Product Review: The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio

If you are looking for a great gift idea for your loved ones, I would highly recommend The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio. This product combines an LED flashlight, built-in solar panel and charging capability into one handy unit.

The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio has virtually limitless energy. It is easy to re-charge. All you have to do is turn the unit off then turn your power selector to EZ Crank, then you pull out the EZ Crank handle located in the rear of the radio then winding the handle three to five minutes by rotating the handle at a speed of 120 revolutions per minute (2 turns per second). The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio will provide up to twenty minutes of light or radio when you have turned the EZ Crank for one minute.

Not only can you re-charge The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio by using the EZ Crank, you can also plug it into a DC-input jack. It doesn't come with the AC Adaptor, but it can be purchased at an electronic store easily if so desired. You can also charge by using the solar power by placing The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio under direct sunlight.

The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio has a super-bright LED flashlight which is visible for over a mile. It has an AM/FM Radio with telescopic antenna. Listening to the radio is easy. You can turn on the volume knob clockwise to turn the unit on then slide the AM/FM switch to choose AM or FM. For better reception it is suggested that for FM that you fully extend the telescopic antenna and for AM you would need to rotate your unit in order to locate the best reception.

The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio has an earphone jack as well as storage compartment and carrying strap for easy handling. The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio has the following specifications:

- 7.5" x 3.75" x 2.25" outer dimension

- 1.05lbs in weight

- 0.6W maximum power consumption

- 3.6V-4.0V voltage

- 3.6V recharge battery type (supplied)

- 120 rpm or faster hand-winding speed

- AC/DC 6V adaptor (not included)

- 150mW maximum current

- Output jack

- Built-in speaker

The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio comes with a limited 90-day warranty. This warranty covers normal consumer use and does not cover the damage that is resulted from neglect, misuse, abuse, inadequate maintenance, etc.

The price for one unit is approximately $40. This may be expensive for a radio/flashlight, but the savings of not buying batteries overtime will compensate for it. I give The Weather Channel EZ Crank Radio two thumbs up! Buy it for yourself, friends, and love ones and never get caught in the dark again.