RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

I'm impressed with this radio I especially like the fact that it's water resistant but the battery life is less than I expected. But other than that it really impressed me. I use it everyday to get weather forecasts.

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

An outstanding weather radio. I would rate it with 4 1/2 stars.

Note this is only a weather radio without AM/FM/Shortwave broadcasts.

I will buy one for other family members. I did not give this a five star rating for only one reason -- relatively short battery life "when set to receive alerts."

This radio can be manually set to provide the user with alerts (audible warning tone, followed by broadcast reports). Based you your requirements/location, you may customize the radio to provide over 50 different types of warnings, e.g., Tornado Watch, High Wind Warning, Wild Fire Watch, Severe Weather Statement, Hurricane Watch, Avalanche Warning, etc. You can turn off the National Weather Service broadcast like any other radio, but leave the power on so alerts can be received/sounded. It is here where the battery power is limited. You can use alkaline or rechargeable NIMH AA's. I have used 2700 mAH (large capacity) NIMH's, but these fully charged batteries will only last 48 hours with the power on. This radio has the option of using an AC power cord to keep the batteries charged, but I cannot find the power cord offered here on the Radio Shack sight!!??

Otherwise, the radio is invaluable during power outages. It served me particularly well during Hurricane Sandy informing me of the latest changes with the weather. When my laptop, iPhone, etc. lose their power, this weather radio is invaluable. (Just need to supplement it with an AM/FM transistor radio and have an extra supply of AA batteries.)

The radio can be programmed with FIPS codes (Federal Information Processing Standards), i.e., codes that identify your state and county location. Thereafter, the radio provides weather reports applicable only to your specific geographic location via the SAME system (Specific Area Message Encoding).

I like the bright red color; facilitates locating it quickly when it's not on. It has a smooth feel to it similar to rubberized cell phone cases. Solid construction; well made!

I read one of the other reviews that stated the volume is very loud. It can be turned down to reasonable volume, but you cannot turn it down to a very low volume if you may be trying not to bother someone else, e.g. when sleeping.

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

I have had mine for two years and can say it prepped me for atleast three big storms. We vacation in Northern Idaho where weather and reception can be problematic. I had excellent reception and I can credit this radio for lead time to button down our travel trailer(awning)many times not to mention severe thunderstorms in my area. Totally suggest this radio for RV'ers!

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

i love this weather radio

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

My first SAME alert radio. Functions well but is it really necessary to have such a loud beep with each keypress? Drives my wife crazy, easily heard in nearby campsites. Also lowest volume setting is still too loud. The model I purchased in the store looks similar but has different button setup, with one 4-way in middle flanked by two more for menu and WX radio; what's up with that?

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

I was looking to replace my ancient Radio Shack pocket weather radio that finally broke after years of dependable service and this one fit the bill. I really like the ability to shut the radio completely off when there's nothing going on to save battery power.

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

I got this radio yesterday & so far it has worked great! Menu setup however is confusing. Reading the manual does help. For functionality, this radio is excellent at it.

Comments about RadioShack® 7-Channel Handheld Weather Radio with SAME:

This is a GREAT rework of this "flavor" of weather radio from Radio Shack. They really listened to their customer base and delivered a nearly flawless product IMHO. All the changes that I wanted to see have been made. If you are looking for a small, portable WR that you can carry anywhere, this is the one.