
first image
eton FRX3 rechargeable portable solar AM/FM radio
image © designboom
california-based manufacturer eton has developed the 'FRX3', a rechargeable portable solar AM/FM radio. the compact device features
a variety of functions that make it perfect for traveling on-the-go, camping or any situation that leaves users stranded without charge.
using a combination of a hand crank and a small photovoltaic panel on its ergonomic
carrying handle, the unit can be manually or
solar-powered to charge a smartphone or listen to any favorite radio station. one minute of hand cranking generates approximately
15 minutes of dump charge.
the keys/dials are distributed sparsely and are recognizable by touch, making it easy to operate at night. a glow-in-the-dark indicator
strip also makes the 'FRX3' easy to locate in pitch-black situations.
emergency alerts or alarms can be set using NOAA weather-band
stations in case of any emergency situations. a renewable power source replenishes any depleting DC battery that can be connected
using a USB without needing to access a power outlet. an internal rechargeable Ni-MH battery provides additional charge from
accumulated energy that is produced using the solar panel or hand turbine.
its small, but powerful speaker provides high-quality audio with the addition of an auxiliary input, enabling
users to select playlists
off any music device. a bright LED flashlight accompanies the radio for night-time use, alongside with a red
flashing amber that
signals for help in the case of an accident.
see designboom's guest post on the eton blog here.

front view
image © designboom

detail of the front and dials
image © designboom

top view of the solar panel
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hand crank for generating power
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rear detail of the antenna and LED
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back view showing rechargeable battery and additional AA slots
image © designboom

3/4 front view detail
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packaging detail
image © designboom
The design is ok but operationally im not sure. Historically Eton and the rest have faltered in real use situations with disappointing performance, according to users. What users want to see is not a new skin but an increase in solid, reliable performance when the chips are down. Is that this model? Prove it.