eton FRX3 solar powered AM/FM/weather alert radio

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 image © designboom

hand crank for generating power image © designboom

rear detail of the antenna and LED image © designboom

back view showing rechargeable battery and additional AA slots image © designboom

3/4 front view detail image © designboom

packaging detail image © designboom