So I got a Eton FR 150 Microlink in my shwag bag from the launch party for the Blade.
Afterwards, I found out this Microlink’s the shit! It’s an AM / FM radio plus LED flashlight plus cell phone charger in one — that can be powered three ways: Solar power, easy-to-spin hand crank, or USB port.
I thought it was too good to be true until I spun the crank for half a minute then listened to the radio for a couple hours while reading an illustrated review on Digital Reviews Network.
Amazingly, the whole thing weighs only 7.5 oz. Dimensions: 5 x 2.4 x 1.75 inches. The thing’s so useful there’s a Red Cross version — though from what I can tell, the only diff for the RC version is that the outside’s colored red.
More upsides: The Microlink’s available at REI, Amazon (where it has rave reviews), and a whole buncha other stores.
The one downside: You likely already have a USB cord, cell phone charger cord, and headphones on hand — but if not, you’ll have to buy ‘em separately.
Now for the survey: Should I put the Microlink in my earthquake emergency bag, or should I give it to a friend who camps and stuff? The thing seems perfect for emergencies — but it’s also so useful that it seems a waste to keep in a bag I hope never to have to use. On the other hand, I could give it to a camper friend — but what if the next big one hits?
What would you do?
Don’t see a need for the radio these days or flashlight if you live in the city. However, being able to charge a cell phone from its USB port could be useful. It could be used daily by leaving it in the sun.
Comment by Jason Li — August 23, 2008 @ 10:15 am
yeah, why not use it yourself whilst waiting for the Big One? Maybe take up camping once or twice a year, too!
Comment by tany — August 23, 2008 @ 11:58 am
definitely seems perfect in an emergency kit, hang on to it! even if we don’t have the “big one” anytime soon, it is useful in the event of just a regular power outage too…
Comment by Chris — August 23, 2008 @ 7:30 pm