Kenwood TH-K20A User Manual

Empowering Communications

Boasting 5.5 watts of RF output, Kenwood’s new TH-K20A radio
is powerful. Despite being small enough to fit comfortably in the
palm, it offers full-size performance and numerous features to
ensure superb operating ease. Both display and keypad are
backlit for nighttime use, and for added convenience everyday
functions are pre-programmed to 11 keys with an additional
PF key that can be assigned with a custom function. Plus, its
construction is rugged enough to stand up to the worst weather.
Inside and out, the TH-K20A is fully equipped for clear
communications – wherever and whenever needed.

TH-K20A

144 MHz FM TRANSCEIVER

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Conveniently Compact, Reliably Robust

This radio is remarkably light (just 7.4 oz or 210 g) and
thin (2.13 inches or 54 mm). Yet there is no compromise
on construction: it meets or exceeds the stringent IP54
dust and water intrusion standards as well as the MIL­STD 810 C, D, E, F & G environmental standards,
making it rugged enough
for demanding outdoor
use in bad weather.

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High Sound Pressure for Audio Clarity

Another feature that sets the TH-K20A apart is sound: it
benefits from the audio expertise for which Kenwood is
renowned. High sound pressure – which is not the same as
volume – delivers a clarity that is unmistakable. Just listen

once and you will appreciate what a difference it makes.

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200 Channels with 6-Digit Memory Name

The TH-K20A has 200 memory channels – with a 6-digit
Memory Name function to enable clear identification – plus 6
program scan memories, 1 call channel and 1 priority channel.

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Li-ion Battery & Cradle Charger

This radio is supplied with a rechargeable
Lithium-ion battery plus a convenient cradle
charger.

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Weather Alert/RX/Channel

Scan (US only)

In addition to reception of the NOAA Weather Radio (10ch),
this transceiver can notify you of emergency transmissions
such as storm warnings with an audible alert.

Direct Function Keys

Everyday functions are pre-programmed to 11 of the 12 keys. The additional PF key
can be assigned a custom function, making it possible to tailor the TH-K20A for
optimum convenience. There is no need to use a menu: one key push provides direct

access. And to prevent accidental operation, three types of key lock are provided.

Internal VOX

The TH-K20A offers convenient hands-free operation when using an optional
headset. The internal VOX (voice-operated transmission) circuitry provides
automatic PTT and a 10-level (Off/1-9) sensitivity adjustment to suit different
ambient noise levels. VOX delay time is also adjustable.

Backlit LCD and Keypad

Backlighting for the large 13-segment LCD display is a welcome feature when
picking memory names or changing settings. Similarly, keypad backlighting
facilitates operation in low-light situations.

CTCSS & DCS Encoder/Decoder + Cross Tone Capability

Thanks to the built-in CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) and
DCS (Digital Code Squelch) encoder/decoder, the TH-K20A can handle 42

CTCSS sub-tone frequencies plus 104 DCS codes. And one can set separate TX
and RX signaling types so as to access a repeater that uses different encode/
decode signaling.

PC Programmable with MCP-5A

By simply connecting the TH-K20A to a computer running Kenwood’s free
MCP-5A software with the optional PG-4Y cable, one can easily manage dozens
of memory channels and memory names. This is also a convenient way to modify
or copy settings.

Specifications

TH-K20A

GENERAL

Frequency Range TX

Mode F3E, F2D

Antenna Impedance 50 Ω

Operation Temperature Range -4 °F ~ +140 °F (-20 °C ~ +60 °C)

Operating Voltage DC 6.0 ~ 9.0 V (Standard Voltage DC 7.4 V

Frequency Stability ±2.5 ppm

Microphone Impedance 2 kΩ

Battery Life*
with KNB-63L
with BT-16

Dimensions

with KNB-63L

Weight Radio Only

with KNB-63L

TRANSMITTER

RF Power Output High
with BT-16

Mid
Low

Modulation Reactance modulation

Maximum Frequency Deviation Within ±5 kHz

Moduration Distortion Less than 5 % (300 Hz ~ 3 kHz)

RECEIVER

Circuitry Double super heterodyne

Intermediate Frequency 1st IF: 38.85 MHz / 2nd IF: 450 kHz

Sensitivity (12dB SINAD) Less than 0.16 µV

Squelch Sensitivity Less than 0.13 µV

Selectivity -6 dB

-50 dB

Audio Output More than 400 mW (8 Ω / 10 % distortion)

* Assuming a duty cycle of 6-second transmit, 6-second receive, 48-second standby

Specifications are guaranteed for amateur radio bands only.
Measurements made per TIA/EIA 603 and specifications shown are typical.
Specifications are subject to change without notice, due to advancements in technology.

(Figures approximate)

(W x H x D),

Projections not included

RX

Radio Only

144 - 148 MHz
136 - 174 MHz

High / Mid / Low

6 / 8.5 / 10.5 Hours

6 / 8 / 10 Hours

2.13 x 4.40 x 0.57 in

(54 x 111.7 x 14.4 mm )

2.13 x 4.40 x 1.00 in

( 54 x 111.7 x 25.3 mm)

approx. 4.86 oz (138 g)
approx. 7.40 oz (210 g )

5.5 W

approx.3.5 W

2 W
1 W

More than 10 kHz

Less than 28 kHz

Applicable MIL-STD & IP Standards*

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MIL-STD810 C/D/E/F/G: Low Pressure, High Temperature, Low Temperature,

Temperature Shock, Solar Radiation, Rain, Humidity, Salt Fog, Dust, Vibration, and Shock

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International Protection Standard: IP54

*To meet these standards, the 2-pin connector cover has to be connected; the AAA battery case does not meet
the IP54 rating.

Tone Alert (Bell)

When activated, this function will sound an audible alert and flash a bell symbol
to indicate an incoming call. Both elapsed time and the number of missed calls
are clearly displayed.

Other Features

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Power On Message ▲Time-out Timer ▲Priority Scan ▲Band Scan, Program Scan,

MR Scan, CALL Scan, CTCSS Scan / DCS Scan

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Busy Channel Lockout ▲Key Lock Type Select ▲Battery Save

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SMA Antenna Connector ▲Automatic Repeater Offset ▲1,750 Hz Tone Burst

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Direct Keypad Frequency Entry ▲DTMF Autodial Memories (16ch, up to 16 digits)

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Battery Capacity Indicator (on transmit) ▲Electronic Serial Number

Optional Accessories

)

●

KNB-63L

Li-ion Battery (1,130 mAh)

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SMC-32

Speaker Microphone

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KHS-26

Clip Microphone with
Earphone

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MCP-5A

Memory Control Software (ver.1.00 or later)

(available free for downloading from:
http //www.kenwood.com/i/products/info/amateur/software_download.html)

Not all accessories are available in all markets. For availability, contact your nearest dealer.

Battery case transmission output will decrease as time progresses. We recommend using low
power when using the battery case.

●

BT-16

Battery Case (6AAA)

●

SMC-33

Remote Control
Speaker Microphone

●

KHS-22

Headset

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Wide/Narrow Channel Spacing

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KSC-35S

Rapid Charger
(100 V - 240 V)

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SMC-34

Speaker Mic. w/
3-Function Key &
Vol Control

●

PG-4Y

PC Interface Cable

CA315K-E-2