ITrip
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IPod_with_iTrip01.jpg
The iTrip is an FM transmitter made by Griffin Technology for Apple Computer's popular iPod.
The iTrip has a range of about fifteen feet, and can broadcast on any FM frequency between 87.9 and 107.9 mhz. However the relatively low power output of the iTrip makes it difficult to use in urban areas and nearly impossible in large cities because of the capture effect of FM radio. This is compounded by the fact that strong FM signals can bleed over into neighboring frequencies making the frequencies unusable with the iTrip.
The iTrip draws power from the remote control port on the iPod, and thus prevents the use of the wired remote or extra headphones. The iPod itself is used to control the broadcast frequency of the iTrip by playing normal sound files with a special set of tones in them. To avoid the accidental tuning of the iTrip each sound file has a short pause and another tone that causes the tune command to abort. In normal operation the user must pause the sound file playing during the period of silence. After a few seconds the iTrip will accept the command and will tune itself to the new frequency.
The original iTrip was for the iPods with the FireWire dock connector on top, and the new iTrip is designed for the dock connector iPod.
Its use is not legal world wide, for example it is illegal to use in the United Kingdom under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949. Also illegal in Norway, Germany and the Netherlands.
External links
- iTrip product info page by Griffin Technology (http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/itrip/)
- Register article about the iTrip being illegal (http://www.theregister.co.uk/2003/07/31/uk_bans_ipod_radio_addon/)