Modifications for the Kenwood TH-D7A



20-02-1999 Kenwood TH-D7a TX band modification

Allows TX 136 - 173.995 and 400 - 479.995

Although I have performed this modification on my own radio with no problems noted, I take no responsibility in the accuracy of the procedure shown below. If you do not feel comfortable working with small surface mount components, you should not be performing this procedure.

  1. Using Kenwoods program, download all saved settings from your radio. (All settings will be erased on power up after this mod)

  2. Remove battery, antenna and freq/volume control knobs.

  3. Loosen both fasteners from the antenna base and the freq/volume control shaft.

  4. Remove the four screws that secure the back of the radio.

  5. Pull the top plastic piece with the Led's off the top of the radio.

  6. Gently pull on the rubber gasket that goes around the top of the radio.

  7. Pull the bottom of the radio appart gently.Note: There will still be a ribbon cable connecting both parts (see picture). I removed the ribbon cable to make it easier to work on.


  8. Pull the brown part of the ribbon cable connector upwards using your fingernail or small screwdriver. This will release the ribbon cable.


  9. Locate the green wire. Under the green wire there are four small diodes in a neat row (they should have a miniature A on them if your eyesight is good). Using a soldering iron, remove the middle two diodes.


  10. Put the radio back together in the reverse order it was taken appart.

Modification Notes:
It has been suggested that modifications to the TH-D7a may somehow void the manufacturers free firmware update that is said to be in the works. While I don't believe my modified transmitter will have any problems in getting its deserved firmware update, I did however save both diodes for future replacement if it ever becomes necessary. This may be a good idea if you were ever to want to "trade in" your radio to a store, or if warranty work is needed. (Just in case)

KD6VYV
Comments, additions? Email [email protected]




23-04-2000 TH-D7A Firmware upgrade
Author: Kenwood Communication, inc.


Service Bulletin no. 1063 (24 February 1999)

UPGRADE INFORMATION:

The firmware in the TH-D7A can be upgraded to allow the following features and functions:

In GPS mode, recognize latitude and longitude to the "ten-thousandths" of a decimal place (4-digit precision). Currently it reads to the "hundredth" position.

In GPS mode, recognize negative temperatures such as - 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Allow a comma to be used in the middle of a Command Sentence. The original firmware recognizes a comma as the end of a sentence.

UPGRADE PROCEDURE:
Send your TH-D7A to Kenwood Svc Ctr West for firmware upgrade. There is no need to call for an appointment or return authorization.

Kenwood Svc Ctr West
13030 Alondra Blvd. #104
Cerritos, CA. 90701-2257
(562) 483-8740
Mon. – Friday 9:00AM – 6:00PM PST

At this time, only KSC-West can upgrade the firmware in the TH-D7A since special equipment is required to perform the work.

NOTE:
This upgrade applies to units with serial number 010xxxxx and below. New firmware was used in production from 011xxxxx. So that there is no confusion, the following serial numbers have not yet been produced. When they are produced, they will have the new firmware installed.

012xxxxx, 100xxxxx, 101xxxxx, 102xxxxx, ………..

This bulletin only applies to TH-D7A transceivers sold in the USA. This information may not be valid for other TH-D7 equipment sold in Europe or other markets.

This upgrade is covered under the 1-year warranty period to the original owner.