Kenwood TRC 80 Manual

The Kenwood TRC 80 is a professional-grade CB radio featuring 40-channel operation, AM/FM modes, digital display, PA function, built-in SWR meter, RF gain control, noise blanker, automatic noise limiter, dual watch capability, and weather channel reception. Designed for reliable communication with robust construction and advanced features for optimal performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital LCD display, Microphone connector, Antenna port, PA speaker output, DC power input, External speaker jack.

Feature	Description
40-channel operation	Covers all CB channels with AM/FM modes
Digital S/RF meter	Displays signal strength and power output
Built-in SWR meter	For antenna tuning and optimization
RF gain control	Adjusts receiver sensitivity
Noise blanker	Reduces pulse-type noise interference
Automatic noise limiter	Minimizes background noise
Dual watch	Monitors two channels simultaneously
Weather channels	Receives NOAA weather broadcasts
PA function	Public address capability
LCD backlight	Illuminated display for low-light conditions

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Mount the unit: Secure in vehicle using mounting bracket provided.
2. Connect antenna: Attach coaxial cable to antenna port.
3. Connect power: Red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) vehicle battery terminals.
4. Connect microphone: Plug into microphone jack.
5. Connect external speaker (optional): For improved audio output.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Disconnect vehicle battery during installation.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure initial settings.

1. Set squelch: Adjust until background noise disappears.
2. Tune antenna: Use built-in SWR meter to optimize antenna performance.
3. Select channels: Use channel selector to browse available frequencies.
4. Configure display: Set contrast and backlight timing.
5. Program weather channels: Access WX mode for weather broadcasts.

CAUTION! Ensure proper antenna installation before transmitting.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 26.965 - 27.405 MHz (40 channels)
• Modes: AM, FM
• Power Output: 4 Watts AM, 4 Watts FM (FCC compliant)
• Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC negative ground
• Current Drain: Receive: 0.8A, Transmit: 2.5A
• Dimensions: 180(W) x 55(H) x 170(D) mm
• Weight: 1.2 kg
• Operating Temp: -10°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME, SQUELCH, CHANNEL selector, RF GAIN, NB/ANL, MODE, FUNCTION, DIM/DIMMER.

Microphone Controls: UP/DOWN channel, PA, CALL, DUAL WATCH, WEATHER.

Display: Channel number, S/RF meter, MODE indicator, TX/RX status. Settings: Squelch control, RF gain adjustment, noise blanker on/off, ANL activation, display dimmer, mode selection (AM/FM).

Connecting Antennas

Use 50-ohm coaxial cable with PL-259 connector.

1. Turn off radio before connecting antenna.
2. Screw antenna connector firmly into antenna port.
3. Route cable away from power wires and vehicle electronics.
4. Ground antenna mount to vehicle chassis.
5. Use SWR meter to tune antenna for minimum SWR.

Tip: Optimal SWR should be 1.5:1 or lower for best performance.

Operating Procedures

Basic transmission and reception operations.

1. Power on: Turn POWER/VOLUME knob clockwise.
2. Select channel: Use channel selector or microphone buttons.
3. Adjust volume: Set appropriate listening level.
4. Set squelch: Turn until background noise is suppressed.
5. Transmit: Press and hold microphone PTT button, speak clearly.
6. Receive: Release PTT button to listen.
7. Use PA: Switch to PA mode for external speaker output.
8. Monitor weather: Press WX button for weather channels.

WARNING! Do not transmit without antenna connected. Avoid continuous transmission.

Advanced Features

Dual Watch: Monitor channel 9 and selected channel simultaneously. Noise Reduction: Activate NB and ANL for cleaner audio. RF Gain: Adjust receiver sensitivity for weak signals. SWR Meter: Built-in for antenna tuning and diagnostics.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid chemical solvents. Check connections periodically for corrosion. Store in dry environment when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Disconnect power during cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 95: Certified for CB radio service. Compliance with FCC rules for maximum 4W output power. This device may not cause harmful interference and must accept any interference received. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power wires; verify fuse; ensure proper voltage.
No transmission	Microphone/antenna	Check microphone connection; verify antenna SWR; ensure PTT operation.
Poor reception	Antenna/RF gain	Adjust RF gain; check antenna connection; tune antenna.
High SWR	Antenna installation	Check antenna mount; verify cable integrity; reposition antenna.
Display issues	Power/connections	Check power supply; verify ground connection; reset unit.

Reset: Power cycle unit or consult service manual for factory reset.

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