USB Programming Cloning Cable for Kenwood Radios - Reliable PC Link

In this review of the KENMAX USB Programming Cloning Cable, the bottom line is simple: this cable is for radio technicians and amateur radio owners who need a reliable, direct USB connection to program a broad range of Kenwood models. The reviewer found the cable's solid 4.2mm PU jacket and included CD driver make it an easy way to move channel plans and settings between radios or a PC. While the package does not include programming software, the cable provides the essential hardware link and driver medium for models that depend on the KPG-4, KPG-36 or KPG-46 style programming protocol.

Key Features

• USB port version: Provides a simple plug-and-play style physical connection to a PC for transferring radio configurations when the correct driver is installed from the included CD.
• Multi-pin connector: Works with a wide list of Kenwood handheld and mobile models so one cable covers many radios in mixed fleets.
• High quality 4.2mm PU cable: The thicker PU jacket improves durability for field use and repeated plugging during programming sessions.
• Driver on CD: The cable is supplied with a CD containing the necessary cable driver to enable PC detection on systems that accept legacy driver media.
• Cloning capability: Makes it straightforward to clone channel and configuration data between compatible Kenwood units, saving time on manual setup.

Who It's For

Radio hobbyists, fleet managers and technicians who maintain Kenwood TK and NX series radios will appreciate this cable because it directly supports the programming ports used by the KPG-4, KPG-36 and KPG-46 families. It is best for users who already have or can obtain the correct programming software so the included driver can be paired with the proper application.

Users who require official manufacturer software bundled with the cable, or who rely solely on cloud or OTA programming solutions, should look elsewhere. Also, anyone working on radios outside the listed compatible models should verify compatibility before purchasing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Wide model compatibility lets one cable handle many Kenwood TK and NX radios.
• Sturdy 4.2mm PU cable construction stands up to frequent use.
• Driver included on CD removes the need to hunt for a separate cable driver.

Cons

• Programming software is NOT included, so users must obtain the correct KPG application separately.

Specifications

Brand	KENMAX
Interface	USB port version
Cable jacket	4.2mm PU
Driver	Provided on CD
Compatible series	TK series, NX series, KPG-4/36/46
Functions	Programming and cloning

Our Verdict

The KENMAX USB Programming Cloning Cable is a practical, cost-effective tool for anyone who needs a dependable physical link between Kenwood radios and a PC. It provides strong build quality and broad model coverage, making it good value for technicians and hobbyists who already have or can obtain the matching programming software.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the cable work with TK-385?
Yes, TK-385 is listed among the compatible TK models and is supported for programming and cloning with the proper software.

Is programming software included?
No, the package includes the cable and a CD with the driver only; the programming application must be supplied separately.

Will the CD driver work on modern PCs?
The CD provides the driver but compatibility can vary by OS; users may need to locate an updated driver if their system restricts legacy CD drivers.