No, there is no other entry mode than plain decimals right now.

Any case, wouldn't it be easier to go and work in inches (173 inches) without crazy decimal rounding errors?

Or go metric like the rest of the world ;). I recently had to machine a part which broke on my China made tool (no wonder there...) and the bugger had an inch diameter and a metric key slot. That surprised me a bit. I had to buy a key cutter for that 4mm key on the 1/2 inch shaft. It's becoming crazy now. I am waiting for inch shafts with metric threads and british key ways.... Made in Cheapistan.

Cheers
Rainer