INSTRUCTION MANUAL

144/440 MHz FM DUAL BANDER

TM-V71A

144/430 MHz FM DUAL BANDER

TM-V71A/ TM-V71E

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 is intended for use in all EU countries and CH, LI, IS and NO, and requires a license.
B62192600 (K, E, M4) 01 00

Thank You

We are grateful you decided to purchase this Kenwood FM transceiver. Kenwood always provides Amateur Radio products which surprise and excite serious hobbyists. This transceiver is no exception. Kenwood believes that this product will satisfy your requirements for both voice and data communications.

Features

This transceiver has the following main features:
Enhanced Programmable Memory (PM) channels store virtually entire current operating environments for your quick recall. Contains a total of 1000 Memory channels to program frequencies and other various data. Allows each Memory channel to be named using up to 6 alphanumeric characters. Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) or Digital Code Squelch (DCS) rejects unwanted calls from other stations.
Writing Conventions Followed in this Manual
The writing conventions described below have been followed to simplify instructions and avoid unnecessary repetition.
Instruction Press [KEY]. Press [KEY] (1s). Press [KEY1], [KEY2]. Press [F], [KEY]. Press [KEY] + Power ON. Action Momentarily press KEY. Press and hold KEY for 1 second or longer. Press KEY1 momentarily, release KEY1, then press KEY2. Press the F key to enter Function mode, then press KEY to access its secondary function. With the transceiver power OFF, press and hold KEY while turning the transceiver power ON.
Information on Disposal of Old Electrical and Electronic Equipment (applicable for EU countries that have adopted separate waste collection systems) Products with the symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) cannot be disposed as household waste. Old electrical and electronic equipment 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.

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 in such a case where the room is warmed using a heater on cold days or where the transceiver is quickly moved from a cold room to a warm room. 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 just wait for a while. When the condensation droplets disappear, the transceiver will function normally.

CONTENTS

Preparation...1 Supplied Accessories..1 Mobile Installation...1 Power Cable Connection...2 Antenna Connection...5. Front Panel Orientation..6 Accessory Connections..7 GETTING ACQUAINTED...8. Front Panel...8 Display...10 Rear Panel...12 Sub-Panel....12 Microphone (MC-59)...13 BASIC OPERATIONS..14. Switching THE Power ON/ OFF..14 Adjusting the Volume...14 Adjusting the Squelch...15 Selecting a Band...15 Selecting Dual Band Mode/ Single Band Mode..16 Selecting a Frequency Band..17 Selecting an Operating Mode..18 Transmitting...19 Menu Mode...20 Menu Access....20 Menu Configuration...20 Character Entry..24 Operating Through Repeaters..26 Repeater Access...26 Transmitting a 1750 Hz Tone..30 Reverse Function...30. Automatic Simplex Checker (ASC)..30 Tone Frequency ID...31 iii
Memory Channels...32 Simplex & Repeater or Odd-Split Memory Channel?...32 Storing Simplex and Standard Repeater Frequencies....33 Storing Odd-Split Repeater Frequencies.33 Recalling a MemorY Channel..34 Clearing a Memory Channel..35 Naming a Memory Channel..35 Switching the Memory Name/ Frequency Display.36. Memory-to-VFO Transfer..36 Channel Display Function..36. Programmable Memory (PM)...38 Application examples...39 Storing Data in PM Channels..40 Recalling PM Channels..40 Auto PM Channel Store..41 PM Channel Reset...41 Scan...42 Selecting a Scan Resume Method..43 VFO Scan...43 Memory Scan...44 Group Scan...45 Program Scan...46 MHz Scan...48 Call Scan...48. CONTINUOUS TONE CODED SQUELCH SYSTEM (CTCSS).49 Using CTCSS...49 CTCSS Frequency ID...51 DIGITAL CODED SQUELCH (DCS)..52. Using DCS...52 DCS Code ID...54 DUAL TONE MULTI-FREQUENCY (DTMF)..55 Manual Dialing..55 Automatic dialer..56 iv
DTMF Key Lock...58 EchoLink....59 What is EchoLink?...59. Storing EchoLink Memory...59 Setting up EchoLink Sysop Mode...61 Auxiliary Functions..62 Power-On Message...62 Display Brightness...62 Key Lock...63 Key Beep...64 Programmable VFO...64 Changing the Frequency Step Size.65. Programmable Function Keys...66 Frequency Direct Entry...67 Automatic Power OFF (APO)..67 S-Meter Squelch..68. Advanced Intercept Point (AIP)..68 Switching FM/AM Mode...69 Beat Shift....69 Speaker Mute...69 Selecting an Output Power...70 Time-out Timer (TOT)...70 External Speaker Configuration..71 Masking a band...71 Display Partition Bar..72. Weather Alert (K type models only)..73 Power on Password...74 VGS-1 OPTIONAL VOICE GUIDE & STORAGE UNIT..75. Voice Announcements...75 Voice Recorder...78. Cross-Band/ Locked-Band Operation (K type models only)...81. Repeater Hold...82. Repeater ID...82

SEMS screw (M4 x 10 mm) Set an appropriate angle for the main unit, using the 3 screw slots on the rear edge of each bracket side.

Power Cable Connection

n Mobile Operation
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 the transmit output power may drop excessively. Never connect the transceiver to a 24 V battery
Note: If you use the transceiver for a long period when the vehicle 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.
1 Route the DC power cable supplied with the transceiver directly to the vehicles battery terminals using the shortest path from the transceiver.
When using a noise filter, it should be installed with an insulator to prevent it from touching metal on the vehicle. We do not recommend using a cigarette lighter socket as some cigarette lighter sockets introduce an unacceptable voltage drop. 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. Dismantle the fuse holder to pass the cable through the firewall. 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.
2 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. 3 To prevent the risk of short circuits, disconnect other wiring from the negative () battery terminal before connecting the transceiver. 4 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.
5 Reconnect any wiring removed from the negative terminal. 6 Connect the DC power cable to the transceiver.

Press the connectors firmly together until the locking tab clicks. Engine compartment Fuse holder (E type) Black () cable Passenger compartment
Fuse holder (K, M4 types)
Red (+) cable Fuse holder (K, M4 types) Rubber grommet Fuse holder (E type)

12 V vehicle battery

DC power cable
n Fixed Station Operation
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. The recommended current capacity of the power supply is 12 A.
Note: Do not plug the DC power supply into an AC outlet until you make all connections.
1 Ensure that the transceiver and DC power supply are both OFF. 2 Connect the DC power cable to the regulated DC power supply and ensure that the polarities are correct (Red: positive, Black: negative).
Use the supplied DC power cable to connect the transceiver to a regulated power supply. Do not directly connect the transceiver to an AC outlet. Do not substitute the cable with smaller gauge wires.
3 Connect the DC power cable to the transceiver.
Press the connectors firmly together until the locking tab clicks.
Note: For your transceiver to fully exhibit its performance capabilities, we recommend using an optional PS-33 (20.5 A, 25% duty cycle) power supply.

Fuse holder (E type)

Black () cable

Red (+) cable

Fuse holder (K, M4 types) Fuse holder (E type)
Regulated DC power supply

n Replacing Fuses

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 Kenwood dealer or an authorized Kenwood service center for assistance.
Fuse Location Transceiver (located on the DC connector) Supplied DC power cable Fuse Current Rating 15 A 20A
Only use fuses of the specified type and rating; otherwise the transceiver could be damaged.
Fuse holder (E type) Fuse
Fuse holder (K, M4 types) Fuse holder Fuse

Fuse holder

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

u Transmitting without first connecting an antenna or other matched load may damage the transceiver. Always connect the antenna to the transceiver before transmitting. u All fixed stations should be equipped with a lightning arrester to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or transceiver damage.

Antenna terminal

Feed line connector

To antenna

Front Panel Orientation
This transceiver allows you to change the orientation of the front panel. Depending on where/how you installed the transceiver you may wish to flip the front panel upside-down for easier operation. 1 On the right side of the front panel, pull the panel release latch forward.
2 Slide the front panel to the left, then pull it away from the main body of the transceiver.
3 Flip the front panel upside-down, then reattach it to the main body of the transceiver.

Accessory Connections

n External Speakers
If you plan to use external speakers, choose speakers with an impedance of 8. The external speaker jacks accept a 3.5 mm (1/8) mono (2-conductor) plug. We recommend using SP-50B speakers. There are 2 speaker jacks on the rear of the transceiver: SP 1 and SP 2. Refer to page 71 to determine how the speakers will be used.

SP 1 jack

External speakers (SP-50B) SP 2 jack

n Microphone

To communicate using voice, connect the supplied microphone to the MIC jack on the left side of the transceiver. Press firmly on the plug until the locking tab clicks.
MIC jack Microphone connector

GETTING ACQUAINTED

Front Panel
q VFO Press [VFO] to enter VFO mode {page 18}, then rotate the Tuning control to select an operating frequency. Press [VFO] (1s) to start VFO scan {page 43}. Press [F], [VFO] to copy the current Memory channel or Call channel to the VFO (memory shift) {page 36}. w MR Press [MR] to enter Memory Channel mode {page 18}, then rotate the Tuning control to select a Memory channel. Press [MR] (1s) to start Memory scan {page 44}. Select a Memory channel, then press [F], [MR] to store the current operating frequency in the Memory channel {page 33}. e Tuning Control Rotate to select an operating frequency or Memory channel, change the scan direction, select a tone frequency, etc. Press the Tuning control to enter MHz mode (while in VFO or Call mode) or to toggle the display between the channel name and frequency (while in Memory Channel mode). Press [F], then press the Tuning control to enter Menu mode {page 20}. Press the Tuning control (1s) to start MHz scan {page 48} or Group scan {page 45}. r CALL Press [CALL] to select the Call channel. Press [CALL] (1s) to start Call scan {page 48}. Press [F], [CALL] to store the current operating frequency to the Call channel {page 33}. t F Press [F] to enter Function mode. Press [F] (1s) to turn the transceiver key lock function ON or OFF {page 63}. y TONE Press [TONE] to turn the Tone function ON. Continually press [TONE] to toggle the functions as follows: Tone ON >> CTCSS ON >> DCS ON >> OFF. While Tone, CTCSS, or DCS is ON, press [F], [TONE] to enter CTCSS or DCS setup mode.

u REV Press [REV] to turn the Reverse function ON or OFF {page 30}. Press [REV] (1s) to turn the Automatic Simplex Checker ON {page 30}. Press [F], [REV] to enter Offset Direction selection mode. Each time you press [F], [REV], the offset direction toggles as follows: plus (+) direction > minus () direction > 7.6 MHz (E type only) > OFF. i LOW Press [LOW] to toggle the transmit output power as follows: High Power (K, E types only) > Middle Power > Low Power {page 70}. Press [F], [LOW] to turn the Mute function ON or OFF {page 69}. o PF1 Press [PF1] to activate its programmable function {page 66}. The default function is Frequency Band Select. !0 PF2 Press [PF2] to activate its programmable function {page 66}. The default function is Operation Band Select. !1 BAND SEL (VOL) Control Rotate the [BAND SEL] control to adjust the speaker volume {page 14}. Press the left [BAND SEL] to select the A band. Press the right [BAND SEL] to select the B band. Press [BAND SEL] (1s) to toggle between single and dual-band mode. !2 SQL Control Rotate the [SQL] control to adjust the squelch level. Clockwise opens the squelch and counterclockwise tightens the squelch {page 68}. !3 PM Press [PM] to enters the PM (Programmable Memory) channel selection mode {page 40}. Press [F], [PM] to enter PM Channel registration mode {page 40}. !4 Press [ ] to turn the transceiver power ON and OFF.

Display

< A Band > < B Band >

Indicator

Description
Appears when there is a transmission band available. Blinks when the cross-band repeater is ON (K type only). Appears when there is an operation band available. Blinks when the wireless remote control is ON (K type only). Appears when the Tone function is ON. Appears when the CTCSS function is ON. Appears when the DCS function is ON. Appears when the Shift function is set to plus. Appears when the Shift function is set to minus. Appears when the Reverse function is ON. Appears when the ASC function is ON. Blinks when the ASC function is performing an OK check. Appears while in AM mode. Appears while in Narrow FM mode. Appears when the selected channel is registered while in Memory Input mode. Displays the Memory channel and Menu number. Appears when the Memory Channel Lockout function is ON. Appears while using High output power. Blinks when the temperature protection circuit turns on. Appears while using Middle output power. Blinks when the temperature protection circuit turns on. Appears while using Low output power. Displays the operating frequency, Memory channel name, and Menu. Appears when receiving a busy signal. Performs as an S meter when receiving a signal and displays the selected power level while transmitting. Appears while transmitting.

Appears while using the data band. Appears when the data terminal is set as 9600 (bps). Appears when the frequency is set to ***,***,250 Hz. Appears when the frequency is set to ***,***,500 Hz. Appears when the frequency is set to ***,***,750 Hz. Appears when the frequency is set to ***,***,333 Hz. Appears when the frequency is set to ***,***,666 Hz. Appears when the F key is pressed. Appears when mute has been turned ON. Appears while making a conversation recording. Appears while in EchoLink Sysop mode. Appears when the Key Lock function is ON. Appears when making a PM channel call. Appears while in Menu mode and when the Tone/CTCSS/DCS code is selected. Blinks when recalling a PM channel and while writing to memory. Only the 1 will blink while recording or in playback mode. Appears while accessing the Menu. Blinks when recalling a PM channel and while writing to memory. Only the 2 will blink while recording or in playback mode. Appears when entering characters in Menu mode or entering a code. Blinks when recalling a PM channel and while writing to memory. Only the 3 will blink while recording or in playback mode Appears when entering characters in Menu mode or entering a code. Blinks when recalling a PM channel and while writing to memory. Only the 4 will blink while recording or in playback mode. Appears when entering characters in Menu mode or entering a code. Blinks when recalling a PM channel and while writing to memory. Appears when Weather Alert is ON. Blinks when receiving a signal (K type only).

Rear Panel

q ANT Connect an M-type (TM-V71A) or N-type (TM-V71E) external antenna to this terminal {page 5}. When making test transmissions, connect a dummy load in place of the antenna. The antenna system or load should have an impedance of 50. w DATA Connect a TNC unit to this terminal, via a 6-pin mini DIN connector. e PC Connect a personal computer to this terminal, via an 8-pin mini DIN connector. r SP (SP 1/ SP 2) If desired, connect 1 or 2 external speakers for clearer audio. These jacks accept 3.5 mm (1/8") diameter, 2-conductor plugs {page 7}. Refer to page 71 to determine how the speakers will be used.

Sub-Panel

q MIC Connect the supplied microphone to this jack {page 7}. w PANEL When using an optional panel kit, attach the panel to this terminal using the cable that comes with the panel kit.

Microphone (MC-59)

Microphone Jack
Keypad serial data No Connection MIC, 600 impedance GND (MIC) PTT GND DC 8 V, 100 mA max No Connection
q PTT switch Press and hold, then speak into the microphone to transmit. w DTMF keypad Press these keys to make DTMF calls, enter frequencies, or enter characters. e CALL/ A Functions the same as the transceiver front panel [CALL] key. This is also the PF4 key and can be reprogrammed with a programmable function {page 66}. r VFO/ B Functions the same as the transceiver front panel [VFO] key. This is also the PF3 key and can be reprogrammed with a programmable function {page 66}. t MR/ C Functions the same as the transceiver front panel [MR] key. This is also the PF2 key and can be reprogrammed with a programmable function {page 66}. y PF/ D Press to toggle between bands A and B. This is also the PF1 key and can be reprogrammed with a programmable function {page 66}. u UP/ DWN Functions the same as the transceiver Tuning control.

Note: u M4 type models do not have the following frequency bands available: 118, 220, 300, or 1200 (MHz). u E and M4 type models use the 430 MHz band and K type models use the 440 MHz band.

Frequency ranges:

118 MHz: 118 ~ 135.995 MHz 144 MHz: 136 ~ 199.995 MHz 220 MHz: 200 ~ 299.995 MHz 300 MHz: 300 ~ 399.995 MHz 430/440 MHz: 400 ~ 523.995 MHz 1200 MHz: 800 ~ 1299.995 MHz (excluding cellular band)
Selecting an Operating mode
There are 3 operating modes available to choose from: VFO mode, Memory Channel mode, and Call Channel mode.

VFO Mode

VFO mode allows you to manually change the operating frequency. 1 Press [VFO] to enter VFO mode.
2 Rotate the Tuning control to select your desired operating frequency.
You can also adjust the frequency by using the microphone [UP]/[DWN] keys. The default step frequency for the Tuning control varies according to the type and operating band: Type K E 144 MHz 5 kHz 12.5 kHz 430/440 MHz 25 kHz 25 kHz
MkHz 10 kHz To adjust the frequency by a larger amount, you can press the Tuning control to enter MHz mode. While in MHz mode, rotate the Tuning control to adjust the frequency in steps of 1 MHz. Press the Tuning control again to exit MHz mode and adjust the frequency using the normal step frequency. Using the MCP-2A (Memory Control Program), you can set the MHz mode step frequency to 10 MHz. Pressing the Tuning control will switch between 10 MHz, 1MHz, and off.

Memory Channel Mode

Memory Channel mode allows you to quickly select a frequently used frequency and related data which you have saved in the transceiver memory. 1 Press [MR] to enter Memory Channel mode.
2 Rotate the Tuning control to select your desired Memory channel. 18

Call Channel Mode

Call Channel mode allows you to quickly select a preset channel to allow immediate calls on that frequency. The Call channel can be conveniently used as an emergency channel within your group. 1 Select your desired band (A or B).
The Call channel has a dedicated frequency for both bands A and B. The default frequency for band A is 144 MHz. The default frequency for band B is 430/440 MHz.
2 Press [CALL] to enter Call Channel mode.
C appears on the display.
3 Press [CALL] again to return to your previous operating frequency.

Transmitting

1 Select your desired band and frequency/channel. 2 Press and hold the microphone [PTT] switch and speak into the microphone to transmit.

The last called DTMF Memory channel name and number appear on the display. If no name has been saved for the channel, the DTMF code appears.
3 While still transmitting, rotate the Tuning control to select your desired DTMF Memory channel, then press the Tuning control to set the channel.
Additionally, you can press a DTMF key corresponding to your desired channel ([0] ~ [9]) to select the channel and begin transmission. The stored DTMF code scrolls across the display and is transmitted. The code will be transmitted even if you release [PTT] before the entire code has scrolled across the display. If no DTMF code is stored in the selected channel, the frequency display is restored.
n Selecting a Transmit Speed
Some repeaters may not respond correctly if a DTMF code is transmitted at fast speed. If this happens, change the DTMF code transmission speed from FAST (default) to SLOW. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 302 (DT.SPD) {page 20}.
2 Set the speed to FAST or SLOW.
n Selecting a Pause Duration
You can change the pause duration stored in DTMF Memory channels; the default is 500 msec. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 303 (DT.PAUS) {page 20}.
2 Select a speed (in msec) from the available list: 100/ 250/ 500/ 750/ 1000/ 1500/ 2000.

DTMF Key Lock

This function will lock the DTMF transmission keys so that they will not transmit if they are accidentally pressed. To lock the DTMF keys, turn this function ON. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 304 (DT.LOCK) {page 20}.
2 Set the key lock to ON or OFF.

EchoLink

What is EchoLink?
EchoLink allows you to communicate with other amateur radio stations over the internet, using VoIP (voice-over-IP) technology. The EchoLink software program allows worldwide connections to be made between stations, or from computer to station, greatly enhancing your communications capabilities. To use EchoLink, you must register using your call sign on their website and download the EchoLink software program (free of charge). Refer to the website for PC hardware and other requirements. Official EchoLink Website: http://www.echolink.org
Note: EchoLink is a registered trademark of Synergenics, LLC.

Storing EchoLink memory

There are 10 dedicated EchoLink DTMF Memory channels available to store DTMF codes. You can store up to 8 digits in each channel. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 204 (ELK.MEM) {page 20}.
2 Rotate the Tuning control to select an EchoLink channel number from EL0 ~ EL9. 3 Press the Tuning control to set the selected channel number.

2 Enter your desired message {page 24}.
Press [PF1] (CLR) to clear the entire message, if necessary.

Display Brightness

You can manually change the display illumination to suit the lighting conditions where you are operating. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 501 (BRIGHT) {page 20}.
2 Set your desired brightness level from 1 to 8, or OFF.
n Auto Display Brightness
When Auto Brightness is activated, the display will light up every time a key is pressed. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 502 (AUTO.BR) {page 20}.
2 Set the Auto Brightness function to ON or OFF.

n Backlight Color

You can manually change the display illumination to suit the lighting conditions where you are operating. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 503 (COLOR) {page 20}.
2 Set the backlight color to AMBER or GREEN.

Key Lock

The Key Lock function ensures that your transceiver settings will remain unchanged if you accidentally press a key. When activated, the following functions can still be used:

[ ] [PTT]

To turn Key Lock ON or OFF, press [F] (1s).
When Key Lock is activated, the icon will appear on the display.

n Microphone Key Lock

The Microphone Key Lock function will lock the microphone PF (Progammable Function) keys. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 513 (MIC.LCK) {page 20}.
2 Turn the Micrphone Key Lock function ON or OFF.

Key Beep

You can turn the transceiver beep function ON or OFF as desired. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 000 (BEEP) {page 20}.
2 Turn the beep function ON or OFF.
Even with the beep function turned OFF, the transceiver will emit a beep tone under the following conditions: 1)When Auto Power Off is activated, the transceiver will beep 1 minute before the power turns off. 2)After transmitting for the maximum time duration according to the Time-out Timer, the transceiver will beep

n Beep Volume

Each time you press a key, the beep tone will sound. If you have left the beep function turned ON, you may wish to adjust the volume level of the beep. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 001 (BP.VOL) {page 20}.
2 Set the beep volume to a level from 1 to 7.

The default is level 5.

Programmable VFO
If you always check frequencies within a certain range, you can set upper and lower limits for frequencies that are selectable. For example, if you select 144 MHz for the lower limit and 145 MHz for the upper limit, the tunable range will be from 145.000 MHz to 146.995 MHz. 1 Press the left or right [BAND SEL] to set band A or B as the operating band, then press [VFO]. 2 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 100 (PRG.VFO) {page 20}. (Example: E type)

The Wealther Alert is available only in the USA and Canada. When activated, this function will check for a received NOAA 1050 Hz tone. When the tone is received, the weather alert tone will sound. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 110 (WX.ALT) {page 20}.
2 Set the Weather Alert to ON or OFF.
When activated, the icon appears on the display. When a signal is being received, the icon blinks.

n Weather Channel

Whether or not the Weather Alert is activated, you can still access the weather channels. The Weather Alert simply notifies you of activity on the weather channels. 1 Press the key programmed with the WX function. 2 Rotate the Tuning control to select your desired channel.
Channel No. A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 A10 Frequency (MHz) 162.550 162.400 162.475 162.425 162.450 162.500 162.525 161.650 161.775 163.275 Memory Name WX 1 WX 2 WX 3 WX 4 WX 5 WX 6 WX 7 WX 8 WX 9 WX 10 Location NOAA/ Canada NOAA/ Canada NOAA/ Canada NOAA NOAA NOAA NOAA Canada Canada

Power On Password

If power on password is activated, you cannot operate the transceiver without first entering your password, after turning the transceiver power ON. Your password can be changed using the MCP-2A software, and can contain up to 6 digits. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 998 (PASSWD) {page 20}.
2 Set the power on password to ON or OFF.
When set to ON, PASSWD appears on the display.

3 Enter your password.

[F]: 1 [TONE]: 2 [REV]: 3 [LOW]: 4 [PF1]: 5
4 After entering up to 6 digits, press the Tuning control to set the password.
Note: Even with Menu 998 turned ON, the power on password function will not be activated unless you first program a password using the MCP-2A software.
VGS-1 OPTIONAL VOICE GUIDE & STORAGE UNIT
When using the optional VGS-1 voice guide & storage unit, you gain access to the voice recorder and voice announcement functions.

Voice Announcements

When changing modes, frequencies, settings, etc., an audio voice will announce the new information. 1 Enter Menu mode and access Menu 003 (ANN) {page 20}.

q Data communications cable To PC audio terminal w Serial communications cable To PC 9-pin D-SUB terminal PC terminal

PC terminal pins:

q w e r t y u i
Data communications cable pin configuration
RTS CTS TXD GND RXD NC NC NC

O I O I

Function
Request to Send Clear to Send Transmit Data GND Receive Data
Pink: To microphone input terminal
Green: To line out terminal Serial communications cable pin configuration
For DATA terminal, refer to page 83.
Installing the DFK-3D panel kit
n Installing the Sub-Panel
1 Detach the front operation panel from the base unit, then remove the modular cable from both sides.
2 Connect the 4-pin connector of the supplied modular cable to the operation panel.
Align the cable with the cable guide. cable guide
3 Connect the supplied sub-panel to the operation panel.
Install the sub-panel in a manner so as not to disrupt the cable.

sub-panel

4 Connect the 8-pin connector of the supplied modular cable to the base unit.
The line filter is pre-installed onto the cable. Approx. 3 cm line filter
n Installing the Panel Bracket
1 Clean and dry the installation location.
Do not install the bracket close to an air bag.
2 Remove the release paper from the base of the panel bracket, then secure it in place using the 3 supplied self-tapping screws.
Allow the panel to set for a while, to ensure it remains fast. Otherwise, vibrations may occur. After removing the release paper, it cannot be reused.
self-tapping screw flat washer
panel bracket Release paper panel holder
3 Attach the panel holder to the base bracket using the 2 supplied SEMS screws.

SEMS screw

4 Attach the operation panel to the panel holder so that it locks in place.
Connecting the PG-5F extension cable
If necessary, the PG-5F extension cable kit can be used with the DFK-3D panel kit. Using two PG-5F kits, you can extend the cables to the maximum length. (Components marked with an asterisk * are included in the PG-5F kit.)
nConnecting Using a Single Extension Kit
microphone external speakers speaker cables (4 m) * extension connector operation panel * DC power cables (6 m)
* modular cable (4 m) * line filter * modular cable (4 m) base unit * line filter 12 V vehicle battery

* extension connector

nConnecting Using Two Extension Kits
external speakers microphone speaker cables (4 m) * DC power cables (6 m)
modular cable (4 m) & extension connector (2 sets) operation panel modular cable (4 m) & extension connector (2 sets) base unit 12 V vehicle battery

2 You selected a 2 Turn the offset shift transmit offset that function OFF. places the transmit frequency outside the allowable range. 3 The external TNC is transmitting. 3 Press [PTT] after the TNC has finished transmitting.

SPECIFICATIONS

Specifications are subject to change without notice due to advancements in technology. General
Guaranteed range Band A&B Band A Frequency range Mode Antenna impedance Operating temperature range Power requirement Frequency stability Hi VHF Mid Current TX Low Hi UHF Mid Low RX Dimensions (W x H x D) Without projections With projections Band B RX TX & RX

TM-V71A K Type

144 ~ 148 MHz 438 ~ 450 MHz

TM-V71E E Type

TM-V71A M4 Type
144 ~ 146 MHz 430 ~ 440 MHz
118 ~ 524 MHz 136 ~ 524 MHz 800 ~ 1300 MHz (excluding cellular band) F2D/ F3E 50 20C ~ +60C (4F ~ +140F)
13.8 V DC 15% (Negative ground) Within 5 ppm (10C ~ +50C) Less than 13.0 A Less than 5.5 A Less than 4.0 A Less than 13.0 A Less than 6.5 A Less than 5.0 A Less than 1.2 A (at 2W audio output)
Panel: 140 x 43 x 38.2 mm (5.51" x 1.69" x 1.50") Body (with Panel): 140 x 43 x 180.7 mm (5.51" x 1.69" x 7.11") Panel: 140 x 43 x 55.4 mm (5.51" x 1.69" x 2.18") Body (with Panel): 140 x 43 x 213.1 mm (5.51" x 1.69" x 8.39") Body (with Panel): 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)
Less than 9.0 A Less than 9.0 A

Weight (approx.)

Transmitter
RF power output Modulation Maximum frequency deviation Spurious radiation Modulation distortion (300 Hz ~ 3 kHz) Microphone impedance Hi Mid Low
Approx. 10 W Approx. 5 W Reactance modulation Within 5 kHz Less than 60 dB Less than 3% 600

Receiver

Circuitry Intermediate frequency Sensitivity Squelch sensitivity Selectivity 6 dB 50 dB 1st (Band A/ Band B) 2nd (Band A/ Band B)
Double super heterodyne 45.05 MHz/ 49.95 MHz 455 kHz/ 450 kHz Less than 0.16 V Less than 0.1 V More than 11 kHz Less than 30 kHz More than 2 W (at 5% distortion)
Low frequency output (8 )

The Kenwood TM-V71E Dual-Band Mobile
he Kenwood TM-V71E is a dual-band v.h.f. and u.h.f. rig covering the 144 and 430MHz Amateur bands. The rig offers extended receive capabilities and includes the amplitude modulation (a.m.) air band and the v.h.f. marine band frequencies. Once I had collected it from the PW ofce I soon found that the Kenwood TM-V71E is a solidly built rig and is nished in black and charcoal metal and plastic and weighing in at 1.5kg made it feel to me that its a rig that means business! The rig offers 50W (High Power) on both bands. This can be reduced to 10W (Medium Power) and 5W (Low Power). The Kenwood TM-V71E has a detachable front control panel head. However, its necessary to buy a separation kit to be able to use the detachable front panel but (as I discovered!) this feature is really useful when trying to get a rig in a modern car. Another rather wonderful little touch regarding the front panel is that it can be turned upside down, but why I hear you ask would that be needed? Well again it comes down to exibility; the modular style microphone socket is on the side of the rig, when temporarily putting the rig in the car I found that the microphone in effect was coming out of the wrong side of the rig. No problem! I just inverted the rig and inverted the front panel; effectively placing the microphone socket on the side I needed for my installation requirements. Perfect! (Obviously you wouldnt actually operate it with the head upsidedown, its the body thats inverted! So the internal
A transceiver that will do it all!

Review

loudspeaker can be facing up or downwards, depending on installations needs). The rig is supplied with a mobile mounting bracket and a Kenwood MC-59 dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) equipped microphone. This can be congured via the rigs menu to allow you to use the DTMF key pad to input a direct entry frequency this is a very useful feature. I think its important to mention that the Kenwood TM-V71E has an elegant simplicity about its design, which to be honest understates the actual reality of what the rig can achieve. The build quality and nish is excellent. The TM-V71E has really been designed with the mobile operator in mind. All the controls are well labelled and although its menu driven the main functions that a mobile operator may want at their ngertips are, in fact, at their ngertips. The reverse function for checking a repeater input frequency is there; the output power adjustment is there, memory channel and v.f.o. selection are there. The transceiver is indeed a well thought out rig. Its uncluttered, having essential controls available and well labelled and less used functions selectable from the easy to access menu system. It is largely controlled by a multi functional and ergonomically superior
Richard Newton G0RSN discovered that the Kenwood TM-V71E dual-band transceiver is much more than a mobile rig!
Richard Newton G0RSN has been trying out a new dual-band mobile from Kenwood, thoroughly enjoyed using the rig and the rather special extras that come with it!
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rotary control, which has reassuring clicks when operated and can be pushed in to access tuning in 1MHz steps. When used in conjunction with the F button this also gives access to the set up menu.
Another way in which this rig offers exibility are the two Programmable Function (PF) keys on the rig and the four PF keys on the microphone. As the name suggests these are keys that can be congured to do a huge list of functions, depending on whats required.

Each Band Independent

Each band can be independently controlled and the operator can have both bands set to v.h.f. or both to u.h.f. if so wished. Each band enjoys the services of separate rotary volume and squelch controls. On the rear of the TM-V71E theres an N-type 50 antenna connection. Theres also a data connector; a 6-pin mini DIN connector. This is for use with a TNC for packet operation or used when operating the Voice over the Internet Protocol (VoIP) software. There is also an 8-pin mini DIN socket for connecting the rig to a personal computer. I also used this in conjunction with the optional PG-5H PC interface kit when trialling the rigs built in VoIP capabilities, more on this later. There are two 3.5mm jack sockets for mono speaker use on the rear of the rig. These are set to output each band separately but their function can be easily congured via the rigs menu.

Operating mobile

I decided to see if the TMV71E would perform as well as I expected when operating mobile. Installing it in the car was a breeze and the rig was mounted under the drivers seat. Using the optional PG-5F separation kit I then mounted the front panel on the centre of the dashboard console, just under the vehicles ashtray. The transceiver proved sensitive enough to enjoy several simplex contacts with local stations from my home in Ferndown, Dorset. It coped well with local well-known areas of r.f noise near local industrial estates where electrical noise and r.f. problems abound. Using the ability to run a decent output power I was able to work the GB3DR South Dorset repeater on 145.7375MHz with ease. This repeater is situated on The Ridgeway, on high ground between Weymouth and Dorchester on the west side of Dorset. I was working this repeater from my home area on the north side of Poole on the east side of the county. I then set the TM-V71E up at home on the main station antenna. On 145MHz I had a very enjoyable simplex chat with Andy G0JZW who was mobile in the New Forest, about 16km (10 miles) or so away. Andy said, the quality of the audio seems OK Richard, you are 5 & 9 with me. Looking to test the rig a little more I listened round and spoke to Carl G0TQM who was operating portable on Brighstone Down on the Isle of Wight, about 48km (30 miles) away from me on the English Channel side of the Island, south of Newport the Islands administrative centre. Carl gave me a 5 and 2 report, you are fully readable Richard, said Carl, he went on, a bit of smooth noise but nice clear audio, perfectly good. Carl was using a Yaesu FT-817 running 5W into a home-brew G2BCX Slim Jim antenna made from ribbon feeder. My nal contact that day with Klaus G7AUF, just down the road in Corfe Mullen, only about 8km away from me and close to the PW ofce. Klaus said, Brilliant audio Richard, no problem at all. I was delighted to get one more contact on 145MHz while I was actually writing the last bits of the review. I was monitoring 145.500MHz and heard a station calling CQ, no one else replied so I took time out and replied to his call. It was David G0LCN from Bitterne in Southampton, about 55km (34 miles) away from me. He gave this report on the TM-V71E audio as, deviation is good and narrow Richard, audio itself is nicely cropped, not too excessively so a very natural audio, very nice to listen to. Id quickly discovered that the TM71E is a very smart and capable dual-band mobile rig with extended receive and good ancillary functions, such as memories, scan features, full continuous tone squelch control system (CTCSS) and a exible user menu, etc. But what sets it apart from some of the other

Easy Use & Flexibility
Ease of operation and exibility are a must as far as I am concerned and the TM-V71E scores highly on these points as well. An example of how easy it is to operate must be the input of memory channels and this is worth a few words of explanation. While I was making provisional notes for the review, I wanted to listen to the marine band. Entering a memory involves pressing two buttons the rig will give a clear indication if the memory you have selected already has data in it by displaying a black arrow head useful for a scatter brain like yours truly! Within
Fig. 1: Using Echolink software with the TM-V71E. Fig. 2: Using eQSO software with the TM-V71E.
30 seconds I had programmed my six favourite marine band frequencies and was scanning away. The transceiver offers the user 1000 memory channels. These 1000 memories are sub divided into ten banks of 100 memories for ease of scanning. This means that the user has the exibility to have all simplex frequencies in one bank, all air band frequencies in another and perhaps repeaters in another. Finally, by using the various scan congurations all memories can be scanned, or just one bank can be scanned.
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Fig. 3: The head may be operated with the main body either way up. It may also be operated remotely with the cable kit.
radios? To start answering the question, apart from the distinctive Kenwood audio and build quality theres the built-in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) operation, so lets now see what thats all about!

Whats VoIP?

Whats VoIP? (You may ask!). Well what a huge subject to answer simply, must be my reply! I can only scratch the surface here and its also subject that is the basis of much debate. I know there are some who see it as Amateur Radios salvation in the modern world and some see it as an insult to the hobby. I have to say I take a more middle of the road approach in that I see VoIP as yet another way I can use radio to meet new friends who have a like interest the world over. Its just another a tool in the toolbox and just another way in which to enjoy our wonderful hobby. The VoIP mode is a method where audio is passed over the Internet and Im sure many of you will be familiar with skype and msn and other software packages that allow you to talk to other people using your PC. There are also software packages available for Radio Amateurs, such as EchoLink and eQSO, which enable you to interface a radio to a PC and therefore give you a voice portal to the Internet. Heres a quick run down on how it works: Firstly, a link station radio receives your audio and using a simple connection between speaker output and the PC sound card, the audio gets passed over the Internet and received by a remote stations PC. Via a simple interface, the audio is then transferred from the remote stations PC to the transceiver connected to it before being transmitted over the air. Stations offering this facility are called gateways, links or nodes. If someone has set up such a gateway in my area, all I need to know is the frequency and any CTCSS tone it may require. This then makes it possible for me to be on a v.h.f. or u.h.f. handheld rig walking down my road, or in my car driving around and chatting to another Amateur doing the same thing in Coventry, Birmingham, New York or anywhere else in the world that has an Internet gateway attached to a radio. The Kenwood TM-V71E is advertised as having EchoLink memories included and being able to work an EchoLink node or link. The memories and the ability to be a link or node are two completely different functions. Additionally, by using the proprietary name EchoLink, Kenwood may have caused a little confusion. I will now try and explain! EchoLink, is in fact, a software programme available from

http://www.echolink.org using Voice over Internet Protocol and is just one of several Amateur Radio software packages available. Perhaps the most well known alternative is eQSO and this is available from http://www. eqso.net The difference between the two software programs is that EchoLink is a series of point-to-point nodes using unique number identiers (seen in the screen shot down the right hand column in Fig. 1). Normally, one station connects to another and it would be unusual for more than two or three to be connected together. In practice the eQSO system is more like a chat room where many stations connect to one central point and everyone hears whats going on and everyone hears everyone else! I actually prefer eQSO as I nd it easier to use as you do not need to link nodes and the software seems to cope with computer rewalls (computer security protection systems) a lot easier than EchoLink. However, I do like EchoLink when I need to make a connection with a specic station. In fact, I use this to connect my station to the GB3WE repeater in Somerset; this enables me to contact my brother, William G7GMZ who monitors this, as its his local repeater. If your local VoIP node on 430.050MHz and is running EchoLink, you would call up on that frequency and take pot luck that it was connected to another node across the Internet. If, however, you knew the unique number given to the node you wanted you could send a connect request over the air using DTMF tones and the EchoLink software will them connect to that remote gateway station and youll be able to communicate with anyone who can hear that gateway, disconnecting when youve nished.

Echolink Memories

Using this term, Kenwood mean that by EchoLink memories, the user can store up to 10 dedicated memories representing the code numbers of favourite remote nodes. The operator would use this when theyre TM-V71E is accessing someone elses node, which is an EchoLink node. If, however, the local node, link or gateway is running eQSO the operator will call up in the same way as though they were listening through a repeater. This is because the repeater has worldwide coverage depending on the gateways that are connected at the time of the call (as can be seen from the screen shot in Fig. 2). Gateways from all over the country and all over the world are linked in and some of these are actual voice repeaters in their respective areas as well.

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Product

Ready To Go!
The interesting point for me was that the TM-V71E had a VoIP interface built-in and ready to go. But please bear in mind that this is not referring to the TM-V71E accessing a node, but instead actually acting a node itself. Where Kenwood has described it as EchoLink they could have caused confusion because its equally useful as an eQSO gateway. The protocol is the same; its just the software and whats actually on offer thats different. To set up a gateway in the UK you have to have a Notice of Variation (NOV) from Ofcom. Fortunately, I have one and already run a modest local link on 430.050MHz. Id actually been using a simple interface I had built from bits, which cost me less than 10. To achieve this I had used an old crystal controlled PMR rig re-tuned to 430.050MHz and had quite good results but it took me a long while to get it all set up! With the Kenwood TM-V71E all thats required is a PC (I used my laptop) the software (either eQSO or EchoLink) and I used both for this review and the PG-5H PC interface cable. All I needed to do was to just tune to the correct frequency, set up the rig menu to EchoLink sysop and adjust the software settings on the PC. I was actually up and running in less than 30 minutes having congured both software packages. For the review contacts I used eQSO, but remember the rig is in the same setting and mode as it would be if you ran EchoLink.
Kenwood TM-V71E Dual-Band VHF/UHF Mobile Transceiver
Company Kenwood Electronics UK Ltd. Contact (01923) 655284
Pros & Cons Pros Extremely versatile transceiver, a very easy-touse mobile thats operator friendly. Cons Computer required for VoIP/eQSO use. If you dont have a computer youre missing a great deal with this rigs extra facilities! 250 approximately My thanks for the loan of the review unit go to Kenwood Electronics UK, (Communications Division), Kenwood House, Dwight Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD18 9EB. Tel: (01923) 816444, FAX: (01923) 212477, E-mail: comms@kenwood-electronics.co.uk

Price Supplier

Fig. 4: The remote operational kit allows the unit to be placed in a more convenient place.
Fig. 5: The simplier remote head mounting kit.
To ensure the best quality, audio settings between the rig and the computer must be optimised; adjusting sound card settings can do this. However, as the system depends on the rig to do its bit as well, judging by the reports I received TM-V71E was a well adjusted radio, more than I can say for the user! Having congured the TM-V71E and connected it to my laptop, the G0RSN-L link was on air. I used my Kenwood TH-G71 handheld transceiver and put it on 500mW, tuned it to 430.050MHz and worked into the TM-V71Es VoIP link in my shack. My rst contact was with Grant VA7GO in the Pacic North West, near Victoria in Canada, we were also in QSO with Marco N2YN in the Bronx area of New York City. They both gave me favourable reports and we all enjoyed a good old chin wag. Note: We were all using hand-held transceivers to talk into local gateways. Next, was Rob 2E0CRW in Portsmouth and another enjoyable chat with great report on the audio, remembering that is an amalgam of the hand-held, computer and the TM-V71E. Perhaps the most exciting contact I made was with Chan DS1OHQ from near Seoul in South Korea. Chan was very complimentary about the audio quality from the station. So there it is, the Kenwood TM-V71E is a very enjoyable to use and extremely capable rig. It will give you hours of enjoyment over a good cross-section of the v.h.f./u.h.f. bands chatting on the

Fig. 6: The rear panel, with its N-type dual-band antenna socket, two audio jack sockets and two DIN sockets for use with computers.
local repeater, a bit of hill-top f.m. DXing, listening to the air band or the marine band. You can also connect it to a computer and speaking to friends in far away areas of the world, or linking to a local repeater on the other side of the UK. The Kenwood TM-V71E will do it all, as its an extremely versatile transceiver. Have fun!

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