Kenwood Mobile Radios: Plan a Vehicle or Base-Station Setup

A mobile radio is one part of an installed communication system. Before ordering a Kenwood NX-1700HDVK or NX-1800HDUK2, decide where it will be installed, which radios it must communicate with, and how it will receive power and connect to an antenna.

Start with the correct band

Listed model	Band	Output	Operating modes
NX-1700HDVK	VHF	Up to 50W	DMR digital and analog
NX-1800HDUK2	UHF	Up to 45W	DMR digital and analog

These are the configurations offered in the linked listings. Do not assume a different protocol is included because another radio in the wider family supports it. VHF and UHF radios cannot communicate directly with each other. Digital operation also requires the correct format and settings.

For a vehicle installation

Plan a suitable antenna and mounting location, cable route, microphone position and DC power connection. Review each product's included-equipment list before adding parts. The current mobile-radio listings include a microphone, mounting bracket, DC power cable and fuse; an external antenna is separate. Have a qualified installer confirm the installation requirements for the vehicle and radio.

For a desk or control station

A mobile radio does not become a plug-in desk radio simply by placing it on a table. A fixed installation also needs a suitable regulated DC power supply, antenna, cabling and mounting arrangement. Plan the workstation around how staff will use the microphone and hear incoming calls. Confirm every component's suitability before ordering a complete setup.

Will it communicate with our handheld radios?

Check the handhelds' exact models, frequencies and operating modes. Analog operation requires compatible frequencies and signaling. DMR operation also needs compatible digital settings. A handheld using NXDN digital cannot be assumed to match a mobile operating in DMR. Your team may need a reviewed channel plan for a mixed fleet.

Do we need more power or a different system?

Coverage depends on antenna placement, terrain, buildings, interference and any repeater system, as well as transmit power. Describe the locations where communication fails. That gives the team reviewing your order more useful information than a distance estimate alone.