KENWOOD Digital Transceiver User Guide
This guide covers the basic operations of your KENWOOD digital transceiver. For detailed instructions, please refer to the full manual available at: http://manual.kenwood.com/files/B5K-0417-00.pdf
Model Series Covered
NX-x00 series, NX-x05G series, NX-x10 series, NX-x20 series, NX-x40 series
Firmware Copyrights
The title to and ownership of copyrights for firmware embedded in KENWOOD product memories are reserved for JVCKENWOOD Corporation.
Recycling Information
The RBRC (Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation) Recycle seal on KENWOOD Ni-MH and Li-ion battery packs indicates KENWOOD's voluntary participation in an industry program to collect and recycle these batteries after their operating life has expired. This program offers an alternative to disposing of batteries with regular refuse, which is illegal in some areas. For information on Ni-MH or Li-ion battery recycling in your area, call 1-800-8-BATTERY (1-800-822-8837). KENWOOD's involvement supports environmental preservation and resource conservation.
Precautions
Observe the following precautions to prevent fire, personal injury, and transceiver damage:
- Do not charge the transceiver and battery pack when they are wet.
- Ensure no metallic items are between the transceiver and the battery pack.
- Do not use options not specified by KENWOOD.
- If the chassis or any part of the transceiver is damaged, do not touch the damaged parts.
- If a headset or headphone is connected, reduce the transceiver volume. Be mindful of volume when turning the squelch off.
- Do not place the microphone cable around your neck near machinery that could catch it.
- Do not place the transceiver on unstable surfaces.
- Ensure the antenna end does not touch your eyes.
- The radiator and chassis may become hot during extended transmissions; do not touch these areas when replacing the battery pack.
- Always switch the transceiver power off before installing optional accessories.
- Water entering the microphone opening or speaker grill may cause low or distorted voice levels. Lightly shake the transceiver to remove water before operating.
- The charger disconnects the unit from AC mains; the AC plug must be readily accessible.
- Comply with local laws and regulations when disposing of batteries.
Warnings
- Turn the transceiver power off before entering areas near explosives or blasting sites.
- Turn the transceiver power off in aircraft, following airline crew instructions and regulations.
- Turn the transceiver power off where restrictions or warnings are posted regarding radio device use, including medical facilities.
- Turn the transceiver power off near persons wearing pacemakers.
- Turn the transceiver power off before entering explosive atmospheres (e.g., flammable gas, dust, powders) or while pumping fuel or parked at gasoline stations, unless the model is specifically qualified for such use (e.g., Intrinsically Safe).
Cautions
- Do not disassemble or modify the transceiver for any reason.
- Do not place the transceiver on or near airbag equipment in a running vehicle, as the inflating airbag could eject the transceiver and cause injury.
- Do not transmit while touching the antenna terminal or if metallic parts are exposed from the antenna covering, as this may cause a high-frequency burn.
- If abnormal odor or smoke is detected, switch off the transceiver immediately, remove the battery pack, and contact your KENWOOD dealer.
- Using the transceiver while driving may violate traffic laws; check and observe local vehicle regulations.
- Do not expose the transceiver to extremely hot or cold conditions.
- Do not carry battery packs or cases with metal objects, as they may short the battery terminals.
- Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced; replace only with the same type.
Battery Pack Information
DANGER
The battery pack contains flammable materials. Mishandling can cause rupture, flames, extreme heat, deterioration, or other damage. Observe the following:
- Do not disassemble or reconstruct the battery.
- Do not short-circuit the battery.
- Do not incinerate or apply heat to the battery.
- Do not leave the battery near fires, stoves, or other heat generators (areas over 80°C/176°F).
- Do not immerse the battery in water or get it wet.
- Do not charge the battery near fires or under direct sunlight.
- Use only the specified charger and observe charging requirements.
- Do not pierce, strike, or step on the battery.
- Do not jar or throw the battery.
- Do not use a damaged battery pack.
- Do not solder directly onto the battery.
- Do not reverse battery polarity or terminals.
- Do not reverse-charge or reverse-connect the battery.
- Do not touch a ruptured or leaking battery.
- If electrolyte liquid gets into your eyes, wash immediately with fresh water without rubbing, and seek immediate medical attention.
WARNING
- Do not charge the battery for longer than the specified time.
- Do not place the battery pack in a microwave or high-pressure container.
- Keep ruptured or leaking battery packs away from fire.
- Do not use an abnormal battery.
- Do not change or charge the battery in hazardous locations.
Supplied Accessories
Carefully unpack the transceiver and identify the items listed below. File a claim with the carrier immediately if any items are missing or damaged.
Item | NX-x00/ NX-x05G | NX-x10 | NX-x20 | NX-x40 | NX-420 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Antenna | – | – | – | 1 | 1 |
Battery charger/ AC adapter | – | – | – | 1 | – |
Li-ion battery pack | – | – | – | 1 | – |
Speaker/ microphone jack cover | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Speaker/ microphone locking bracket | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Channel stopper | – | – | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Belt clip | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
• Screws for belt clip | 2 | 2 | – | 2 | – |
Universal connector cap | 1 | 1 | – | – | – |
• Dressing screw | 1 | 1 | – | – | – |
• Packing | 1 | – | – | – | – |
User guide | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Note: Waterproof performance for the universal connector is guaranteed by connecting an optional KENWOOD speaker/microphone or by securing the supplied cap. For the speaker/microphone jack, waterproof performance is guaranteed by securing the supplied cap; it is not guaranteed when connecting an optional speaker/microphone.
Basic Operation
The transceiver features the following controls:
- Display: Shows status and information.
- PTT switch: Press to transmit, release to receive.
- Antenna: For transmitting and receiving signals.
- Microphone: For voice input.
- Speaker: For audio output.
- Keypad: For inputting commands and data.
- Universal connector: For connecting accessories.
- Battery pack: Provides power.
- Selector knob: Used to select zones and channels.
- Power switch/ Volume control: Turns the transceiver on/off and adjusts volume.
- Speaker/ Microphone jacks: Ports for external audio accessories.
Switching Power On/Off
Turn the Power switch/Volume control clockwise to switch the transceiver ON. Turn it fully counterclockwise to switch OFF.
Adjusting the Volume
Rotate the Power switch/Volume control. Clockwise increases volume, counterclockwise decreases it.
Selecting a Zone and Channel/Group ID
Select the desired zone using the Zone Select or Zone Up/Down key. Each zone contains a group of channels. Select the desired channel/group ID using the Selector knob. Each channel/group ID is programmed with specific transmit and receive settings.
Transmitting
- Select the desired zone and channel/group ID.
- Press the Monitor or Squelch Off key to check if the channel is free. If busy, wait until it becomes free.
- Press the PTT switch and speak into the microphone. Release the PTT switch to receive. For best sound quality, hold the transceiver approximately 1.5 inches (3-4 cm) from your mouth.
Receiving
Select the desired zone and channel. If signaling is programmed, you will hear a call only if the received signal matches your transceiver settings.
- Receiving Group Calls (Digital): When a group call is received on a Conventional channel and the group ID matches your transceiver's setting, you will hear the caller's voice. On a Trunking channel, the transceiver automatically switches to the communication channel to receive the call.
- Receiving Individual Calls (Digital): An individual call will sound a ringing tone, and the caller's ID will appear on the display. To respond, press and hold the PTT switch and speak into the transceiver.
Preparation: Installing/Removing the Battery Pack
NX-x00/ NX-x05G/ NX-x10/ NX-x20 Series
- Match the battery pack guides with the grooves on the upper rear of the transceiver, then firmly press the battery pack into place.
- Lock the safety catch to prevent accidental release.
- To remove the battery pack, lift the safety catch, press the release latch, and pull the battery pack away from the transceiver.
NX-x40 Series
- Align the battery pack with the back of the transceiver, then press them firmly together until the release latch on the base locks.
- To remove the battery pack, lift the safety catch on the base, then press the release latch underneath it.
- While pressing the release latch, pull the battery pack away from the transceiver.
Radio Frequency Energy Safety Information
FCC Warning
This equipment generates or uses radio frequency energy. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by JVCKENWOOD may cause harmful interference and could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
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. If this equipment causes 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.
General RF Exposure Information (Occupational Use)
This KENWOOD transceiver has been tested and complies with standards regarding Radio Frequency (RF) energy and electromagnetic energy (EME). RF exposure limits for Occupational Use Only are based on recommendations from national and international standards bodies. This transceiver generates RF EME while transmitting, which can cause slight thermal effects. RF exposure is minimized by maintaining distance from the antenna, using the lowest possible power, and keeping transmission time to a minimum. The transceiver is designed and classified for Occupational Use Only, meaning users must be aware of potential hazards and how to minimize them.
- Safe Operation Practices:
- While transmitting (PTT or VOX enabled), keep the antenna and radio at least 3 cm (1 3/16 inches) from your body or face, and from bystanders. A red LED indicates transmission.
- Do not transmit for more than 50% of the total transceiver use time, as this may exceed FCC RF exposure limits. Typical operation is 5% transmit, 5% receive, 90% standby.
- Use only the specified KENWOOD antenna or one authorized by KENWOOD.
- Use only KENWOOD authorized accessories. When worn on the body, use a KENWOOD-recommended clip or carrying case. Using unapproved accessories may exceed FCC occupational RF exposure limits.
Electromagnetic Interference Compatibility
Electronic devices can be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI). This transceiver, generating RF energy, can cause interference. Turn OFF your transceiver where signs indicate to do so, such as in hospitals or healthcare facilities, and on aircraft as instructed by crew. Use of the transceiver on aircraft must comply with airline regulations.