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TK690H Programming issue

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jamie_master1

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I'm losing my mind with this radio. I bought the right cable $99.00. I have two versions of kpg44d. I have the DOS version and the Windows Version. I can't read this radio to save my life. All I want to do is change a PL setting on one channel 2 second fix but I can't read the radio. The DOS version gives a communication error. The Windows Version does the same thing but if you click retry it will read up to 129 blocks out of 192 then stops. I'm thinking it's the cable. I tried reading a TK890 with the same results. I have a little experience with radios (Motorola) and I'm a little frustrated. Any thoughts???
 

AK9R

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  1. What operating system is your computer running?
  2. Does your computer have a real serial port or are you using a USB-to-serial converter?
  3. Do you have a licensed copy of KPG-44?
  4. Did you buy a Kenwood KPG-43 cable or a clone?
 

jamie_master1

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What operating system is your computer running?
Dell ATG Laptop with XP

Does your computer have a real serial port or are you using a USB-to-serial converter?
Yes Com 1 set at the OS Default of 9600

Do you have a licensed copy of KPG-44?
Yes, I have both DOS Version and the Windows Version.
Which brings me to another question should I be using the DOS Version or Windows?

Did you buy a Kenwood KPG-43 cable or a clone?
I did buy a clone from rfguys.com which I think is my problem.
Where can I buy Authentic Kenwwod cables?
I've always used clone cables for my Motorola stuff without problems.

Thank You
 

kingpin

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You can contact Kenwood directly and they can direct you to a dealer in your area as they work in territories. I use a genuine cable on all of my 790s and never had a problem. It should run you around $65 for it.
 

Vermontradio1966

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DOS version

Go for the factory cable.....I have had the same issue. I only use factory cable for the X90 series.
 
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AK9R

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Which brings me to another question should I be using the DOS Version or Windows?
Should make no difference. I use the Windows version in an IBM ThinkPad T23 (which has a real serial port) running XP with no problems.

I did buy a clone from rfguys.com which I think is my problem.
Where can I buy Authentic Kenwwod cables?
I bought mine from American Communications Systems. I think the factory cable is the way to go. Note that unless they've changed the KPG-43, it comes with a 25-pin serial connection on the computer end. You'll need a 25-pin to 9-pin converter or cable. Long time ago, I latched onto a supply of what were once called "IBM PC modem cables" which are 9-pin female on one end and 25-pin male on the other. Works great with the KPG-43.
 
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mrweather

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Should make no difference. I use the Windows version in an IBM ThinkPad T23 (which has a real serial port) running XP with no problems.
I heard/read that somewhere that a radio programmed with the Windows KPG-44D cannot be read/written with the DOS KGP-44D. Is that true?
 

AK9R

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I've never tried. Once I got the Windows version working, I didn't bother with the DOS version.
 

vorndamr

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TK-690 Plug

The TK-x90 series mic plug that Kenwood came up with is the worst plug I have ever had to deal with. Make sure it is aligned correctly and all the pins will push in and out to make a good connection. Rod
 
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