I'd be interested in that mp3 if you could send it.  I have a 990, and 
there are actually 4 function buttons on the front, each band has a 
voice button which I think can be reassigned, one for each receiver and 
pf1 and pf2.  I bought the desk microphone recently discussed on here 
with 4 function buttons as well as the up down buttons which I'v 
reassigned.  I plan to build a key pad soon.
73
Butch
WA0VJR
Node 3148
Wallace, ks.


On Sun, 26 May 2013, Kelvin 
Marsh wrote:

> Hi All,
>
> There was a full review of the TS990 in the latest RadCom, and the reader
> has sent me an advanced MP3.  Basically, it sounds terrific!  One
> interesting point is that there are 2 programmable function buttons on the
> front panel.  A further 2 can be reassigned.  8 programmable buttons can be
> operated from an external button box.  The up and down buttons on the mike
> can be programmed, and an additional 4 programmable buttons can be had on
> certain microphones.  I reckon this adds up to 18 programmable buttons!!!
>
> I use an external button box with my Icom, and this allows me to easily
> operate the 4 stored voice and CW keyer messages, without looking for the
> fiddly buttons on the panel.  Good to see Kenwood adopting this approach,
> and taking it a step further.
>
> Best wishes, Kelvin Marsh - M0AID
>
> Working to improve accessibility for radio amateurs with disabilities
>
> www.active-elements.org
>
> For accessibility evaluations of amateur equipment and MP3 manuals
>
>