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TM-D710A/E CONTENTS 1
1 DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT
The concept of developing the TM-V71A/E, TM-D710A/E and RC-D710 is as stated below.
• To have common functionality between the basic model (TM-V71A/E) and the multi-function
model (TM-D710A/E) transceivers.
• To add the capability for customers themselves to be able to update the version of APRS on
their own.
• To create an affinity with VolP systems.
In order to understand customer requirements, we did surveys at various ham shows, such as the
Dayton Hamvention, ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference (DCC), JARL Ham
Fair (Japan), Ham Radio in Friedrichshafen (Germany), etc., and analyzed our customers’ needs.
The many ideas gathered coalesced into the development concept above as the Product Planning
group and Development group virtually merged during the conception phase to come up with the
present development program.
1.1 Strategy for the Design
First, we looked back at the makeup of the earlier TM-D700 model series. The TM-D700 series has
built-in TNC modems in the transceivers themselves for packet communication. The embedded
microcomputer supports not only amateur radio functions, but also data communication application
programs such as APRS.
After the multi-function TM-D700 model was marketed, we eliminated hardware parts related to
packet communication and introduced the TM-V708 as a standard model. From the beginning,
this model was developed as a multi-functional model; therefore, it was easy to update the design.
However, it was difficult to cut costs while developing the standard model.
This time there was a plan to develop two types: a standard model and a multi-functional model.
We discussed which type we should develop first, and slowly the following plan evolved:
1. First, develop the standard model.
2. Next, create a multi-functional model only by switching the front panel.
3. Lastly, develop a standalone front panel.
Nobody could imagine how this development would proceed, especially to progress from Step 2 to
Step 3.
On the basis of sharing functions between the multi-function model and the standard model
transceiver, the research to combine the TNC modem and APRS application program all in the
front panel was completed.
At this stage, our goal to have a TNC with APRS functionality was realized. We merchandised the
standalone front panel with the underlying concept of allowing existing Kenwood customers to
enjoy the benefits of APRS.