SportCommand for iPod

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Belkin's SportCommand is a wireless, water resistant remote control allowing users to operate their iPod without using the scroll wheel. The SportCommand uses a radio frequency (RF) receiver and a touch sensitive design, making it ideal for use during outdoor sports, or other strenuous activity. Unfortunately it only controls volume, play/pause and the skipping of tracks.

Pros

  • Large buttons, water-resistant and flexible remote, Velcro strap, included clip for alternative attachment

Cons

  • "Wireless" limited by headphones, buttons require a firm press to activate, expensive

Bottom Line

The SportCommand is ideal for those wanting to use an iPod during sporting activities, but its high price and a few other issues prevent it from being a great product.

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  • Price

    $ 99.95 (AUD)

The SportCommand is essentially two units, a large remote control with a Velcro armband strap, and a small RF receiver that plugs into any iPod with a dock connection - meaning it will work with all models except for the iPod shuffle (2nd Generation). Setup is simple; use a coin to open the battery slot on the remote, insert the included lithium battery and plug the receiver into your iPod. A green light on the remote will blink when the first button press from the remote pairs with the receiver correctly, and will blink each time a button is pressed thereafter.

The remote has been designed for use in less than ideal conditions. It is made from a water-resistant grey material, with a white plastic piece housing the battery and indicator light. It has five buttons; track rewind, track forward, volume up, volume down and play/pause. Holding down the rewind and forward buttons searches through the track, while pressing them changes the track. There is no menu button, so you can't scroll through multiple playlists.

The package includes a Velcro band (with an extender), so the remote can be attached to your arm. Alternatively, there is also a large clip, so it can also be attached to a belt, backpack or other object. The remote will control your iPod within a range of about 15 metres to the receiver. Do keep in mind though that you'll still need to be attached to headphones so you can't use the iPod too far away from the remote unless you purchase a set of wireless headphones. One complaint about the receiver is the fact that it doesn't sit level with the iPod when attached and its cord is unnecessarily long.

Our major issue with the SportCommand is the fact that the buttons need to be pressed very firmly. This isn't ideal when you are involved in any sort of sporting activity, although their large size is excellent and makes them easy to use while on the move. The Velcro strap will fit any sized arm, and is easily adjustable thanks to an included extender piece for those who like the strap a little longer.

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