Kenwood TR 7950 Manual

The Kenwood TR 7950 is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver featuring 2-meter and 70-cm band operation, 50W output power, wide frequency coverage, CTCSS/DCS encode/decode, memory channels, cross-band repeat function, and robust construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Connect antenna: Use quality coaxial cable to SO-239 connector.
2. Connect power: Use appropriate gauge wire to 13.8V DC source with fuse protection.
3. Connect microphone: Plug 8-pin connector into front panel.
4. Connect external speaker if required.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Use appropriate antenna for intended frequencies.

First-Time Setup

Power on transceiver; initialize settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob or direct frequency entry.
2. Configure squelch: Adjust squelch control for noise-free operation.
3. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies.
4. Set CTCSS/DCS tones: Configure for repeater access if required.
5. Adjust display contrast: Use menu setting for optimal visibility.

CAUTION! Ensure proper license for operating frequencies. Follow local regulations.

Specifications

• Frequency Coverage: 144-148 MHz, 430-450 MHz
• Output Power: 50W (2m), 35W (70cm)
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
• Current Drain: 12A max transmit, 1.2A receive
• Modulation: 16KΦF3E (FM)
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms
• Memory Channels: 200 channels
• Operating Temp: -10°C to +60°C
• Dimensions: 140(W) x 45(H) x 190(D) mm
• Weight: 1.2 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, volume control, squelch control, VFO knob, function keys.

Main Controls: POWER, VOLUME, SQUELCH, VFO/MR, MHz/STEP, F/W, A/B, CALL, LAMP, SQL/MONI.

Menu Settings: Display contrast, time-out timer, APO, beep tone, scan resume, tone frequency, repeater offset, memory functions. Function keys provide access to CTCSS/DCS, reverse, tone scan, memory operations.

Connecting Devices

Antenna: SO-239 connector. Power: DC input terminals. Microphone: 8-pin connector. External speaker: 3.5mm jack.

1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
2. Use quality coaxial cable for antenna connection.
3. Ensure proper polarity for DC power connection.
4. Connect external devices to appropriate ports.

Tip: Use ferrite beads on cables to reduce RF interference.

Memory Operations

Store and recall frequencies with alphanumeric tags.

1. Store memory: Tune to desired frequency, press F then MR to store.
2. Recall memory: Press MR, select channel with VFO knob.
3. Memory name: Use menu to assign alphanumeric tags.
4. Memory scan: Scan stored memory channels.
5. Memory lock: Prevent accidental memory changes.
6. Memory groups: Organize channels into groups for scanning.

WARNING! Backup important memory channels regularly.

Advanced Features

Cross-band repeat: Enable in menu for full duplex operation. CTCSS/DCS: Program tones for repeater access. Tone scan: Detect unknown CTCSS/DCS tones. Dual watch: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not operate with damaged antenna or power cables. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 97: Certified for amateur radio service. This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to amateur radio license. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Menu > System > Reset to factory defaults if required.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.