TM-255A / E

Specifications    Prices

144 MHz FM, SSB, and CW transceiver featuring a detachable front panel for easy mounting in a car. 40 Watts output, HI/LO switch enables power reduction to 5 Watts. Among its many features are 100 multi-function memory channels plus 1 call channel, AIP (Advanced Intercept Point) circuitry that allows the operator to choose either high sensitivity or a high intercept point to suit conditions, IF-SHIFT and a noise blanker for improved receiver performance, RIT, DDS synthesizer with fuzzy logic control and fine 5 Hz step, twin tuning dials, data connector for 1200/9600 bps packet communications, built-in TCXO (temperature-compensated crystal oscillator). Ideated in Japan, year of introduction 1994.

Reference market : amateur-radio

TM-255A / E specifications

General
Frequency coverage
Receive144.0000 ~ 148.0000 MHz [1]
144.0000 ~ 146.0000 MHz [2]
Transmit144.0000 ~ 148.0000 MHz [1]
144.0000 ~ 146.0000 MHz [2]
Mode
CW / LSB / USB / FM
Tuning step
5 / 10 / 100 Hz / 1 / 5 / 10 kHz (CW/SSB)
10 / 50 / 100 Hz / 1 / 5 / 10 / 12.5 / 20 / 25 kHz (FM)
1 MHz
Receiver
Sensitivity
CW/SSB<0.13 uV (10dB S+N/N)
FM<0.2 uV (12dB SINAD)
Selectivity
CW/SSB>2.1 kHz (-6dB)
<4.8 kHz (-60dB)
FM>12 kHz (-6dB)
<28 kHz (-60dB)
RF attenuator
Yes [3]
IF-shift
Yes
NB (Noise Blanker)
Yes
RIT (Receiver Incremental Tuning)
±1.1 (10 Hz step)
±2.2 kHz (20 Hz step)
Frequency stability
±2.5ppm with temperature from -20°C to +60°C (CW/SSB)
±10ppm with temperature from -20°C to +60°C (FM)
IF (Intermediate Frequency)
10.695 MHz
455 kHz (FM only)
Squelch sensitivity
<0.13 uV (CW/SSB)
<0.09 uV (FM)
CW features
Pitch control (400~1000 Hz, 50 Hz step)
Transmitter
Output power
CW/SSB5 / 40 W
FM5 / 40 W
Spurious emission
<-60 dBc
Carrier suppression (SSB)
>40 dB
Unwanted sideband suppression (SSB)
>40 dB
Maximum deviation (FM)
± 5 kHz
Audio response
400~2600 Hz (-6dB, SSB)
Audio distortion
<7% (60% modulation, SSB)
Microphone
600Ω
Features
Memory
50 simplex channels
49 split-frequency channels
1 call channel
1 scan range
Display
100 Hz frequency resolution
30-segments signal meter bar
Selective calling
CTCSS / DTMF
1750 Hz tone
Antenna
SO239 50Ω
Power supply
13.8 VDC (±15%)
Power consumption
<0.9A RX (no signal)
<13A TX (max RF power)
Audio power
2W on 8Ω
Audio output
Jack 3.5 mm mono (external speaker)
Connections
Jack 3.5 mm (CW key)
6-pin mini-DIN (DATA / Packet)
8-pin Jack (Mic)
Mechanical and environmental data
Operating temperature
from -20°C to +60°C
Dimensions
180 (W) x 60 (H) x 215.5 (D) mm, projections not included.
180 (W) x 68.5 (H) x 250 (D) mm, projections included
Weight
2.7 kg

  1. TM-255A, USA version.
  2. TM-255E, European version.
  3. AIP function.
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TM-255 vs TM-455 :

The Kenwood TM-455 is similar to TM-255 described in this page, but with 70cm coverage rather than 2 meters.

TM-255A / E rear panel and connections :

Kenwood TM-255A / E rear panel and connections
Kenwood TM-255A / E rear panel and connections

Reference / Description
1Power input. You can use either a 12V vehicle battery or a regulated 13.8V DC power supply. The TM-255 draws less than 13A at full transmitter output power
2Antenna. Connect an external antenna designed for operation on the 144 MHz band with an impedance of 50Ω
3CW key. Connect a key or electronic keyer for CW operation. Accepts a 3.5mm diameter mono (2 conductor) plug. Always turn the TM-255 power off before inserting the key plug to avoid momentarily transmitting as the plug is inserted
4Data. Connect a TNC (Terminal Node Controller) for Packet operation. Accepts a 6-pin mini DIN plug. Also can be used to control external equipment such as a linear amplifier
5External speaker. Accepts a 3.5mm diameter (2 conductor) plug.
6Ground. A well-grounded transceiver will reduce the risk of interference, it can also reduce receiver noise caused by static discharges

TM-255A / E price

We have collected for your convenience the Kenwood TM255 sale price (UK Pounds) and its trend over time. Useful to guarantee a cheaper purchase of this radio and to put it for sale in the second-hand market. Of course offers, accessories, warranty terms and conditions can lead to different figures.

Price Date Condition
GBP 370.95
(449USD)
2022-feb Second Hand

Working, but there are some scratches

GBP 252.00
(399USD)
2010-jun Second Hand

In good condition. Comes with DTMF hand microphone

TM-255A / E review

Your opinion on merits, defects, experiences, with this radio set is welcome. Write your review, after a technical evaluation by our staff if found suitable will be published on this page. We thank you for your precious contribution.

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