Kenwood TM-281A, TM-281E User Manual

80&%3*:G"80&%3*/

*(("056"70"89:;<=/>?/9"

>;<89@=8>A;"0:;@:B""

C0/88/@9&9C=/D8/@9"70"*(("056

0AE/"EF/0DBA>

89:;=/D8A9"70"*(("056

0:;@:B"E/">;<89@==>A;/<

!"#$%&%'()&*+",-./.0%1 +2"+3"+)"+$"+4"+("+'"+%"+*

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

144 MHz FM TRANSCEIVER

TM-281A

144 MHz FM TRANSCEIVER

TM-281E

NOTIFICATION

This equipment complies with the essential requirements of Directive 1999/5/EC. The use of the warning symbol means the equipment is subject to restrictions of use in certain countries. This equipment requires a licence and is intended for use in the countries as below.

AT BE DK FI FR DE GR IS

IE IT LI LU NL NO PT ES SE CH GB CY CZ EE HU LV LT MT PL SK SI BG RO

ISO3166

Information on Disposal of Old Electrical and Electronic Equipment and Batteries (applicable for EU countries that have adopted separate waste collection systems)

Products and batteries with the symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) cannot be disposed as household waste. Old electrical and electronic equipment and batteries should be recycled at a facility capable of handling these items and their waste byproducts. Contact your local authority for details in locating a recycle facility nearest to you. Proper recycling and waste disposal will help conserve resources whilst preventing detrimental effects on our health and the environment.

Notice: The sign "Pb" below the symbol for batteries indicates that this battery contains lead.

ENGLISH

THANK YOU!

Thank you for choosing this

Kenwood

always provides Amateur Radio products

Kenwood

which surprise and excite serious hobbyists. This transceiver is no exception. As you learn how to use this transceiver, you will find that

Kenwood

friendliness”. For example, each time you change the Menu No. in Menu mode, you will see a text message on the display that lets you know what you are configuring.

Though user friendly, this transceiver is technically sophisticated and some features may be new to you. Consider this manual to be a personal tutorial from the designers. Allow the manual to guide you through the learning process now, then act as a reference in the coming years.

transceiver.

is pursuing “user

MODELS COVERED BY THIS MANUAL

The models listed below are covered by this manual.

TM-281A: TM-281E:

144 MHz FM Transceiver 144 MHz FM Transceiver

MARKET CODES

The Americas

Europe

General

Mn:

(Where “n” represents a variation number.) The market code is printed on the barcode label of the

carton box. Refer to the product specifications {pages 71, 72} for

information on the available operating frequencies within each model. For accessories supplied with the model, refer to page 1.

FEATURES

• Weather Alert Radio function checks the 1050 Hz tone from NOAA (U.S.A./ Canada only).

• Menu allows for easy control and selecting of various functions.

• Up to 200 memory channels to program frequencies and other various data. (Up to 100 memory channels if Memory Channel Names are assigned to the channels.)

• Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) or Digital Code Squelch (DCS) rejects unwanted calls from other stations.

• Equipped with an easy-to-read large LCD with alphanumeric display capability.

• Free PC software (Memory Control Program) is available to program the frequency, signalling, and other settings of your transceiver. The MCP can be downloaded at: http://www.kenwood.com/i/products/info/amateur/software_download.html

NOTICES TO THE USER

One or more of the following statements may be applicable:

FCC WARNING

This equipment generates or uses radio frequency energy. Changes or modifications to this equipment may cause harmful interference unless the modifications are expressly approved in the instruction manual. The user could lose 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.

When condensation occurs inside the transceiver:

Condensation may occur inside the transceiver when the room is warmed using a heater on a cold day or when the transceiver is quickly moved from a cold location to a warm location. When condensation occurs, the microcomputer and/or the transmit/receive circuits may become unstable, resulting in transceiver malfunction. If this happens, turn OFF the transceiver and wait for a while. When the condensed droplets disappear, the transceiver will function normally.

PRECAUTIONS

Please observe the following precautions to prevent fire, personal injury, and/or transceiver damage:

• Do not attempt to configure your transceiver while driving; it is simply too dangerous.

• 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.

• Do not transmit with high output power for extended periods; the transceiver may overheat.

• Do not modify the transceiver unless instructed by this manual or other

Kenwood

• Do not expose the transceiver to long periods of direct sunlight nor place it close to heating appliances.

• Do not place the transceiver in excessively dusty, humid or wet areas, nor on unstable surfaces.

• If an abnormal odor or smoke is detected coming from the transceiver, turn OFF the power immediately. Contact a your dealer.

• This transceiver is designed for a 13.8 V power source. Never use a 24 V battery to power the transceiver.

documentation.

Kenwood

service station or

This device Complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES ......................................1

WRITING CONVENTIONS FOLLOWED

IN THIS MANUAL ......................................................1

CHAPTER 1 PREPARATION

MOBILE INSTALLATION ..........................................2

DC POWER CABLE CONNECTION ......................... 3

Mobile Operation ..................................................3

Fixed Station Operation ........................................4

Replacing Fuses ...................................................5

ANTENNA CONNECTION ........................................ 5

ACCESSORY CONNECTIONS ................................ 6

External Speaker .................................................. 6

Microphone ...........................................................6

PC Connection ..................................................... 7

CHAPTER 2 YOUR FIRST QSO CHAPTER 3 GETTING ACQUAINTED

FRONT PANEL .........................................................9

DISPLAY .................................................................10

REAR PANEL ..........................................................12

MICROPHONE ........................................................12

MIC KEYPAD DIRECT ENTRY ....................................13

CHAPTER 4 OPERATING BASICS

SWITCHING THE POWER ON/OFF ......................14

ADJUSTING THE VOLUME ....................................14

ADJUSTING THE SQUELCH .................................14

TRANSMITTING .....................................................15

SELECTING AN OUTPUT POWER ................................15

SELECTING A FREQUENCY ................................. 15

CHAPTER 5 MENU SETUP

WHAT IS A MENU? ................................................18

MENU ACCESS ......................................................18

MENU FUNCTION LIST ..........................................19

CHAPTER 6 OPERATING THROUGH REPEATERS

OFFSET PROGRAMMING FLOW .......................... 22

PROGRAMMING AN OFFSET ............................... 23

AUTOMATIC REPEATER OFFSET ........................ 25

TRANSMITTING A 1750 Hz TONE .........................25

REVERSE FUNCTION ............................................26

AUTOMATIC SIMPLEX CHECK (ASC) .................. 26

TONE FREQUENCY ID SCAN ............................... 27

CHAPTER

NUMBER OF MEMORY CHANNELS .....................28

SIMPLEX & REPEATER OR ODD-SPLIT

MEMORY CHANNEL? ............................................28

STORING SIMPLEX FREQUENCIES OR

STANDARD REPEATER FREQUENCIES ............. 29

STORING ODD-SPLIT REPEATER

FREQUENCIES ......................................................30

RECALLING A MEMORY CHANNEL ..................... 30

VFO MODE ..........................................................15

MHz MODE ..........................................................16

DIRECT FREQUENCY ENTRY .....................................16

SELECTING AN OFFSET DIRECTION ............................23

SELECTING AN OFFSET FREQUENCY ...........................23

ACTIVATING THE TONE FUNCTION ..............................24

SELECTING A TONE FREQUENCY ................................24

MEMORY CHANNELS

USING THE TUNING CONTROL ...................................30

USING THE MICROPHONE KEYPAD .............................31

CLEARING A MEMORY CHANNEL ....................... 31

NAMING A MEMORY CHANNEL ........................... 32

MEMORY CHANNEL TRANSFER .......................... 33

EMORY

VFO TRANSFER ...................................33

CHANNEL \ CHANNEL TRANSFER .............................33

CALL CHANNEL .....................................................35

RECALLING THE CALL CHANNEL ................................35

REPROGRAMMING THE CALL CHANNEL ........................35

WEATHER ALERT (K MARKET MODELS ONLY) ..........36

PROGRAMMING THE WEATHER RADIO FREQUENCY .......36

ENABLING A WEATHER ALERT ...................................36

CHANNEL DISPLAY ............................................... 37

CHAPTER 8 SCAN

NORMAL SCAN ...................................................... 40

BAND SCAN ...........................................................40

PROGRAM SCAN .....................................................40

MHz SCAN ...........................................................41

MEMORY SCAN .....................................................42

ALL-CHANNEL SCAN ...............................................42

GROUP SCAN .........................................................42

CALL SCAN ............................................................ 43

PRIORITY SCAN ....................................................43

PROGRAMMING A PRIORITY CHANNEL .........................43

USING PRIORITY SCAN ............................................44

MEMORY CHANNEL LOCKOUT ............................ 44

SCAN RESUME METHOD .....................................45

CHAPTER 9 SELECTIVE CALL

CTCSS AND DCS ................................................... 46

CTCSS ....................................................................46

SELECTING A CTCSS FREQUENCY ...........................47

CTCSS FREQUENCY ID SCAN ................................47

DCS .........................................................................48

ELECTING A DCS CODE ........................................48

DCS CODE ID SCAN .............................................49

CHAPTER 10 DUAL TONE MULTI-FREQUENCY

(DTMF) FUNCTIONS

MANUAL DIALING .................................................. 50

DTMF MONITOR ....................................................50

DTMF TX HOLD ...................................................51

AUTOMATIC DIALER ............................................. 51

STORING A DTMF NUMBER IN MEMORY ....................51

CONFIRMING STORED DTMF NUMBERS .....................52

TRANSMITTING A STORED DTMF NUMBER .................52

ADJUSTING THE DTMF TONE TRANSMISSION SPEED ....52

ADJUSTING THE PAUSE DURATION .............................53

DTMF LOCK ............................................................53

CHAPTER 11 AUXILIARY FUNCTIONS

APO (AUTO POWER OFF) .....................................54

BEAT SHIFT ............................................................54

S-METER SQUELCH .............................................. 54

SQUELCH HANG TIME ..............................................55

BEEP FUNCTION ...................................................55

BUSY CHANNEL LOCKOUT .................................. 56

FREQUENCY STEP SIZE ......................................56

iii

DISPLAY BACKLIGHT ............................................ 57

PERMANENT BACKLIGHT ...........................................57

AUTOMATIC BACKLIGHT ............................................57

LOCK FUNCTION ................................................... 58

TUNE ENABLE .......................................................58

MICROPHONE PF KEYS (KEYPAD MODELS ONLY) ....59

NARROW BAND FM OPERATION ......................... 60

POWER-ON MESSAGE .........................................60

PROGRAMMABLE VFO ......................................... 61

TIME-OUT TIMER ................................................... 62

CHAPTER 12 MICROPHONE CONTROL

MIC LOCK ............................................................... 64

CHAPTER 13 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES CHAPTER 14 TROUBLESHOOTING

MAINTENANCE ......................................................66

GENERAL INFORMATION ............................................66

SERVICE ................................................................66

SERVICE NOTE .......................................................66

CLEANING ..............................................................67

RESETTING THE TRANSCEIVER ......................... 67

INITIAL SETTINGS ....................................................67

FULL RESET ..........................................................67

VFO RESET ..........................................................68

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................69

SPECIFICATIONS INDEX

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

sserP ]YEK[ .esaelerdnasserP YEK . sserP

)s1(]YEK[ .

dlohdnasserP YEK rodnoces1rof

.regnol

sserP

]1YEK[ , ]2YEK[ .

sserP 1YEK esaeler,yliratnemom 1YEK sserpneht, 2YEK .

sserP

]2YEK[+]1YEK[ .

dlohdnasserP 1YEK sserpneht,

2YEK 2nahteromeraerehtfI.

niyekhcaedlohdnasserp,syek

neebsahyeklanifehtlitnunrut

.desserp

sserP

][+]YEK[ .

,FFOrewopreviecsnartehthtiW

dlohdnasserp YEK ehtnrutneht,

gnisserpybNOrewopreviecsnart

][ .)hctiwSrewoP(

Instruction What to do

WRITING CONVENTIONS FOLLOWED IN THIS MANUAL

After carefully unpacking the transceiver, identify the items listed in the table below. We recommend you keep the box and packaging for shipping.

A market area code (K, E, M2) can be found on the label attached to the package box.

Accessory Qty

Microphone DC power cable (Blade) 1

Fuse (Blade) 1 Mounting bracket 1 Screw set 1 Microphone hanger 1 Warranty card (K, E market only) 1 Instruction manual 1

M2 market (KMC-30) K, E market (DTMF Mic)

The writing conventions described below have been followed to simplify instructions and avoid unnecessary repetition.

PREPARATION

MOBILE INSTALLATION

To install the transceiver, select a safe, convenient location inside your vehicle that minimizes danger to your passengers and yourself while the vehicle is in motion. Consider installing the unit at an appropriate position so that knees or legs will not strike it during sudden braking of your vehicle. Try to pick a well ventilated location that is shielded from direct sunlight.

Install the mounting bracket in the vehicle using the

supplied self-tapping screws (4), flat washers (4), and spring washers (4).

• The bracket must be installed so that the 3 screw hole

positions on the side of the mounting bracket are towards the rear of the bracket.

Self-tapping screw (5 mm x 16 mm)

Spring washer

Flat washer

Position the transceiver, then insert and tighten

the supplied hexagon SEMS screws (4) and flat washers (4).

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

SEMS

screw

• Determine the appropriate angle of the transceiver, using the 3 screw hole positions on the side of the mounting bracket.

DC POWER CABLE CONNECTION

Locate the power input connector as close to the transceiver as possible.

MOBILE OPERATION

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, or transmit output power may drop excessively.

Route the DC power cable supplied with the

transceiver directly to the vehicle’s battery terminals using the shortest path from the transceiver.

• If using a noise filter, it should be installed with an insulator to prevent it from touching metal on the vehicle.

• We recommend you do not use the cigarette lighter socket as some cigarette lighter sockets introduce an unacceptable voltage drop.

• The entire length of the cable must be dressed so it is isolated from heat, moisture, and the engine secondary (high voltage) ignition system/ cables.

After the cable is in place, wrap heat-resistant tape

around the fuse holder to protect it from moisture and tie down the full run of cable.

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, then

attach the power cable to the battery terminals; red connects to the positive (+) terminal and black connects to the negative (–) terminal.

• Use the full length of the cable without cutting off excess even if the cable is longer than required. In particular, never remove the fuse holders from the cable.

Red

Black

Fuse holder

Reconnect any wiring removed from the negative

terminal.

Connect the DC power cable to the transceiver’s

power supply connector.

• Press the connectors firmly together until the locking tab clicks.

Fuse holder

FIXED STATION OPERATION

In order to use this transceiver for fixed station operation, you will need a separate 13.8 V DC power supply (not included). The recommended current capacity of your power supply is 14 A or more.

Connect the DC power cable to the regulated DC

power supply and ensure that the polarities are correct (Red: positive, Black: negative).

• 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.

Connect the transceiver’s DC power connector to the

connector on the DC power cable.

• Press the connectors firmly together until the locking tab clicks.

Fuse holder

Black (–)

Red (+)

To AC outlet

Regulated DC power supply

Note:

◆

For your transceiver to fully exhibit its performance capabilities,

we recommend using the optional PS-60 (22.5 A, 25% duty cycle) power supply.

◆

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.

REPLACING FUSES

reviecsnarTA51

yrosseccAdeilppuS

elbaCrewoPCD

A02

Fuse Location Fuse Current Rating

ANTENNA CONNECTION

If the fuse blows, determine the cause, then correct the problem. After the problem is resolved, replace the fuse. If newly installed fuses continue to blow, disconnect the power cable and contact your authorized dealer or an authorized

Kenwood

service center for

Kenwood

assistance.

Only use fuses of the specified type and rating; otherwise the transceiver could be damaged.

If you use the transceiver for a long period when the vehicle

Note:

battery is not fully charged, or when the engine is OFF, the battery may become discharged, and will not have sufficient reserves to start the vehicle. Avoid using the transceiver under these conditions.

Before operating, install an efficient, well-tuned antenna. The success of your 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 are given careful attention.

Use a 50 Ω impedance antenna and low-loss coaxial feed line that has a characteristic impedance of 50 Ω, to match the transceiver input impedance. Coupling the antenna to the transceiver via feed lines having an impedance other than 50 Ω reduces the efficiency of the antenna system and can cause interference to nearby broadcast television receivers, radio receivers, and other electronic equipment.

E market models use an N-type antenna connector while

Note:

other models use an M-type (SO-239) connector.

◆

Transmitting without first connecting an antenna or other

matched load may damage the transceiver. Always connect the antenna to the transceiver before transmitting.

◆

All fixed stations should be equipped with a lightning arrester to

reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and transceiver damage.

Antenna connector

To antenna

Feed line connector

ACCESSORY CONNECTIONS

MICROPHONE

XTERNAL SPEAKER

If you plan to use an external speaker, choose a speaker with an impedance of 8 Ω. The external speaker jack accepts a 3.5 mm (1/8") mono (2-conductor) plug. We recommend using the SP-50B speaker.

For voice communications, connect a 600 Ω microphone equipped with an 8-pin modular plug into the modular socket on the front of the main unit. Press firmly on the plug until the locking tab clicks.

Attach the supplied microphone hanger in an appropriate location using the screws included in the screw set.

Microphone hanger

Microphone hanger screw (3 mm x 10 mm)

Keypad serial data No Connection MIC, 600 Ω impedance GND (MIC) PTT GND DC 8 V, 100 mA max No Connection

PC CONNECTION

To utilize the optional MCP-1A software, you must first connect the transceiver to your PC using an optional Programming Cable (via the microphone jack).

The MCP-1A is free downloadable software available from

Kenwood

http://www.kenwood.com/i/products/info/amateur/software_download.html

Ask your dealer about purchasing a Programming Cable.

Note:

at the following URL:

YOUR FIRST QSO

Are you ready to give your transceiver a quick try? Reading this section should get your voice on the air right away. The instructions below are intended only as a quick guide. If you encounter problems or there is something you would like to know more, read the detailed explanations given later in this manual.

5 6

Press [ ] (Power) briefly to switch the transceiver

power ON.

• A high pitched double beep sounds and a Power-on message appears momentarily. The various indicators and the current operating frequency appear on the LCD.

• The transceiver stores the current parameters when it is turned OFF and automatically recalls those parameters the next time you turn the transceiver ON.

Turn the

Volume

control clockwise, to the 12 o’clock

position.

Turn the

Tuning

control to select a reception

frequency.

• You may further turn the volume level of the signal.

To transmit, hold the microphone approximately 5 cm

Volume

control to adjust the

(2 inches) from your mouth.

Press and hold Mic

, then speak in your normal

[PTT]

tone of voice.

Release Mic

Repeat steps 4, 5, and 6 to continue

[PTT]

to receive.

communication.

GETTING ACQUAINTED

FRONT PANEL

This section describes only the main functions of the front

Note:

panel controls. Explanations for functions not described here are provided in the appropriate sections of this instruction manual.

(Power) switch/ Volume control

=B>

;

Press to switch the transceiver power ON or OFF

{page 14}.

Turn to adjust the level of the receive audio from the

speaker {page 14}.

MENU button/ Tuning control

Press to enter MHz Mode {page 16}. In this mode,

you can change the operating frequency in 1 MHz steps using the

Tuning

Press and hold for 1 second while in VFO Mode to begin MHz Scan {page 41} or while in MR Mode to begin Group Scan {page 42}.

control or Mic

[UP]/[DWN]

Press

then press

[F]

[MENU]

to enter Menu Mode

{page 18}.

Turn to select:

• Operating frequencies when in VFO Mode {page 15}.

• Memory Channels when in Memory Recall Mode {page 30}.

• Menu Nos. when in Menu Mode {page 18}.

• Scan direction while scanning {pages 27, 39, 47, 49}.

CALL key

Press to recall the Call Channel {page 35}. Press and

hold for 1 second while in VFO Mode to begin Call/ VFO Scan {page 43}. Press and hold for 1 second while in Memory Recall Mode to begin Call/ Memory Scan {page 43}.

Press

then press

[F]

[CALL]

to activate the Tone {page

24}, CTCSS {page 46}, or DCS {page 48} function.

VFO key

Press to enter VFO Mode {page 15}. In this mode,

you can change the operating frequency using the

Tuning

control or Mic

[UP]/[DWN]

. Press and hold for 1 second while in VFO Mode to begin Band Scan {page 40}. Press and hold for 1 second while in VFO Mode after programming a scan range to begin Program Scan {page 40}.

In MR Mode, press

2 3

5 6 7

17 16 15 14 13 12

1110

the contents of the selected Memory Channel to the VFO {page 33}.

MR key

Press to enter Memory Recall Mode {page 30}. In this

mode, you can change memory channels using the

Tuning

for 1 second while in Memory Recall Mode to begin Memory Scan {page 42}.

Press

channel, then press Channel or a Memory Channel {page 29}.

REV key

Press to switch the transmit frequency and receive

frequency when operating with an offset {page 23} or an odd-split Memory Channel {page 28}.

Press

control to increase or decrease the squelch level {page 14}.

Press and hold for 1 second to lock the transceiver

keys {page 58}.

Press momentarily to access the second functions of

the transceiver keys.

control or Mic

, use the

[F]

then press

[F]

/F key

then press

[F]

[UP]/[DWN]

Tuning

[MR]

[REV]

to transfer

[VFO]

. Press and hold

control to select the desired

to reprogram the Call

and rotate the

Tuning

DISPLAY

Appears when the CTCSS function is activated {page 46}.

Appears when the Tone function is activated {page 24}.

Appears when the DCS function is activated {page 48}.

Appears when the repeater shift function is activated {pages 23, 30}. (“ ” is not used on this transceiver.)

Appears when the Reverse function is activated {page 26}.

Appears when the Automatic Simplex Check (ASC) function is activated {page 26}.

Appears when the Priority Scan function is activated {page 44}.

Appears when the Weather Alert function is activated {page 36}. (K market models only.)

Appears when narrow FM Mode is selected {page 60}.

Displays the frequencies, Menu settings, Memory name and other information.

Displays the Menu No., Memory Channel number, and status {pages 18, 29}.

Appears when the displayed Memory Channel has data {page 29}.

Appears when the Key Lock function is ON {page 58}.

Appears when the Memory Channel Lockout function is ON {page 44}.

Shows the strength of transmitted {page 15} and received {page 54} signals.

indicates the squelch is open and the frequency is “busy”. It also appears when the squelch is set to minimum {page 14}. If using CTCSS or DCS, it indicates the squelch is open due to a received signal that contains the same CTCSS tone or DCS code that is set in your transceiver.

acts as an S-meter while

receiving and an RF power meter while transmitting.

indicates the transceiver is transmitting.

Appears when the function key is pressed.

H appears when high power transmission is selected and L appears when low power is selected {page 15}. (“M” is not used on this transceiver.)

REAR PANEL

; =

B >

@ .

Antenna connector

Connect an external antenna {page 5} here. When

making test transmissions, connect a dummy load in place of the antenna. The antenna system or load should have an impedance of 50 Ω.

E market models use an N-type antenna connector while

Note:

other models use an M-type (SO-239) connector.

Power Input 13.8 V DC cable

Connect a 13.8 V DC power source here. Use the

supplied DC power cable {pages 3, 4}.

MICROPHONE

DTMF Microphone Microphone (KMC-30)

PTT (Push-to-Talk) switch

Press and hold to transmit. Release to receive.

key

[PTT]

, then press

[DWN/ ]

to transmit .

DWN/

Press to lower the operating frequency, Memory

Channel number, Menu Number, etc. Hold down to repeat the action. Also press to switch between values for functions with multiple choices. Press and hold Mic

UP/

SP (speaker) jack

If desired, connect an optional external speaker for

clearer audio. This jack accepts a 3.5 mm (1/8") mono (2-conductor) plug. See page 6.

Press to raise the operating frequency, Memory

Channel number, Menu Number, etc. Hold down to repeat the action. Also press to switch between values for functions with multiple choices. Press and hold Mic

[PTT]

, then press

[UP/ ]

to transmit .

CALL/A key

MIC KEYPAD DIRECT ENTRY

Identical to the front panel

reprogrammed if desired {page 59}. Press and hold Mic

VFO/B key

Identical to the front panel

reprogrammed if desired {page 59}. Press and hold Mic

MR/C key

Identical to the front panel

reprogrammed if desired {page 59}. Press and hold Mic

PF/D key

The default function of this key is 1 MHz step. This

key can be reprogrammed if desired {page 59}. Press and hold Mic

DTMF keypad

This 16-key keypad is used for DTMF functions

{page 50} or to directly enter an operating frequency {page 16}, or a Memory Channel number {page 30}. The keypad can also be used to program a Memory Channel name, Power-on message, or other character strings {page 63}.

[PTT]

, then press

[PTT]

[CALL/A]

[VFO/B]

[MR/C]

key. This key can be

CALL

to transmit A.

key. This key can be

VFO

to transmit B.

key. This key can be

to transmit C.

to transmit D.

[PF/D]

The microphone keypad (keypad models only) allows you to make various entries depending on which mode the transceiver is in.

In VFO or Memory Recall mode, use the Mic keypad to select a frequency {page 16} or Memory Channel number {page 30}. First press the Mic PF key assigned the ENTER function {page 59}.

To manually send a DTMF number, press and hold Mic

, then press the DTMF keys on the Mic keypad {page

[PTT]

50} in sequence.

You can also use the Mic keypad to program a Memory Channel name, Power-on message, or other character strings {page 63}.

OPERATING BASICS

SWITCHING THE POWER ON/OFF

Press

ON.

• A high pitched double beep sounds and a Power-on message {page 60} appears briefly, followed by the frequency and other indicators.

To switch the transceiver OFF, press

• When you turn the transceiver OFF, a low pitched double beep sounds.

• The transceiver stores the current frequency and parameters when it is turned OFF and recalls these parameters the next time you turn the transceiver ON.

(Power) to switch the transceiver power

[ ]

(Power)

[ ]

(1s)

ADJUSTING THE VOLUME

Turn the

Volume

output level and counterclockwise to decrease the output level.

• If you are not receiving a signal, press the Mic PF key assigned the MONI function {page 59}, then adjust the

Volume

the MONI key again to cancel the Monitor function.

control to a comfortable audio output level. Press

control clockwise to increase the audio

ADJUSTING THE SQUELCH

The purpose of Squelch is to mute the speaker when no signals are present. With the squelch level correctly set, you will hear sound only while actually receiving signals. The higher the selected squelch level, the stronger the signals must be to receive. The appropriate squelch level depends on the ambient RF noise conditions.

Press

[F], [REV]

• The current squelch level appears.

Turn the

• Select the level at which the background noise is just

• The higher the level, the stronger the signals must be to

• 10 different levels can be set.

Press any key other than

Tuning

eliminated when no signal is present.

receive.

(0: Minimum ~ 9: Maximum; 1 is the default value,)

new setting and exit the squelch adjustment.

control to adjust the level.

(Power) to store the

[ ]

TRANSMITTING

To transmit, hold the microphone approximately 5 cm

(2 inches) from your mouth, then press and hold Mic

and speak into the microphone in your normal

[PTT]

tone of voice.

• “ ” and the RF Power meter appears. The RF Power meter shows the relative transmit output power (

• If you press Mic transmission coverage, a high pitched error beep sounds.

When you finish speaking, release Mic

If you continuously transmit for longer than the time specified

Note:

in Menu No. 21 (default is 10 minutes) {page 62}, the internal timeout timer generates a warning beep and the transceiver stops transmitting. In this case, release Mic cool down for a while, then press Mic transmission.

[PTT]

while you are outside the

[PTT]

and let the transceiver

[PTT]

again to resume

[PTT]

SELECTING AN OUTPUT POWER

You can configure different power levels for transmission.

Press

[F], [MENU]

select Menu No. 6 (TXP).

and turn the

Tuning

control to

Press

[MENU]

to store the setting or any other key to

cancel.

Press any key other than

◆

Do not transmit at high output power for an extended period of

time. The transceiver could overheat and malfunction.

◆

Continuous transmission causes the heat sink to overheat.

Never touch the heat sink when it may be hot.

When the transceiver overheats because of ambient high

Note:

temperature or continuous transmission, the protective circuit may function to lower transmit output power.

[MENU]

to exit Menu Mode.

SELECTING A FREQUENCY VFO M

This is the basic mode for changing the operating frequency. To enter VFO Mode, press

Turn the frequency and counterclockwise to decrease the frequency, or use Mic

ODE

Tuning

[VFO]

control clockwise to increase the

[UP]/[DWN]

Press

[MENU]

and turn the

Tuning

control to select “H”

• Press and hold Mic repeatedly.

[UP]/[DWN]

to step the frequency

(high; default) or “L” (low) power.

MHZ MODE

DIRECT FREQUENCY ENTRY

If the desired operating frequency is far away from the current frequency, it is quicker to use the MHz Tuning Mode.

To adjust the MHz digit:

While in VFO or Call Mode, press

• The MHz digit blinks.

Turn the

Tuning

control to select the desired MHz

[MENU]

value.

Press any key to set the selected frequency and return

to normal VFO Mode.

Continue adjusting the frequency as necessary, using

the

Tuning

control or Mic

[UP]/[DWN]

In addition to turning the

[UP]/[DWN]

, there is another way to select the frequency.

Tuning

control or pressing Mic

When the desired frequency is far away from the current frequency, you can directly enter a frequency using the Mic keypad (keypad models only).

Press

• You must be in VFO mode to make a direct frequency entry.

Press the Mic PF key assigned the ENTER function

[VFO]

{page 59}.

Press the numeric keys (

[0]

) to enter your

[9]

desired frequency.

• Pressing Mic you did not enter) with 0 and completes the entry. For example, to select 145.000 MHz, press press Mic

• If you want to revise the MHz digits only, leaving the kHz digits as they are, press Mic

Enter

fills all remaining digits (the digits

Enter

to complete the entry.

[VFO]

[1], [4], [5]

in place of Mic

and

Enter

Example 1

To enter 145.750 MHz: Key in Display

[Enter] [1], [4], [5] [7], [5], [0]

– – – – – –

1 4 5. – – – 1 4 5. 7 5 0

Example 2

To enter 145.000 MHz: Key in Display

[Enter] [1], [4], [5] [Enter]

– – – – – –

1 4 5. – – –

1 4 5. 0 0 0

Example 3

To change 144.650 MHz to 145.650 MHz: Key in Display 1 4 4. 6 5 0

[Enter] [1], [4], [5]

Mic

– – – – – –

1 4 5. – – –

1 4 5. 6 5 0

[VFO]

If the entered frequency does not match the current frequency

Note:

step size, the frequency is automatically rounded down to the next available frequency. When the desired frequency cannot be entered exactly, confirm the frequency step size {page 56}.

MENU SETUP

WHAT IS A MENU?

Many functions on this transceiver are selected or configured via a software-controlled Menu rather than through the physical controls of the transceiver. Once you become familiar with the Menu system, you will appreciate its versatility. You can customize the various timings, settings, and programming functions on this transceiver to meet your needs without using many controls and switches.

MENU ACCESS

Press

[F], [MENU]

• A brief explanation of the menu, and the setting and Menu No. appear on the display.

Menu Name Setting Menu Number

Turn the

• As you change the Menu No., a brief explanation of each

Press

currently selected Menu No.

Turn the

parameter.

Press

key to cancel.

Press any key other than

Tuning

menu appears along with its current parameter.

[MENU]

Tuning

[MENU]

control to select your desired Menu.

to configure the parameter of the

control to select your desired

to store the new setting or any other

[MENU]

to exit Menu Mode.

+ 56 hidden pages

Kenwood TM-281A, TM-281E User Manual

CONTENTS

PREPARATION

YOUR FIRST QSO

MENU SETUP