Kenwood V71A Manual

The Kenwood V71A is a dual-band amateur radio transceiver featuring 144MHz and 430MHz bands with 50W output power, cross-band repeat function, wide frequency coverage, built-in TNC for packet operation, DTMF microphone, programmable memory channels, weather alert function, and multiple scanning modes. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-band transceiver, DTMF microphone, power cable, mounting bracket, front panel controls, antenna connectors.

Feature	Description
Dual-band operation	144MHz and 430MHz amateur bands
Output power	50W (VHF), 35W (UHF)
Cross-band repeat	Allows simultaneous reception and transmission on different bands
Built-in TNC	For packet communication and APRS
Memory channels	Up to 200 programmable memories
Weather alert	NOAA weather channels with alert function
Scanning modes	Programmable, memory, band, and tone scan
DTMF functions	Automatic dialing and remote control capabilities
Power requirements	13.8V DC nominal
Antenna connectors	SO-239 for VHF and UHF

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

1. Mount the unit: Use provided bracket for secure installation in vehicle or base station.
2. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive (+) terminal, black wire to negative (-) terminal of 13.8V DC power source.
3. Install antennas: Connect VHF and UHF antennas to respective SO-239 connectors.
4. Connect microphone: Plug DTMF microphone into front panel MIC connector.

WARNING! Ensure proper polarity when connecting power to avoid damage. Use appropriate fuses in power line.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; configure basic settings.

1. Set operating frequency: Use VFO knob to select desired frequency on either band.
2. Configure squelch: Adjust SQL control for proper background noise suppression.
3. Set power level: Use PWR button to select high, medium, or low power output.
4. Program memory channels: Store frequently used frequencies for quick access.
5. Enable cross-band repeat: Configure if needed for repeater operation.

CAUTION! Ensure proper antenna installation before transmitting to prevent damage.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 144-148MHz (VHF), 430-450MHz (UHF)
• Output Power: 50W (VHF), 35W (UHF)
• Modulation: FM
• Memory Channels: 200 (including 10 scan edges)
• Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
• Current Drain: 15A max (transmit), 1.3A (receive)
• Dimensions: 140(W) × 40(H) × 180(D) mm
• Weight: 1.1 kg
• Operating Temp: -20°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SQL control, VFO knob, FUNCTION button, A/B band selector, PWR button, MH/MR button.

Microphone: PTT, UP/DOWN buttons, DTMF keypad, CALL button.

Menu Settings: Tone encode/decode, repeater offsets, scan settings, APRS configuration, cross-band repeat, weather alert, display settings, reset functions.

Connecting Accessories

External speaker: Use SP connector. Data: Use DATA port for TNC connections. Remote control: Optional RC-10 connector.

1. Turn off radio before connecting accessories.
2. Match connectors to appropriate ports.
3. Secure all connections to prevent disconnection during operation.

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

Operating Modes

Supports simplex, repeater, cross-band repeat, and packet operation.

1. Simplex operation: Direct communication on same frequency.
2. Repeater operation: Set appropriate offset and tone for local repeaters.
3. Cross-band repeat: Enable in menu for simultaneous dual-band operation.
4. Packet operation: Configure TNC settings for data communication.
5. Weather channels: Access NOAA weather broadcasts and alerts.
6. Scanning: Program scan lists for automatic frequency monitoring.

WARNING! Ensure proper licensing for operating frequencies. Follow FCC regulations.

Memory Functions

Store up to 200 frequencies with associated settings.

1. Store memory: Tune to frequency, press F then MR to store.
2. Recall memory: Press MR and select memory channel.
3. Memory scan: Scan stored memory channels for activity.
4. Memory grouping: Organize memories into groups for easier management.
5. Memory lock: Prevent accidental modification of important memories.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid solvents.

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 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 or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power connections; verify fuse integrity; ensure proper voltage.
No transmission	PTT/microphone	Check microphone connection; verify PTT function; check antenna.
Poor reception	Antenna/squelch	Verify antenna connection; adjust squelch setting; check for interference.
Memory loss	Power interruption	Re-program memories; check backup battery if equipped.
Cross-band not working	Settings/config	Verify cross-band settings; check frequency pairs; ensure proper configuration.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.