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Iowa Thin Film Technologies launches solar-powered electronics devices Iowa Thin Film Technologies (ITFT) is launching a full line of solar-powered consumer electronics products under the brand name Soltronix. A headphone radio, brought out in early 2002, will be joined in June by a pocket radio, followed by a CD player and MP3/CD player in July.
The Soltronix PR-1 is an FM stereo/FM/AM radio that can be carried in a pocket or worn with an armband or on a belt. It includes a built-in PowerFilm amorphous silicon module with a power rating of 100 mW, which charges an AAA NiMH battery, supplying up to 30 hours on a full charge. The MPP rating is 3 V at 37 mA. The Soltronix CD-1 CD player has a 40 second anti-shock protection, while the Soltronix MP3CD-1 MP3/CD player is protected against shock up to 120 seconds. The players, which each use two NiMH batteries, have carrying cases into which the flexible PowerFilm modules are integrated. The module power is 360 mW; MPP ratings for both are 3.6 V at 100 mA. Mike Coon, chief operating officer at ITFT, says that for each hour of play, the devices require two hours of charge. They can operate for 10 to 15 hours on a full charge. In sunlight, the players charge even while in use. All of the devices have »Ultra Bass« and come with ear buds.
Coon says the electronics portion of the devices, custom-made for ITFT, is being marketed by the company under the Soltronix brand. He says ITFT is considering extending the line with PowerFilm solutions for cell phone chargers and personal digital assistants. ITFT is exploring retail outlets as well. Jeffrey Frank, president of ITFT, says he had discussions about using the PowerFilm modules with a number of electronics companies, including Sony, although no deals have been finalized. The pocket radio will retail for $24.95, the CD player costs $119.95, and the MP3 unit goes for $149.95.
William P. Hirshman
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