Overview
The Kenwood TM-3530A is a 220 MHz FM mobile amateur radio transceiver introduced during the late 1980s for operation on the 1.25 meter amateur band. The radio became popular in regions with active 220 MHz repeater systems, particularly in California and the western United States. The model was sold under both the Trio-Kenwood and Kenwood brand names depending on market region and production period.
The TM-3530A was designed as a companion model to Kenwood’s TM-2530A 2-meter mobile transceiver and shared a similar chassis and operating layout.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Kenwood |
| Model | TM-3530A |
| Type | Mobile amateur radio transceiver |
| Frequency Range | 220 to 225 MHz |
| Mode | FM |
| RF Output Power | 5W / 25W |
| Receiver Type | Double conversion superheterodyne |
| IF Frequencies | 10.695 MHz / 455 kHz |
| Power Requirement | 13.8 VDC |
| Current Drain | Approx. 0.6A receive / 6.5A transmit |
| Audio Output | Greater than 1.5W |
| Antenna Connector | SO-239 |
| Dimensions | 180 × 60 × 195 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 1.8 kg |
| Cooling | Internal heat sink |
| Manufactured | Late 1980s |
Physical Description
The TM-3530A features a black metal mobile chassis with a front-mounted speaker, green backlit LCD display, multifunction pushbuttons, and rotary tuning controls. The compact design allowed convenient vehicle installation while still providing a full-featured front panel.
History
The TM-3530A was released during a period when Kenwood was heavily expanding its VHF and UHF amateur radio lineup. Because relatively few manufacturers supported the 220 MHz amateur band, the TM-3530A became a desirable radio for operators active on 1.25 meter FM repeaters.
The radio developed a reputation for:
- Excellent receiver sensitivity
- Reliable mobile operation
- Strong transmit audio quality
- Stable RF performance
- Durable construction
References
- RigPix archive page with photographs and specifications
https://www.rigpix.com/kenwood/tm3530a.htm - Original Kenwood instruction manual PDF
https://www.kenwood.com/usa/Support/pdf/TM-3530A.pdf - Universal Radio archived product information
https://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/fm_txvrs/tm3530a.html - eHam user reviews and operating experiences
https://www.eham.net/reviews/view-product?id=3240 - RigReference technical specifications and details
https://rigreference.com/rigs/5448-kenwood-tm-3530a