ITrip
Encyclopedia : I : IT : ITR : ITrip
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The iTrip is an FM transmitter made by Griffin Technology as a third party accessory for Apple Computer's popular iPod.
The iTrip plugs into the headphone socket of the iPod and converts the audio output into an FM radio signal, which can then be picked up by appliances such as car radios. It has a range of about fifteen feet, and can broadcast on any FM frequency from 76.0 to 108.0 MHz (though the default US configuration is limited to 87.9 to 107.9 MHz). Instead of using batteries, the iTrip draws its power from the iPod through the remote control port located just next to the headphone socket.
In March 2006, Griffin Technology released the iTrip as well as some of their other iPod accessories for the Sony Playstation Portable (PSP).
Models
iTrip
The main iTrip product, which is still sold just under the name iTrip, consists of just the main cylindrical unit, the headphone jack and remote connector. Instead of external buttons, the iTrip uses the iPod itself to control the broadcast frequency. Software bundled with the iTrip adds a playlist to iTunes containing audio files with a special set of tones in them. When this playlist is synced to the iPod, the user can play one of the tracks corresponding to the desired frequency, which causes the connected iTrip to adjust frequency. To avoid the accidental tuning of the iTrip, each sound file has a short pause followed by another tone that causes the tuning 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 then accepts the command and will tune itself to the new frequency.
Before the release of the iPod with dock connector (3rd Generation and up), the iTrip plugged into, and drew power from the headphone jack contacts on top of the iPod. This version of the iTrip is still sold as the Original iTrip.
iTrip Black
The iTrip Black is identical to the standard iTrip but black with white lettering, to match the design of the iPod U2 Special Edition.
iTrip mini
Shortly after the release of the iPod mini, Griffin introduced an iTrip mini designed to fit the iPod mini. The unit's body is designed to continue the iPod mini's profile, and the headphone jack and remote connector are located to the side to match the different location on the iPod mini. Aside from these physical shape differences, the functionality of the iTrip mini is the same as the standard iTrip.
iTrip with LCD
In August 2005, Griffin launched a new version of the iTrip which incorporates a backlit LCD and a knob on the right hand side to control the iTrip's settings. It also introduced two sets of broadcast frequencies, US and International, and two transmission modes, LX and DX. The LX mode provides stereo audio at the expense of signal quality, while DX mode broadcasts a stronger, mono signal. The iTrip with LCD is sold alongside the 'original' format iTrip.
iTrip with Dock Connector
In October 2005, shortly after the launch of the 5th Generation iPod, a version of the iTrip that uses the lower dock connector was announced, following the removal of the remote control connector from the 5th Generation. This use of the dock connector makes it compatible with 3rd, 4th and 5th Generation iPods, iPod minis and iPod nanos, though the design is targeted primarily at the main iPod line. The iTrip with Dock Connector incorporates an LCD screen as with the iTrip with LCD, and is controlled by a switch on the side. It comes in black or white, to match the colour options of the iPod.
iTrip Auto
In December 2005 Griffin introduced the iTrip Auto. A version geared exclusively to use in a car. It resembles the USB cord that comes with the iPod, but contains the FM transmitter inline with the cord as well as a car charger at the end of the cord. This is particularly useful for long trips and for charging your iPod when in the car without having to purchase multiple adapters and cords.
This version of the iTrip also optimizes the audio coming out of the iPod so no volume adjustments need to be made on the iPod itself, thus allowing you to control the volume exclusively through your car's radio.
iTrip for nano
Also in October 2005, a version of the iTrip designed exclusively for the iPod nano was announced. It connects to the iPod nano via the dock connector and headphone socket on the base in a 'sled' design - the iPod nano sits in front of the main body of the iTrip which is roughly the same shape and size as the iPod nano itself, and extends underneath it to connect to the base. The iTrip's settings are controlled onscreen with the iPod itself. A USB port is also included on the base to allow charging/syncing without removing the iTrip. This iTrip also introduces a 3-station memory, a Japanese frequency mode and dynamic volume control branded SmartSound. The iTrip can be used for any FM station that is free.
BlueTrip
In 2005, Griffin Technology released an iTrip which used Bluetooth technology, allowing it to be used from farther distances.
The downside to using Bluetooth technology however, is that it lacks easy integration with a car and requires a receiver to be plugged into a stereo system. Allows for benefits in a home environment but lacks portability.
iTrip for PSP
In March 2006 Griffin produced a version of the iTrip especially for the Playstation Portable. This device would slip onto the bottom of the PSP unit, plugging in to the headphone jack as well as the charger connector to keep it in place. In order to allow the user to charge the PSP while having the iTrip connected, there is an alternate charger connector at the bottom.
Limitations
- The relatively low power output of the iTrip makes it unsuitable for use in large urban areas because of the number of other radio signals. This is compounded by the fact that strong FM signals can bleed over into neighboring frequencies making the frequencies unusable with the iTrip. The Griffin website does provide U.S. users with a download http://www.griffintechnology.com/software/software_itrip.html called iTrip Station Finder which gives details of available frequencies of different U.S. cities.
- Because they draw power from the remote control port on the iPod, the original iTrip, iTrip with LCD and iTrip mini prevent the simultaneous use of the wired remote or extra headphones. The later versions that use the dock connector allow access to the headphone jack; the newer iPod models at which they are aimed do not have the connector for a wired remote anyway.
European Legality of FM Transmitters
The European Union's Radio Spectrum body the [ERO] (European Radiocommunications Office) has recently introduced a [recommendation document] (Table/Annex 13) for Member States to include Transmitters in the FM Band for Music Devices, such devices being an iTrip. The underlying specification suggests that the radio transmitter will only emit a maximum of 50 nanowatts Effective radiated power. It is not known what the current iTrip device emits. It also has to be ratified and entered into Law in each European State. Which means that consultation will normally take place with the users of the spectrum in each country, a protracted and sometimes lengthy process. Until the recommendation is put in place and the law in the country of residence changed an FM transmitter remains illegal to operate in the EU, in its current form.
UK Future Legality Developments
The United Kingdom Radio Communications Agency [OFCOM] has launched a consultation, with a view to legalise the iTrip within the UK. Using the 2003 Wireless Telegraphy Exemption Regulations Act, it will be able to adjust the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949, to provide such devices. The agency says that it hopes it could have a Europe-wide legislative framework in place by the end of the year.
This could mean that by 2007 the iTrip can be used without licence in the United Kingdom, however the device may require technical modification so that it conforms and can obtain its CE mark to be use in Europe/UK.
This [Register Hardware] Article describes the development. Until this change in the law is made it will continue to be illegal to use an iTrip in the UK.
External links
- [iTrip reseller who ships worldwide on eBay]
- [iTrip in a PSP - This site also has a wire diagram of the iTrip]
- [iTrip product info page by Griffin Technology]
- [Register article about the legality of the iTrip in the UK]
- [FUZZ Music Magazine: Gear Review/iTrip Auto]
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