Hi John,  I'm Danny Dyer, Wb4idu, in Toccoa GA. I'm a satisfied owner 
operator of the Yaesu FT817ND.  It has its' pitfals and nogos for the blind, 
many of which I've dealt with and work around, but I've had it configured to 
my satisfaction, and there's really nothing out there to compare with it, 
when you're talking an "apples to apples comparison.
I'd be glad to talk at length by phone if you like,
give me a number and best time to call, I'll try to call you tomorrow.  By 
the way, I've had several of these lil things, along with an Icom 703+, as 
well as a Yaesu FT70G, Tokyo Hy-Power HT750, and AEA/Mizuho MX28S/all, 
portable HF rigs, with varying degrees of accessibilities and work arounds.
QRP with limited rigs and antennae is a challenge, but it's a lot of fun and 
satisfaction too.  HTH, Danny.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "John Glass" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, August 13, 2010 10:00 PM
Subject: Accessibility of the Yaesu FT-817?


> Hi,
>
> Has anyone here on the list had a chance to work with the 817? If so, how 
> accessible did you find the radio to be for a blind user?
>
> I have heard that there are two different keypads which work with this 
> rig, and wonder which one provides access to the most features?
>
> Any info you have about this will be appreciated.
>
> Thanks
> John Glass