Product Overview
The Eton Sidekick is a versatile, multi-powered emergency weather radio designed for reliability in various situations, from outdoor adventures to unexpected emergencies. It integrates AM/FM/NOAA weather band reception with S.A.M.E. (Specific Area Message Encoding) technology for localized alerts. The device offers multiple power options, including a rechargeable lithium battery, solar panel, and hand-crank generator. Additional features include Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming, an LED flashlight, a red emergency beacon, a large ambient light with dimmer, and a USB output for charging external devices like smartphones and tablets.
Figure 1: Front view of the Eton Sidekick radio, showing the display, controls, and speaker.
Figure 2: The Eton Sidekick radio highlighting its use for enjoying music during adventures.
Figure 3: The Eton Sidekick radio demonstrating its rugged design for outdoor use.
Setup
- Initial Charging: Before first use, fully charge the Sidekick using the provided Micro-USB cable connected to a power source. Alternatively, utilize the solar panel by placing the radio in direct sunlight or use the hand crank.
- Antenna Extension: For optimal radio reception, extend the telescopic antenna fully.
- Battery Installation: The Eton Sidekick includes a pre-installed lithium-ion battery. No user installation is typically required for initial setup.
- Setting S.A.M.E. County Codes: To receive localized NOAA weather alerts, refer to the detailed instructions in the included manual for setting up your specific S.A.M.E. county codes. This ensures you receive relevant warnings, watches, and advisories for your area.
Operating Instructions
Power On/Off
- Press and hold the Power button to turn the unit on or off.
- An on/off switch is also available to prevent accidental battery drain during storage.
Radio Tuning (AM/FM/NOAA)
- Use the Mode button to switch between AM, FM, and NOAA weather bands.
- Utilize the Tuning knob or up/down buttons to scan for stations. The digital display will show the frequency.
- For NOAA weather alerts, ensure S.A.M.E. codes are set for your region. The radio will automatically broadcast alerts with visual indicators (red, orange, or green lights).
Bluetooth Connectivity
- Press the Bluetooth button to enter pairing mode.
- On your device (smartphone, tablet), search for 'Eton Sidekick' and select to pair.
- Once paired, you can stream audio wirelessly through the Sidekick's speaker.
Lighting Functions
- LED Flashlight: Press the Light button to activate the bright LED flashlight.
- Ambient Light: Press the Light button again to switch to the large ambient light panel. This features a dimmer for adjustable brightness.
- Red Emergency Beacon: A dedicated red emergency beacon can be activated for signaling in distress situations.
Figure 4: The Eton Sidekick showcasing its red emergency beacon and ambient light features.
Charging External Devices
- Connect your smartphone or tablet to the Sidekick's USB output port using your device's charging cable.
- The Sidekick's internal battery will provide power to charge your device.
Figure 5: The Eton Sidekick connected via USB to charge a smartphone.
Power Generation
- Solar Power: Place the Sidekick with its solar panel facing direct sunlight for continuous charging. Full charge from solar takes approximately 5-6 hours.
- Hand Crank: Extend the hand crank and rotate it clockwise at a steady pace to generate power. Approximately 4 minutes of cranking can provide 10-15 minutes of radio use or 1 minute of talk time for a connected phone.
Figure 6: The Eton Sidekick with its hand crank in use for manual power generation.
Additional Features
- SOS Feature: Activate the SOS function for an audible alarm and flashing lights in emergency situations.
- Alarm Clock: Set the alarm clock function as needed.
- Headphone Jack & Aux-in: Connect headphones for private listening or an external audio source via the Aux-in port.
Maintenance
- Regular Charging: To maintain battery health, fully charge the Sidekick at least once a year, even if not in regular use.
- Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Water Resistance: The Sidekick is IPX4 splashproof, meaning it is protected against splashing water from any direction. Do not submerge the unit in water. Ensure all port covers are securely closed when exposed to moisture.
- Storage: Store the radio in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight when not in use for extended periods.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor Radio Reception | Antenna not fully extended or weak signal area. | Fully extend the telescopic antenna. Try repositioning the radio for better signal. |
| Device Not Charging | USB cable not properly connected, solar panel not in direct sunlight, or insufficient hand cranking. | Ensure USB cable is securely connected. Place solar panel in direct sunlight. Crank the hand turbine for a longer duration. |
| S.A.M.E. Alerts Not Functioning Correctly | Incorrect S.A.M.E. county codes or local weather station issues. | Verify your S.A.M.E. county codes are correctly entered. Consult local weather radio resources for correct frequencies and alert information. |
| Static During Charging/Operation | Interference from charging components. | This can be normal for some devices. If excessive, try operating the radio on battery power when listening, or move away from other electronic devices. |
Specifications
Figure 7: Visual representation of the Eton Sidekick's key specifications.
- Product Dimensions: 7.8"L x 2.9"W x 12.7"H (2.9 x 7.8 x 12.7 inches)
- Item Weight: 2 pounds
- Item Model Number: NFRX5SIDEKICK
- Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery required (included)
- Brand: Eton
- Color: Black and Grey
- Special Feature: Built-In Flashlight, Rechargeable
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
- Tuner Technology: AM, FM
- Power Source: Battery Powered, Solar Powered
- Radio Bands Supported: 7-Band (AM/FM/NOAA Weatherband)
- Included Components: Manual and Charging Cable
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your Eton Sidekick radio or visit the official Eton website. Eton is committed to quality and durability, ensuring their products meet high standards for both everyday use and emergency preparedness.
Official Product Videos
Eton Sidekick Overview
This video provides an official overview of the Eton Sidekick radio, demonstrating its various features and functionalities, including its multi-power options, radio capabilities, and lighting features.
