TK-730 Question

[FireGuy129]

Hey guys, i have a few questions about my mobile. I have a TK-730HG dual remote head VHF (high band) mobile in my jeep. I have 2 of the basic heads. i just had it programmed and the shop that did it for me told me that i cant have channel names on the display only a channel number, is that correct?
When i sent them the channel list i also told them that i only had one external speaker for the front and would need to use the built in speaker in the head i was mounting in the cargo area. Is there something i am missing about turning in the speaker?
Any help would be great
Thanks
Erik

 

[ramal121]

A plain jane basic control head will only do 32 channels with just a two digit channel number. If it has the channel expansion option it will do 99 channels with alphanumerics.

You can use either the internal speaker of a basic control head or an external one, but you'll have to open the head up and swap the speaker wires around.

 

[FireGuy129]

how would i know of i have that option, if i dont is there a way for it to be added??
if i am able to get a full feature control head will i be able to use it with my current radio??
sorry for all the questions but i am new to the kenwood radios.

 

[FireGuy129]

i also just found a chip set upgrade for my radio. is that something my local radio shop can do?? will it also give me the option to add channel names by upgrading to 99 channels or will it be easier to find a full feature control head??

 

[ramal121]

The best way to confirm is to open the radio and the head and see what size eeprom is installed.

The upgrade will give basic heads 99 channels and alpha-numerics or give an advanced head 160 channels (I believe, shoot 730s are getting a little fuzzy now). Upgrade chips are available on E-bay once in a while.

I don't think you have to get newer firmware (which is also on a chip, you probably have FFB) to do the mod but it will require a service manual to remove or install the proper jumpers. You can ask if your shop can do this.

I like the advanced heads better, but you can get by with a basic head as long as the alpha works.

Also, if you have a dual head you'll have to put a bigger eeprom chip in both heads (as well as the radio) for this to work...