Kenwood TM-255E User Manual

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144 MHz ALL MODE TRANSCEIVER

430 MHz ALL MODE TRANSCEIVER

TM-255A/E TM-455A/E

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

KENWOOD CORPORATION

©PRINTED IN JAPAN B62-0415-10(K, M, E)(MC) 94/12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

144 MHz All Mode Transceiver (U.S.A./ Canada/ General)

144 MHz All Mode Transceiver (Europe)

430 MHz All Mode Transceiver (U.S.A./ Canada)

430 MHz All Mode Transceiver (Europe)

Models Covered by this Manual:

• TM-255A:

• TM-255E:

• TM-455A:

• TM-465E:

Notice to the user:

One or more of the following statements may be applicable to this equipment.

FCC WARNING

This equipment generates or uses radio frequency energy.

Changes or modifications to this equipment may cause harmfui interference uniess the modifications are expressiy approved in the instruction manuai. The user couid iose the authority to operate this equipment if an unauthorized change or modification is made.

INFORMATION TO THE DIGITAL DEVICE USER REQUIRED BY THE FCC

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC

Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.

This equipment generates, uses and can generate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

•Consult the dealer for technical assistance.

l)ITR0l)OeTION

THANK YOU

We are grateful you decided to purchase this KENWOOD All-Mode transceiver.

The TM-255/TM-455 series of transceivers were developed to satisfy the requirement for a compact, all-inclusive rig that's simple to operate yet has superior performance across the band. VHF/UHF operators can now enjoy the innovative Menu Setup method for feature configuration incorporated in other KENWOOD products.

KENWOOD believes that the compact size coupled with the reasonable cost will guarantee your satisfaction with this product.

7Water and Moisture

Do not use the unit near water or sources of moisture. For example, avoid use near bathtubs, sinks, swimming pools, and in damp basements and attics.

8Outdoor Antenna Grounding

Adequately ground all outdoor antennas used with this unit using approved methods. Grounding helps protect against voltage surges caused

by lightning. It also reduces the chance of a build up of static charges.

PRECAUTIONS

Please read all safety and operating instructions before using this unit. For best results, be aware of all warnings on the unit and follow the provided operating instructions. Retain these safety and

operating instructions for future reference.

1Power Sources

Connect this unit only to the power source described in the operating instructions or as marked on the unit itself.

2Power Cable Protection

Route all power cables safely. Ensure the power cables can neither be walked upon nor pinched by items placed near or against the cables.

Pay particular attention to locations near AC receptacles, AC extension bars and points of entry to the unit.

3Abnormal Odors

The presence of an unusual odor or smoke is often a sign of trouble. Immediately turn the power OFF and remove the power cable. Contact a dealer or the nearest Service Center for advice.

4Electrical Shocks

Take care not to drop objects or spill liquids into the unit through enclosure openings. Metal objects, such as hairpins or needles, inserted into the unit may contact voltages resulting in serious electrical shocks. Never permit children to insert any objects into this unit.

5Grounding and Polarization

Do not attempt to defeat methods used for grounding and electrical polarization in the unit, particularly involving the input power cable.

6Ventilation

Locate the unit so as not to interfere with its ventilation. Do not place books or other equipment on the unit that may impede the free movement of air. Allow a minimum of 4 inches (10 cm) between the rear of the unit and the wall or operating desk shelf.

9Power Lines

Minimum recommended distance for an outdoor antenna from power lines is one and one-half times the vertical height of the associated

antenna support structure. This distance allows adequate clearance from the power lines if the support structure should fail for any reason.

10Heat

Locate the unit away from heat sources such as radiators, stoves, amplifiers or other devices that produce substantial amounts of heat.

11Cleaning

Do not use volatile solvents such as alcohol, paint thinner, gasoline or benzene to clean the cabinet. Use a clean, cloth with warm water or a mild detergent.

12Periods of Inactivity

Disconnect the input power cable from the power source when the unit is not used for long periods of time.

13Servicing

Remove the unit’s enclosure only to do accessory installations described by this manual or accessory manuals. Follow provided instructions carefully to avoid electrical shocks. If unfamiliar with this type of work, seek assistance from an experienced individual, or have a professional technician do the task.

INTRODUCTION

14 Damage Requiring Service

Enlist the services of qualified personnel in the following cases:

a)The power supply or plug is damaged.

b)Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the unit.

c)The unit has been exposed to rain.

d)The unit is operating abnormally or performance has degraded seriously.

e)The unit has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

CONVENTIONS FOLLOWED IN THIS MANUAL

The writing conventions described below have been followed to simplify key stroke instructions and avoid unnecessary repetition. This format is less confusing for the reader. Reviewing the following information now will reduce your learning period. That means less time will be spent reading this manual; more time will be available for operating.

instruction	Meaning	What to (to;:
Press	Press the keys	Press and hold
[KEY1]+[KEY2].	simultaneously.	KEY1 down, then
		press KEY2.
Press	Press the keys	Press KEY1
[KEY1], [KEY2J.	in sequence.	momentarily,
		release KEY1,
		then press KEY2.
Press	Press the key	With the
[KEY]+ POWER ON.	while powering	transceiver power
	the transceiver.	OFF, press and
		hold KEY, then
		turn ON the
		transceiver
		power.
Press [F] (N s).	Press the	Press and hold
	Function key for	the function key
	longer than	until the "F"
	N seconds.	indicator on the
		Display begins
		flashing.
Press [KEY] (N s).	Press the key	Press and hold
	for longer than	KEY until the
	N seconds.	function begins.

Note: Basic procedures are numbered sequentially to guide you step-by-step. Additional information pertaining to a step, but not essential to complete the procedure, is provided in bulleted form following many steps for further guidance.

FEATURES

•Convenient to transport, install and operate from either a portable, mobile or fixed station installation due to the compact size.

•Setting-up transceiver functions is simple with the easy-to-use Menu System.

•Busy-Frequency Stop automatically stops any of the scan functions on a busy frequency. Timeoperated and Carrier-operated modes are provided for further flexibility.

•"Fuzzy logic" controls the frequency step size as you turn the Main Tuning control. The faster you turn the control, the larger the step size up to the maximum step available.

•Automatic Power Off switches OFF the power if the transceiver has not been used for approximately 3 hours.

•Up to 4 functions can be assigned to the Programmable Function (PF) keys on the microphone allowing you to personally customize your transceiver's operation.

•Despite the small overall case size, numerous additional features have been included for the VHF/UHF enthusiast.

ATTENTION

♦Noise entering from the DC power supply or static electricity may disable the buttons or the Tuning controls. If this occurs, determine the source of the interference and take appropriate measures to reduce or eliminate the offending noise. If the transceiver still does not function normally, reset the microprocessor {page 34}.

♦Resetting the microprocessor clears the memory channels and returns the menu settings (described later) to their default values.

♦This transceiver contains a cooling fan. As the heat sink temperature rises because of continuous transmission, the fan speed accelerates to its maximum speed, and the sound of the fan will become more noticeable. If the heat sink temperature becomes excessively high, the temperature protection circuit will trip and reduce the transmit output power.

INTRODUCTION

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

Accessory	Part Number	Qty.
Microphone
U.S.A., Canada, General	T91-0397-XX	1
Europe, General	T91-0398-XX	1
Microphone hanger
U.S.A., Canada	J20-0319-XX	1
Microphone hanger screws
U.S.A., Canada	N46-3010-XX	1 set
DC power cable	E30-2111-XX	1
Fuse, 15 A	F51-0017-XX	1
• For the transceiver
Mounting bracket	J29-0422-XX	1
Mounting bracket screws	N99-0383-XX	1 set
Wrench	W01-0414-XX	1
Warranty card	-	1
(U.S.A., Canada, Europe

Instruction manual	B62-0415-XX	1

■' Excluding some General market versions. ^ Excluding some European versions.

mmmn
CHAPTER 1 INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION
PREPARATION FOR MOBILE OPERATION.........	1
MOBILE INSTALLATION..................................	1
DC POWER CABLE CONNECTION................	2
ANTENNA CONNECTION.................................	2
GROUND CONNECTION..................................	2
IGNITION NOISE...............................................	3
PREPARATION FOR FIXED STATION
OPERATION............................................................	3
DC POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION...............	3
ANTENNA CONNECTION.................................	4
GROUND CONNECTION..................................	4
ACCESSORY CONNECTIONS..............................	4
EXTERNAL SPEAKER......................................	4
MICROPHONE...................................................	4
KEY OR ELECTRONIC KEYER........................	5
PACKET EQUIPMENT......................................	5
CHAPTER 2 GEHING ACQUAINTED
FRONT PANEL.......................................................	7
REAR PANEL..........................................................	9
MICROPHONE......................................................	10
DISPLAY...............................................................	11
CHAPTER 3 MENU SETUP
MENU DESCRIPTION..........................................	13
MENU ACCESS....................................................	13
MENU CONFIGURATION.....................................	13
MENU A............................................................	13
MENU B............................................................	14
CHAPTER 4 COMMUNICATION
CONFIRMATION BEFORE OPERATION.............	15
REAR PANEL...................................................	15
FRONT PANEL................................................	15
GETTING STARTED.............................................	16
SWITCHING POWER ON/OFF........................	16
VOLUME ADJUST............................................	16
SQUELCH ADJUST.........................................	16
Noise Squelch.............................................	16
S-Meter Squelch..........................................	16
DUAL DIGITAL VFOs.......................................	17
Selecting VFOs............................................	17
Equalizing VFO Frequencies......................	17
FREQUENCY SELECTION.............................	17
FREQUENCY STEP SIZE...............................	17
AUTOMATIC MODE SELECTION...................	18
SELECTING OUTPUT POWER.......................	18
iv

FM OPERATION...................................................	19
FM REPEATER OPERATION..............................	19
TRANSMIT OFFSETS.....................................	19
REVERSE FUNCTION....................................	20
TONE ACCESS................................................	20
AUTOPATCH
(U.S.A. AND CANADA VERSIONS)...............	21
Enabling the Microphone Keypad..............	21
DUAL TONE MULTI-FREQUENCY (DTMF)
CALLS..............................................................	21
PACKET OPERATION..........................................	22
SSB OPERATION.................................................	23
CW OPERATION..................................................	23
CW PITCH CHANGE.......................................	23
CW KEYING DELAY........................................	23
CHAPTER 5 MEMORY FEATURES
MICROPROCESSOR MEMORY BACKUP..........	24
MEMORY CHANNEL DATA.................................	24
MEMORY CHANNEL STORAGE.........................	24
SIMPLEX CHANNEL STORAGE.....................	24
SPLIT-FREQUENCY CHANNEL STORAGE ...	25
SCAN FREQUENCY LIMITS STORAGE........	25
Programmable VFO Function.....................	25
CALL CHANNEL STORAGE............................	26
MEMORY CHANNEL RECALL.............................	26
TEMPORARY FREQUENCY CHANGE..........	26
MEMORY CONTENTS CONFIRMATION............	27
MEMORY TRANSFER..........................................	27
MEMORY/CALL CHANNEL -> VFO................	27
TRANSFER OF TEMPORARY DATA.............	28
ERASING MEMORY CHANNELS........................	28
FULL RESET....................................................	28
CHAPTER 6 SCAN
BUSY-FREQUENCY STOP..................................	29
SCAN RESUME METHODS............................	29
SCAN HOLD..........................................................	29
MEMORY SCAN...................................................	30
GROUP SCAN.................................................	30
ALL-CHANNEL SCAN......................................	30
MEMORY CHANNEL LOCK-OUT...................	30
PROGRAM SCAN................................................	31
CONFIRMING LOWER/UPPER FREQUENCY
LIMITS.............................................................	31
BASIC SCAN...................................................	31
BAND SCAN....................................................	31
MHz SCAN.......................................................	32

VFO/MEMORY/CALL SCAN.................................	32
SETTING SCAN SPEED.......................................	32
CHAPTER 7 AUXILIARY FUNCTIONS
RECEIVING...........................................................	33
RECEIVER INCREMENTAL TUNING (RIT).....	33
IF SHIFT...........................................................	33
NOISE BLANKER.............................................	33
ADVANCED INTERCEPT POINT (AlP)
FUNCTION.......................................................	33
TRANSMITTING....................................................	34
SPEECH PROCESSOR...................................	34
TIME-OUT TIMER (TOT)..................................	34
OPERATOR CONVENIENCES.............................	34
MICROPROCESSOR RESET.........................	34
REMOTE FUNCTIONS USING THE
MICROPHONE.................................................	35
PROGRAMMABLE FUNCTION (PF) BUTTON 36
LOCK FUNCTIONS..........................................	36
Frequency Lock...........................................	36
Main Unit Lock.............................................	37
Microphone Lock.........................................	37
AUTOMATIC POWER OFF (APO)...................	37
CHANNEL DISPLAY........................................	37
TRANSVERTER FREQUENCY DISPLAY........	37
PEAK METER HOLD.......................................	37
REPROGRAMMING AUTO MODE/
AUTO OFFSET.................................................	38
KEY CONFIRMATION BEEP TONE................	38
MODULATION MODE AUDIBLE INDICATOR.. 39
MORSE CODE ALARM OUTPUT....................	39
DISPLAY DIMMER...........................................	39
CHAPTER 8 CONTINUOUS TONE CODED SQUELCH
SYSTEM (CTCSS)
SELECTING CTCSS FREQUENCIES..................	40
USING CTCSS......................................................	40
CHAPTER 9 DUAL TONE SQUELCH SYSTEM (DTSS)
STORING DTSS CODES.....................................	41
ENABLING DTSS.................................................	41
DTSS AND REPEATERS.....................................	41
CHAPTER 10 PAGE
OVERVIEW...........................................................	42
PAGE CODE MEMORY........................................	42
STORING PAGE CODES.....................................	42
CALLING...............................................................	43

		CONTENTS
RECEIVING...........................................................		43
RECEIVING A CALL WITH YOUR STATION
CODE...............................................................		43
RECEIVING A CALL WITH A GROUP CODE.. 43
PAGE CODE AND REPEATERS.........................		44
LOCKING-OUT CODES........................................		44
AUTO PAGE CANCEL..........................................		44
OPEN PAGE..........................................................		44
CHAPTER 11 TONE ALERT
ENABLING TONE ALERT.....................................		45
CHAPTER 12	MAINTENANCE
GENERAL INFORMATION...................................		46
SERVICE...............................................................		46
SERVICE NOTE....................................................		46
CLEANING............................................................		46
INTERNAL ADJUSTMENTS.................................		46
CHAPTER 13	TROUBLESHOOTING.........................	48
CHAPTER 14	OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES...................	52
CHAPTER 15	INSTALLING OPTIONS........................	53
SPECIFICATIONS........................................................		55
GLOSSARY................................................................		57

1 HiSTALLATIOtl ANO CÛI^ECTiOK

PREPARATION FOR MOBILE OPERATION

When operating mobile, do not attempt to configure your transceiver or change Menu settings while driving because it is simply too dangerous. Stop the car first, then make the necessary changes. Also, be aware of local laws pertaining to the use of headphones/headsets while driving on public roads. If in doubt, do not wear headphones while mobiling.

MOBILE INSTALLATION

Install the transceiver in a safe, convenient position inside your vehicle that minimizes danger to your passengers and yourself while the vehicle is in motion. For example, consider installing

the transceiver under the dash in front of the passenger seat so that knees or legs will not strike the radio during sudden braking of your vehicle.

■Installation Example

1Install the mounting bracket using the supplied flat washers and self-tapping screws.

•The bracket can be mounted with the bracket opening for the transceiver facing down for underdash mounting, or with the opening facing up.

2Position the transceiver in the bracket to determine the best viewing angle.

•You have 3 positions from which to choose: angled up, horizontal, or angled down.

3Insert and tighten the supplied SEMS screws and washers using the wrench.

•Double check that all hardware is tightened to prevent vehicle vibration from loosening the bracket or transceiver.

TM-255/TM-455

Use only the top or middle row of holes to mount the transceiver horizontally.

Note:

♦If more convenient, you can separate the transceiver Front

Panel from the transceiver. This allows easier mounting of the panel near the operating position when there is not enough room for the whole transceiver. The transceiver can be installed in the trunk or under the seat.

♦You can also use the optional MB-13 mounting bracket. For the correct mounting procedure, refer to the instructions packaged with the MB-13.

1 INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION

DC POWER CABLE CONNECTION

Route the DC power cable directly to the vehicle's battery terminals using the shortest path from the transceiver. It is not recommended to use the cigarette lighter socket since some cigarette lighter sockets introduce an unacceptable voltage drop.

To prevent the risk of short circuits, disconnect other wiring from the negative {-) battery terminal before connecting the transceiver. Confirm the correct polarity of the connections before attaching the power cable; red connects to the positive (+) terminal, black connects to the negative {-) terminal. Use the full length of the cable without cutting off the excess even if the cable is longer than required. In particular, never remove the fuse holder from the cable. After completing transceiver connections to the battery, then reconnect any wiring removed from the negative terminal.

Fuse (15A)

If the power cable must be routed through a hole in the vehicle chassis or body, for example in the firewall at the front of the passenger compartment, use a rubber grommet to protect the cable from abrasion. The entire length of the cable must be dressed so it is isolated from heat and moisture. After the cable is in place, wind heat-resistant tape around the fuse holder to protect it from moisture. Tie down the full run of cable.

The vehicle battery must have a nominal rating of 12 V. Never connect the transceiver to a 24 V battery. Be sure to use a 12 V vehicle battery that has sufficient current capacity. If the current to the transceiver is insufficient, the Display may darken during transmission (at audio peaks during SSB operation), or transmitter output power may drop excessively.

Note:

♦If you use the transceiver for a long period when the vehicle battery has not been fully charged, or when the engine has been stopped, the battery may become discharged, and will not have sufficient reserves to start the vehicle. Avoid using the transceiver under these conditions.

m Replacing Fuses

If the fuse blows, determine the cause then correct the problem. After the problem is resolved, only then replace the fuse. If newly installed fuses continue to blow, disconnect the power plug and contact your dealer or nearest Service Center for assistance.

Function	Fuse Current
Transceiver Power Cable	15 A

DC Power Cable	20 A

CAUTION: Only use fuses of the specified type and rating.

ANTENNA CONNECTION

Before operating mobile, you must first install an efficient, well-tuned antenna. The success of your mobile installation will depend largely on the type of antenna and its correct installation. The transceiver can give excellent results if the antenna system and its installation is given careful attention.

Your choice of 144 MHz or 430 MHz antenna should have a 50 ohm impedance to match the transceiver input impedance. Use low-loss coaxial feed line that also has a characteristic impedance of 50 ohms.

Coupling the antenna to the transceiver via feed line having an impedance other than 50 ohms reduces the efficiency of the antenna system, and can cause interference to nearby broadcast television and radio receivers.

CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna or other matched load connected may damage the transceiver. Always connect the antenna to the transceiver first before transmitting.

GROUND CONNECTION

The ground, which is the other half of the antenna system, is very important when using most mobile antennas. Connect the feed line ground for the antenna securely to the vehicle's chassis, and be certain to bond (electrically connect) the vehicle body to the chassis. The sheet metal will provide the primary ground plane, so be sure to establish a good RF connection from the feed line to both the chassis and the body. For comprehensive information on mobile antennas and their successful installation and optimization, refer to any of the publications on the subject available at dealers handling Amateur supplies.

If your car has plastic bumpers, make sure to ground the antenna mount to the body and the chassis of the car.

♦Replace blown fuses only after investigating and correcting the cause of the failed fuse. Always replace a blown fuse by a new fuse with the specified ratings.

IGNITION NOISE

This transceiver has been designed with a Noise Blanker to filter ignition noise. However, some cars may generate excessive ignition noise, if there is excessive noise, use suppressor spark plugs (with resistors), or take other countermeasures as may be required to reduce these undesired electrically generated noises.

PREPARATION FOR FIXED STATION OPERATION

The following diagram illustrates how to connect the cables to the rear of the transceiver. Connect the cables securely so they will not come loose if pulled.

DC POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION

In order to use this transceiver for fixed station operation, you will need a separate 13.8 V DC power supply that must be purchased separately. DO NOT directly connect the transceiver to an AC outlet! Use the supplied DC power cable to connect the transceiver to a regulated power supply. Do not substitute a cable with smaller gauge wires.

The following table lists the current consumption for each type of transceiver. Any regulated DC power supply used should have a current rating higher than listed in the table.

Transceiver	Current
Mode!	Consumption
TM-255	Less than 13 A

TM-455	Less than 15 A

Plug the connectorized end of the DC power cable into the DC 13.8 V connector on the rear panel of the transceiver, and connect the other end of the cable to the regulated power supply. The red wire must be connected to the positive (+) terminal and the black wire to the negative (-) terminal.

Note:

♦Suitable regulated DC power supplies include the PS-33 and

PS-53. All are available as accessories. Choose a power supply with a current rating larger than the current requirements of the transceiver.

♦Before connecting the DC power supply to the transceiver, be sure to switch the transceiver and the DC power supply off.

♦Do not plug the DC power supply into an AC outlet until you make all connections.

1	INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIO

Replacing Fuses

Function	Fuse Current
Transceiver Power Cable	15 A
DC Power Cable	20 A

CAUTION: Only use fuses of the specified type and rating.

■ Installation Example

For a deluxe installation, take the time to install the transceiver in the mounting bracket. The diagram offers some mounting suggestions.

Added benefits of using the mounting bracket in your fixed station include the following:

•You can angle the transceiver for best visibility from your operating position.

•The transceiver remains stationary when you attach connectors or use any of the controls.

•The transceiver is quickly detachable from the bracket if you want to move it to your mobile or any other alternate operating position.

•The bracket eliminates the risk of anybody bumping the transceiver off your operating desk.

If you decide to mount the transceiver in a horizontal plane instead of angling it up or down, use the top or middle row of mounting holes on the bracket. The bottom row of holes cannot be used to mount the transceiver horizontally.

Use the wrench to tighten the screws.

1 INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION

ANTENNA CONNECTION

The type of the antenna system, consisting of the antenna, ground, and feed, will greatly affect the successful performance of the transceiver. Use a properly adjusted 50 ohm antenna of good quality designed for operation at 144 MHz or 430 MHz to let your transceiver perform at its best.

Install low-loss 50 ohm coaxial cable and a first quality connector for the connection to the transceiver. For longer feed line runs, especially for operation at UHF frequencies, you might consider investing in airdielectric transmission line. The lower loss can make a significant difference for those interested in weak signal operation. In all cases, match the impedance of the feed line and antenna so that the SWR is minimum. Generally, an SWR measurement of 1.5:1 or less is considered satisfactory. All connections must be clean and tight. Coupling the antenna to the transceiver via feed line having an impedance other than 50 ohms reduces the efficiency of the antenna system. It also can cause interference to nearby broadcast television receivers, radio receivers, and other electronic equipment.

CAUTION:

♦All fixed stations should be equipped with a lightning arrester to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and transceiver damage.

♦Transmitting without an antenna or other matched load connected may damage the transceiver. Always connect the antenna to the transceiver first before transmitting.

GROUND CONNECTION

At the minimum, a good DC ground is required to reduce the risk of electric shock, and to prevent interference to other electronic equipment. For superior communications results, a good RF ground is required against which the antenna system can operate. Both of these conditions can be satisfied by providing a good earth ground for your station. Bury one or more ground rods, or a large copper plate under the ground, and connect this to the transceiver GND terminal. Use heavy gauge wire or a copper strap, cut as short as possible, for this connection. As for antenna work, all connections must be clean and tight.

CAUTION: DO NOT use a gas pipe, an electrical conduit, or a plastic water pipe for a ground. All are dangerous or poor practices.

ACCESSORY CONNECTIONS

EXTERNAL SPEAKER

Use an external speaker with 8 ohms impedance. The jack accepts a 3.5 mm diameter mono (2- conductor) plug.

MICROPHONE

To communicate in the voice modes, connect a microphone having an impedance of 600 ohms.

■ Installing the Microphone

Before beginning to install the microphone, switch OFF the POWER switch.

1Press the Release button on the left side of the Front Panel to unlock the panel. Carefully pull the Front Panel forward from the left, then remove it completely.

•Handle the Front Panel carefully to avoid applying excessive force to the thin cable joining the Front Panel to the Main Unit.

2Insert the 8-pin modular microphone connector, keeping its locking tab upward, into the jack located at the lower left corner of the Main Unit front. Push gently inward until the tab "clicks" into place.

•If using a microphone that does not have a modular plug, use a conversion cable. For example, the MJ-88 cable accepts an 8-pin microphone plug at one end. The other end has a modular plug that mates with this transceiver.

3Reinstall the Front Panel.

•Check that the bushings holding the thin cable are in place, and the microphone cable is in the groove before closing the Front Panel.

•Press firmly on the Front Panel so the Release button locks.

1 INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION

KEY OR ELECTRONIC KEYER

For CW operation, connect your key or electronic keyer to the KEY jack on the rear panel. Use a 3.5 mm diameter mono (2-conductor) plug. When using an electronic keyer, ensure the keyer wiring polarity is correct.

-H5V

Contact current approximately 1 mA

GND GND

-I-

PACKET EQUIPMENT

If you intend to use this transceiver for Packet operation, you will need the following equipment;

•Personal computer with communications software (Alternatively, a "dumb" terminal capable of sending ASCII commands)

•TNC (Terminal Node Controller)

•TNC power supply

•RS-232C cable

•6-pin mini DIN plug and cable (optional PG-5A)

Refer to the accompanying diagram and the associated hardware instruction manuals to configure the equipment as shown. Connect your TNC to the DATA connector on the transceiver Rear Panel using a cable equipped with a 6-pin mini DIN plug. You can use the microphone connector on the Front Panel; however, the DATA connector is recommended for the following reasons:

•The DATA connector uses connections at different modulation/demodulation points depending on the transmission speed selected via Menu B, No. 77 {page 22}. Therefore, using the DATA connector will give optimum performance especially if using 9600 bps.

•Using a mini DIN plug with a good-quality shielded cable will provide better rejection from computer noise.

•Easier to switch between voice and data modes. No cable changes necessary therefore less chance of damaging the connectors.

Do not share a single power supply between the transceiver and the TNC. Keep as wide a separation between the transceiver and computer as practical to reduce noise-pickup by the transceiver.

1 INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION

■ DATA Connector Pinout

Pin No.	Pin Name		Function
1	PKD	Packet Data (input)
		• Transmit data from TNG to transceiver

2	DE	Data Earth
		• Ground for TNG output

3	PKS 1	Packet Standby
		• TNG can use this pin to inhibit the transceiver microphone input while transmitting

			packet signals.
4	PR9	FM Demodulator Output
		• For 9600 bps Packet operation

		• Output Level: 500 mVp-p/10 kQ
		Demodulator Output
5	PR1	• For 1200 bps Packet and RTTY operation
		• Audio output is taken before the VOL control

			(VOL control has no effect on audio level)
		• Output level: 300 mVp-p/10 kO
		Squelch Control or Relay Output ^
		Squelch Control
		• Inhibits TNG data transmit while transceiver squelch is open. This prevents
6	SQC		interference to voice communications on the same frequency and unwanted retries.
		•	Output level

			Squelch open: +5 V (HIGH)
			Squelch closed: 0 V (LOW)
		Relay Output
		• Alternatively, provides a relay output for accessories such as a linear amplifier.
		• The output switches to GND during transmit.
		• Current rating: 500 mA maximum

■' It is not necessary to disconnect the microphone if using the DATA connector. The TNG drives this pin LOW which mutes the microphone.

2 Switch selectable: Set internal switch to "PSQ" for Squelch Control or "RL" for Relay Output {page 47}.

Transceiver

rear panel

2 6ETT!li0 ftCQUiUNTED

The following sections describe basic functions of the controls, buttons, and indicators on the Front Panel, the jacks and connectors on the Rear Panel, and the indicators on the Display. For full explanations of functions mentioned, refer to the appropriate section elsewhere in the manual.

FRONT PANEL

0 ALTERNATE TUNING control

Provides the following 3 functions:

•Frequency change

•Memory channel select

•Menu number select

(D F.LOCK (Frequency Lock) button

Locks or unlocks many Front Panel and microphone buttons, keys and controls. Refer to "LOCK FUNCTIONS" {page 36} for the complete list. Also used to cycle through menu selections while Menu Setup is being accessed.

(D LOW button

Toggles the transmitter output power between High and Low. Also used to cycle through menu selections while Menu Setup is being accessed.

® AUTO/FM button

Toggles the modulation mode between AUTO and FM.

(D SSB/CW button

Toggles the modulation mode between SSB and CW.

® CALL button

Recalls the Call channel.

0 POWER switch

Press to switch the transceiver ON or OFF.

® MR (Memory Recall) button

Selects the Memory Recall function to allow memory channels to be accessed.

0 M.IN (Memory Input) button

Provides the following 2 functions:

•Memory Store

•Memory Scroll

® Microphone cable channel

After connecting the microphone, position the cable in the channel before closing the Front Panel. Refer to "Installing the Microphone" (page 4).

(Q) A/B button

Provides the following 4 functions:

•VFO A or VFO B select

•VFO mode restore

•Partial reset

•Menu A or Menu B select

Copies the contents of the currently displayed memory (frequency, modulation mode, etc.) to the VFO used last, then selects VFO mode.

Provides the following 3 functions:

• VFO mode:	Activates 1 MHz Step for the
	Alternate Tuning control.

•Memory Recall: Allows programmed memory

channels only (ON) or all memory channels (OFF) to be selected.

•Memory Scroll: Allows only empty memory

channels (ON) or all memory channels (OFF) to be selected.

0 SCAN button

Starts and stops various types of scan functions.

0 RIT button

Toggles Receiver Incremental Tuning between ON and OFF. The RIT control adjusts the receiver frequency without affecting the transmitter frequency.

2 GEniNG ACQUAINTED

® CLR (Clear) button

Provides the following 7 functions:

Program Scan stop

Memory Scan stop

Memory Scroll exit

Memory channel lock-out

Memory channel erase

Menu Setup exit

A=B copy

0 VOL (Volume) control

Adjusts the level of receiver audio from the speaker.

® SQL (Squelch) control

Adjusts the receiver squelch threshold level. This allows you to mute speaker output while no stations are being received.

The Receiver Incremental Tuning control provides the following 2 functions:

•Receiver frequency shift

With RIT ON, adjusts the receiver frequency without affecting the transmitter frequency.

•Scan speed change

@ IF SHIFT control

Shifts the IF pass band to attenuate or eliminate interfering signals on adjacent frequencies.

@ F (Function) button

Provides the following 3 functions:

•Second Function select

•Menu Setup enter

•Menu Setup exit

® TONE button

Toggles Tone and CTCSS status between ON and OFF. Also, toggles Tone Alert ON and OFF.

® SHIFT button

Switches the transmit frequency and receive frequency when operating with a transmit offset or split frequency in FM mode. Also, selects DTSS/Page Code Select.

PROC (Processor) button

Toggles the transmitter Speech Processor between ON and OFF.

® AlP button

Toggles the Advanced Intercept Point (AlP) function between ON and OFF.

@ NB (Noise Blanker) button

Toggles the Noise Blanker ON and OFF.

PF button

The function for this button can be assigned from Menu B, No. 74. The function can be changed easily whenever you wish.

(||) ON AIR indicator

Lights red when the transceiver is both in Transmit mode and tuned to a frequency within the transmit band.

BUSY indicator

Lights green while receiving signals or when SQL is turned fully counterclockwise. See "BUSY" indicator in the DISPLAY section on page 11 for more information.

® MAIN TUNING control

In VFO mode, use to select an operating frequency. The transceiver only transmits on frequencies that lie within the limits of the transmit band.

If memory channel 99 is recalled, use this control to tune across the frequency range from the lower frequency limit to the upper frequency limit stored in this memory.

Selects transmit offset direction. Also, toggles DTSS and Page status between ON and OFF while FM mode is selected.

2 GEniNG ACQUAINTED

REAR PANEL

0 Power Input DC 13.8 V

Connect a 13.8 V DC power source {pages 2 and 3}. You can use either a 12 V vehicle battery or a regulated DC power supply with the supplied DC cable. The TM-255 draws less than 13 A and the TM-455 draws less than 15 A at full transmitter output power.

0 ANT

Connect an external antenna designed for operation on the same band as this transceiver (pages 2 and 4}. When making test transmissions, connect a dummy load in place of the antenna. The antenna system or load should have an impedance of 50 ohms. Accepts a male PL-259 coaxial plug.

0 KEY

Connect a key or electronic keyer for CW operation. Accepts a 3.5 mm diameter mono (2-conductor) plug. Always turn the transceiver power OFF before inserting the key plug to avoid momentarily transmitting as the plug is inserted. See page 5 for connection details.

0 DATA

Connect a Terminal Node Controller (TNC) for Packet operation. Accepts a 6-pin mini DIN plug. Also can

be used to control external equipment such as a linear amplifier. See page 5 for further details.

0 EXT. SP

Connect an optional 8 Q external speaker for clearer audio (page 4}. Connecting an external speaker cuts off audio automatically to the internal speaker.

Accepts a 3.5 mm diameter (2-conductor) plug.

Connect a heavy gauge wire or copper strap between the ground terminal and the nearest earth ground (pages 2 and 4}. Do not connect the ground wire to either your house electrical wiring, or gas or water pipes. A well-grounded transceiver will reduce the risk of interference to television or broadcast radio receivers. It can also reduce receiver noise caused by static discharges.

2 GETTING ACQUAINTED

MICROPHONE

©[UP] button

©[DWN] button

In general, these buttons perform the same function as the Alternate Tuning control. They raise or lower the VFO frequency, the memory channel number, the Tone/CTCSS frequency, or the DTSS/Page code digits. Holding either button down causes the action to be repeated. Also, in Menu Setup, the buttons are used to switch among available menu selections for each menu number.

[CALL] key (MC45/45DM)

Recalls the Call channel. Same function as [CALL] on the Front Panel.

[1750] key (MC-45E/45DME)

Sends a 1750 Hz tone for repeater access.

0 DTMF keypad (some versions only)

The 16-key keypad is used to transmit DTMF tones.

MICROPHONE CONNECTOR

Press to transmit: release to receive. Also, press to exit Scan and DTSS/Page code setting.

0 LOCK switch

Locks all microphone functions except [PTT] and, if equipped, the DTMF keypad. This switch does not lock Front Panel buttons.

These keys do not have fixed functions, i.e. their functions can be assigned and changed by the operator {page 35}. By default, the keys have the following functions:

[PF] key

Accesses the last menu number used in Menu Setup.

[VFO] key

Each press toggles between VFO A or VFO B. Same function as [A/B] on the Front Panel.

[MR] key

Selects Memory Recall for access to the memory channels. Same function as [MR] on the Front Panel.

2 GETTING ACQUAINTED

DISPLAY

© MENU

Appears when accessing Menu Setup or DTSS/Page Code Select.

© F.LOCK

Appears when the Frequency Lock function is ON.

® MHz

Appears when the MHz function is ON. Also appears while using Memory Recall when selecting from only programmed channels, or Memory Scroll when choosing empty memory channels.

© AVFOB

"A VFO" appears when VFO A is selected, and "VFO B" appears when VFO B is selected. VFOs are selected by using [A/B]. "A" and "B" appear while Menu A and Menu B are being accessed respectively.

Indicates the transmit offset direction in relation to the receive frequency. "+" and are used by the TM-255A/E and TM-455A. " + " , a n d are used

by the TM-455E.

® TONE

Appears when the subaudible tone encoder is ON.

Appears when the Reverse function is ON. Transmit and receive frequencies are reversed.

® PROC

Appears when the transmit Speech Processor is ON.

® AlP

Appears when the Advanced Intercept Point function is ON.

Appears when the Noise Blanker is ON.

Appears when Automatic Modulation mode is selected.

© BELL

Appears when Tone Alert is ON.

© RIT display

Appears when Receiver Incremental Tuning is ON. Displays the amount and direction of frequency shift with the RIT ON, and the scan speed value while scanning.

0 FM

Appears when the FM mode is selected by pressing

[AUTO/FM].

© LSBUSB

Appears when Lower Sideband (LSB) or Upper Sideband (USB) is selected by pressing [SSB/CW].

Appears when Memory Recall is selected. Memory Recall is selected by pressing [MR], The memory channel digits are used while accessing Menu Setup and DTSS/Page Code Select to indicate the

Menu No. selected. The dot to the lower right of the memory channel digits indicates the selected memory channel is locked-out of Memory Scan.

Appears when the transceiver is in the Transmit mode.

© BUSY

Appears when the squelch is open due to a received signal or noise that is greater in strength than the noise squelch threshold level. Also appears when the noise squelch is set to minimum by turning the SQL control fully counterclockwise. If using either CTCSS or DTSS, appears when the squelch is open due to a received signal that contains a CTCSS frequency or DTSS code that matches the Tone frequency or DTSS code programmed in your transceiver.

г GETTING ACQUAINTED

(6) 0

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(g) PRG

Appears when the selected Page code is locked-out.

@ Meter

In Receive, acts as a Peak Hold S-meter to indicate the signal strength of received signals from S1 to 40 dB over S9. In Transmit, acts as a Peak Hold RF meter to indicate approximate transmit output power on a scale from 1 to 10. The peak hold characteristic can be disabled by menu selection if desired. The S- meter is used for setting the squelch threshold of the S-meter Squelch function.

<g) LOW

Appears when Low transmit output power is selected. When "LOW" is not visible. High output power is selected.

® DTSS

Appears when memory channel 99 is selected or during Program Scan.

(g SCAN

Appears during Program Scan or Memory Scan.

(g TOT

Appears when the Time-out Timer function is ON.

® Digital frequency display

Displays the transmit and receive frequencies. Also displays menus while accessing Menu Setup or DTSS/Page Code Select, and minutes/seconds for Tone Alert.

Appears when the Dual Tone Squelch System is ON (FM mode only).

© CTCSS

Appears when the Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System is ON (FM mode only) when the CTCSS unit is installed.

(g) CO

Appears when Carrier-operated Scan Resume is ON. When not visible. Time-operated Scan Resume is in effect.

(g) CW

Appears when the CW mode is selected by pressing

[SSB/CW].

(g M.SCR

Appears when Memory Scroll is selected by pressing

[M.IN].

3 MENU SETUP

MENU DESCRIPTION

Many functions on this transceiver are selected or configured via software-controlled menus instead of physical controls on the transceiver. Once familiar with the Menu system, you will appreciate the versatility it offers. No longer is the number and complexity of features restricted by the physical size of transceiver.

The Menus are identified as Menu A and Menu B. Menu A is used to access functions that are frequently changed while Menu B is used for less frequently changed functions.

MENU ACCESS

Anytime that you wish to change a function that is controlled by Menu Setup, use the following procedure:

1Press [F] (2 s) or microphone [PF] to enter Menu Setup.

2Select Menu A or Menu B by pressing [A/B] or microphone [VFO].

•The last menu number used and the current menu selection appear.

3Select the desired menu number by turning the

Alternate Tuning control.

4Select the desired menu selection by pressing

[F.LOCK], or [LOW], or microphone [UP] or

[OWN].

• When selecting from a group of numeric menu selections, [F.LOCK] or microphone [UP] selects in ascending order, and [LOV\^ or microphone [DWN] selects in descending order.

5 After selecting the desired menu selection, press [F], or [CLR], or microphone [PF] to exit Menu Setup.

Note:

♦ Accessing menus while the Frequency Lock function is ON cancels Frequency Lock temporarily. Frequency Lock is restored after exiting Menu Setup.

♦ The Automatic Power Off timer stops counting while you are in Menu Setup.

MENU CONFIGURATION

Refer to the following tables when configuring Menu A or Menu B.

MENU A

IMemi No.			Do$criptid\|i	Selections	1 Default	Page
00		Display Brightness		OFF/d4/d3/ d2/d1	d2	39
		• 4 Illumination levels and OFF (d1: brightest)
01		CW Keying Delay		100/ 200/ 300/ 400/ 600/ 800/	600 ms	23
		• Delay time in milliseconds		1000/1400/1800 ms^
02		CW Receive Pitch		400 to 1000 Hz	800 Hz	23
		• 50 Hz steps
03		Busy-Frequency Stop (Program Scan)		ON/OFF	ON	29
		• Enabled (ON) or Inhibited (OFF)
04		Scan Resume (Program Scan)		0/1	0	29
		• Time-operated (0) or Carrier-operated (1)
05		Memory Scan		ON/ OFF	OFF	30
		• All Memory channels (ON) or specific channel group
			only (OFF)
06		SSB/CW Frequency Step Size		10 Hz/100 Hz/1 kHz/5 kHz/	10 kHz	17
		• Alternate Tuning control or microphone [UP]/[DWN]		10 kHz
		•	5 step sizes
07		FM Frequency Step Size		10 Hz/100 Hz/1 kHz/5 kHz/	TM-255:	17
		• Alternate Tuning control or microphone [UP]/[DWN]		10 kHz/12.5 kHz/ 20 kHz/ 25 kHz	12.5 kHz 2
		•	8 step sizes		TM-455:
					25 kHz
08		AF Level Select		L/H	H	16, 38
		• Low (L) or High (H)

	^ TM-455; Full Break-in ("Full") can be selected but this function is not supported.
	^ U.S.A. and Canada: 5 kHz

+ 46 hidden pages

Kenwood TM-255E User Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Notice to the user:

PRECAUTIONS

CONVENTIONS FOLLOWED IN THIS MANUAL

mmmn

MOBILE INSTALLATION

PREPARATION FOR FIXED STATION OPERATION

2 6ETT!li0 ftCQUiUNTED

MICROPHONE CONNECTOR

© MENU

© F.LOCK

© AVFOB

® TONE

® PROC

© BELL

© RIT display

© LSBUSB

© BUSY

^ STAR

@ Meter

® DTSS

(g SCAN

® Digital frequency display

© CTCSS

MENU ACCESS