TIDRADIO TD-H3 Multi-Band Ham Radio User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the operation and maintenance of your TIDRADIO TD-H3 Multi-Band Ham Radio. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure proper function and safety. The TD-H3 is a versatile two-way radio featuring multi-band reception and transmission, USB-C programming and charging, a 2500mAh battery, and various advanced functions including DTMF, FM/AM reception, NOAA weather alerts, VOX, and scanning capabilities.

Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• 1 x TIDRADIO TD-H3 Ham Radio Handheld
• 1 x 2500mAh Lithium Polymer Battery
• 1 x TD-771 Long Antenna
• 1 x Airband Antenna (120/300MHz)
• 1 x Standard Antenna
• 1 x Earpiece
• 1 x USB-C Cable (for Programming and Charging)
• 1 x Desktop Charger
• 1 x Belt Clip
• 1 x User Manual (this document)
• 1 x Lanyard

Image: The TIDRADIO TD-H3 radio shown with all included accessories: radio unit, battery, TD-771 antenna, airband antenna, standard antenna, earpiece, USB-C cable, desktop charger, belt clip, and lanyard.

Product Features

• Advanced Programming and Firmware: Supports USB-C data cable programming and features upgradable firmware.
• Multi-Band Reception: Offers 8-band receiving capabilities, including FM (50-76MHz), AM (76-108MHz, 108-136MHz), VHF (136-174MHz, 174-350MHz), and UHF (350-400MHz, 400-470MHz, 470-600MHz).
• Dual-Band Transmission: Transmits on VHF (144-148MHz) and UHF (420-450MHz).
• Wireless Programming: Allows programming without a physical cable.
• Wireless Radio Replication: Enables copying radio configurations wirelessly between compatible units.
• One Key Frequency Match: Quickly identifies and matches frequencies from other transmitting radios.
• DTMF Functionality: Supports Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency signaling.
• MIC Gain Control: Adjustable microphone gain.
• FROG End Tone: Configurable end tone for transmissions.
• 1.44-inch TFT Color Screen: Provides clear display of information.
• 2500mAh Battery: High-capacity battery for extended operation.
• Dual PTT: Separate Push-To-Talk buttons for different bands.
• NOAA Weather: Access to NOAA weather alerts.
• Scan Function: Allows scanning of frequencies and channels.
• Airband Antenna: Included for optimized airband reception.
• TD-771 Long Antenna: Included for enhanced communication range.

Image: Visual representation of the TIDRADIO TD-H3's core features, including 2 bands TX / 8 bands RX, AM Air Band, Type-C Programming, Double PTT, End Tone, Scrambler, Password Protection, ID Code, VOX, Wireless Programming, SOS, Mic Gain, Key Customize, Repeater, DTMF, NOAA, FM Radio, SCAN, Wireless Radio Replication, and Crack Frequency.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

1. Align the battery pack with the grooves on the back of the radio.
2. Slide the battery upwards until it clicks into place securely.
3. To remove, press the release latch (if present) and slide the battery downwards.

2. Antenna Attachment

1. Select the appropriate antenna (TD-771 for general ham use, Airband antenna for aviation frequencies).
2. Screw the antenna clockwise onto the connector at the top of the radio until it is finger-tight. Do not overtighten.

3. Initial Charging

Before first use, fully charge the battery.

• Connect the USB-C cable to the radio's USB-C port or place the radio in the desktop charger.
• Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to a compatible USB power adapter or port.
• The charging indicator will show the charging status. Once fully charged, disconnect the charger.

Image: The TIDRADIO TD-H3 radio connected to a USB-C charging cable, illustrating the charging process.

4. Power On/Off

Rotate the volume knob clockwise to power on the radio. Rotate it counter-clockwise until it clicks to power off.

Operating Instructions

Basic Operation

• Volume Control: Rotate the top knob to adjust the audio volume.
• Frequency/Channel Selection: Use the up/down arrow keys to change frequencies or channels.
• Band Selection (A/B): Use the dedicated A/B button or menu option to switch between the upper and lower display bands.
• Transmit (PTT): Press and hold the Push-To-Talk (PTT) button on the side of the radio to transmit. Release to receive.

Programming Methods

The TD-H3 offers multiple ways to program frequencies and settings:

• USB-C Cable Programming: Connect the radio to a computer using the included USB-C cable. Use compatible programming software (e.g., CHIRP or manufacturer's CPS software) to manage settings.
• Wireless Programming (Odmaster App): Download the 'Odmaster' app from Google Play Store or App Store. Connect the radio via Bluetooth for wireless programming.
• CHIRP Software: The radio is compatible with CHIRP software. Select 'TIDRADIO -> TD-H3-Ham' within CHIRP.
• Manufacturer's CPS Software: Visit walkietalkiesoftware.com for the official CPS software and firmware upgrades.
• Kenwood 2-PIN Cable: The TD-H3 is also compatible with Kenwood 2-PIN programming cables.

Image: The TIDRADIO TD-H3 radio connected to a laptop via a USB-C cable, demonstrating the programming interface on the computer screen.

One Key Frequency Match

This feature allows the radio to quickly detect and match the frequency and CTCSS/DCS tones of another transmitting radio.

1. Enable the Dec.code function (Menu 47).
2. Long press the [1] button to enter the Match interface.
3. When another radio transmits, the TD-H3 display will show the detected frequency and CTCSS/DCS.

Image: Two radios, one TIDRADIO TD-H3 and another model, illustrating the 'One Key Frequency Match' feature where the TD-H3 displays the frequency and code of the transmitting radio.

Wireless Radio Replication

This function allows you to copy the configuration from one TD-H3 radio to another identical TD-H3 radio wirelessly.

1. Long press the Customized button and power on the radio simultaneously to enter the Replication interface.
2. Press the Customized Button again to activate the replication process.
3. Note: This feature is currently only available for replication between identical TD-H3 radios.

Image: Two TIDRADIO TD-H3 radios positioned side-by-side, with an arrow indicating wireless data transfer, demonstrating the Wireless Radio Replication feature.

DTMF Function

The DTMF (Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency) function allows for sending tone sequences for various purposes, such as repeater control or selective calling.

• Press the * button to enable DTMF input.
• Enter the desired DTMF code.
• Press the PTT button to transmit the DTMF sequence.
• To disable 'Kill Lock' via DTMF, ensure the 'kill' tick is removed in the programming software (Edit -> DTMF). Then, press *, enter your kill code + #, and press PTT.

Scanning

The scan function allows you to monitor multiple frequencies or channels for activity.

• Refer to the radio's menu for specific scan settings, including scan range and resume method.
• Activate scan mode via the designated button or menu option.

NOAA Weather Reception

The TD-H3 can receive NOAA weather alerts.

• Access the NOAA weather function through the radio's menu.
• Select the appropriate NOAA channel for your region.

AM/FM Reception

The radio supports both AM and FM broadcast reception.

• Switch to the desired band (AM or FM) using the radio's menu or dedicated button.
• Tune to the desired frequency. Note that AM frequency programming is primarily available through CPS software.

Image: The TIDRADIO TD-H3 radio with a visual overlay indicating AM/FM reception capabilities, set against a city skyline background.

Maintenance

Battery Care

• Use only the specified charger and battery pack.
• Avoid overcharging or completely draining the battery.
• Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.

Cleaning

• Wipe the radio's exterior with a soft, damp cloth.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Ensure all ports are dry before charging or connecting accessories.

Storage

• Store the radio in a dry, dust-free environment.
• Remove the battery if storing for a long duration.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your TD-H3 radio.

Unable to Transmit

• The TD-H3 transmits on VHF (144-148MHz) and UHF (420-450MHz). Ensure you are attempting to transmit within these frequency bands.
• Try resetting the radio to factory mode.
• Consider updating the radio firmware to boost the system.
• If the issue persists, contact customer support.

About Kill Lock

• In the TD-H3 programming software (CPS), navigate to Edit -> DTMF. Remove the 'kill' tick and then write the data to the radio.
• To enable DTMF input, press the * button. Enter the self-set kill code followed by the # button, then press the PTT button to send.

Having Trouble Programming

• Chirp Software: Ensure you select 'TIDRADIO -> TD-H3-Ham' in Chirp.
• CPS Software/Firmware Upgrade: Visit walkietalkiesoftware.com for the latest software and firmware.
• Wireless Programming: Download the 'Odmaster' app from your device's app store for wireless programming.

Unable to Hit Repeaters

• Verify that the receiving and transmitting frequencies for the repeater are correctly entered.
• In VFO mode, check Menu 23 (Direction) and Menu 24 (Offset) settings for proper configuration.
• Ensure Menu 34, Menu 47, and Menu 49 items are set to 'OFF'.

Battery Won't Charge

• Try using a different battery (if available) to determine if the issue is with the battery or the radio unit.
• Inspect the battery contacts on both the radio and the battery for any obstructions or damage.
• Ensure the USB-C cable and charger are functioning correctly.
• If the problem persists, contact customer support with details, including a picture of the battery mark.

Specifications

Image: A detailed comparison table highlighting the specifications of the TIDRADIO TD-H3, including frequency ranges, charging methods, and unique features, against a generic 'other' radio.

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information

The TIDRADIO TD-H3 comes with a 30-day warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use.

Customer Support

For any support or questions regarding your TIDRADIO TD-H3, please contact us via Amazon. Our dedicated technical team is available to provide professional assistance and resolve any issues you may encounter.

For programming software and firmware updates, visit the official website: walkietalkiesoftware.com