14 DAY TRIAL // While some consumer electronics' manufacturer prefer to wait just until CES in order to reveal their latest creations, that's not really the case with Etón Corporation, who's announced its Raptor rugged, solar-powered mobile phone charger way before the official start of the show.
The Raptor, which will be officially showcased during CES 2011, is described as a self-powered device that uses solar energy to charge a cell phone via USB and provides guidance functions for outdoor activities.
Featuring an 1800mAh rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery, the Raptor uses a high-efficiency monocrystal solar panel to power the utilities of the device.
Additionally, the Raptor houses an altimeter, barometer and compass, while also featuring an AM/FM/WB digital radio tuner with presets and NOAA weather alerts, as well as a digital clock with an alarm function.
Plus, the unit can be charged via a solar panel or DC power, and the stored solar energy can be transferred to charge a cell phone via USB.
Raptor weighs just over 11 ounces and packs the additional features of an LED flashlight, audio line and DC input, battery charge indicator and even a bottle opener.
The device is housed in rugged, rubberized and splashproof (IPX-4) casing, providing a layer of protection against water and dust.
Sold separately, a holster is available to hold the unit and a mobile device, providing hands free flexibility and added protection.
"The Etón brand continues to advance new ways to harness the power of the sun, and the Raptor is another example of this innovation," said Esmail Amid-Hozour, CEO of Etón Corporation.
"We've incorporated a multitude of novel features into the Raptor and it will no doubt become a must-have device for anyone exploring the outdoors," concluded the company's CEO.
The Raptor will be available in 2011, but exact details pertaining to pricing and release date have not been yet provided.