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The Kenwood TS-711
Multimode 2 meter transciever

Factory Specifications Modifications Computer Interfacing Links
Overview
    The Kenwood TS-711a is, more or less, the 2 meter twin of my TS-440. The features are similar, and the styling is identical. Both units were introduced at about the same time, and even use some of the same accessories (such as the computer interface). Unlike the HF model, the 2 meter version has a built in power supply, and can be plugged directly into the wall. This is an all mode transceiver, and is not limited to FM like most 2 meter units. There was also a third member of the family: the TS-811, a 70 CM unit. This was Kenwoods middle range series.
    The unit puts out 25 watts. This is enough power for local communications, within the limitations of the 2 meter band. It is also enough power to run a good quality linear amplifier up to full rated power. I plan, in the near future, on getting a linear amp for this unit. Mirage makes a suitable unit, which puts out 160 watts, and is capable of multi-mode (including FM) operation. This should give me a respectable amount of power, for local operation, and still be within the capability of the 42 amp power supply which runs my shack. The Mirage has a clamed current draw of about 20 amps, which still leaves plenty in case I wish to operate the linear and my TS-440 HF at the same time. It is unlikely that I will ever wish to do this, but it is comforting to know that the capability is there if I need it.

    Though this is of the same series as the TS-440, and shares that unit's all mode operation, the TS-711a is a bit less capable. In particular, it is missing many of the connections, which give the HF unit so much of it's flexibility. The rear panel features an antenna connector, ground, power connectors for 120v and 13.8 volt, computer interface, and audio jacks. Most activity, on the two meter band, is FM, making it hard for many ham operators to justify the expense of an all mode radio.
 


Specs
The following specs were taken from Kenwood literature:
Modes LSB (A3J), USB (A3J), CW (A1), AM (A3), FM (F3), FSK (F1)
Antenna Impedance 50 Ohms
Grounding Negative
Power Requirements 120v / 13.8v
Current Drain Receive Mode with no input 1.2 amps
Transmit Mode 6.5 amps
Operating temperature -10 to +50 C (+14 to +122 F)
Dimensions Wide
High
Deep
10.6 Inches
3.78 Inches
10.2 Inches
Weight 15.6 Pounds
Transmitter
Frequency range 144mhz-146mhz
Input Power LSB, USB, CW, FM, FSK 25 watts
AM 25 watts
Modulation LSB, USB Balanced Modulation
FM Reactance Modulation 
AM Low Level Modulation
Spurious radiation (CW)  Less Than -60 db
Carrier Suppression  More Than 40 db (With 1.5 KHZ Reference)
Unwanted Sideband Suppression  More Than 40 db (With 1.5 KHZ Reference)
Third Order Distortion More than 26 db below one of two tones
Maximum Frequency Deviation (FM)  5 KHZ
Frequency Response (-6 db) 400 to 2600 HZ
Microphone Impedance  500  to 600 Ohms
Receiver
Circuitry Double Conversion Superheterodyne
Frequency range 144mhz-146mhz
Intermediate Frequency 1st: 30.265 MHZ, 2nd: 10.695 MHZ, FM: 455 KHZ
Sensitivity LSB, USB, CW, FSK
(At 10 db S/N)
less than .13uV
AM (At 10 db S/N) less than .13uV
FM (At 12 db SINAD) Less Than 0.2 uV
Selectivity LSB, USB, CW, FSK -6 db 2.2 KHZ
-60db 4.8 KHZ
AM -6 db 2.2 KHZ
-60 db 4.8 KHZ
FM -6 db 12 KHZ
-60 db 24 KHZ
Squelch Sensitivity LSB, USB, CW, FSK 100 to 150 KHZ Less Than 20 uV
FM  1.6 to 30 MHZ Less Than .32 uV
Output   2 Watts at 8 Ohms (5% Distortion)
Output Load Impedance 4 to 16 Ohms
Frequency Accuracy  Less than .00001 error
Frequency Stability  Less than .00001 error


Mods
As wth most commercial ham radios, there are a number of modifications and enhancements that can be made, many by the owner.
Extended Transmit Frequencies:
  • Remove the top cover and locate the control unit (X53-1410-XX)
  • Cut diode D30, xmit now 141.000 TO 150.995 MHz.



Computer Interfacing
    The 711, as part of the same series as the TS-440, interfaces to a computer in the same manner. Rather than simply cut and paste the same information here, I will link to the pertinant section on the TS-440.

Links
    Links, mods accesories, and information on the TS-711a, and related subjects