Kenwood TM V71A Service Manual

The Kenwood TM V71A is a dual-band mobile transceiver operating on 144MHz and 430MHz amateur radio bands. This service manual provides comprehensive technical information for installation, operation, maintenance, and repair. Features include cross-band repeat function, 50W output power on VHF and 35W on UHF, wide frequency coverage, multiple memory channels, CTCSS/DCS encode/decode, and versatile scanning functions.

1. Technical Specifications 2. Installation Procedures 3. Front Panel Controls 4. Basic Operation 5. Advanced Functions 6. Memory Operations 7. Cross-band Operation 8. Maintenance & Service 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Parts List 11. Circuit Diagrams

Technical Specifications

Complete technical specifications and performance characteristics of the TM V71A transceiver.

ParameterSpecification
Frequency RangeVHF: 136-174MHz, UHF: 420-470MHz
Output PowerVHF: 5-50W, UHF: 5-35W (selectable)
Power Supply13.8V DC ±15% (negative ground)
Current DrainReceive: 0.8A, Transmit: 13A max
Modulation System16KΦF3E (FM)
Antenna Impedance50 ohms
Operating Temperature-20°C to +60°C
Dimensions140(W) × 40(H) × 180(D) mm
WeightApprox. 1.2 kg
Memory Channels200 memory channels + 6 scan edges

Installation Procedures

Proper installation guidelines for mobile and fixed station operation.

  1. Mounting: Secure the main unit in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  2. Power Connection: Connect red wire to positive terminal, black wire to negative ground.
  3. Antenna Installation: Use appropriate dual-band antenna with 50 ohm impedance.
  4. Control Head: Mount control head within easy reach using supplied bracket.
  5. Cable Routing: Route all cables away from heat sources and moving parts.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse protection (15A recommended) in power line. Verify correct polarity before applying power.

Front Panel Controls

Detailed description of all front panel controls and indicators.

Main Controls: POWER/VOLUME knob, SQL knob, Function (F) key, A/B band selector, VFO/MR button, HM/RV key, CALL key, DIAL knob, MIC connector.

Display Indicators: Dual frequency display, S/RF meter, SQL indicator, busy indicator, TX/RX indicators, memory channel number, function indicators, band indicators, CTCSS/DCS indicators.

MIC Controls: PTT switch, UP/DOWN buttons, FUNCTION button, 16-key DTMF pad (optional).

Basic Operation

Fundamental operating procedures for the TM V71A transceiver.

  1. Power On: Turn POWER/VOLUME knob clockwise.
  2. Volume/Squelch: Adjust VOLUME for audio level, SQL for squelch threshold.
  3. Frequency Selection: Use DIAL knob or keypad to select operating frequency.
  4. Band Selection: Press A/B button to select between VHF and UHF bands.
  5. Transmit: Press PTT on microphone to transmit, release to receive.
  6. Power Selection: Use [F] + [LOW] to select output power level.

Note: Allow 30 seconds warm-up time for frequency stability.

Advanced Functions

Advanced features and special operating modes.

Memory Operations

Memory channel programming and management.

  1. Memory Store: Select frequency → Press [F] → Press [MR] → Select channel number.
  2. Memory Recall: Press [MR] → Select desired memory channel.
  3. Memory Clear: Select memory channel → Press [F] + [MHz] for 2 seconds.
  4. Memory Name: Assign alphanumeric names to memory channels.
  5. Memory Group: Organize memories into groups for easier access.
  6. Memory Scan: Scan programmed memory channels.

Tip: Backup memory contents before performing master reset.

Cross-band Operation

Cross-band repeat function and dual-band operations.

Cross-band Repeat: Automatically retransmits received signal on opposite band. Enable via menu setting. Set input and output frequencies with appropriate offsets.

Dual-band Operation: Simultaneous operation on VHF and UHF bands. Independent control of each band with separate volume and squelch settings.

WARNING! Ensure compliance with local regulations when using cross-band repeat function. Some jurisdictions restrict or prohibit cross-band repeating.

Maintenance & Service

Routine maintenance and service procedures.

  1. Cleaning: Use soft dry cloth for exterior. Avoid chemical cleaners.
  2. Fuse Replacement: Replace with identical 15A fuse if blown.
  3. Alignment: Refer to alignment procedures in service section.
  4. Software Update: Check Kenwood website for firmware updates.
  5. Preventive Maintenance: Regular inspection of cables and connectors.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before performing any internal maintenance. High voltages present inside unit.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and solutions for the TM V71A.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBlown fuse, power cableCheck fuse, verify power connections, test voltage
No receptionAntenna, squelch settingCheck antenna connection, adjust squelch, verify frequency
No transmissionPTT, microphone, settingsTest microphone, check PTT switch, verify transmit frequency
Poor audioSpeaker, audio settingsCheck speaker connection, adjust audio settings, test microphone
Memory lossBackup batteryReplace internal backup battery, reprogram memories
Display issuesRibbon cable, displayCheck display cable connections, test display voltages

Parts List

Complete list of replacement parts and components.

Circuit Diagrams

Reference circuit diagrams and block diagrams.

Block Diagram: Overall system block diagram showing signal flow and major components.

Schematic Diagrams: Complete circuit schematics for: - RF amplifier stages - PLL synthesizer - IF and detector circuits - Audio processing - Power supply - Control logic

PCB Layouts: Component placement and routing diagrams for main board and control head.

Alignment Procedures: Step-by-step alignment instructions with test point locations and required test equipment.

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