Kenwood TM V7 Manual

The Kenwood TM V7 is a dual-band VHF/UHF amateur radio transceiver featuring 50/45W output power, 200 memory channels, cross-band repeat function, built-in CTCSS/DCS, wide frequency coverage, and robust construction for mobile operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Memory Operations 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-band transceiver, microphone connector, DC power input, antenna connectors, external speaker jack, data port.

FeatureDescription
Frequency RangeVHF: 136-174MHz, UHF: 400-470MHz
Output PowerVHF: 50W, UHF: 45W (adjustable)
Memory Channels200 channels (100 per band)
Cross-band RepeatFull duplex cross-band repeating function
CTCSS/DCSBuilt-in encode/decode with tone scan
Power Requirements13.8V DC ±15%
Antenna ConnectorsSO-239 for VHF, N-type for UHF
Microphone Connector8-pin modular jack
Data PortFor packet radio and external control
Size/Weight140(W) × 50(H) × 180(D)mm, 1.3kg

Installation

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

  1. Mounting: Secure unit using mounting bracket in stable location away from airbags.
  2. Power Connection: Connect red wire to positive terminal, black wire to negative terminal with appropriate fuse.
  3. Antenna Installation: Install VHF and UHF antennas using proper mounts and cables.
  4. Microphone Connection: Plug microphone into 8-pin connector securely.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initialize settings for first use.

  1. Set operating frequency: Use main dial to select VFO mode and set desired frequency.
  2. Configure squelch: Adjust squelch control to eliminate background noise.
  3. Set power level: Choose appropriate power setting (HIGH/MID/LOW).
  4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies in memory slots.
  5. Configure CTCSS/DCS: Set tone codes if required for repeater access.

CAUTION! Verify antenna connection before transmitting. Start with low power settings.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, volume control, squelch control, main dial, function keys, LCD display.

Microphone: PTT, up/down buttons, function keys, numeric keypad.

Basic Controls: VOLUME (audio level), SQL (squelch threshold), Dial (frequency selection), A/B Band (band selection). Function Menu: Access via F key for settings like power level, tone encode/decode, scan functions, memory operations. Display: Shows frequency, mode, memory channel, S/RF meter, function status.

Connecting Accessories

External Speaker: Use external speaker jack for improved audio. Data Port: Connect for packet radio or computer control. Power: 13.8V DC with proper polarity.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting accessories.
  2. Use shielded cables for data connections to reduce interference.
  3. Ensure all connections are secure and weatherproof if installed externally.

Tip: Use high-quality coaxial cables for antenna connections to minimize signal loss.

Memory Operations

Store and recall up to 200 frequencies with alphanumeric tags.

  1. Store frequency: Tune to desired frequency, press [F] then [MR] to enter memory mode.
  2. Select memory channel: Use [V/M] to toggle between VFO and memory modes.
  3. Memory name: Assign alphanumeric names using microphone keypad.
  4. Memory scan: Scan stored memory channels for activity.
  5. Memory lock: Lock specific memories to prevent accidental changes.
  6. Bank operations: Organize memories into banks for easier management.
  7. Priority channel: Set one memory channel as priority for quick access.

WARNING! Backup memory settings regularly. Memory may be lost if power is disconnected for extended periods.

Advanced Functions

Cross-band Repeat: Enable in function menu to relay signals between VHF and UHF bands. CTCSS/DCS: Set tone squelch for repeater access and private calling. Scanning: Programmable band scan and memory scan with resume options.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemical cleaners. Check connections periodically for corrosion.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur radio service. This device must accept any interference received. Operation subject to amateur radio licensing requirements. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/fuseCheck power connections; verify fuse is intact; ensure proper voltage.
No transmissionMicrophone/antennaCheck microphone connection; verify antenna is properly connected.
Poor receptionAntenna/tuningCheck antenna connections; ensure proper antenna tuning for frequency.
Memory lossPower interruptionBackup battery may need replacement; reprogram memory channels.
OverheatingVentilation/powerEnsure adequate ventilation; check for proper voltage; reduce power setting.

Reset: Function menu > System > Reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center; www.kenwood.com

Kenwood TM V7 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025