subject: All About The Emergency Crank Radio [print this page] During outdoor expeditions which may include hiking and camping, one needs a form of communication or entertainment as there is no power source in the wild. This is what prompted the creation of the emergency crank radio which has been known to save many lives in the event of someone getting stranded or when one needs to be rescued. It came to be long before the 1930's and it was very popular but too heavy and cumbersome. This was until the invention of the transistor in the year 1948 and since then, the crank radio size and weight have drastically reduced to the advantage of the user. It is popular because it does not need batteries or a plug-in adaptor.
The emergency radio has been considered a savior in times when there is no power, batteries or in the event of harsh weather. This is because its main mechanism is a dynamo to which the turning handle is attached. The reaction when the handle is turned causes a production of electricity which is stored in a battery pack and is used to power the radio. A crank of one minute will power the radio for about half an hour, therefore it is up to the user to decide how much they will need and for what purpose.
This comes in great handy when power is unavailable due to a controlled blackout or because of storm and other extreme weather conditions. Thanks to the world of innovation and invention, there are a number of crank radios that have merged. They come with a flashlight and even a mobile phone charger. Others also come with a beacon and a siren which are perfect when there is an emergency and a need for evacuation.
A crank radio that comes with any of the above features will make that camping trip or outdoor excursion that much more enjoyable. It is also important, when looking for an emergency crank radio, to find one that is durable, cased to protect it from water and dirt, sturdy and from a well-known brand name. Emergency crank radios come with the ability to transmit and receive radio stations through the AM and FM bandwidths. This means that it is easier to reach anyone who may be tuned in during any emergency.
This is to ensure that no harm or damage happens to the radio when it is needed the most. You can also choose one that has the ability to be charged through regular-sized batteries (like AA's) or a 6-volt plug-in adapter. This will ensure that when power is available, you do not have to overuse your crank radio handle.
