Wilson Electronics’ 21st Century Tech Survival Kit

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Wilson Electronics' 21st Century Tech Survival Kit

Wilson Electronics recently featured their electronic/technology products in a specially packaged “21st Century Survival Kit”. Gear Diary has tried Wilson Electronic products before, especially in emergency situations, and I recently tried out the six items in this well-chosen package – a great guide as you shape your own emergency tech kit.

This 21st Century Survival Kit considers communication and sustenance ranging from minor snafus to major disasters to help yourself and others while communicating vital information to first responders.

“We began thinking about what has changed in technology and society, and how that would affect what we would want to have in an emergency ‘go-pack’,” said  Jonathan Bacon, director of marketing at Wilson Electronics.”We came up with six items that were either invented or radically improved in the last 10 years.”

This specially selected kit weighs less than five pounds total and can easily fit in a backpack for space convenience and mobility. The following list follows the above graphic from left to right (front row) ending with the solar panel (shown in back):

Microbial filter straw

This special filter straw uses miraguard™ antimicrobial technology to filter up to 30 gallons of water while removing bacteria, organic and waterborne chemicals, and other harmful elements. This Aquamira Frontier emergency filter also improves taste and only weighs one ounce. Users must air dry this straw for 48 hours before storing after use. It costs under $15 and meets NSF standards 42 & 53.

Batteries

These two portable lithium-ion batteries from Anker (Astro3E 10000 mAh) pack enough power to charge devices and cost about $40. Each battery can fully charge at least three smartphones or to power a tablet, netbook, or cell booster for several hours. A helpful LED indicator reflects remaining capacity (1 to 4/25% to 100%) while the voltage selector (9 or 12 V) helps users direct power for devices associated with the output port. Users also get in input port to charge devices.

These batteries have two USB ports labeled S (Samsung galaxy tab) and I (apple products) and can be used at the same time. Cables and various connectors (for mobile devices and laptops) are included. Wilson Electronics recommends having two of these batteries, so one can be charging while the other is in use.

LED headlamp

This headlamp can cast light more than 100 feet and uses three AAA rechargeable batteries. The adjustable headband is comfortable and durable. A lever in back decreases or increases the brightness. User can also switch the power and adjust focus directly on the headlamp. This headlamp costs around $30 and remember – do not shine it directly in the eyes. Use of the headlamp for magnification is not recommended.

Cell phone signal booster

The Wilson Electronics Sleek 4G cellular phone signal booster helps to transmit and receive calls and data via cell towers unaffected by a disaster. This booster works with all models and makes of 4G smartphones and cellphones (requires phone placed in cradle) as well as phones using earlier 3G or 2G communications technology. The booster works very well with a Bluetooth headset or hands free device.

This portable unit has build-in antenna, AC/DC power supply, and was easy to install in several locations. You can even use it for home use when you are not on the go.

The noticeably improved cell coverage is well worth the suggested retail price of $199.95, especially if you live in mostly rural area like I do. It’s best to choose a location where the existing signal (if applicable) is strongest then place it at least one foot away from obstructions or other antennae devices in the home (radios, TVs, etc.). Users must connect both outside and inside antenna cables to the signal booster before powering the signal booster.

Two-way FRS/GMRS radios

Another great option when you cannot find a cell phone signal.  The portable radios do not use a network and have a range up to 30 miles. The batteries are rechargeable and their pocket-size durability help when users have to quick move to other locations while staying in touch with each other. Suggested price is about $60 a pair.

Solar panel

This portable solar panel is made from monocrystalline-type solar cells and weighs only about a pound. It is capable of producing at least 10 Watts of power and one amp of current. The panel picks up power well even in partly cloudy condition and costs around $70.

Wilson Electronics, a leading American manufacturer of cellular communications gear, produces a wide array of equipment that is widely used by first responders during emergency/disaster responses. Technology can be put to good use as you prepare and create a plan of action for a solid defense in the face of sudden calamity. Wilson Electronics is located in St. George, Utah.

Ready to get better prepared now? What will your electronic tech survival kit include?

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