TK-7180
2
INTRODUCTION
SCOPE OF THIS MANUAL
This manual is intended for use by experienced techni-
cians familiar with similar types of commercial grade commu-
nications equipment. It contains all required service informa-
tion for the equipment and is current as of this publication
date. Changes which may occur after publication are covered
by either Service Bulletins or Manual Revisions, which are
issued as required.
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS
When ordering replacement parts or equipment informa-
tion, the full part identification number should be included.
This applies to all parts : components, kits, and chassis. If the
part number is not known, include the chassis or kit number
of which it is a part and a sufficient description of the required
component for proper identification.
PERSONAL SAFETY
The following precautions are recommended for personal
safety :
•DONOT transmit if someone is within two feet (0.6
meter) of the antenna.
•DONOT transmit until all RF connectors are secure and
any open connectors are properly terminated.
•SHUT OFF this equipment when near electrical blasting
caps or while in an explosive atmosphere.
•All equipment should be properly grounded before power-
up for safe operation.
•This equipment should be serviced by only qualified tech-
nicians.
PRE-INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
1. UNPACKING
Unpack the radio from its shipping container and check for
accessory items. If any item is missing, please contact
KENWOOD immediately.
2. LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Federal regulations require a station license for each radio
installation (mobile or base) be obtained by the equipment
owner. The licensee is responsible for ensuring transmitter
power, frequency, and deviation are within the limits permit-
ted by the station license.
Transmitter adjustments may be performed only by a li-
censed technician holding an FCC first, second or general
class commercial radiotelephone operator’s license. There is
no license required to install or operate the radio.
3. PRE-INSTALLATION CHECKOUT
3-1. Introduction
Each radio is adjusted and tested before shipment. How-
ever, it is recommended that receiver and transmitter opera-
tion be checked for proper operation before installation.
3-2. Testing
The radio should be tested complete with all cabling and
accessories as they will be connected in the final installation.
Transmitter frequency, deviation, and power output should
be checked, as should receiver sensitivity, squelch operation,
and audio output. Signalling equipment operation should be
verified.
4. PLANNING THE INSTALLATION
4-1. General
Inspect the vehicle and determine how and where the ra-
dio antenna and accessories will be mounted.
Plan cable runs for protection against pinching or crushing
wiring, and radio installation to prevent overheating.
4-2. Antenna
The favored location for an antenna is in the center of a
large, flat conductive area, usually at the roof center. The
trunk lid is preferred, bond the trunk lid and vehicle chassis
using ground straps to ensure the lid is at chassis ground.
4-3. Radio
The universal mount bracket allows the radio to be
mounted in a variety of ways. Be sure the mounting surface
is adequate to support the radio’s weight. Allow sufficient
space around the radio for air cooling. Position the radio close
enough to the vehicle operator to permit easy access to the
controls when driving.
4-4. DC Power and wiring
1. This radio may be installed in negative ground electrical
systems only. Reverse polarity will cause the cable fuse to
blow. Check the vehicle ground polarity before installation
to prevent wasted time and effort.
2. Connect the positive power lead directly to the vehicle
battery positive terminal. Connecting the Positive lead to
any other positive voltage source in the vehicle is not rec-
ommended.
3. Connect the ground lead directly to the battery negative
terminal.
4. The cable provided with the radio is sufficient to handle
the maximum radio current demand. If the cable must be
extended, be sure the additional wire is sufficient for the
current to be carried and length of the added lead.
5. INSTALLATION PLANNING – CONTROL STATIONS
5-1. Antenna system
Control station. The antenna system selection depends on
many factors and is beyond the scope of this manual. Your
KENWOOD dealer can help you select an antenna system
that will best serve your particular needs.
5-2. Radio location
Select a convenient location for your control station radio
which is as close as practical to the antenna cable entry point.
Secondly, use your system’s power supply (which supplies
the voltage and current required for your system). Make sure
sufficient air can flow around the radio and power supply to
allow adequate cooling.