TK-380 Question

[N1SQB]

Hello There!
I have a Kenwood TK-380 with the partial keypad( 4 buttons). Is it possible to convert it to FULL keypad by adding the dtmf pad and new case? I lifted the rubber housing and the pc board is there for a full pad. Just wondering. I use the KPG-49D windows software and the radio is a Version 2.0.

Manny

 

[pickles37]

I tried this with a TK-280 and didn't have any luck. Even if DTMF keyboard is selected in the software, it doesn't seem to recognize it. I suspect there may be a jumper or resistor somewhere that determines if it is the keypad or non-keypad model.

 

[N1SQB]

HMM! Thanks!
I wonder if its a firmware issue then? Man, I really was hoping to be able to do this! Its funny though because the software only gives you 2 options,regular 230 then 380 with keypad. Technicaly this is what I am using because the 4 keys are what makes it a key pad model,just a partial one I know but the software says nothing of partial or full.

Manny

 

[searchrescueff]

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[searchrescueff]

HMM! Thanks!
I wonder if its a firmware issue then? Man, I really was hoping to be able to do this! Its funny though because the software only gives you 2 options,regular 230 then 380 with keypad. Technicaly this is what I am using because the 4 keys are what makes it a key pad model,just a partial one I know but the software says nothing of partial or full.

All the TK-280/380 radios have the 4 function keys below the display. This does not make it a keypad model. Although you are correct in that the software does not advise either or. You can program as a keypad model. You just won't be able to use those functions unless you have the extra 12 keys on the front. As davidwild advised, I believe there is a jumper or resister that determines the keypad functionality.

 

[N1SQB]

Well!
I wish I knew which one. I have opened the unit up completly ( Scary Thing). I have not seen anything that STANDS OUT kind of thing. Maybe I will look again! It could be a firmware thing too I dont know.... Stay Tuned!

Manny

 

[N1SQB]

Update!

It helps to have a schematics diagram for your particular radio! After some very intense conversation and studying of the schematics with a very good Technician friend of mine who actualy repairs these things for a living, we have come to the following conclusion.
It is DEFINITELY not just a jumper or resistor involved here! Man o man....There is a crap load of components,( resistors,diodes,chips,ect) that have to be either added removed and/or changed in order to POSSIBLY make it work. To make it worse, SMT. Surface Mount Technology. My eyes are hurting just from looking at that board never mind soldering onto it. My friend and I are going to try it just for ha has. The only reason I am even willing to do this is because HE'S the one doing the soldering.
It will be interesting to see if this works. My 380 is just for fun. If I lose it or something goes wrong, Im not going to worry about it. We'll see what happens.....

Manny

 

[searchrescueff]

Well, keep us posted on whether it works or not.

 

[N1SQB]

Will Do!
Parts ordered! Coming directly from the manufacturer so who knows. Stay tuned though. If we can pull this off, then I will be able to tell people EXACTLY how to convert one. We'll see....

Manny