WRAK968

I suspect the 76D is older software that was transitioned to windows from older styled DOS programming. If this is the case, chances are the program will only allow you to access one of 4 com ports, which back in the DOS days (before USB) was the common number of ports
 
Well, before anything we need to figure out what com port number the programming cable has. Open the start menu and type "Device Manager" and it should locate device manager in control panel. Open it.
 
Under Ports (COM & LPT) you should find your cable with (COM#) next to the name. Typically using a serial device this would be COM 2. However because we are using USB here, the computer gives it its own COM # and I've seen it go anywhere between 3 and 8. If your COM port number is greater than 4, don't fret, I believe there is a way to fix it.
 
In device manager, right click on your cable under ports & coms, and click "Properties"
 
In the new window click on the "Port Settings" tab, then click "Advanced"
 
Where it says "COM Port Number" Change to Com3 or Com4 (Com 1&2 are usually used by your motherboard for other applications and may cause signaling issues. Also important, anything using Com 3 or 4 will likely need to be moved if it is in use.)
 
Click "Ok" and the window will close, Click "Ok" again in the previous window and it too will close.
 
Check that the cable comes up as COM3 or 4 in device manager. If it does, restart the KPG76D software, and try to select the port. It should be open now.

If it still will not let you select the port, you may need a serial cable and capable computer to program. I know some radios and programs are a bit glitchy like that. Let me know how you make out and if you have any questions.

Absolutely any number of things.

First, Welcome to the forums. There are a lot of great techs that can help you out with almost anything you ask.

Now. As I said, there are any number of things wrong with your set-up, I'll list a few basic ones to start.

1) Nobody on frequency. This is a big one as most people think if they dial up a frequency and key up somebody somewhere will be listening. With 22 channels to chose from catching people on simplex isn't always easy.

2) Wrong PL/DPL programing. Along with knowing which channel to listen to, there are "Private Line/Digital Private Line" codes commonly refereed to as CTCSS or DCS codes. These codes will mute your radios speaker unless an incoming transmission has a matching code. There are hundreds of codes, and when you add in split tone combos, thousands of code combinations. This only complicates things more when making simplex calls.
 
3) Terrain reducing range. With GMRS and especially on portable radios, your range is extremely limited depending on the terrain you are in. GMRS works off line of sight, thus if you can see it, you should be able to talk to it. The more hills, trees, or buildings between you and the other radio, the less range you will have.

An easy way to fix this would be to log into MyGMRS.com and use the map or repeater finder to locate repeaters near you if any. Follow the directions to get permission to use a local repeater, and that may extend your range.

I hope some of this helps

Couple things to check in the software. First, under "scan information" make sure you check the box that says "off-hook scan" This allows the radio to scan despite your mic not having an off hook detector, or if your using a base, it'll scan even though the mic isn't in a clip. Also make sure "Revert Channel Display" is UNCHECKED.

In the "Channel Information" window, ensure the channels you wish to scan have "Scan add" set to Add. Note, the TK880 will only scan channels in the same group by default. If you wish to scan all channels regardless of the group, change the "Group scan" setting to multi (Found in scan information)

I think that'll clear the "E" and instead just say "Scan" Note this is for the 49D software, if your using other software you may have different procedures to do.



 

Rich messaged me last night and everything is fixed. Not sure what the problem was but it seems to work now. Thanks again for you help everyone.

New firmware has been uploaded and so far the radio seems to work well. [No more "yyyyyyyyyy" upon power-up]

I want to thank Radioguy7268 and Alex WQVX408 for their helpful information Thanks guys!