Tag Archives: avera

NEW RT4 SERIES GEAR KEEPER® WITH CARABINER CLIP GIVES NEW ALTERNATIVE FOR TACTICAL AND MILITARY PERSONNEL

Posted on 22nd September 2015 | Comments Off on NEW RT4 SERIES GEAR KEEPER® WITH CARABINER CLIP GIVES NEW ALTERNATIVE FOR TACTICAL AND MILITARY PERSONNEL

Custom Aluminum Carabiner Keeps Items On Your Person,
Secure and Accessible
1RT4 model with Carabiner Clip and Q/C-1 connection.

In an effort to offer the widest range of attachment options to fit the wide variety of tactical and military personnel needs, Hammerhead Industries introduces the new RT4 Series Gear Keeper featuring a Carabiner Clip, a general mounting system designed so you can grab your gear, use it, and know it will retract back into place until you need it next.
Perfect for tethering all types of necessary tactical gear from GPS handheld units to flashlights, the RT4 Series with Carabiner Clip comes in a variety of retraction force options and extension lengths for whatever gear you need to keep close and accessible on your next mission.

The new custom aluminum Carabiner is integrated into the mount and designed to have a short extension allowing you to keep your gear as close to your person as possible when stored. This helps to keep gear from clattering around, and maintaining a quiet presence, important when in the field. The lightweight aluminum is extremely strong and has a wide opening for easy attachment to a large D-ring or a belt loop.

Designed like other Gear Keeper products to be as durable as possible in some of the most severe environments, the RT4 Series’ retractable mount has a patented flushing system that clears sand and debris from the unit. It is also salt-water proof and features a patented Q/C Connector System, which provides for quick and easy connection/disconnection of gear.

The retractable line is constructed of high tensile Spectra/Nylon and coupled with stainless steel spring hardware all in a high-impact casing. All this makes for a device that boasts superior overall integrity and will be able to take knock after knock in the field.

Available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different size and weight gear.
The Model RT4-0040 has a retraction force of 85 gram (3 oz.) and extends to 91 cm (36 inch) ideal for lighter items. Model RT4-0061 has a retraction force of 170 gram (6 oz.) and also extends to 91 cm (36 inch) perfect for a small tactical light.
The RT4-0064 has retraction force of 255 gram (9 oz.) enough for a GPS unit and extends to 81 cm (32 inch).
Finally, the brand new RT4-0065 has a retraction force of 453 gram (16 oz.) and extends to 56 cm (22 inch) for even heavier items.

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RT4-4465 for the Fire Fighters market with larger Q/C-2 connection,
Retractie 453 gram.

In addition to the Carabiner attachment, RT4 Series Gear Keeper general mount is also available in other mounting options including a threaded stud mount, a Velcro strap mount, and a heavy duty snap clip.

The original Geer Keeper system was engineered specifically for SCUBA diving literally born out of a need to secure items in situations when hands are otherwise occupied. Gear Keeper systems are now available in more than 3,000 configuration options and used in applications from law enforcement, military and hiking to fishing, hunting and trucking.

For more information about the new RT4 Series Gear Keeper with Carabiner, or other Gear Keeper Products contact the European sales office at Avera-Distributing in The Netherlands.

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VISITING KINDERDIJK – NOT ONLY DUTCH WINDMILLS

Posted on 17th September 2015 | Comments Off on VISITING KINDERDIJK – NOT ONLY DUTCH WINDMILLS

This week we paid a family visit to Kinderdijk. UNESCO gave this place a World Heritage status. There are 19 old typical Dutch windmills to see and visit.

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But stopping for a cup of coffee at the local restaurant Buena Vista gave us also a radio surprise. The owner of this restaurant showed a nice collection of antique broadcast receivers.

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In the restaurant a nice collection of broadcast radio receivers.

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Of course I also want to show some photos of this unique place with the typical Dutch Windmills that for many years made sure we had dry feet and were not flooded by the water.

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Kinderdijk windmills: unique & iconic water management
A significant part of Holland is situated up to approximately 7 meters below sea level. The Dutch don’t notice any of this though, because an incredibly innovative and intricate system keeps the ever-rising seawater from flooding the land. Even during spring tide, the Dutch are safely guarded from being washed away…

The most important aspect of UNESCO World Heritage Kinderdijk is undoubtedly the unique collection of 19 authentic windmills, which are considered a Dutch icon throughout the entire world. A wonderful and unforgettable day trip in the Netherlands for the entire family!

06

For more information visit the Kinderdijk website at:
https://www.kinderdijk.com

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Posted in Consumer Communication Electronics, Scanners / Receivers / Software

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NEW FROM PRESIDENT “MULTI PACK BOOSTERS”

Posted on 20th July 2015 | Comments Off on NEW FROM PRESIDENT “MULTI PACK BOOSTERS”

MIDLAND ENERJUMP

In my blog from January 25-2015, I wrote about a new product from Midland, the ENERJUMP.

01

Midland ENERJUMP

You can find detailed information about the ENERJUMP on our website.

Basicly the ENERJUMP is a kind of PowerBank. If you visit a trade show in USA or Far East you will notice that PowerBanks are hot business.

Everyone wants to make them and they all want to sell these.


PRESIDENT

We all know President from their famous line of CB products. Not often they step outside their core business. But now they do as they introduce three types of PowerBanks. These are not just a PowerBank, these are Portable Power and Roadside Assistance Kits.


MULTI-PACK BOOSTERS

There are 3 models available:

002

• MPB6000

003

• MPB8800

 

004

• MPB12000

Basicly the three kits are identical. It is a PowerBank to jumpstart a car, it includes a flashlight and it allows you to charge electronic devices.

 

005

Charging Electronic Devices and Flashlight

But the President Multi-Pack Booster also includes a compressor !

The difference in the 3 models is the capacity of the battery, which is the heart of each PowerBank.

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Jumpstart of a car with a President MPB12000

If used to jumpstart a car all three models will deliver a peak of maximum 400 Ampere! But the total capacity of the battery pack inside the Powerbank is different for these 3 models.
• MPB6000 has a capacity of 6000 mAh
• MPB8000 has a capacity of 8800 mAh
• MPB12000 has a capacity of 12000 mAh.


COMPRESSOR

 

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Compressor with meter

The compressor allows you to inflate the tires of your car, or the tubes of a bike, or an inflatable boat. If you need an item to fill it with air you can use the MPB to
inflate that product.


CARRY CASE

All three models are sold in a handy carry case. It will allow you to keep all items together in one tool box.


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MPB comes in a handy tool case


COMPLETE SET

President MULTI-PACK BOOSTERS come complete with the jumper cables to charge the car battery. But also an USB Charging Cable, 12VDC cable and 230VAC wall charger are included.

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All cables are included

Certainly during vacation time it is a safe feeling to know that you have a PowerBank in your car. Just in case your battery or phone/tablet is dead. Or if you want to assist someone who needs help.

I remember when my kids were small and each summer I had to inflate boats, tires, air-mattresses etc. I inflated so much I got dizzy now and then. If there ever come grandchildren I will have a Multi-Pack Booster quite close, I better use my breath for talking.

To all of my readers: I hope you will enjoy your vacation time and the summer!

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Posted in Consumer Communication Electronics, jumpstarter, Midland, President, Travel Center Products

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NEW FIGHTER SERIES BY SIRIO

Posted on 23rd June 2015 | Comments Off on NEW FIGHTER SERIES BY SIRIO

plaatje
This month Sirio is introducing a limited edition of a the new ‘FIGHTER SERIES’. For this new series Sirio took some popular long CB antennas like:
• Performer 5000 3/8×24 without Shaft
• Performer 5000 3/8×24 with Shaft
• Performer 5000
• Performer 5000PL
• Hi-Power 4000PL
The specs are quite similar but the look is totally different. Instead of the standard grey coils you know get a ‘MILITARY’ or ‘CAMO’ look for these CB antennas.

There will not be big market for these antennas. But for those who drive a military vehicle or those active in airsoft activities these antennas are a great gadget.
And let us be fair, if you drive a ‘regular’ car you get a lot of looks when you drive around with an antenna from the fighter series.

It is a limited edition, so if you want to have some FIGHTER fun, act now.

Below some factory specifications:

FEATURES, FUNCTIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS:

◾ CB & 10 m Mobile Antennas.
◾ 17/7 PH Tapered Whip.
◾ Very High Power Handling.
◾ P-5000: Low Loss Coil Made of 10 AWG / 2.5 mm Copper Wire.
◾ Shaft Version: 200 mm (8 inch) Stainless Steel Shaft.
◾ Chrome Plated Brass Parts CNC Machined.
◾ Fully Designed & Manufactured in Italy.

PART NUMBERS:
P/N 2418505.03/A-FG FIGHTER P-5000 3/8.
P/N 2202505.05/FG FIGHTER HI-POWER 4000 PL.
P/N 2218505.50/FG FIGHTER P-5000.
P/N 2218505.51/FG FIGHTER P-5000 PL.
P/N 2418505.03/FG FIGHTER P-5000 3/8 with Shaft.

ELECTRICAL DATA:
◾ Type: Base Loaded.
◾ Frequency Range: 27 – 30 MHz.
◾ Impedance: 50 Ω.
◾ Polarization: Linear Vertical.
◾ Bandwidth @ SWR ≤ 2: ≥ 2600 KHz.
◾ SWR @ res. Freq.: ≤ 1.2.
◾ Max. Power:
… P-5000: 1500 Watts (CW) Continuous; 5000 Watts (CW) short time.
… HI-POWER 4000: 600 Watts (CW) Continuous; 1800 Watts (CW) short time.

MECHANICAL DATA:
◾ Mounting:
… FIGHTER P-5000: Hole Ø 12.5 mm (0.5 inch).
… FIGHTER P-5000 3/8: 3/8 x 24 Thread.
… FIGHTER P-5000 PL: UHF-Male (PL 259).
… FIGHTER HI-POWER 4000: UHF-Male (PL 259).
◾ Cable lenght / Type:
… FIGHTER P-5000: 4 m (13 ft) RG 58.
… Other Models: not supplied.
◾ Shaft Version:
… shaft 200 mm (8 inch).

PACKING INCLUDES:
1 Pc of Antenna.
1 Pc of User Manual In English.

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POWERBANKS

Posted on 25th January 2015 | Comments Off on POWERBANKS

HOT SELLING ITEM – OR TOO HOT TO HANDLE

If you travel in USA and in Far East it is quite common that at check in you are asked “do you carry a power bank in your luggage sir?”

Airlines do not like Power Banks. For those who do not know what a power bank is: It is a battery!

The modern battery technics make it possible to store a lot of energy in a battery. There are all kind of Lithium based batteries, most famous is Lithium-Ion. A lot of power, small seize and low in weight. That is exactly what people need now a days for their smart phones and other electronic devices.

By law airlines can carry only a certain number of kilos of these batteries. If this kind of battery is damaged it might cause a fire. If not packed carefully in your suitcase and hit by a second suitcase it is possible the power bank is damaged.

Too many of these batteries can cause a huge fire that might destroy a plane. Safety comes first for airlines so they might stop your power bank from boarding or ask you to pack it correctly before entering the plane.


NEW TECHNICS – MORE POWER

The first power banks were basically backup batteries for your electronic devices. Empty phone? – connect to a power bank and recharge!

Now a days the power banks have lots more power. Even so much that you can start your car with a modern power bank. Some can deliver 200 Ampere and even 400 Ampere as a peak current!!


MIDLAND ENERJUMP

Recently Midland introduced their ENERJUMP. The dimensions are just 131 x 75 x 25 mm. It can be used to charge electronic equipment, it can be used as a flashlight and and it can be used to start a car when the car battery is empty.

Read what the Midland people say about the new product.

YOUR STORE OF ENERGY!
NEVER GET STRANDED
WITH A DEAD BATTERY!

Enerjump Photo

MIDLAND “ENERJUMP” p/n C1184

If the battery of your vehicle or electronic device goes dead, you have a new equipment to face up the emergency! Nowadays we can no longer do without a reserve of energy for all our electronic devices that we daily bring with us.

ENERJUMP is a powerful powerbank with USB port, able to recharge several times all portable electronic devices ‐ such as smartphones, tablets, BT Intercom equipment, XTC action cameras , mp3… every where and without the need of a main socket.
It completely recharges your i-Phone up to 3 times!

Enerjump charging phoneEnerjump charging a phone

But the extraordinariness of Enerjump is the capability to jump‐start your battery without the need of another vehicle!

No matter if it’s about your car, motorbike, quad or camping van, you don’t have to ask for help to anybody, anymore!

Despite its reduced size and thanks to its 12V output with a high peak current, ENERJUMP has enough power to jump start your vehicle when the battery is dead.
Just connect the jumper cables and its clamps (red +/ black ‐ ) supplied in the packaging to the vehicle’s battery, turn on Enerjump and start your car!

Enerjump used to jumpstart a carEnerjump in action to jumpstart a car

ENERJUMP is also equipped with a powerful built‐in Led flashlight, able to light up SOS emergency signalling (intermittent flash) .
Enerjump Flashlight FunctionEnerjump used as flashlight

The 5‐led charge indicator clearly shows you the charge level.
ENERJUMP is ideal for everyday use or roadside emergencies; so remember to take it always with you, in your daily activities or adventures!


WHAT IS IN THE BOX:
‐ Enerjump
‐ Jumper cables with clamps
‐ 12V car charger
‐ Wall charger
‐ USB to micro cable
‐ User manual

Enerjump Packing IncludesContent of packing


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
‐ Nominal capacity: 8000mAh
‐ Input: 12/14V ‐ 1A
‐ Output: 5V ‐ 2A
‐ Car starter: 12V
‐ Starting current: 200A
‐ Peak current: 400A
‐ Weight: 300g
‐ Dimensions: 131 x 75 x 25mm


PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

I must admit I love this product. It comes in a handy carry case, it has so many possibilities and it gives you a more safe feeling.

But there are also some remarks to make. At cold weather (more than minus 5ºC) it is not advised to leave the Enerjump in your car. But that are also the best nights to charge the Enerjump to make sure you have power.

Second remark is that I did not find out yet what is the self-discharge of this item. The used Lithium-Cobalt battery has low self-discharge, but it also depends on local temperatures and charging disciplines.
If you need power it and you have it: “GREAT!”
But if you need power and the Enerjump is empty it is: “GRRR”

And while I start charging my Enerjump you can watch a funny video from Midland Italy about this product.

Detailed information about this product on the Avera website: ENERJUMP

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Posted in Telecom, Travel Center Products

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CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW IN LAS VEGAS

Posted on 14th January 2015 | Comments Off on CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW IN LAS VEGAS

01
Every year the first important show for consumer electronics is the CES, the Consumer Electronics Show, in Las Vegas. Las Vegas is one of the few cities in the world that has so many hotel rooms that it is no problem to house a show with 200.000 visitors plus thousands of exhibitors and regular tourists.

At the Hong Kong version of CES you will find much more suppliers for communication equipment than in Las Vegas. But at CES some of the brands have a more impressive booth than in Hong Kong.

COBRA

02Cobra active on CB, Marine, PMR, Radar Detectors, Dash Camera
and Power products.

Each year at CES, Cobra has an impressive booth. End of last year Cobra was sold to an investment company. That companies also purchased BELL, a big name in radar detectors. Within the industry there is a lot of speculation how long it will take before they will make it one brand and most of all: which brand will win the battle?

03At the Cobra booth an impressive car with Cobra equipment

04Radar Detector, Dash Cam and Smart Phone for easy driving


COBRA CB: HARLEY- DAVIDSON

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For the American CB market Cobra took the Cobra 29LX and turned this model in the 29LX HD version. For Harley-Davidson freaks a must have in the car or on the motorbike.
Cobra is leading on the CB market in USA, but at CES they did not show many models. Let us hope they will have real news on CB next year.

COBRA MARINE: FLOATING MODEL

New for USA marine market is the HH500 FLT BT. Expected is that a similar model for European market will be introduced soon.

06Floating VHF Marine Radio

MIDLAND USA

07Midland Booth at CES, displaying CB, Action and Dash Cameras, GMRS/FRS and Blue Tooth applications.

Midland USA is the number 3 for CB in USA. But they are leading for action cameras and GMRS/FRS, this is a quite similar standard as the European PMR446 regulation. Also the Blue Tooth applications for motor bike drivers are very popular in the USA and Europe.

08Blue Tooth applications from Midland, quite similar to European series. On bottom a few types of CB Radio.

At CES Midland did not show many CB radios, they gave more attention to Blue Tooth products and Action and Dashboard Cameras.

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10Midland has a wide range of portable radios


MOBILE GMRS/FRS

In Europe we have PMR446 portable radios. For us it is not allowed to have mobile versions of PMR446. In USA Midland introduced at CES a new mobile GMRS radio. It is a very compact radio and we can only dream about changing the European standard for PMR446.

11Mobile version of USA PMR446 version

UNIDEN HAS NO BOOTH AT CES

Uniden is the number 1 in USA for scanners and number 2 for CB. But since some years they have no booth at CES. The sales persons are available at CES to talk to customers but not on their own booth. For the industry it would be great if they decide to have booth at CES again.

But you can find Uniden products at the booth of CB Distributing. These people are always present with a booth to meet their customers from the West coast of USA.

12CB Distributing showing CB and scanners from all USA brands

CBD showed from Uniden two new radar detectors. These were brand new on the market. But also the new Cobra 29LX HD could be seen at the CBD booth.

13Rene from CBD proudly shows the Harley Davidson Cobra CB

GRE / WHISTLER

GRE used to be the number 2 for scanners in USA. Over 1 year ago they went bankrupt and were purchased by Whistler.

14Whistler showing their GRE scanner models. One of the models is linked
to a laptop. On the laptop a file from “Radioreferences” to transfer data
to the scanner.

Whistler is still using the brand name GRE and they still are 2nd on USA scanner market. Some models are also available on the European market. But on European market Uniden is by far the most popular brand for scanners.

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW

At CES you find a large variety of all kind of consumer electronics. Consumer communication products are hard to find at this show nowadays.
But for those interested in electronics it is a unique show in a unique city.

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Posted in Consumer Communication Electronics, Scanners / Receivers / Software, Transceivers CB/27MHz

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CUSTOMIZING OPTIONS MAKES NEW GEAR KEEPER® RETRACTABLE TOOL TETHER A PERFECT FIT.

Posted on 22nd September 2014 | Comments Off on CUSTOMIZING OPTIONS MAKES NEW GEAR KEEPER® RETRACTABLE TOOL TETHER A PERFECT FIT.

1ste ill

Q/C tethers offer “at heights” safety and versatility with complete range of motion and the ability to exchange one tool for another using same lanyard.

Personal_tether_app KLEIN

Tethering at heights is the right thing to do but climbing with multiple tethers hanging from you is not so smart. The twin dangers of entanglement and falling become significant safety issues. Gear Keeper’s exclusive line of option rich retractable tethers all come standard with patented Q/C fittings. When a tool (weighing up to 0,9Kg/2 lbs.) is unplugged from the tether, the user simply selects the next tool to use, plugs it in and returns to work. These retractable tethers are designed for maximum productivity, keeping tools close to the body when stored while still allowing complete accessibility when in use. This is particularly important when working in close quarters or climbing.

SuperBracketLine KLEIN

One of the company’s most popular tool tether series is the “Multi-Mount” clamp-on tool retractor for web belts (up to 5,7 cm/ 2.25”) for tools up to 1 Kg/36 oz. Each tether in the series comes complete with the unique 2-axis, rotating clamp-on belt clip that offers complete range of motion for any job. The 360°, 2-axis rotation is a low profile, compact mounting system that permits 360° rotation and 180° swing-away from the body.

 

Like other retractable tethers in the Gear Keeper line, the “Multi-Mount” series is engineered so that the tool or instrument, application and recoil/retraction force are in balance. Individual Multi-Mount tethers (models RT3-76XX) retail for Euro 34,99 and are available for tools weighing 340 gr/12 oz., 510 gr/18 oz., 680 gr/24 oz., 735 gr/26 oz. and 1 Kg/36 oz. When the lanyard is extended for use, only minimal force is necessary thereby avoiding worker fatigue or in the reverse, causing a ”kick” when the instrument is automatically guided back to its stored position.

Many customizing options are available including retractor forces from 340gr/ 12 to 1 Kg/36 ounces, mounting fixtures include split ring or fixed lanyard end type. Extension length is dependent upon the force selected and ranges from 48 cm/ 19 inches to 107 cm/42 inches. For those who require easy change out of tools using the same tether, additional Q/Cll lanyards (ACO-0912) can be purchased for Euro 3.99 each.

2de ill

The modularity of Gear Keeper tethering system offers the flexibility needed to safely and specifically match the tool, worker and application. Unlike an “off-the-shelf” tether, which can actually become a safety hazard, all Gear Keeper tethering systems insure dependable safety, convenience and quality by the company’s stringent quality control systems. All Gear Keeper tethers must pass dynamic and static testing, drop load testing with up to a 100% safety margin and cycle testing for safe productive use and long-life.

With millions of systems in use, Gear Keeper devices have a failure rate of less than .001 percent. The full line of Gear Keeper instrument tethers and accessories are available on the company’s website at gearkeeper.com.
A free, twelve-page “Safety Engineer’s Guide to Tool and Instrument Tethering” containing a tethering guide and related information is available.
Send an e-mail with your name and full mail adress to info@avera.eu

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RETRACTABLE MIC KEEPER® SYSTEM … EASY ACCESS, WITHOUT DISLODGING, DRAGGING OR DANGLING.

Posted on 18th August 2014 | Comments Off on RETRACTABLE MIC KEEPER® SYSTEM … EASY ACCESS, WITHOUT DISLODGING, DRAGGING OR DANGLING.

The retractable tethering device keeps radio microphone in the proper position to maintain effective communications as recommended by International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Fotosearch_k1637284-300x234Poor communications is among the top five factors in line-of-duty deaths.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program, lack of effective communications is one of the leading causes of non-cardiac line of duty deaths among firefighters. The International Association of Fire Chiefs has developed a series of portable radio best practices that include a recommendation that firefighters place radio microphones in close proximity to the mouth to avoid audio distortion problems when operating in environments with high levels of background noise.

IAFC said that firefighters should “ensure that the microphone is placed one to two inches from the mouth or SCBA voice port with the microphone positioned directly in front of the audio source.” A Mic Keeper device is designed to do just that. It keeps the mic securely in the proper IAFC position to operate the microphone appropriately when in use. When released after use, the mic will automatically retract to a secure position leaving the hands free to use other critical firefighting tools.

The Mic Keeper is a rugged, retractable system designed to utilize and protect gear in severe environments with maximum break strength and durability. It was developed based on the needs and comments of firefighters complaining about the lapel mic being a nuisance, always becoming dislodged and dangling, causing firefighters to step on or drag their mics. This often happens with strap-type radio belts. Although straps are an easy way to carry the radio for non-turnout gear times and are easy to throw on for turnout conditions they might not be the safest choice.  If the strap is worn over the turnout coat to facilitate access to the radio, it becomes an entanglement issue and the radio is not protected.
If the strap is under the coat you can not reach the radio.
According to Raul A. Angulo, a 32-year veteran of the Seattle Fire Department and captain of Ladder Company 6 who teaches classes on firefighter entrapment, “Not a lot of attention is paid to how firefighters wear their portable radios or where they clip their microphones. Angulo, writing in Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Magazine1, added “As for the mic, your lifeline to safety and survival, I have found no better accessory than the retractable tether system of the Mic  Keeper. When I need it, I reach to my left shoulder and there it is, every time. I grab it, pull it to the voice amplifier of my SCBA, transmit my message and let it go. It smoothly retracts with a 12-ounce force.”

The Mic Keeper is securely attached to a turnout coat or air pack harness with the supplied a stainless steel threaded pin (stud) that penetrates Mic Tab, Radio Pocket, or Webbing Harness and threads into back of Mic Keeper. Built specifically for heavy-duty firefighter use, the retractable tether has a 400¢F, V-2 Flame Rating and is constructed with a nylon coated stainless steel cable, stainless steel spring and hardware.

The model RT2-4022 Mic Keeper Pin Mount System allows the microphone to be securely extended for talking/listening, without the Mic being dislodged / dropped or the need to re-clip after use. When necessary, the Mic Keeper’s patented Q/C mounting system quickly and easily disconnects the microphone from the Mic Keeper.

The Mic Keeper retails for € 21.99 excl. VAT.
More customizing options are available.

For complete specifications:
http://www.avera.eu/magnify.asp?item=1419 and http://www.gearkeeper.com/communication/mickeeperfire.html

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VISITING THE FIRESTIK ANTENNA FACTORY

Posted on 10th May 2014 | Comments Off on VISITING THE FIRESTIK ANTENNA FACTORY

01 firestik wall
Based on a large premise in Phoenix Arizona, Firestik is the largest independent manufacturer of CB mobile antennas in the world. Many other famous brands have been sold to distributors and investors, but have disappeared over the years. Brands like K40, Wilson, Francis and Astatic still exist but just as a brand and not as an independent company anymore. Other brands are small, make only a few products and are often operated from a garage or workshop at home.

02 The FIRESTIK buildingPhoto: Firestik premises is Phoenix Arizona

FAMILY OPERATED
Firestik is a real family company. The directors are Rick Vincent and his aunt. I have been in the CB business for over 40 years, but Rick has even longer. Put two of these oldies together and stories and memories about products and persons keep coming up, certainly when there is some ‘old stuff’ in the reception of the office.

03 Rick VincentPhoto: Rick Vincent

According to the Vincents “people know that Firestik is still a family company. They appreciate that this is a steady and clear situation. Of many brands you have no idea where the production is, but we are an all American company, and many CB users want to support this situation”.

04 samen
05 samenPhoto: Old stuff

Several members of the family are active in the Firestik company. Rick Vincent II (3rd generation) gave us a tour of the factory.

06 partsPhoto: On tour with Rick Vincent II

I have visited many antenna factories in the past, so I have something to compare it with. And this factory is a really well-organised and clean operation. Some factories look ‘different’, which is even an understatement.

A 2nd pleasant surprise was that these guys are totally honest and open.
They have nothing to hide and answered all our questions.

07 LabelsPhoto: Label room

The walk through the factory was in fact a tour along the production process. This is what you get when things are well-organised. You see the stock of cartons to put the product on, cartons to put the product in, labels to put on the product and on the cartons, fiber whips, copper wire and product parts.

8 samenPhoto: Winding machines

It all comes together in the production hall where all these separate items are needed. A line of machines is set up to wind the wire on the fiber rods. I have seen people do this by hand and I have seen PLC-operated machines, but this is simple and performs very well. They have a kind of pre-winded metal bar. A copper wire runs through this and copies it on the fiber rod. It is simple and efficient: there are no electronic failures as when using a PLC or ‘gambling’ as when done by hand.

09 samenPhoto: Assembly of parts

PACKING
Winding the whips is one thing, but packing these cost efficiently is another. The carton cards and the cartons to pack the antennas in take up a lot of space for machines, stock storage and finalised product storage.
You see the typical yellow color of the Firestik packing all over the factory. Yellow as the sun in Arizona can be.

10 winded rodsPhoto: Winded rods, ready for packing

11 samenPhoto: Carding, sealing, cutting.

CRIMP SEAL
Sometimes you find something surprising in factories as local circumstances are always different. I know that the kind of antennas that Firestik produces is covered by a crimp seal. Nothing special. But these guys stock their crimp seal in a room that is air-conditioned and has a temperature alarm on it. The supply is always in winter, never in summer.

12 SAMEN
13 crimp seal stockPhoto: Air conditioned stock of crimp seal.

 The reason is simple, in summer it gets over 40 degrees Celsius, so they cannot use a regular storage. If the air-conditioning fails they call a local transport company that brings a cooled trailer and they put all the pallets as quick as possible in that trailer until the air-conditioning is repaired again.

All sounds very logical, but I had never thought of such a problem before.

TESTING WHIPS
14 Antenna Test Table
For testing the produced whips Firestik has built a testing table. Again, it is simple but has great value. It is a metal table on wheels that can be rolled outside for testing whips. It also has side panels and if these are put up you get a metal surface of approx. 3 by 3 meters. I loved this idea and we are now building something similar for our own testing at Avera.

SAFETY FLAGS

21 na 14 safety flagsPhoto: Safety Flags in many types of length and colors.

Every company is looking for new products to enter new markets and get new opportunities. Firestik is also constantly looking for new markets.

Several years ago they started the production and sales of SAFETY FLAGS. These are quite similar to antennas. It is also a fiber rod with a mounting part, but no copper wire windings and a there is a flag on the top of the rod. These flags come in many colors and lengths. In the USA you will see these rods along the roads to point out the side of the road.

When there is a lot of snow you need to know where the side of the road is !

The rods with a safety flag you will see on bikes and other moving objects that want you to know they are there.

This new line became a great success. If they manufacture 150.000 antennas a year, they now also produce nearly 50.000 safety flags.

Last winter they received a large order from New York CITY BIKE SHARE, because they needed safety flags to show where bike parking areas are.

Click the link to read more about this NY project:
http://thevillager.com/2014/01/09/scoopy-week-of-jan-9-2014/

THANK YOU

A big ‘THANK YOU’ to everyone at Firestik for being so open, honest and helpful and a special TNX to RV2. We enjoyed the tour and we hope many CB-ers will enjoy using FIRESTIK antennas for many more years.

15 firestik no ground wall

More photo’s made during the factory tour:

16 Warehouse

17 Firestik yello carton
18 Eye Protection
19 Rick Vincent 2
20 Paper Shredders

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Posted in Transceivers CB/27MHz

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BT SKI ACTION

Posted on 16th April 2014 | Comments Off on BT SKI ACTION

Bluetooth Intercom System for every outdoor activity

1 echt

Midland introduces a new solution designed for sport lovers

BT SKI ACTION is an Intercom system conceived for every outdoor activity; it is suitable for leisure users who want to enjoy the Bluetooth communications or music while practicing their favorite sports.
BT SKI ACTION is provided with the small and practical Bluetooth device BT SKI ACTION and two different kits included in the packaging that allow to wear the BT SKI ACTION as you want, with or without the helmet.
It doesn’t matter if it is winter or summer time, just wear it and go!

2 en 3 samen
With Midland BT SKI ACTION you can talk in intercom mode with another Bluetooth device up to a max distance of 200mt; besides you can answer your mobile phone using the voice activation, without any distractions or having to stop.
Besides, Midland BT SKI ACTION is fitted with a plug that enables it to be wired to an iPod/MP3 player and/or to a PMR446 transceiver allowing communications amongst various users (using the optional PMR446 cable).
This is perfect for group teaching!
Thanks to the supplied ‘Universal helmet kit’ you can wear your BT SKI ACTION with both rigid and semi-rigid ski helmets: it is provided with a practical audio kit composed of two ultra-flat high performance stereo speakers and one microphone with boom. BT SKI will be placed outside the helmet using the functional Velcro band or mounted on the bi-adhesive clamp on the rigid surface of the helmet.

4 en 5 samen
The supplied ‘Action kit’ – composed of an earphone and boom mike – is the ideal solution for all those sport activities that do not require the use of helmet or for helmets for summer sports.

6 echt
MAIN FEATURES – MIDLAND BT SKI

  • Bluetooth version: 2.0 stereo (Headset/Handsfree/A2DP protocol)
  • AGC system automatically controls the volume in relation to background noise
  • Voice (VOX) or manual activation of the communication
  • Mobile phone Bluetooth connection to answer calls and listen to the music
  • Manual controls to enable the main controls of the mobile phone, intercom and wire connection
  • Waterproof/snowproof
  • Intercom: max coverage up to 200mt
  • Wired audio connection to iPod/mp3 or to PMR446 transceivers (optional cable 1 and 2 pin)

DEVICE COMPLYING TO CE/99/05


CONTENT OF THE PACKAGING:
Single Version code: C928.10

  • 1 BT SKI ACTION device
  • 1 “Universal helmet kit” composed of two stereo speakers and 1 integrated microphone with boom, velcro band and bi-adhesive clamp to fix the unit onto the helmet
  • 1 “Action kit” composed of mono-earphone, rotating clip and Velcro band
  • 1 AUX audio cable
  • 1 USB power supply cable

Twin version code: C928.11

  • 2 BT SKI ACTION devices
  • 2 “Universal helmet kits”; each one is composed of two stereo speakers and 1 integrated microphone with boom, velcro band and bi-adhesive clamp to fix the unit onto the helmet
  • 2 “Action kits”; each one is composed of earphone, rotating clip and Velcro band
  • 2 AUX audio cables
  • 2 USB power supply cables

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

  • BT Moto Audio Kit cod. C933 Stereo headset with 2 microphones ( 1 with a bracket and 1 wired) and two installation brackets (1 bi-adhesive plate and 1 clamp). This kit allows you to use your BT SKI on the bike as a BT CITY/BT EVA.
  • Kit 165 with PTT to connect your BT SKI to a 2 PIN transceiver (BT312+BHS300U) for Midland G6, G7 series, G8, G9).
  • Kit 129 with PTT to connect your BT SKI to a 1 PIN transceiver (BT312+BHS301) for Midland 777, Midland G5 e G5 XT.
  • EMERGENCY CHARGER code C920 portable charger for BT line.

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Posted in Blue Tooth Communications, Telecom

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