GRN's new Saber is a "solid-state" digital audio player. The playback system is entirely electronic, with no moving parts. It uses the commonly available MP3 or WMA formats to enable 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 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, 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 keypad uses high reliability switches beneath a tough membrane. The player is highly dust-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. The simple keypad has the following functions:
- On / Off / Pause / Resume
- Prev folder / First folder
- Next folder / Last folder
- Prev file / Review (fast backward)
- Next file / Cue (fast forward)
- Volume Up / Down
Specifications
Audio file formats: 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 (centre pin positive) for
- Optional Power Pack 7.2V 500mA
- Optional Battery Pack 6V
- Optional Solar Panel 6V
Display: Green LED for player state, and Red LED for battery condition
Dimensions: 180mm x 123mm x 51mm
Weight: 630g