Kenwood's TK-3180 portable UHF FM transceiver is a cost-effective walkie-talkie used mostly in public service and industrial applications. The wealth of usable frequencies and "zone" programming allow for easy organization among departments. Special programming also allows TK-3180 users to see who's calling before answering and to use a text message instead of a call when desired.
Basics
The TK-3180 UHF transceiver is capable of handling as many as 512 channels of set-aside traffic. A Kenwood dealer is versed in programming the radio with trunking and conventional zones to handle 128 separated zones of coverage. Each UHF device pumps out 500 megawatts of audio output strength, with a frequency range of 450-520 MHz. Depending on the size of your rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the TK-3180 can measure (W/H/D) as much as 2 5/16-by-5 3/8-by-1 9/16 inches and weigh as much as 19.75 oz.
Several optional antennas can be screwed into the top of the TK-3180 to boost reception beyond the stock 12 dB SINAD, and optional clip-on microphone/speaker attachments are frequently used by safety forces, bus drivers and other professionals for easy push-to-talk communications.
Security
The TK-3180 portable radio is made for secure conversations. Several U.S. Homeland Security regulations require encrypted calling for safety forces and other professionals. The transceiver uses inversion scrambling and encryption technology so that basic and executive security for calls is easily attainable. An emergency call and "man-down" function are geared toward rescue operations but are also useful in manufacturing environments. The device's FleetSync programming also includes caller ID, text messaging, repeater-free telephone calling, paging and voice mail functions.
Bells and Whistles
Kenwood's TK-3180 UHF transceiver has special functions geared toward safety, security and streamlined operations. As many as 40 tones are available for encoding and decoding. There is also voice-operated transmission, or VOX, which allows the transceiver to recognize various sounds for hands-free transmission (available with special headset only). A scan function also can be used to monitor the traffic on various channels. And if a repeater goes down, or if conversation just needs to occur between two people and no one else, a "talk around" feature turns the TK-3180 into a traditional walkie-talkie.
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