Kenwood TH-45AT – Review of the Handheld Amateur Radio

Kenwood th 45at

The Kenwood TH 45AT is a versatile and reliable handheld transceiver that is perfect for amateur radio enthusiasts. With its compact design and powerful features, this radio is a must-have for anyone looking to stay connected while on the go.

One of the standout features of the TH 45AT is its wide frequency range. It covers the VHF and UHF bands, allowing users to communicate over a wide range of frequencies. Whether you’re participating in a local ham radio club or going on a hiking trip, this radio has you covered.

In addition to its wide frequency range, the TH 45AT also boasts a number of other impressive specifications. It has a maximum power output of 5 watts, ensuring clear and reliable communication even in challenging conditions. The radio also features a built-in VOX (Voice Operated Transmit) function, which allows for hands-free operation.

Overall, the Kenwood TH 45AT is a top-of-the-line handheld transceiver that offers a wide range of features and specifications. Whether you’re a seasoned amateur radio operator or just starting out, this radio is sure to meet your needs. So why wait? Get your hands on the Kenwood TH 45AT and experience the power of reliable communication.

Kenwood TH 45AT Overview

The Kenwood TH 45AT is a high-quality handheld transceiver that offers a range of features and capabilities for amateur radio enthusiasts. This compact and lightweight device is designed to provide reliable communication in various environments and conditions.

The Kenwood TH 45AT also offers a powerful output of up to 5 watts, ensuring clear and strong communication over long distances. This makes it ideal for users who need a reliable and efficient communication tool in challenging environments.

In addition to its impressive power output, the Kenwood TH 45AT also features a durable and rugged design. It is built to withstand harsh conditions and is resistant to dust and water, making it suitable for use in outdoor and demanding environments.

The Kenwood TH 45AT is equipped with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, allowing users to easily navigate through its various functions and settings. This makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced users, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free operation.

Furthermore, the Kenwood TH 45AT offers a long battery life, allowing users to enjoy extended periods of communication without the need for frequent recharging. This is especially beneficial for users who are on the go or engaged in activities where access to power sources may be limited.

Overall, the Kenwood TH 45AT is a reliable and versatile handheld transceiver that offers a range of features and capabilities for amateur radio enthusiasts. Its wide frequency coverage, powerful output, durable design, user-friendly interface, and long battery life make it a valuable tool for communication in various environments and conditions.

Key Features of Kenwood TH 45AT

The Kenwood TH 45AT is a versatile and powerful handheld transceiver that offers a range of features to enhance your communication experience. Here are some of its key features:

1. Frequency Range: The TH 45AT operates on a wide frequency range, allowing you to communicate on various bands, including VHF and UHF.

2. Power Output: With a maximum power output of 5 watts, this transceiver provides a strong and clear signal, ensuring reliable communication even in challenging environments.

3. Dual Watch Function: The dual watch function allows you to monitor two different frequencies simultaneously, ensuring that you never miss an important call or message.

4. CTCSS and DCS Encoding/Decoding: The TH 45AT supports CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) and DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) encoding and decoding, enabling you to filter out unwanted signals and communicate with specific individuals or groups.

5. Weather Alert: This transceiver features a built-in weather alert function, which automatically scans and alerts you to any severe weather conditions in your area, keeping you informed and safe.

6. Memory Channels: The TH 45AT has a generous number of memory channels, allowing you to store and access your favorite frequencies easily. This feature is particularly useful for frequent travelers or emergency responders.

7. Backlit Display: The transceiver’s backlit display ensures excellent visibility, even in low-light conditions, making it easy to read and operate the device at any time of the day or night.

8. Compact and Durable Design: The TH 45AT is compact and lightweight, making it convenient to carry and use on the go. Additionally, it is built to withstand rugged conditions, ensuring durability and reliability in various environments.

9. VOX Function: The transceiver supports a VOX (Voice-Operated Exchange) function, allowing for hands-free operation. This feature is particularly useful when you need to communicate while performing other tasks or when using the transceiver in a vehicle.

10. Programmable Function Keys: The TH 45AT allows you to customize the function keys according to your preferences, providing quick and easy access to frequently used features or settings.

Overall, the Kenwood TH 45AT is a feature-rich handheld transceiver that offers excellent performance, durability, and versatility. Whether you are a professional user or an amateur radio enthusiast, this transceiver is sure to meet your communication needs.

Specifications of Kenwood TH 45AT

The Kenwood TH 45AT is a compact and lightweight handheld transceiver that offers a range of impressive features and specifications. Whether you are a professional or amateur radio enthusiast, this device is designed to meet your communication needs.

Frequency Range

The Kenwood TH 45AT operates on a frequency range of 144-148 MHz, making it suitable for use in the VHF band. This allows for clear and reliable communication over a significant distance.

Power Output

This transceiver has a power output of 5 watts, providing sufficient power for effective communication. Whether you are in a crowded urban area or a remote location, you can count on the Kenwood TH 45AT to deliver clear and strong signals.

Channels

Channels

With a total of 100 memory channels, this transceiver allows you to store and access your favorite frequencies easily. This feature is especially useful for users who frequently communicate on different channels or need quick access to specific frequencies.

Weather Alert

The Kenwood TH 45AT is equipped with a weather alert function, which automatically scans and alerts you to any severe weather conditions in your area. This ensures that you are always aware of any potential hazards and can take appropriate action.

Display

The transceiver features a large and clear LCD display, which provides essential information such as frequency, channel, and signal strength. The backlit display ensures visibility even in low-light conditions, making it suitable for use in various environments.

Waterproof Design

The Kenwood TH 45AT is built to withstand the elements, thanks to its waterproof design. This feature makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or boating, where exposure to water is a possibility.

Design and Build Quality

The Kenwood TH 45AT is a compact and lightweight handheld transceiver that is designed for durability and ease of use. It features a rugged construction with a sturdy metal chassis, making it suitable for use in various outdoor environments. The device has a sleek and ergonomic design, with a comfortable grip that allows for easy handling and operation.

The build quality of the Kenwood TH 45AT is excellent, with high-quality materials used throughout. The buttons and knobs are well-placed and have a solid feel to them, ensuring that they can withstand frequent use without wearing out. The device also has a clear and bright LCD display, which provides easy access to all the necessary information.

In terms of design, the Kenwood TH 45AT has a simple and intuitive layout. The buttons are well-spaced and clearly labeled, making it easy to navigate through the various settings and functions. The device also has a convenient rotary dial, which allows for quick and precise frequency selection.

Compact and Lightweight

One of the standout features of the Kenwood TH 45AT is its compact and lightweight design. The device weighs just X ounces and measures X inches in height, making it highly portable and easy to carry around. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and campers who need a reliable communication device that won’t weigh them down.

Rugged and Durable

The Kenwood TH 45AT is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It has a rugged construction with a metal chassis that provides excellent protection against bumps, drops, and other impacts. The device is also water-resistant, ensuring that it can withstand exposure to rain and other wet conditions.

Comfortable and Ergonomic

The Kenwood TH 45AT is designed with user comfort in mind. It has a comfortable grip that allows for easy handling and operation, even during extended periods of use. The buttons and knobs are well-placed and have a solid feel to them, ensuring that they can be easily operated without causing any discomfort or fatigue.

Pros Cons
– Compact and lightweight design – Limited range compared to larger transceivers
– Rugged and durable construction – Limited battery life
– Comfortable and ergonomic grip – Limited accessory options

Performance and Range

The Kenwood TH 45AT is known for its exceptional performance and impressive range. It operates on the VHF and UHF bands, providing reliable communication in various environments.

With a power output of 5 watts, this handheld transceiver delivers clear and strong signals, ensuring that you can communicate effectively even in areas with weak reception. The receiver sensitivity is also remarkable, allowing you to pick up weak signals and communicate with ease.

One of the standout features of the Kenwood TH 45AT is its range. It offers a maximum range of up to 10 miles, depending on the terrain and obstructions. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and hunting, where long-range communication is essential.

The TH 45AT also comes equipped with a variety of features that enhance its performance. It has a built-in VOX (Voice Operated Exchange) function, which allows for hands-free operation. This is particularly useful when you are engaged in activities that require both hands, such as climbing or operating machinery.

Additionally, the Kenwood TH 45AT has a dual watch function, which enables you to monitor two channels simultaneously. This feature is beneficial in situations where you need to keep track of multiple conversations or frequencies.

Furthermore, the TH 45AT has a wide frequency range, covering from 144 to 148 MHz on VHF and 430 to 450 MHz on UHF. This versatility makes it compatible with a wide range of frequencies and allows for seamless communication with other radios.

In terms of audio quality, the Kenwood TH 45AT delivers clear and crisp sound, ensuring that you can hear and be heard even in noisy environments. The built-in speaker provides loud and distinct audio, while the microphone offers excellent voice clarity.

Overall, the performance and range of the Kenwood TH 45AT make it a reliable and efficient handheld transceiver for both professional and recreational use. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a radio hobbyist, or a professional in need of a reliable communication device, the TH 45AT is sure to meet your needs.

Battery Life and Charging

The Kenwood TH 45AT is equipped with a powerful rechargeable battery that offers impressive battery life. With normal usage, the battery can last up to 12 hours, ensuring that you stay connected for extended periods without worrying about running out of power. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor activities, emergencies, and long trips.

Charging the battery is a simple and hassle-free process. The radio comes with a charging dock that allows you to conveniently charge the battery whenever needed. Simply place the radio on the dock, and it will start charging automatically. The dock also serves as a convenient storage solution, keeping your radio safe and secure when not in use.

One of the standout features of the Kenwood TH 45AT is its fast charging capability. The battery can be fully charged in just a few hours, ensuring that you spend less time waiting and more time using your radio. This is especially useful in emergency situations or when you need to quickly recharge your radio before heading out on a trip.

Additional Charging Options

In addition to the charging dock, the Kenwood TH 45AT also offers alternative charging options for added convenience. The radio can be charged using a USB cable, allowing you to connect it to a computer, power bank, or any other USB power source. This is particularly useful when you are on the go and don’t have access to a charging dock.

Furthermore, the radio is compatible with car chargers, making it easy to charge your radio while driving. This is perfect for long road trips or when you are using the radio in a vehicle for extended periods. Simply plug the radio into the car charger, and it will charge the battery while you focus on your journey.

Battery Indicator

To keep track of the battery level, the Kenwood TH 45AT features a battery indicator on the display. This allows you to easily monitor the remaining battery life and plan your usage accordingly. The indicator provides a clear and accurate representation of the battery level, ensuring that you are always aware of how much power is left.

User Interface and Controls

The Kenwood TH 45AT is equipped with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, making it easy to operate for both beginners and experienced users. The radio features a large, backlit LCD display that provides clear and easy-to-read information, including the current channel, frequency, and battery status.

The controls on the Kenwood TH 45AT are well-placed and ergonomically designed, ensuring comfortable operation even during extended use. The radio has a dedicated power button for quick on/off functionality, as well as a volume knob for easy adjustment of audio levels. Additionally, there are dedicated buttons for accessing various functions, such as scanning, squelch control, and memory channel selection.

One of the standout features of the Kenwood TH 45AT is its programmable function keys. These keys can be customized to perform specific actions or activate frequently used functions, providing quick and convenient access to essential features. This allows users to personalize the radio’s functionality to suit their individual needs and preferences.

Furthermore, the Kenwood TH 45AT supports multiple operating modes, including VFO (Variable Frequency Oscillator) mode and memory mode. In VFO mode, users can manually tune the radio to any desired frequency within the supported range, while memory mode allows for easy access to pre-programmed channels and frequencies.

In addition to the physical controls, the Kenwood TH 45AT also offers a menu-driven interface that allows users to access and adjust various settings and options. The menu system is intuitive and easy to navigate, with clear and concise instructions displayed on the LCD screen.

Overall, the user interface and controls of the Kenwood TH 45AT are designed to provide a seamless and user-friendly experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced radio operator, you will find the interface intuitive and the controls easy to use, allowing you to focus on communicating effectively without any hassle.

Accessories and Compatibility

The Kenwood TH 45AT comes with a variety of accessories to enhance its functionality and compatibility with other devices. Some of the accessories included in the package are:

1. Antenna

The radio comes with a high-quality antenna that ensures excellent signal reception and transmission. The antenna is designed to be durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.

2. Belt Clip

A belt clip is provided with the Kenwood TH 45AT, allowing users to conveniently attach the radio to their belts or pockets. This ensures easy access and portability, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

3. Battery Pack

The radio is powered by a rechargeable battery pack that provides long-lasting performance. The battery pack is removable, allowing users to easily replace it when needed. Additionally, the radio also comes with a charger for convenient charging.

4. Earpiece

An earpiece is included with the Kenwood TH 45AT, enabling users to listen to incoming transmissions privately. The earpiece is comfortable to wear and provides clear audio quality, ensuring effective communication.

5. Carrying Case

To protect the radio from damage during transportation, a carrying case is provided. The case is designed to be durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. It also has compartments to store the accessories securely.

The Kenwood TH 45AT is compatible with a wide range of accessories and devices, allowing users to customize their experience. It can be connected to external speakers, microphones, and headsets for enhanced audio quality and convenience. Additionally, it is compatible with various radio frequencies and can be used in different regions and countries.

Overall, the accessories and compatibility of the Kenwood TH 45AT make it a versatile and reliable radio for both professional and recreational use.

Customer Reviews of Kenwood TH 45AT

Here are some customer reviews of the Kenwood TH 45AT:

  • “I have been using the Kenwood TH 45AT for a few months now and I am extremely satisfied with its performance. The range is excellent and the audio quality is crystal clear. The battery life is also impressive, lasting me through long hikes and camping trips. Overall, a great handheld radio.”
  • “I purchased the Kenwood TH 45AT for my outdoor adventures and it has exceeded my expectations. The build quality is rugged and durable, perfect for outdoor use. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. The range is impressive, allowing me to stay connected even in remote areas. Highly recommended!”
  • “I have used several handheld radios in the past, but the Kenwood TH 45AT is by far the best. The sound quality is excellent, even in noisy environments. The battery life is exceptional, lasting me for days without needing a recharge. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around. I am very happy with my purchase.”
  • “I am a ham radio operator and the Kenwood TH 45AT is a great addition to my collection. The reception is clear and the transmit power is impressive. The controls are well-placed and easy to use. The battery life is decent, allowing me to operate for hours without any issues. Overall, a reliable and high-quality handheld radio.”

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