduction, IF shift, auto notch filter
Power Requirements	13.8V DC ±15%
Antenna Connectors	SO-239 for VHF/UHF, N-type for 23cm
Microphone Connector	8-pin modular jack

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Connect power: Use supplied power cable; red to positive, black to negative.
2. Install antennas: Connect appropriate antennas to SO-239 and N-type connectors.
3. Mount transceiver: Use supplied brackets for mobile or base station installation.
4. Connect microphone: Plug 8-pin connector into front panel.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Do not operate without proper antennas connected.

First-Time Setup

Connect power and turn on transceiver; follow initialization procedure.

1. Set operating frequency: Use main dial to select desired band and frequency.
2. Configure offset: Set repeater offset for FM operation (typically ±600 kHz).
3. Program CTCSS: Access TONE menu to set encode/decode tones if required.
4. Adjust audio: Set microphone gain and audio levels for clear transmission.

CAUTION! Verify frequency authorization for your license class before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Ranges: 6m, 2m, 70cm, 23cm amateur bands
• Power Output: 50W (VHF/UHF), 10W (23cm), 5W (6m SSB)
• Sensitivity: 0.16μV (FM), 0.13μV (SSB) for 12dB SINAD
• Selectivity: 12 kHz (FM), 2.4 kHz (SSB)
• Audio Output: 2W internal speaker
• Power Consumption: Receive: 1.3A, Transmit: 12A max
• Dimensions: 165(W) × 63(H) × 200(D) mm
• Weight: 2.2 kg

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER, VOLUME, SQUELCH, main tuning dial, function keys.

Microphone: PTT, UP/DOWN buttons, function keys.

Menu functions: Band selection, mode selection, repeater offset, CTCSS/DCS settings, memory management, scan settings, DSP functions, cross-band repeat setup. DSP features include noise reduction, IF shift, auto notch filter, and speech processor.

Connecting Devices

External speaker: 3.5mm jack on rear panel. Data interface: Optional unit for packet/APRS. External amplifier: Use AMP connector.

1. Turn off transceiver before making connections.
2. Connect external devices using appropriate cables and connectors.
3. Configure interface settings in menu if required.

Tip: Use shielded cables for data connections to reduce interference.

Operating Modes

Supports FM, SSB, and CW operation on all bands.

1. FM Operation: Select FM mode, set repeater offset and CTCSS as needed.
2. SSB Operation: Switch to USB/LSB, adjust clarifier for precise tuning.
3. CW Operation: Select CW mode, adjust keyer speed and side tone.
4. Cross-band Repeat: Enable in menu, set input/output frequencies and tones.
5. Scanning: Program scan edges or use memory scan for frequency monitoring.

WARNING! Observe band plans and licensing requirements for each mode.

Memory Functions

200 memory channels with alphanumeric tagging capability.

1. Store memory: Tune to frequency, press F then MR to store.
2. Recall memory: Press MR and select channel with dial or microphone.
3. Memory scan: Enable memory scan to monitor programmed channels.
4. Memory groups: Organize memories into groups for quick access.

Care & Maintenance

Keep transceiver clean and dry. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners on front panel. Use soft dry cloth only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur 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, contact Kenwood authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power cable connections; verify fuse is intact.
No transmit	Settings/connections	Check PTT function; verify microphone connection; check power settings.
Poor reception	Antenna/tuning	Verify antenna connections; check SWR; adjust squelch.
Memory loss	Backup battery	Memory backup battery may need replacement.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; reduce power output if necessary.

Reset: Hold F and POWER to initialize settings.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.