See more objects with the tag lighting, electricity, communication, utility, multipurpose, portable, handle, electronics, survival, dials, sound, red plastic, logos.

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Object Timeline

2008

  • Work on this object began.

2009

2010

2011

  • We acquired this object.

2012

2017

2025

  • You found it!

FR 600 Radio

This is a radio. It was designed by Whipsaw, Inc.. It is dated 2008 and we acquired it in 2011. Its medium is molded pc/abs plastic, elastomer, metal. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

The Etón FR 600 radio is designed for use in emergency situations, when there is no access to power and external communication is vital to survival. In anticipation of a communication systems breakdown, the radio is designed with preventive measures in mind. It operates without batteries and its multiple functions include: walkie-talkie, cell phone charger, flashlight, siren, SOS light beacon, and multiband radio. The radio has been marketed as a consumer product for outdoor adventure, home safety, and as a tool for rescue workers.
As a designed communication tool, this radio conveys the value of our interconnected world and our access to it in terms of survival.

This object was donated by Whipsaw, Inc.. It is credited Gift of Whipsaw.

Our curators have highlighted 3 objects that are related to this one.

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This object has not been digitized yet.
  • Simple Music Player
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  • Gift of The Alzheimer's Store.
  • s-e-2628

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 20.3 x 19.1 x 5.7 cm (8 x 7 1/2 x 2 1/4 in.)

Cite this object as

FR 600 Radio; Designed by Whipsaw, Inc. (United States); China; molded pc/abs plastic, elastomer, metal; H x W x D: 20.3 x 19.1 x 5.7 cm (8 x 7 1/2 x 2 1/4 in.); Gift of Whipsaw; 2011-11-1

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibitions The World of Radio and National Design Triennial: Why Design Now?.

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18731145/ |title=FR 600 Radio |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=10 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>