Kenwood Tk-280 question

[Baker845]

I have Kenwood Tk-280 radio. I haven't messed with any settings in test mode, other then the normal settings in the programming software. On my tk-5210 i can pick some simulcast vhf radio system's around me, but on the tk-280 it doesn't pick them up. Tk-280 picks up local traffic fine, just not simulcast stuff i listen to on my tk-5210.Tk-280 is def to those system's. Is this common issue with tk-280? I have had this issue with tk-280 in the past doing this. any info would be great.

thank you

 

[kd4efm]

Analog or p25 simulcast, just curious.

 

[Baker845]

Analog simulcast. The radio after reprogramming seems to be picking up all but 1 channel . not sure why its in and out.

 

[a417]

Analog simulcast. The radio after reprogramming seems to be picking up all but 1 channel . not sure why its in and out.

If it's after programming, it's usually the result of the reprogramming. Hate to say it, but a mistake might have been made.

 

[Baker845]

It is after reprogramming, but i don't know what mistake is. i look over all channels, settings .

 

[Baker845]

update, the radio doesn't seen to be stopping on channels i have programmed with RX DPL tones. If i take the Tone off the radio stops on the channel. not sure what the issue is.

 

[mmckenna]

update, the radio doesn't seen to be stopping on channels i have programmed with RX DPL tones. If i take the Tone off the radio stops on the channel. not sure what the issue is.

Are you 110% sure you have the DPL codes correct?

If it is simulcast and you are in an area with overlap, it might be confusing the radio, especially a radio that old that might be floating around a bit off frequency.

 

[Baker845]

I'm 100% sure its the right DPL tones. That likely the issue its confusing the radio. If i reprogram the radio it doesn't stop at all on DPL channels i have. And if i turn off the radio and turn it back on, wait few mins the radio will pick up DPL channels again.

 

[mmckenna]

I'm 100% sure its the right DPL tones. That likely the issue its confusing the radio. If i reprogram the radio it doesn't stop at all on DPL channels i have. And if i turn off the radio and turn it back on, wait few mins the radio will pick up DPL channels again.

OK, got it.

When was the last time that dinosaur was aligned? Drifting performance like that sure sounds like a component tolerance issue.

 

[Baker845]

I got it cheap about 3 weeks ago, so i'm not sure when if the radio was ever aligned.

 

[mmckenna]

I got it cheap about 3 weeks ago, so i'm not sure when if the radio was ever aligned.

The drifting in/out of function is often a function of aging components, and why periodic realignment is required. It ~could~ be that. Finding someone with a service monitor might perk it right back up.

Not Kenwood, but I took a pair of old Motorola JT-1000's I scored and realigned them to factory specs. Added new battery and antennas, and they've been solid performers ever since.

Check around with the local ham clubs, often someone will have an old service monitor and they'll usually be happy to assist.

 

[Baker845]

Sounds good i will ask around. Thank you.

 

[mmckenna]

Sounds good i will ask around. Thank you.

The last few years the SDR/USB dongles and inexpensive spectrum analyzers have hit the market. I'm hoping some day it gets to the point that a halfway decent service monitor can be had for $200.00, instead of the $20-$50K they cost now.

 

[Baker845]

Yea, it would be nice. i would get one myself.

 

[Reelfishguy]

Analog DPL simulcast?

 

[Baker845]

yes Analog DPL simulcast and non simulcast.

 

[wd8chl]

Just double check also that the code is the right polarity. You could see D023N or D023I. The I means inverted. If one is set one way, and the other the other way, they won't talk to each other.
Just checking...