A remote control panel (RCP) is provided for controlling an operation of a radio (104, 106). The RCP (102) includes a keypad (208) configured for receiving user input commands for controlling the radio using the same keypad commands as would be used when operating the same without the RCP. The RCP also includes a display unit (206) for displaying information concerning an operational state of the radio. The RCP further includes a communication interface (212, 312-316, 320-322) configured for relaying information from the RCP to the radio located a distance away. The interface is also configured for relaying information from the radio to the RCP. The RCP includes a computer processing device configured for providing an extended capability for the radio exclusive of a predefined functional capability. The extended capability is selected from the group consisting of additional digital data processing capability, additional display capability, and additional communication capability.