Amazon.com Product Description
The Etón Grundig American Red Cross FR400 is one of Etón's American Red Cross branded, weather-resistant emergency radios. With a dependable hand-crank power generator that powers the unit's AM/FM/TV/Weather radio, built-in LED flashlight, cell phone charger and emergency siren -- all surrounded by a sturdy, weather-resistant casing -- the lightweight and portable Grundig FR400 is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a radio that can be relied on in emergencies or in environments where there are limited power sources.
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FR250 |
FR300 |
FR350 |
FR400 |
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Hand crank |
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Cell phone charger |
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Emergency lights |
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Siren |
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AC adapter included |
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Water resistant |
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Tuning |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
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Size (inches, WxDxH) |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
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Weight |
1 lb. 3 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
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Power |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC | |
Other models in Etón's line of emergency radios that we tested include the Grundig FR200, an entry-level shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light; the Grundig FRFR250, a shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light, cell phone charger and siren; the Grundig FR 300, which includes the emergency features of the FR250, but offers television and weather station tuning instead of shortwave; and the Grundig FR 350, a water-resistant variation of the FR250.
Power When You Need It
At the heart of all of Etón's emergency radios, including the Grundig FR400, is an internal generator that recharges the internal Ni-MH battery pack and powers the radio, siren, and light. Also, by plugging your cell phone into the jack on the back of the radio (the FR400 comes with several cell phone adapters), you can use the crank to power your phone. In our test, after draining our cell phone of power, we recharged it using the FR400 enough to make a few calls. The rate of cell phone recharging will vary greatly depending on the cell phone and the state of its battery, but the FR400 can provide your compatible phone with power in a pinch.
According to the product manual, to achieve 40 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted power to the radio, you must turn the crank at a rate of two revolutions per second for 90 seconds. In our test, after our initial 90 seconds of rigorous cranking, the FR400 powered right up and was still going strong with radio reception after an hour. At the hour mark, we briefly turned the flashlight on, and that too was at full force, with no perceivable drain on radio reception. The FR400 can also be powered via the included AC adapter, or from three AA batteries, which are not included. The dynamo crank tucks itself nicely into the side of the radio and offers little resistance as you turn the handle. (Don't let the cranking requirements frighten you! While it's true that a full 90 seconds of turning the crank can be tiring and may not be for everyone, we were able to recharge the radio with less than a minute of cranking and achieved over 40 minutes of continuous power.)
Design and Controls
At 1.5 pounds, and with dimensions of 4.5 x 8.75 x 2.25 inches (HxWxD), the FR400 is made to be tucked neatly into its handy nylon carrying case, ready to be stored in emergency box, or packed neatly for a camping trip. A white LED light is set on the side of the radio, just above the tuning knob, allowing you to use the FR400 like a flashlight. A red flashing emergency light is also included. This placement is an improvement over the designs of the FR200, FR250 and FR350, all of which place the emergency light on the radio's face. But similar to those radios, the light on the FR400 is only designed to help you down an unlit stairwell or enclosed hallway in a pinch, and is not directed or strong enough to help you much in a pitch-black forest or other open area. The radio and light can be operated simultaneously, though of course at the expense of power.
The large band selection knob and other controls make the FR400 a breeze to use. View larger. |
The rear connections are protected by rubber seals. View larger. |
On the left, the hand crank, on the right, a flashlight, and tuning and volume knobs. |
The mechanical controls of the FR40 are extremely visible and easy to use. The volume control is fairly easy to finesse, and the tuning knob, which features a smaller concentric fine-tuning control knob, offers much greater control. A sealed 3.5 mm earphone jack is set into the back, and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap., and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap. The radio's 2.5-inch speaker is set directly in front and offers reasonable audio quality and excellent volume for the radio's purpose. The tuner itself is self-illuminated, though in a darkened environment it is still somewhat difficult to pick out the bands.
Tuning and Bands
The FR400 offers AM/FM reception as well as 7 NOAA weather channels and a weather alert, and TV-VHF audio reception for channels 2 - 13. As was the case with all of the Etón emergency radios we tested, our AM reception was outstanding; we were quickly able to tune into every station we searched for. Reception for FM was also very good, though there was some extra fine-tuning on some of the stations. Because weather broadcasts are based on VHF, line-of-sight channels, and because we are slightly out of range of the nearest weather transmitter in our region, we were not able to test the radio's weather reception. Television reception, happily, was quite another story. Though some stations took some finessing of the tuner before we were able to hone in on a strong signal, most of the reception was loud and clear.
While the FR400 shares the same features and performance of the FR300, its sturdy, weather-resistant casing and design modifications give it a distinct edge in emergency situations that's well worth the extra cost.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight; ideal for emergencies or travel
- Clearly laid out functions and controls
- Excellent internal power generator; handy cell-phone charger
Cons
- Tuning dial could be better illuminated for darkened environments
What's in the Box
FR400 radio, cell phone charging adapters, nylon carrying case, and American Red Cross pamphlet.
Product Description
You never know when an emergency may strike. It could be weather or geoloically related. You might be lost in the woods or the road. It might even be politically related. Who knows? But staying informed before and during it may be a matter of life or death. Be prepared and aware with the Eton FR400 emergency radio. This affordable portable receives AM (530-1710 kHz), FM 88-108 MHz, VHF TV audio and seven NOAA weather channels. The FR400 operates from a wind-up generator, or 4.5 VDC [ ? ] or 3 AA cells (not supplied). The generator charges the supplied, replaceable NiMH cells. Two turns per second for 90 seconds will provide 40 to 60 minutes of operation. The controls are easy to use. There is also a built-in triple LED light with emergency light source built into the side of the radio. Two of the LEDs are white for illumination, and the third is a blinking red LED for signaling. There is even a loud siren function in this device. The battery compartment allows access to the built-in NiMH pack or for the three optional AA cells. The FR400 comes with a 4.5 VDC 120 VAC adapter. There are jacks on the rear panel for: earphone output, 4.5 VDC input and phone charger output. These jacks are protected under a water resistant rubber flap. The FR400 has the additional capability of recharging certain cell phones. Several common cellular power adapters are included with your FR-400. Eton is also including a very nice black canvas carry case and an AC adapter. This radio comes with an Owner's Manual, Eton Catalog and mini Red Cross Disaster Preparedness Guide. 8.7 x 4.5 x 2 inches 1.3 Lbs.
In addition to helping to keep you and your family safe, your purchase will help the American Red Cross. Etón Corporation will make a proportional contribution based on each sold radio to support the American Red Cross.
It can be a life saver! Emergency Siren
Customer Reviews:
Good... could be a little bit better though........2007-12-26
All handles and switches are made of plastic and they don't seem very sturdy. The flashlight Leds are not powerful. The display should be illuminated. Anyway, I've got two of these radios (one for home, the other for the office) and I like them, they work well.
Amazon prices are not cheap.......2007-11-26
This product can be bought for the same price if not less at other online retailers. Amazon makes it look like it has been "marked down" but in reality it hasn't! Buyers beware.
Arrived broken and incomplete.......2007-11-11
We know that this is one of the best radio's for emergencies. Being up north with our snow and ice storms, we need a good reliable radio. But this radio, though one of the best, arrived at our home broken due to some cheap...cheap plastic parts. You also have to send off for your cell phone attachment and if you have more than one type of cell phone in the home, you're out of luck.
does not include cell phone adapters.......2007-09-24
I returned the first one because it did not have the cell phone adapters, I received the replacement the very next day, but it also did not include the cell phone adapters
Cell phone charger? Not really!.......2007-08-19
What the vendor fails to tell the buyer, until the radio is unwrapped, is that it takes at least 15 minutes crank time to get less than a minute of cell phone charge. Secondly, the appropriate cell phone adapter tip and charge cord have to be sent away for separately.
Amazon.com
The Etón Grundig American Red Cross FR400 is one of Etón's American Red Cross branded, weather-resistant emergency radios. With a dependable hand-crank power generator that powers the unit's AM/FM/TV/Weather radio, built-in LED flashlight, cell phone charger and emergency siren -- all surrounded by a sturdy, weather-resistant casing -- the lightweight and portable Grundig FR400 is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a radio that can be relied on in emergencies or in environments where there are limited power sources.
The FR400 is small and portable enough to go wherever life takes you. |
Housed within its weather-resistant body, the Etón FR400 includes a two white-LED light source, and a flashing red-LED light source, as well as an emergency siren so that you can not only find what you are looking for, but others can easily find you. As an added convenience, this unit features a 3.5-millimeter earphone jack, a fine-tuning control knob super-imposed on the main tuning control knob for achieving the maximum in station clarity, and a built-in cell-phone charger with a 3.5-millimeter output jack and multiple adapter tips for charging select models of Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, and Sony Ericsson phones. This Etón FR400 weighs only 1.5 pounds, and measures 8.6 x 4.5 x 2 inches (W x H x D).
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Other models in Etón's line of emergency radios that we tested include the Grundig FR200, an entry-level shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light; the Grundig FR250, a shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light, cell phone charger and siren; the Grundig FR 300, which includes the emergency features of the FR250, but offers television and weather station tuning instead of shortwave; and the Grundig FR 350, a water-resistant variation of the FR250.
While the FR400 shares the same features and performance of the FR300, its sturdy, weather-resistant casing and design modifications give it a distinct edge in emergency situations that's well worth the extra cost. |
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FR250 |
FR300 |
FR350 |
FR400 |
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Hand crank |
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Cell phone charger |
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Emergency lights |
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Siren |
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AC adapter included |
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Water resistant |
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Tuning |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
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Size (inches, WxDxH) |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
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Weight |
1 lb. 3 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
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Power |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, A | |
Tuning and Bands
The FR400 receives FM radio via a built-in telescoping antenna, AM via an internal ferrite bar, all seven NOAA weather channels plus an Alert function, and even picks up TV1, TV2, and VHF channels 2-13, so you can listen to your favorite television programs without a TV. As was the case with all of the Etón emergency radios we tested, our AM reception was outstanding; we were quickly able to tune into every station we searched for. Reception for FM was also very good, though there was some extra fine-tuning on some of the stations. Because weather broadcasts are based on VHF, line-of-sight channels, and because we are slightly out of range of the nearest weather transmitter in our region, we were not able to test the radio's weather reception. Television reception, happily, was quite another story. Though some stations took some finessing of the tuner before we were able to hone in on a strong signal, most of the reception was loud and clear.
Power When You Need It
At the heart of all of Etón's emergency radios, including the FR400, is an internal generator that recharges the internal Ni-MH battery pack and powers the radio, siren, and light. Also, by plugging your cell phone into the jack on the back of the radio, you can use the crank to power your phone.
Important Note: Until this year, Etón provided a package of several different cell phone adapter tips with every radio. In 2007, Etón began instead including a coupon for a free adapter for whatever phone you have. So, the first thing you want to do when you get the radio is fill out the card with your cell phone's make and model and send it in to make sure you have your adapter.
In our test, after draining our cell phone of power, we recharged it using the FR400 enough to make a few calls. The rate of cell phone recharging will vary greatly depending on the cell phone and the state of its battery, but the FR400 can provide your compatible phone with power in a pinch.
The Etón FR400 is extremely versatile, and can be powered by up to four different sources, including: the included AC adapter, three AA batteries (not included), the built-in rechargeable Ni-MH battery which can be recharged from the AC adapter or by hand, and the dynamo hand crank which not only can recharge the built-in battery but provides power even when no battery is installed.
According to the product manual, to achieve 40 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted power to the radio, you must turn the crank at a rate of two revolutions per second for 90 seconds. In our test, after our initial 90 seconds of rigorous cranking, the FR400 powered right up and was still going strong with radio reception after an hour. At the hour mark, we briefly turned the flashlight on, and that too was at full force, with no perceivable drain on radio reception. The dynamo crank tucks itself nicely into the side of the radio and offers little resistance as you turn the handle. (Don't let the cranking requirements frighten you! While it's true that a full 90 seconds of turning the crank can be tiring and may not be for everyone, we were able to recharge the radio with less than a minute of cranking and achieved over 40 minutes of continuous power.)
Design and Controls
At 1.5 pounds, and with dimensions of 4.5 x 8.75 x 2.25 inches (HxWxD), the FR400 is made to be tucked neatly into its handy nylon carrying case, ready to be stored in emergency box, or packed neatly for a camping trip. A white LED light is set on the side of the radio, just above the tuning knob, allowing you to use the FR400 like a flashlight. A red flashing emergency light is also included. This placement is an improvement over the designs of the FR200, FR250 and FR350, all of which place the emergency light on the radio's face. But similar to those radios, the light on the FR400 is only designed to help you down an unlit stairwell or enclosed hallway in a pinch, and is not directed or strong enough to help you much in a pitch-black forest or other open area. The radio and light can be operated simultaneously, though of course at the expense of power.
The large band selection knob and other controls make the FR400 a breeze to use. |
The rear connections are protected by rubber seals. |
On the left, the hand crank, on the right, a flashlight, and tuning and volume knobs. |
The mechanical controls of the FR400 are extremely visible and easy to use. The volume control is fairly easy to finesse, and the tuning knob, which features a smaller concentric fine-tuning control knob, offers much greater control. A sealed 3.5 mm earphone jack is set into the back, and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap, and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap. The radio's 2.5-inch speaker is set directly in front and offers reasonable audio quality and excellent volume for the radio's purpose. The tuner itself is self-illuminated, though in a darkened environment it is still somewhat difficult to pick out the bands.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight; ideal for emergencies or travel
- Clearly laid out functions and controls
- Excellent internal power generator; handy cell-phone charger
Cons
- Tuning dial could be better illuminated for darkened environments
What's in the Box
FR400 radio, card for free cell phone charging adapter, nylon carrying case
Customer Reviews:
Good... could be a little bit better though........2007-12-26
All handles and switches are made of plastic and they don't seem very sturdy. The flashlight Leds are not powerful. The display should be illuminated. Anyway, I've got two of these radios (one for home, the other for the office) and I like them, they work well.
Amazon prices are not cheap.......2007-11-26
This product can be bought for the same price if not less at other online retailers. Amazon makes it look like it has been "marked down" but in reality it hasn't! Buyers beware.
Arrived broken and incomplete.......2007-11-11
We know that this is one of the best radio's for emergencies. Being up north with our snow and ice storms, we need a good reliable radio. But this radio, though one of the best, arrived at our home broken due to some cheap...cheap plastic parts. You also have to send off for your cell phone attachment and if you have more than one type of cell phone in the home, you're out of luck.
does not include cell phone adapters.......2007-09-24
I returned the first one because it did not have the cell phone adapters, I received the replacement the very next day, but it also did not include the cell phone adapters
Cell phone charger? Not really!.......2007-08-19
What the vendor fails to tell the buyer, until the radio is unwrapped, is that it takes at least 15 minutes crank time to get less than a minute of cell phone charge. Secondly, the appropriate cell phone adapter tip and charge cord have to be sent away for separately.
Amazon.com Product Description
The Etón Grundig American Red Cross FR300 is one of Etón's American Red Cross branded emergency radios. With a dependable hand-crank power generator that powers the unit's AM/FM/TV/Weather radio, built-in LED flashlight, cell phone charger and emergency siren, the lightweight and portable Grundig FR300 is an excellent and economical choice for anyone in the market for a radio that can be relied on in emergencies or in environments where there are limited power sources.
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FR250 |
FR300 |
FR350 |
FR400 |
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Hand crank |
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Cell phone charger |
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Emergency lights |
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Siren |
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AC adapter included |
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Water resistant |
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Tuning |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
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Size (inches, WxDxH) |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
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Weight |
1 lb. 3 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
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Power |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC | |
Other models in Etón's line of emergency radios that we tested include the Grundig FR200, an entry-level shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light; the Grundig FR250, a shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light, cell phone charger and siren; the Grundig FR 350, a water-resistant variation of the FR250; and the Grundig FR 400, a water-resistant variation of the FR300.
Power When You Need It
At the heart of all of Etón's emergency radios, including the Grundig FR300, is an internal generator that recharges the internal Ni-MH battery pack and powers the radio, siren, and light. Also, by plugging your cell phone into the jack on the back of the radio, you can use the crank to power your phone. In our test, after draining our cell phone of power, we recharged it using the FR300 enough to make a few calls. The rate of cell phone recharging will vary greatly depending on the cell phone and the state of its battery, but the FR300 can provide your compatible phone with power in a pinch.
Important Note: Until this year, Etón provided a package of several different cell phone adapter tips with every radio. In 2007, Etón began instead including a coupon for a free adapter for whatever phone you have. So, the first thing you want to do when you get the radio is fill out the card with your cell phone's make and model and send it in to make sure you have your adapter.
According to the product manual, to achieve 40 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted power to the radio, you must turn the crank at a rate of two revolutions per second for 90 seconds. In our test, after our initial 90 seconds of rigorous cranking, the FR300 powered right up and was still going strong with radio reception after an hour. At the hour mark, we briefly turned the flashlight on, and that too was at full force, with no perceivable drain on radio reception. In fact, the FR300 was still going strong over 75 minutes after we recharged the battery pack. The FR300 can also be powered via an AC adapter which, to our dismay, is not included, or from three AA batteries, also not included. The dynamo crank tucks itself nicely into the side of the radio and offers little resistance as you turn the handle. (Don't let the cranking requirements frighten you! While it's true that a full 90 seconds of turning the crank can be tiring and may not be for everyone, we were able to recharge the radio with less than a minute of cranking and achieved over 40 minutes of continuous power.)
Design and Controls
At slightly more than a pound in weight, and with dimensions of 6.5 x 6.00 x 2.5 inches (WxHxD), the FR300 is made to be tucked neatly into its handy nylon carrying case, and stored in an emergency box, or packed neatly for a camping trip. A white LED light is set on the front of the radio, just to the side of the analog tuner. The light is designed to help you down an unlit stairwell or enclosed hallway in a pinch, but it is not directed or strong enough to help you much in a pitch-black forest or other open area. The FR300 also includes a red flashing LED light that can be used as a distress signal. The radio and light can be operated simultaneously, though of course at the expense of power.
The large tuning knob and other controls make the FR300 a breeze to use. View larger. |
The hand crank generator tucks neatly into the rear panel. View larger. |
An emergency light is located next to the tuning dial. View larger. |
The FR300 includes a handy strap on the top of the radio for easy carrying, and the tuning and volume knobs are set to the side. The mechanical controls are extremely visible and easy to use. The volume control is a bit difficult to finesse, while the tuning knob, which features a smaller concentric fine-tuning control knob, is much easier. An earphone jack is set into the back, and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap. The radio's 2.5-inch speaker is set directly in front and offers reasonable audio quality and surprising power for the radio's purpose. The tuner itself is self-illuminated, though in a darkened environment it is still difficult to pick out the bands.
Tuning and Bands
The FR300 offers AM/FM reception as well as 7 NOAA weather channels and a weather alert, and TV-VHF audio reception for channels 2 - 13. As was the case with all of the Etón emergency radios we tested, our AM reception was outstanding; we were quickly able to tune into every station we searched for. Reception for FM was also very good, though there was some extra fine-tuning on some of the stations. Because weather broadcasts are based on VHF, line-of-sight channels, and because we are slightly out of range of the nearest weather transmitter in our region, we were not able to test the weather reception of the FR300. Television reception, happily, was quite another story. Though some channels took some finessing of the tuner before we were able to hone in on a strong signal, most of the reception was loud and clear. In fact, we listened to the first half of the Academy Awards while preparing dinner, so we didn't miss a single presentation.
It became clear during our testing that the FR300 is an emergency radio with several outstanding and potentially life-saving features, including its emergency siren and lighting, and particularly its self-charging functionality. So if you're in the market for an economical emergency radio, the Grundig FR300 more than fits the bill.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight; ideal for emergencies or travel
- Clearly laid out functions and controls
- Excellent internal power generator; handy cell-phone charger
Cons
- Tuning dial could be better illuminated for darkened environments
- Should include an AC adapter
What's in the Box
FR300 radio, mail-in coupon for cell phone charging adapters, nylon carrying case, and American Red Cross pamphlet.
Product Description
The Red Cross and Eton offer self-powered radios to help people stay prepared and informed in times of emergency. These co-branded preparedness and information tools include features such as AM/FM, Shortwave, NOAA, TV/VHF, cell phone charger and built-in flashlight. The FR300 can be powered from four sources: a built-in rechargeable battery, AA batteries, an AC adaptor, or the dynamo hand crank alone. A built-in cell-phone charger, white LED light and red flashing LED light sources, and water-resistance make it ideal for inclement weather conditions. In addition, a pamphlet suitable to be kept in the home containing vital Red Cross preparedness information is included with each radio. Whether you need to track emergency news, are curious about the weather forecast, or merely want to listen to the audio tracks of your favorite TV program, the Eton FR300 is a perfect fit. The crank-powered radio includes an AM/FM tuner a host of other audio options. The radio also offers such features as a built-in LED light for illumination, a flashing red emergency light, an emergency siren, as well as cell phone charger--all perfect for roadside crises. In addition, because the radio includes a wind-up generator, it'll never run out of power or batteries.
Customer Reviews:
Waste of money.......2007-08-11
If you are thinking of buying this radio---FORGET IT... Reception sucks. The TV setting got nothing but 3 Mexican radio stations. It's nothing more than a piece of crap!!!!!
A good radio with a tropical weakness.......2007-04-25
I noticed that both of the negative reviews were written by owners in Hawaii. I agree that there are problems with getting a long charge out here. When I first got the radio, I got about 45 minutes with two minutes of cranking; after six months, two minutes of cranking got six minutes of radio time. I suspect our tropical climate is more the problem than the radio's dynamo. I've put batteries in mine (rechargeable, of course) and have had great reception, even inside buildings that usually interfere with reception. I can also receive several TV stations with no problem, and the National Weather Service channel comes through loud and clear. I really like this radio, and it was my constant companion during the earthquake. I just need to make sure I'm proactive and keep the AA batteries charged up so it's ready in an emergency.
Excellent Hand Crank Radio.......2006-11-08
My wife and I used the FR300 during the week-long Queens blackout this past summer and this little radio delivered. One 2 minute winding lasted for an hour on medium volume. The cell phone charger is cool, but it takes a lot of winding. The light is good in a pinch, but not particularly useful.
Surprisingly good for the price.......2006-10-27
Sounds to me like the folks who had a beef with this radio must have been looking for $300 quality in a $50 radio. I've been really pleased with this unit and its pretty incredible array of features.
I will concur that the plastic on the unit is not the most-durable feeling material, but it's certainly sufficient. Plus it comes with a nice little nylon case to protect it and carry it, so that more than makes up for it.
First, the quality of the TV and AM reception is superb. I love talk radio, but hate the constant fade in/out. This unit does much better than any radio I have -- a couple of which are pretty expensive -- on picking up weak signals.
The sound quality also is good for the size of the unit. Clear, good quality sound that's easy to hear and not tinny.
The plastic is lightweight, which doesn't feel so great, but it does make the unit easy to carry. And a minute of cranking generates plenty of listening time. The three-LED light array is plenty bright and a great little area light in case of emergency. The variety of power sources make this a no-brainer for emergency use -- cranking, built-in rechargeables, alkaline or lithium AAs or a power adapter, if you want to buy one.
Here's what I found best though. I use a Palm Treo, so the unit didn't come with a charging tip that would fit it. I contacted the company, Eton, by e-mail to inquire if I could purchase one somewhere. Within a few hours, they responded to say that not only was there now a Palm tip available, they would provide me one at no cost. So terrific customer service.
If you want a really thorough review of this product, I suggest you visit thetravelinsider.info. I think he's spot-on with his assessment.
Great, fun little unit -- great value. I highly recommend.
Possibly the worst product I have ever bought.......2006-10-19
I agree with the other feedback. I don't know what the other reviewer was on but this product has got to be the worst product I have ever bought. When the earthquake occurred this product ran off on me.
Cons:
1. Terrible radio reception.
2. Takes a long time to crank for any good use. I ended up putting regular batteries in it.
3. Cheap material means low durability (mine wouldn't play the radio because the switch wore out.
4. The light was weak.
5. Couldn't even get tv reception.
Pros:
1. None
Conclusion:
Don't buy this radio. I returned mine and chalked it up to lesson learned. Next time I will take a closer look and test the product before buying when it comes to electronics.
Product Description
The FR250ARC Multi-Purpose Self-Powered Radio helps you stay informed and prepared for emergencies. This self-powered radio also works as a flashlight and cell phone charger -- 3 devices in 1! The hand-crank power generator gives you unlimited power for AM/FM radio. It also picks up 7 international Shortwave bands. The FR250 is not only perfect for emergencies, but also for camping, hiking or anywhere you need to stay in touch. Additionally, Etón Corporation will donate .65 of the sales price to support the American Red Cross.
Amazon.com Product Description
The Etón Grundig American Red Cross FR250 is one of Etón's American Red Cross branded emergency radios. With a dependable hand-crank power generator that powers the unit's AM/FM/Shortwave radio, built-in LED flashlight, cell phone charger and emergency siren, the lightweight and portable Grundig FR250 is an excellent and economical choice for anyone in the market for a radio that can be relied on in emergencies or in environments where there are limited power sources.
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FR250 |
FR300 |
FR350 |
FR400 |
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Hand crank |
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Cell phone charger |
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Emergency lights |
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Siren |
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AC adapter included |
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Water resistant |
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Tuning |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
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Size (inches, WxDxH) |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
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Weight |
1 lb. 3 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
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Power |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC | |
Other models in Etón's line of emergency radios that we tested include the Grundig FR200, an entry-level shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light; the Grundig FR300, which includes the emergency features of the FR250, but offers television and weather station tuning instead of shortwave; the Grundig FR 350, a water-resistant variation of the FR250; and the Grundig FR 400, a water-resistant variation of the FR300.
Power When You Need It
At the heart of all of Etón's emergency radios, including the Grundig FR250, is an internal generator that recharges the internal Ni-MH battery pack and powers the radio, siren, and light. Also, by plugging your cell phone into the jack on the back of the radio (the FR250 comes with several cell phone adapters), you can use the crank to power your phone. In our test, after draining our cell phone of power, we recharged it using the FR250 enough to make a few calls. The rate of cell phone recharging will vary greatly depending on the cell phone and the state of its battery, but the FR250 can provide your compatible phone with power in a pinch.
Important Note: Until this year, Etón provided a package of several different cell phone adapter tips with every radio. In 2007, Etón began instead including a coupon for a free adapter for whatever phone you have. So, the first thing you want to do when you get the radio is fill out the card with your cell phone's make and model and send it in to make sure you have your adapter.
According to the product manual, to achieve 40 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted power to the radio, you must turn the crank at a rate of two revolutions per second for 90 seconds. In our test, after our initial 90 seconds of rigorous cranking, the FR250 powered right up and was still going strong with radio reception after an hour. At the hour mark, we briefly turned the flashlight on, and that too was at full force, with no perceivable drain on radio reception. In fact, the FR250 was still going strong 75 minutes after we recharged the battery pack. The FR250 can also be powered via an AC adapter which, to our dismay, is not included, or from three AA batteries, also not included. The dynamo crank tucks itself nicely into the side of the radio and offers little resistance as you turn the handle. (Don't let the cranking requirements frighten you! While it's true that a full 90 seconds of turning the crank can be tiring and may not be for everyone, we were able to recharge the radio with less than a minute of cranking and achieved over 40 minutes of continuous power.)
Design and Controls
At slightly more than a pound in weight, and with dimensions of 6.5 x 6.00 x 2.5 inches (WxHxD), the FR250 is designed to be tucked neatly into its handy nylon carrying case and stored in an emergency box, or packed neatly for a camping trip. A white LED light is set on the front of the radio, just to the side of the analog tuner. The light is designed to help you down an unlit stairwell or enclosed hallway in a pinch, but it is not directed or strong enough to help you much in a pitch-black forest or other open area. The FR250 also includes a red flashing LED light that can be used as a distress signal. The radio and light can be operated simultaneously, though of course at the expense of power.
The large tuning knob and other controls make the FR250 a breeze to use. View larger. |
The hand crank generator tucks neatly into the rear panel. View larger. |
An emergency light is located next to the tuning dial. View larger. |
The FR250 includes a handy strap on the top of the radio for easy carrying, and the tuning and volume knobs are set to the side. The mechanical controls are extremely visible and easy to use. The volume control is a bit difficult to finesse, while the tuning knob, which features a smaller concentric fine-tuning control knob, is much easier. An earphone jack is set into the back, and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap. The radio's 2.5-inch speaker is set directly in front and offers reasonable audio quality and excellent volume for the radio's purpose. The tuner itself is self-illuminated, though in a darkened environment it is still difficult to pick out the bands.
Tuning and Bands
The FR250 offers nine-band tuning -- AM, FM and 7 shortwave bands. As was the case with all of the Etón emergency radios we tested, our AM reception was outstanding; we were quickly able to tune into every station we searched for. Reception for FM was also very good, though there was some extra fine-tuning on some of the stations. Our shortwave reception, however, was a mixed bag. We tested in the early and late evening, searching for signals in the more heavily populated SW3 and SW4. While we found several signals during our test, honing in on them took a bit of finesse with the fine-tuning knob. And when we did find them, there was static and background noise with most of the signals.
It became clear during our testing that the FR250 is an emergency radio, with several outstanding and potentially life-saving features, including shortwave reception. Its shortwave functionality, however, is not its primary selling point. However, its emergency siren and lighting, and particularly its self charging functionality, are. So if you're in the market for an economical emergency radio, the Grundig FR250 more than fits the bill.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight; ideal for emergencies or travel
- Clearly laid out functions and controls
- Excellent internal power generator; handy cell-phone charger
Cons
- Tuning dial could be better illuminated for darkened environments
- Shortwave reception inconsistent
- Should include an AC adapter
What's in the Box
FR250 radio, mail-in coupon for cell phone charging adapter, nylon carrying case, and American Red Cross pamphlet.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent reception.......2007-10-18
I just bought this model since my power went out for 3 hours and I didn't have a good battery powered radio anymore. I am really impressed with the reception. I live in Oklahoma and was able to pull in a couple of AM stations from Chicago and an English language shortwave station claiming to be from Sweden. While atmospheric conditions can affect long-range radio reception, this is pretty impressive for such a small, affordable radio. The battery life seems to be very good with only about 30 seconds of cranking.
Hand crank battery power failed.......2007-04-16
I'm wondering if anyone else has really tested the hand crank power on this radio. I let the rechargeable battery run down completely (not intentionally, but a good test for emergency preparedness), and I found that after cranking for a full 90 seconds, the radio only worked for a couple minutes. I was very disappointed and returned it, since I felt that in an emergency, this would be more frustrating than helpful.
Average customer rating:
- good to have
- fragile antenna; broke first day
- exactly as expected
- Many features, solid performance
- So much detail in the listing but no attention to detail in the manufature of this radio
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American Red Cross FR350 Emergency Radio, White
Manufacturer: Eton
ProductGroup: CE
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World Radio TV Handbook 2007: The Directory of Global Broadcasting (WRTH)
Accessories:
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Sony AA 2500 mAh Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries In Slide Case (4-Pack)
Product Features:
- American Red Cross-endorsed, water-resistant emergency radio with 4 distinct power sources
- Picks up AM, FM, and 7 shortwave bands; built-in LED flashlight and cell phone charger
- Receives power from hand crank generator, NiMH battery, AC adapter, or 3 AA batteries
- 90 seconds of hand cranking produces 40 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted radio power
- Sealed 3.5 mm headphone jack; measures 8.75 x 4.5 x 2.25 inches (W x H x D); 1-year warranty
ASIN: B000EIDLWC
Release Date: 2006-05-05
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Product Description
By itself, the Eton FR350 is a great portable shortwave radio. It's also ready to serve and keep you informed during an emergency! Etón FR350ARC (American Red Cross Edition) combines technology, functionality and versatility. It's the ideal emergency tool, providing you with a water-resistant radio, LED lights, and cell phone charger -- all designed to be there when you need it most. Using the hand-crank power generator, charge the internal rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack in times of need. In addition to helping keep you and your family safe, your purchase will help the American Red Cross; Etón will give a portion of the proceeds to the American Red Cross' lifesaving work in communities across America.
Be prepared and aware with this Eton FR350 emergency radio. This affordable portable receives AM (530-1710 kHz), FM 88-108 MHz and the seven major shortwave bands. The shortwave bands are: 5800-6350, 6950-7500, 9350-10050, 11550-12200, 13400-14000, 15000-15700, 17400-18050 and 21200-21950 kHz. This radio has an analog tuning dial. This radio can be powered from four different sources: 1) From the built-in rechargeable Ni-MH rechargeable battery that takes charge from the dynamo crank and from an AC adapter; 2) From three AA batteries (not included); 3) From AC adapter alone; 4) From the dynamo crank alone, even with no battery pack installed.
Amazon.com Product Description
The Etón Grundig American Red Cross FR350 is one of Etón's American Red Cross branded, weather-resistant emergency radios. With a dependable hand-crank power generator that powers the unit's AM/FM/Shortwave radio, built-in LED flashlight, cell phone charger and emergency siren -- all surrounded by a sturdy, weather-resistant casing -- the lightweight and portable Grundig FR350 is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a radio that can be relied on in emergencies or in environments where there are limited power sources.
|
FR250 |
FR300 |
FR350 |
FR400 |
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Hand crank |
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Cell phone charger |
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Emergency lights |
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Siren |
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AC adapter included |
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Water resistant |
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Tuning |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
AM/FM, SW |
AM/FM, TV-VHF, NOAA weather |
|
Size (inches, WxDxH) |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
6.5 x 2.5 x 6 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
8.75 x 2.25 x 4.5 |
|
Weight |
1 lb. 3 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
1 lb. 4 oz. |
|
Power |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC |
Crank, 3 AA, NiMH battery, AC | |
Other models in Etón's line of emergency radios that we tested include the Grundig FR200, an entry-level shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light; the Grundig FR250, a shortwave radio that also includes a flashing LED light, cell phone charger and siren; the Grundig FR 300, which includes the emergency features of the FR250, but offers television and weather station tuning instead of shortwave; and the Grundig FR 400, a water-resistant variation of the FR300.
Power When You Need It
At the heart of all of Etón's emergency radios, including the Grundig FR350, is an internal generator that recharges the internal Ni-MH battery pack and powers the radio, siren, and light. Also, by plugging your cell phone into the jack on the back of the radio (the FR350 comes with several cell phone adapters), you can use the crank to power your phone. In our test, after draining our cell phone of power, we recharged it using the FR350 enough to make a few calls. The rate of cell phone recharging will vary greatly depending on the cell phone and the state of its battery, but the FR350 can provide your compatible phone with power in a pinch.
According to the product manual, to achieve 40 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted power to the radio, you must turn the crank at a rate of two revolutions per second for 90 seconds. In our test, after our initial 90 seconds of rigorous cranking, the FR350 powered right up and was still going strong with radio reception at the one hour mark, though there was not enough power to turn the light on. At the 75-minute mark, the radio finally lost complete power and had to be regenerated. The FR350 can also be powered via the included AC adapter, or from three AA batteries, which are not included. The dynamo crank tucks itself nicely into the side of the radio and offers little resistance as you turn the handle. (Don't let the cranking requirements frighten you! While it's true that a full 90 seconds of turning the crank can be tiring and may not be for everyone, we were able to recharge the radio with less than a minute of cranking and achieved over 40 minutes of continuous power.)
Design and Controls
At 1.5 pounds, and with dimensions of 4.5 x 8.75 x 2.25 inches (HxWxD), the FR350 is made to be tucked neatly into its handy nylon carrying case, ready to be stored in emergency box, or packed neatly for a camping trip. A white LED light is set on the side of the radio, just above the tuning knob, allowing you to use the FR350 like a flashlight. A red flashing emergency light is also included. This placement is an improvement over the designs of the FR200, FR250 and FR350, all of which place the emergency light on the radio's face. But similar to those radios, the light on the FR350 is only designed to help you down an unlit stairwell or enclosed hallway in a pinch, and is not directed or strong enough to help you much in a pitch-black forest or other open area. The radio and light can be operated simultaneously, though of course at the expense of power.
The large band selection knob and other controls make the FR350 a breeze to use. View larger. |
The rear connections are protected by rubber seals. View larger. |
On the left, the hand crank, on the right, a flashlight, and tuning and volume knobs. |
The mechanical controls of the FR350 are extremely visible and easy to use. The volume control is fairly easy to finesse, and the tuning knob, which features a smaller concentric fine-tuning control knob, offers much greater control. A sealed 3.5 mm earphone jack is set into the back, and the telescoping antenna tucks neatly behind the handle strap. The radio's 2.5-inch speaker is set directly in front and offers reasonable audio quality and excellent volume for the radio's purpose. The tuner itself is self-illuminated, though in a darkened environment it is still somewhat difficult to pick out the bands.
Tuning and Bands
The FR350 offers nine-band tuning -- AM, FM and 7 shortwave bands. As was the case with all of the Etón emergency radios we tested, our AM reception was outstanding; we were quickly able to tune into every station we searched for. Reception for FM was also very good, though there was some extra fine-tuning on some of the stations. Our shortwave reception, however, was a mixed bag. We tested in the early and late evening, searching for signals in the more heavily populated SW3 and SW4. While we found several signals during our test, honing in on them took a bit of finesse with the fine-tuning knob. And when we did find them, there was static and background noise with most of the signals.
While the FR350 shares the same features and performance of the FR250, its sturdy, weather-resistant casing and design modifications give it a distinct edge in emergency situations that's well worth the extra cost.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight; sturdy, weather-resistant casing
- Clearly laid out functions and controls
- Excellent internal power generator; handy cell-phone charger
Cons
- Tuning dial could be better illuminated for darkened environments
- Shortwave reception inconsistent
What's in the Box
FR350 radio, cell phone charging adapters, nylon carrying case, AC adapter and American Red Cross pamphlet.
Customer Reviews:
good to have.......2007-08-04
power out here in NYC 2 times last month
good to have
I wish it had a weather station on the short wave
I an happy with it
fragile antenna; broke first day.......2007-03-30
Great concept and probably pretty good otherwise, but antenna is stiff and broke at base almost right out of the box. Our old plug in radio's antenna has held up close to 30 years. No excuse for one like this. Technology is not new; poor execution, weak materials, something.
exactly as expected.......2007-01-05
This works exactly as expected. It will not become my prime source for entertainment sound, and it was not purchased for that purpose. I am happy and know I am more prepared for the unexpected with this radio than without it.
Many features, solid performance.......2007-01-04
Eton's FR350 emergency radio provides a solid solution for folks who want to stock their emergency kits with a waterproof, feature-packed unit. Given that I use mine primarily for listening to baseball while doing yardwork, I haven't gotten much use out of the shortwave receiver, siren, flashlight, and cell phone charger, but it's nice to know they're there.
Radio reception on this unit is solid, and while the dial is not rigorously gradated b
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