Saber
From SPARK
The Saber, by Global Recordings Network is a digital "solid-state" player, meaning that the playback hardware is entirely electronic, with no moving parts. It uses the commonly available MP3 or WMA formats to compress the audio data, enabling large amounts of audio to be stored and played back at high quality. The audio files can be easily loaded by the user from a computer via the in-built USB port.
The player incorporates a speaker and a high-efficiency digital amplifier, making it ideal for group listening. A heavy-duty hand-crank mechanism is coupled with a rechargeable battery to ensure that power is always available. The battery can also be recharged from an external source, such as a solar panel or AC adapter, via the DC socket.
The player has been designed with the goals of high reliability and long life under adverse conditions. The case is made of tough ABS plastic, with impact-absorbing Neoprene corners. The control buttons are high reliability switches underneath a tough membrane. The player is sealed against dust and is moisture resistant.
User Controls
Audio files can be grouped into folders. The user can search within a file, move from file to file, or move from folder to folder. Other controls are on/off/pause, and volume up/down.
Preliminary Specifications
Audio file format: MP3 or WMA
On board memory: 1GB
Memory expansion: Slot for SD memory card up to 2GB
File system: 2 level FAT16 folders and files
File transfer: USB 2.0 though five-pin Mini-USB Series B socket
Built in amplifier: Mono, 400mW typical, 8 ohm speaker
External headphone socket: Stereo, 32 ohm
Internal battery: 3.6V 700mAH rechargeable NiMH
Battery life: Approximately 10 hours at high volume after full charge
Built in battery recharge: Hand wind generator requiring 1 minute winding for every 4 minutes of playing
External battery recharge: 2.1mm DC power socket for
- Optional AC/DC adapter 7.2V at least 500mA
- Optional Battery Pack 6V
- Optional Solar Panel 6V 320mA
Display: Green LED for player state, and Red LED for battery condition
Dimensions: 180mm x 123mm x 51mm
Weight: 630g
Availability
During August-September 2008 the Saber is undergoing field testing, in conjunction with Wycliffe and several other missions. If you would like to be involved in field testing, please contact GRN Australia http://globalrecordings.net/topic/aucontact.
The Saber is available in limited quantity, with full production later in 2008.
Pricing
The price is expected to be US$75 for the base player. The price for mission agencies, missionaries and indigenous churches will be around US$40 for the same unit.
Anticipated accessories are: SD/MMC cards for extra memory, AC/DC adapter, solar panel, earphones, USB cable. Availability and price of these items is not yet set.
