Thanks very much, Anthony. ... I'll give your suggested options some 
thought here, since I don't have the bucks now for a TS2000.

My other option would be simply to take the TMV7A on the bike tour, and then 
have my IC718 ready for HF communication if needed.

I've got the antennas in the RV now;  it's just a matter of figuring out 
which combination of equipment would work best and be easiest to use for 
whatever was needed.

73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Anthony Vece" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, April 08, 2007 8:08 PM
Subject: Re: computer programming for the Icom 746?


> Hi Tom;
>
> I had a 746 pro and I could not find a program that would let me program =
> memories.
>
> Maybe HRD would let you put those frequencies into the vfo.
>
> However, the pl tones on vhf would not be able to be programmed unless =
> you did it by hand and, even at that you need sighted help.
>
> Your only other option is to program the tone if the repeater is busy.
>
> And, if the tone is passed by the repeater then your good to go.
>
> I've been all through this and, for my money, the TS2000 will do =
> everything you need it to do with or without the programming software.
>
> I originally sold my TS2000 because I though the noise floor was a =
> little high.
>
> However, when you turn down the rf gain, adjust the digital filtering =
> and the tonal qualities of the receiver, you can do just as well.
>
> If I can help any further let me know.
>
> 73 De Anthony W2AJV
> [log in to unmask]
> ECHOLINK NODE NUMBER: 74389
>
>  ----- Original Message -----=20
>  From: T Behler=20
>  To: [log in to unmask]
>  Sent: Sunday, April 08, 2007 7:06 PM
>  Subject: [BLIND-HAMS] computer programming for the Icom 746?
>
>
>  Hi, all, and Happy Easter!
>
>  Does anyone know if the Icom 746 can be programmed via a computer, =
> like the=20
>  Kenwood TMV7A or THF6A?
>
>  I don't think it can, but maybe I'm wrong.
>
>  If so, is the software available on line somewhere?
>
>  How about the needed programming cable?
>
>  I am going to be the main net control station for the state-wide =
> Michigander=20
>  Bike Tour this summer, and thought the 746 would be a great rig to =
> use,=20
>  since it has HF, and VHF all in one radio.
>
>  But, if the rig can't be programmed via the computer, using it may be =
> more=20
>  trouble than it's worth, because some of the functions on the radio =
> (such as=20
>  PL tones) aren't very blind friendly.
>
>  Thanks, and 73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ
>