Text
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Stereo Review - October 1994
SHOWSTOPPERS
What was hot at this summer's Consumer Electronics Show
Norris Communications' Flashback personal voice recorder ($250) stores audio on a removable, reusable solid-state SoundClip. The two-button device offers standard play and record functions plus insert editing and variable playback speed. Rated bandwidth is 300 Hz to 4 kHz. The Flashback comes with two AAA batteries and a 30-minute SoundClip ($70 separately). A 60-minute clip is due in November. The company is working on a solid-state CD-quality audio recorder.
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B.A. Pargh company inc. - 1995 Winter Catalog
HERE'S SOME OF WHAT'S NEW
Norris digital recorder
3 oz. Ultra Small Flashback Fully Digital Recorder
UPC Order# Mfg.# Dealer Retail
Use Mfg.# FB1NTH ............$190.57 $249.95
Hold that thought.
Introducing Flashback, the new digital recorder that does something few personal recorders have ever done before...it gets used.
Flashback's exclusive two-button "Fumble Free" controls let you record and play single-handedly with the touch of an ergonomically-designed button. These buttons are easy to find by touch, even in the dark, or while driving. And there are two LEDs indicating operational mode and status.
Flashback's "Instant Access" digital design lets you find your important thoughts instantly, so there's no more painfully slow searching. You find them in a flash with Flashback.
Flashback's "Random Insert" feature lets you add your thoughts anywhere, just like inserting text on your word processor, without recording over your previous thoughts.
With Flashback's "Vari-Play" feature, you can listen to your thoughts at very fast or very slow speeds without changing the pitch of your voice.
Flashback's exclusive removable SoundClip has the tape recording industry eating their words. With SoundClip, there's no tape to fumble with--or for your recorder to "eat." It never has to be rewound and can be reused indefinitely. The SoundClip is also remarkably durable. It's impervious to magnets, freezing cold, and blistering heat. A 30-minute SoundClip is included with each Flashback. 60-minute SoundClips are available separately.
Here are a couple hundred more reasons why Flashback beats old-fashioned magnetic recorders hands down. Thanks to digital voice recording technology, Flashback has no moving parts (versus a couple hundred with conventional tape recorders), so there are no belts, cogs, gears, or hundreds of other mechanical parts to fail.
Flashback's lightweight design has it going places (your shirt pocket or purse, for instance). At just 3 ounces, Flashback is one of the lightest recorders you can buy. And with its sleek, ergonomic design, you can easily slip Flashback in a pocket or purse, so it's always there when you need it.
Now you can single-handedly capture brainstorms wherever and whenever they occur with Flashback, the featherlight digital voice recorder from Norris Communications.
Because Flashback records digitally, it's not just compact, it's virtually foolproof. There are no moving parts, so there's nothing to go wrong, and with just two buttons, you can operate it blindfolded, with one hand.
There's no tape to fumble with, either. Flashback's exclusive removable SoundClip never has to be rewound or flipped over, and can be reused indefinitely.
With Flashback's instantaneous digital access, the search is over. No more painfully slow searching to locate your important thoughts. With Flashback, you're there in a flash. Flashback's patented design also offers superior fidelity.
Designed for the future, Flashback and its SoundClips are PCMCIA compatible. Soon, Flashback's options will allow you to transfer your thoughts to your computer or PDA.
Suggested Retail Price: $249.00
Call today for the retail location nearest you: 1-619-679-1504.
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THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE - June 23, 1996
Business
Serendipity chip - by Bruce V. Bigelow
Poway -- You might say Woody Norris is waiting for his chip to come in.
Nine years ago, the Poway inventor founded Patriot Scientific to develop his idea for a ground-penetrating radar that could be used to identify subterranean features from an aircraft.
Theoretically, such a radar could be used to search for everything from deep-underground oil fields and mineral deposits to buried structures, utilities and even land mines just beneath the surface.
Now a proprietary microprocessor that Patriot acquired for its radar two years ago could take the little start-up company in a whole new direction.
Norris, 57, says the high-speed micro-processor--named "ShBoom" after a 1954 jukebox tune--is perfect for running Java, an innovative programming language for the Internet designed by Sun Microsystems.
"The chip fits with Java like this," Norris says, holding aloft his hands with fingers dovetailed.
On Wall Street, investors have likewise embraced the idea.
On May 17, the price of stock in Patriot Scientific hit a record $4.03 per share on the Nasdaq electronic exchange--almost 26 times its year-ago price of 15 cents per share. Last week, the stock hovered at about $3 trading on an average volume of roughly 230,000 shares a day.
Yet, the ShBoom processor's compatibility with Java was completely unforeseen--and unintended.
'A bluebird'
"One of my partners would refer to this as 'a bluebird,'" says Willis E. Higgins, a Palo Alto patent attorney who represents Patriot. "It's something that just comes along. A stroke of luck."
The ShBoom processor was conceived more than a decade ago by Charles Moore, who invented the "Fourth" programming language for computers, and Russell H. Fish III, a computer consultant and chip designer.
After years of working on the project, Fish and Moore sold all rights to the ShBoom processor to the late Helmut Falk, a Romanian-born engineer who co-founded DH Technology, a high-technology printer manufacturer now based in San Diego.
By several accounts, Falk poured millions of dollars into improving the ShBoom design through NanoTronics, his wholly owned company based in Eagle Point, Ore.
Falk was not known among executives at San Diego electronic firms. But business partners described him as a savvy businessman and world traveler who owned estates in San Diego, Oregon, Costa Rica, Switzerland, Florida and Puerto Rico. He spoke German, French, Italian, Spanish and English.
In 1994, NanoTronics merged with Patriot in a deal intended to combine Norris' radar technology with Falk's high-speed processor.
"We liked the idea of pairing the chip with the radar," Norris recalls.
As part of the deal, Falk received 10 million shares of Patriot's stock and took over as Patriot's chairman and chief executive. Norris, who also founded Norris Communications and American Technology, says he was happy to withdraw from Patriot's day-to-day operations.
Then, Falk died unexpectedly of cancer last July 6.
"I talked to him a few weeks before he died, and he said he really wanted to develop this chip," says Don Hebert, who co-founded DH Technology with Falk. "He thought it was going to be a hot-shot thing that nobody else had."
Norris, who returned to run Patriot shortly before Falk's death, wasn't so sure.
Obsolescence feared
By this time, the National Semiconductor of Santa Clara had manufactured two generations of ShBoom prototypes for Patriot. But more testing would be required, and Norris wondered if the chip was already obsolete.
"When Helmut died the stock was at 18 cents a share," recalls Norris, who adds that it was months before anyone realized that the chip might be the right hardware to run Sun's Java programming language.
"I had some concerns about this microprocessor making it because it's been in development since 1989," Willis says. "I was wondering if the window of opportunity had already bypassed us."
The phenomenal rise of Patriot's stock occurred mostly in February, apparently spurred by a London-based trade journal that published several articles about Patriot's ShBoom processor. The stories noted that ShBoom seemed particularly well-suited for Sun's new programming language.
"I think what happened with this company is that the Internet found us," Norris says. (The development-stage company has its own site on the Internet, www.ptsc.com, and has promoted its own coverage in trade journals through news releases.)
Norris says production of the ShBoom processor has begun at National Semiconductor, and the chip is available in limited quantities. Yet, Patriot's fortunes are far from certain.
The technology underlying the ShBoom processor relies on a long-established integrated circuit design known as stack-based architecture, which was shelved by most chip makers decades ago.
Although Patriot's 32-bit chip can run different programs, it was tailored to run most efficiently with the Fourth programming language, a computer code similar to Java.
Unlike standard circuits
The chip's design is unlike standard integrated circuits, like Intel's 80X86 series of micoprocessors, that are intended for the broadest range of uses by a variety of computer system designers.
Several experts in microprocessor design questioned whether a specialized chip designed for a particular code can gain market acceptance.
"Processors and software don't win just because of superior technology," says Joe Pasquale, an associate professor of computer science and engineering at UCSD.
While the fundamental idea of the ShBoom processor is sound, Pasquale says: "It's just that you're going against the flow of technology trends...Do you really want a machine that will run Java well, but won't run other programs as efficiently? There's no reason why you just couldn't put a more general-purpose processor there."
On the other hand, Sun Microsystems announced plans earlier this year to launch three specialized microprocessors designed specifically to run the Java programming language.
Of course, Sun's plans could pose a different set of problems for Patriot if the Poway-based company seeks to enforce its patents against the computer goliath, which reported sales of roughly $6 billion last year.
So far, Patriot has obtained two patents for the ShBoom processor and Higgins says other applications are pending. Nevertheless, Patriot has never generated operating revenues and currently has only 13 employees.
One trade-industry review of ShBoom said "industry support for Patriot is non-existent" and the company will have to depend on "adventurous, resourceful customers" to develop products that incorporate its unusual chip.
In the meantime, Norris says he is eager to license Patriot's technology to others, and the company has been negotiating with a number of companies. He says the company also hopes to forge alliances with its customers and to use the ShBoom chip in its ground-penetrating radar and other products developed by Patriot.
"Anyone who wants to use Java in their product is going to at least look at our chip," Norris says.
Patriot appears likely to earn its first profit in fiscal 1997, says John C. Raaf, an analyst for the Oregon-based Red Chip Review.
Since its initial public offering in 1989, the company has financed its operations through additional stock offerings and now has about 26 million shares outstanding.
The company is free of debt. Yet with so much stock outstanding, Raaf says, "If they finally become profitable, it could take some time before investors finally see it reflected in the share price."
Meanwhile, Patriot insiders have seen astronomical gains in their share price. Documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission show that Norris owns 5 million shares of Patriot's common stock, issued at par value of one-thousandth of a penny per share.
As Norris puts it: "We've got no complaints at this end."
CAPTION:
"It's something that just comes along. A stroke of luck." Patent Attorney Willis E. Higgins
Digital monocle: Elwood G. "Woody" Norris models the ShBoom microprocessor now entering production at Patriot Scientific Corp. of Poway. The inventor says: "I am sort of a character--and I didn't know it."
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San Francisco Chronicle - August 24, 1994
HOME ENTERTAINMENT - Harry Somerfield
Miniature Radio
You can wear it in your ear
Every once in a while, I come across a product that is so clever or interesting I can't wait to tell about it. FM Sounds: The World's Smallest FM Radio is just such a device.
I first saw one at a product announcement party. I noticed a group of five or six colleagues examining something. In the center of the group was a guy holding out his right hand. Nearly lost in the center of his average0size palm was a tiny black rectangle.
"What's that?" I asked. "An FM radio: was the response.
The ATC (for American Technology Corp.) Ultralite 2000 is truly the world's smallest FM radio. It measures just 1/2 by 1 1/2 by 1/4 inches, and weighs less than 1/4 ounce. That's about 7 grams--horses take pills bigger than this.
The guy handed it to me with a cryptic "Stick it in your ear"--so I did.
Stays in Place
At one end of the rectangle is a foam-covered ear bud, which comfortably fit in my ear. The unit is so light it can be kept in place by just the foam. To hold the radio more securely--for walking or jogging--a plastic hanger attachment can be snapped on the ear bud and hooked over the top of your ear.
Unless you're in the Marine Corps, your hair should be long enough to completely hide this mighty mite--even the four-inch stiff-wire antenna that sticks out the top. The Ultralite 2000 has a diminutive three-position slide switch for off, low volume and high volume, as well as two miniscule push buttons used to tune stations. One button scans up the FM band, moving one station every time it's pushed; the other button resets the tuning to the first station at the low end of the FM band. The switch and buttons are just large enough for my hands to operate.
The radio comes in a black, hard-plastic case--about the size of one that would hold a fountain pen. In addition to the radio, the case holds an instruction sheet, two miniature 1.55-volt, silver-oxide batteries (similar to the ones that power wristwatches), the ear hoop, and a longer, soft-wire antenna.
Sounds Great
ATC calls the wee radio FM Sounds, but maybe they should call it FM Sounds Great--because it does. They sent me a sample to play with, and it performs quite well--better than some full-size portable radios. It picks up the closest or most powerful stations and delivers excellent reception with the short antenna. The longer soft-wire antenna brings in a few weaker or more distant stations.
Once the digital tuner locks onto a station, it is not prone to static or drift. The low-volume level is adequate for quiet rooms, but the high-volume setting could stand to be a bit louder for noisy environments. It might not be loud enough for someone with hearing difficulties. I found this lightweight radio so comfortable that I often forgot that I was wearing it.
Two 1.55-volt batteries will power the Ultralite 2000 for three to five hours at the low-volume setting, two hours at high-volume. ATC sells blister packs of the batteries (model 392) fpr $1.25 (five batteries to the pack).
The FM Sounds Ultralite 2000, which is made in the United States, sells for $29.95 and is available in five colors--blue, green, red, black and yellow. It can be found on the QVC Network shopping channel, in catalogs such as SkyMall, TigerSoftware and Attitudes, and at stores such as the Sharper Image(which also has a catalog), Best's Beyond and Incredible Universe. An AM-band version is in the works.
Harry Somerfield is a San Francisco syndicated columnist and home entertainment equipment consultant.
CAPTION:
WORLD'S SMALLEST: The Ultralight 2000 is just 1 1/2 inches long
RESOURCE
For more information, contact American Technology Corporation, 12800 Brookprinter Place, Poway, CA 92064; (619) 679-2114
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THE MOTIVATION SHOW DAILY
Big Sound, Small Package
American Technology Corporation (ATC) is a San Diego-based electronics company specializing in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of ultra-mini consumer electronic products, and at The Motivation Show, they are showing the World's Smallest FM Radio. That's right, a radio that fits perfectly in your ear!
The ultra-miniature digital touch-tuned radio continues to sell successfully on the QVC Network. Catalogs carrying FM Sounds include Attitudes, SkyMall, and TigerSoftware.
These little radios are perfect for the active person. If you job, instead of carrying a walkman and having to worry about headphones, you could just have a radio that has everything you need, but without the hassle. It has digital touch tuning, scans the entire FM band, weighs less that 1/4 oz., and has a removable ear clip. It's also good for biking, hiking, or sun bathing. The perfect incentive gift for that active employee or a strong motivational prize for a job well done.
Contact: To see and test this creative invention, go to booth #5520.
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ATC PRESENTS...
The World's Smallest AM/FM Radios
Self-contained, patented "in-the-ear" radios.
Weighs only 1/4 oz.
Rich, full, high quality sound
No tangled headphone wires
No heavy system to pack
90 day warranty
AM Sounds
The World's Smallest AM Radio
Utilizes sensitive TRF receiving circuitry, and AGC control.
Dial Tuning lets you tune in the exact station you want.
Automatic Volume Control is set by tuning/detuning the radio.
Tuning Range - the entire EM band, 550-1600khz.
FM Sounds
The World's Smallest FM Radio
Utilizes a flexible circuit board, 40 different transistors, surface mount
technology and superheterdyne circuitry.
Digital Scan Tuning - the same feature found on expensive home and car stereo
systems.
Tuning Range - the entire FM band, 88mhz-108mhz.
Two (2) Volume Settings to choose from...high and low.
Radios come complete with ear cushion, detachable ear clip for more active use,
batteries, a protective carrying case and a 90-day warranty.
Listen Anywhere, Anytime...
Lets the user enjoy his/her favorite music, talk show or sports event while
leaving one ear free to talk on the phone, have a conversation, hear traffic,
etc.
Small and discrete enough to use at the office, shopping and even on the phone...try
that with any other headphone radio!
Listen at home, office, travel, etc...
Customer Comments...
"A miracle of minaturization."
"You gotta hear it to believe it!"
"...the reception was actually better than the personal stereos that we've tried."
"It's no toy!"
"It sounds great...even next to my computer terminal."
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U.S. CAVALRY
WORLD'S FINEST MILITARY AND ADVENTURE EQUIPMENT - 1996 Spring Catalog
Ultralite 2000 Radio
(C) Carrying a tune is easier than ever with the Ultralite 2000. This super-small radio covers the whole FM band (88-108 MHz), and it fits over your ear for private listening when hiking, cycling or when you want to unwind. Easy to take anywhere! Features digital touch tuning, superheterodyne circuitry, "scan" and "reset" buttons, low/high volume. Includes two 392 button cell batteries, detachable ear clip, long-range flexible antenna, local antenna and carry case.
WeightL 2 ozs. Made in U.S.A. Black.
H 4008.....................................$24.95
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TigerSoftware
The Most Knowledgeable Telephone Staff In The Business.
PRESS-TIME SPECIAL OFFER! A TIGER EXCLUSIVE!
The World's Smallest, Lightest FM Radio. It Booms!
So Tiny; So Light, You May Forget You're Wearing It!
Great sound in the world's smallest package! I've found a manufacturer that has taken miniaturization to a new low--low on weight, low on size--and Tiger makes them low on price!
It's a high-quality FM radio receiver built into a tiny earpiece--complete with ultra-thin local antenna (also includes long-range antenna). This little thing delivers big, booming FM sound through the advanced, miniscule speaker that fits snug in your ear. The amazing Mini FM radio is great for use outdoors, walking, hiking, biking, gardening, car-washing or just lounging--it sure beats lugging around a Walkman or pair of radio-headphones. So small, no one will notice you're wearing it! It's not a toy--it's built to take the pounding of everyday use--and sound absolutely incredible! I was skeptical before I actually tried it; you won't believe how such rich, crisp sound comes from such a small device! The volume and tuning controls are tiny touch-pads on the unit and the kit comes complete with main battery, spare batteries, earclasp and handy carrying case--a $99 value--yours for just $29.95!
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Popular Electronics - August 1996
88-108 MHz FM RECEIVER
XMR2000
$29.95
World's smallest FM radio.
As small as a hearing aid.
Weighs less than 1/4 oz.
Digital touch tuning.
Ideal for use with our 88-108MHz FM Transmitters
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SELECT - August 1995
GREED!
Fat of wallet and low of attention span? Then you're laughing. This month's consumer perishables include Lieutenant Uhuru's radio. Ecstasy in a bottle and a watergun that shoots round corners...
THE SMALLEST RADIO IN THE WORLD
Fits in your ear and comes in a range of tasteful colours for authentic Lt. Uhuru chic.
Price: £29.95
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Incentive - May 1995
New Technologies
Small Sound
With this premium, you can tell employees or customers to stick it in their ear--and they'll be pleased about it. The tiny FM Sounds radio is just 1/2 by 1 1/2 by 1/4 inches and weighs less than one-quarter ounce--not much bigger than the earphone attached to it. American Technology Corp., distributor of the product, introduced the radio to the premium market at last year's Motivation Show, and David Hahn, sales and marketing manage of the Poway, Calif.-based company, says he's received orders for the radio as an employee and client giveaway. Believe it or not, there's a surface area on the radio itself for corporate logo and message, and a wider space on the radio's carrying case, which houses radio/earphone, as well as removable ear clip and antenna.
The radio comes in a variety of colors and retails for $29.95, with bulk discounts available. The company also has an AM and FM wireless transmitter version of the product. For more information, contact American Technology Corp., 12800 Brookprinter Pl., Poway, CA 92064; (619) 679-2115; fax (619) 679-0545.
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Personal Touch West
Red Hot Promotional Products from Webb
The Ultralite 2000™ (B) is the world's smallest FM radio!
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PLATINUM - April 1995
THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR MEN
WE'RE TALKIN' TINY!
Dubbed "The World's Smallest FM Radio," this innovative earphone-radio by American Technology is the ultimate in mobile audio miniaturization. Weighing only 1/4-ounce, it nonetheless features state-of-the-art diode tuning circuitry, allowing the user to scan the FM radio band with a touch of a button. And since it's worn in one ear, it provides an element of safety for hikers, joggers and bikers, who need to stay in touch with the surrounding environment. And hey--it comes in six different colors!
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THE WALL STREET JOURNAL - March 28, 1994
MARKETPLACE
Norris Plans to Launch Digital Recorder Using Flash Memory Chips From Intel
by Don Clark
Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
POWAY, Calif. - Microchips are taking the tape, and the moving parts, out of recording.
Norris Communications Corp., a small company based in this San Diego suburb, in July plans to begin selling a three-ounce, $200 device that stores 30 minutes of computerized sound on a removable cartridge about the size of two postage stamps.
The recorder, called Flashback, is the first to use flash memory chips to store speech in digital form. Flash Chips retain data even when electrical current is turned off.
The device, small enough to fit in a shirt pocket, is designed to replace bulkier cassette recorders for people who want to record their thoughts or dictate documents and messages. Though the sound quality isn't suited for music, the digital format offers nearly instant rewind and fast forward, playback at high or low speed with no change in pitch, and the ability to insert new material within existing messages without erasing.
Sound cartridges will fit into slots in portable and desktop computers, allowing users to store messages or transfer them to other PCs or voice-mail systems, the company says. Extra cartridges will start at $50 each, though Norris expects the price to decline rapidly.
Using chips to store sound is not a new idea. But most such devices now only store a few minutes worth of sound. Norris's Flashback may be the first of many products to go for greater capacity with flash memory and data compression techniques for squeezing more sound on each chip.
"There are a lot of people looking into it," said Bruce McCormick, director of marketing for the memory components division of Intel Corp., which supplied flash chips to Norris.
"I don't believe the rest of the world is going to sit around and watch us," said Elwood Norris, the company's chief executive and founder. "This is just too good an idea."
Magnetic media, such as tape and disk drives, aren't likely to be topped soon for high capacity at low cost. But flash chips offer lower power consumption and greater durability than the motors used in conventional recorders. And flash prices are falling rapidly; the Intel eight-megabit chip selected by Norris now carries a list price of $29 in large quantities, and is expected to fall below $20 by year end.
Mr. Norris expects to get patent protection on his flash-based voice recorder, and is already talking to companies about licensing the technology. Other observers, meanwhile, believe voice messages stored in digital form will eventually be combined with recognition technology to translate speech into digital text on PCs.
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DEALERSCOPE - April 1994
HOME OFFICE RETAILING
NORRIS UNVEILS DIGITAL RECORDER
Norris Communications Corp. will introduce the first full-function completely digital personal recorder in July. Dubbed Flashback, the microprocessor-controlled device uses a new technology that allows up to 30 minutes of high quality, randomly accessed voice recording.
The three-ounce Flashback is PCMCIA-compatible, which enables the consumer to download recorded entries to a personal computer or personal digital assistant. The unit has no mechanical parts and uses true 16-bit technology to raise its sound quality beyond present digital recorders. Flashback will hit retail in July at a suggested retail price of $199.95, which includes a 30-minute sound clip, batteries and accessories.
Additional 30-minute sound clips are available for $69.95 SRP.
CAPTION: Flashback will hit the market in July.
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Panorama - 30 Aprile 1994
Registrare? In Flashback
Il più piccolo registratore del mondo si chiama <flashback>, è grande più o meno come una carta di credito e solo un pó più spesso (mezzo centimetro) nella zona dei comandi. Registra fino a 120 minuti di messaggi, musica, appunti, discorsí: non su nastro magnetico ma digitalmente, nella memoria di un minicomputer. Il che significa che può essere usato un numero infinito di volte senza che la qualità della registrazione si deteriori. E che può essere collegato direttamente a un computer per trasferire dati e infomazioni. Prodotto dalla Norris Communication, costerà 160 dollari (240 mila lire).
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TWICE - April 11, 1994
THIS WEEK IN CONSUMER ELECTRONICS
In recent months, Norris Communications, Voice It and Voice Power Technologies have introduced digital voice note takers, each playing to a distinctly different niche of the market.
Of the three, Norris's $199-suggested Flashback is most directly positioned against the tape recorder segment (see related story below). Voice It, at $79 suggested list, is viewed as more of an audible post-it note pad. And VPT's Voice Organizer ($199 suggested) is billed as an audible electronic organizer with memo-taking capability.
But microcassette makers don't perceive a threat, so far, pointing to high price points and brief maximum recording times as significant first-generation limitations. Eventually, however, most believe digital recording products will replace those based on magnetic tape.
"I think digital technology is going to bring about a revival of voice-recording products as a complement to personal computers, says Woody Norris, Norris Communications president. "Portable magnetic recorders have been standalone products, and the world has sort of passed them by."
Flashback Recorder Weighs Three Oz. - by James K. Willcox
Weighing in at less than 3 ounces and taking up approximately the same amount of space as three stacked credit cards, the Flashback digital personal recorder from Norris Communications is nonetheless capable of storing up to 30 minutes of speech in flash memory, making it suitable for a number of applications beyond storing personal memos.
Flashback uses a proprietary storage technology called SoundClips, which are removable solid-state, non-volatile flash memory chips that allow up to 30 minutes of recording to be randomly accessed. Unlike magnetic tape, SoundClips can be reused repeatedly without sound degradation and are virtually impervious to extreme temperatures.
Because the removable SoundClips use a PCMCIA-compatible interface, Flashback can be used to communicate with other electronic devices, such as personal computers, electronic organizers or PDAs.
Woody Norris, president of Norris Communications, which developed the product, says he expects to have 60- and 120-minute SoundClips available within the next year.
Flashback carries a suggested retail price of $199.95, including a 30-minute SoundClip, batteries and accessories. Additional 30-minute SoundClips are priced at $69.95, although Norris expects street prices to hit $30 later this year.
Down the road, Norris says, will be a more advanced Flashback model that will feature infrared wireless capability and an LCD screen. He also expects to have an OEM client that will market the original Flashback under its brand name.
While Flashback is initially being positioned as a voice recorder, Norris admits the device--particularly the advanced model--will surely be capable of more ambitious undertakings, though he declines to be specific.
"The mircoprocessor can do much more than what we're using it for," he states. "We went for overkill on the processor."
CAPTION:
Microcassette recorders such as Sony's BM-540 (left) and the Olympus L400 (bottom, right), will be facing competition from Norris's Flashback (top), a 2-ounce digital voice recorder with up to 60 minutes of recording time using a flash chip.
The biggest breakthrough in 100 years of voice recording is smaller than this ad.
(Make sure you see the next issue!)
Flashback™
Call 1-800-905-2225.
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U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT - May 2, 1994
TECHNOLOGY SPECIAL
25 ADVANCES THAT ARE CHANGING THE WAY AMERICA WORKS
INCLUDING:
Online services, voice recognition, advanced fiber optics, video conferences, computer-aided design and wireless communication
THE NEW BUSINESS TOOLS
17. FLASH TECHNOLOGY
This summer, Norris Communications will release its 3-ounce Flashback digital voice recorder, which holds 30-minute SoundClips that act as a type of voice work processor, allowing users to insert a recording without erasing existing material. Unlike in a tape recorder, the clips can't be damaged, and pushing the fast-forward or reverse buttons allows a user to go quickly through a recording without turning voices into gibberish.
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TWICE - June 6, 1994
THIS WEEK IN CONSUMER ELECTRONICS
Norris Planning To Steamroller Tape Recorders
Norris Communications is planning one of the more smashing Summer CES events--literally.
The company, which will ship the industry's first flash-memory-based digital voice recorders in July, plans to hype the product and its fledgling marketing efforts by steam rolling 50 magnetic tape recorders delivered by CES attendees.
The company will present coupons good for a free Flashback digital voice recorder to the first 50 showgoers to drop off old handheld magnetic tape recorders a the Norris booth (D 7561) in Chicago's McCormick Place on June 23 (day one).
The coupons can be redeemed directly through Norris once the Flashback recorders are ready for delivery. Flashback is a new mini handheld digital voice recorder that uses PCMCIA-compatible SoundClips capable of storing up to 30 minutes of randomly accessed voice recordings. (See product profile on page 28.)
In a not-too-subtle demonstration of what it intends to do to its competition, Norris will crush the old tape recorders with a steam roller at an invitation-only reception.
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WIRED - August 1994
Tape No More
The Flashback is a solid-state sound recorder that is hardly bigger than four credit cards stacked on top of one another. It stores data on snap-in/snap-out solid-state memory cartridges called SoundClips. As with a more conventional tape recorder, you can save an entire interview or business meeting, but the Flashback also lets you add a note or message in the middle of a recording without overwriting the original data. SoundClips are PCMCIA-compatible, so you can transfer data to and from your computer. US $249.95, additional 30-minute SoundClips are $49.95, and Norris says it will have 60-, 90-, and 120-minute SoundClips soon. Norris Communications Corp.: +1 (619) 679-1504.
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HEMISPHERES - November 1996
THE POWER OF VOICE
Only the power of voice can carry the magic of ideas that ring out to be heard. Now give voice to your ideas as never before, with the Flashback Mobile Office. It records your brilliant thoughts and sends them as secure, high-speed voice messages attached to Internet e-mail. Or, you can embed them in any document.
At the heart of the Flashback Mobile Office is Flashback, a digital voice recorder that's smaller and lighter than most pagers. Take it wherever you go, to capture inspiration whenever it comes. But Flashback is no mere order taker, as you'll discover when you wordsmith your ideas with its easy-to-use insert and delete functions.
When your message is finally ready for the world to hear, simply remove the SoundClip flash memory and snap it into the Flashback VoiceLink computer input device. When you attach the voice file to an e-mail or other application, your message goes through loud and clear.
Your voice has the power to inspire, to lead, even to move entire nations. So call too free. 1-800-916-6267, or visit us at www.norriscomm.com for the Flashback Mobile Office reseller nearest you. And let yourself be heard.
CAPTIONS:
Mobile Office comes in Personal and Professional versions.
Flashback digitally records your voice on 18- or 36-minute SoundClip removable flash memory.
The compact VoiceLink is the only voice-to-voice portable input device for standard Type II PCMCIA adapters.
Insert the SoundClip with your recorded message into VoiceLink and you're ready to attach your voice message to Internet e-mail.
______________
_________________
_________________
The Washington Post
FAST FORWARD - April 1995
A MONTHLY GUIDE TO VIDEO, MUSIC & COMPUTERS
THE FLASHBACK SOLID STATE DIGITAL VOICE RECORDER, shown actual size. Now a high-tech curiosity for lawyers and reporters, it may be a crude precursor to next wave home audio equipment.
Cost: $250 for the hardware; $70 for a 30-minute sound clip.
How It Works: It uses a digital chip instead of a disc or tape to store and access sounds. It has no moving parts.
Pros: It's durable, slips easily into a pocket and weighs only a few ounces. It is simple to operate--press a button, a red light goes on, record your message. To play it back, press a pause button, then a play button. You can jump from one message to the next with no "rewinding." You can edit recordings by inserting words at any point without wiping out existing material. A chip can be erased in seconds.
Cons: Poor fidelity. The hardware and software are expensive, given the Flashback's poor sound quality. There's no visual display for recording information. The record function often stars when the button is accidentally bumped. Norris says a 1995 update will add many fixes, features and enhancements, including one that transfers data to a PC.
Current Availability: Several catalogues and at Sharper Image stores; this month it ships to some computer superstores.
Best For: Techno-fetishists and others who do a lot of dictating and oral note-taking--reporters, lawyers, etc.
_________________
________________
Patriot Scientific Corp. Likes ShBoom Chip So Much, ShBam, It Buys It
Poway's Patriot Scientific Corp. closely examined a piece of technology developed by Nanotronics Corp. of Eagle Point, Ore.
Patriot decided it wanted Nanotronics' sophisticated low-cost 32-bit RISC-based microprocessor, the ShBoom Chip, to add to its radar technology base.
In early summer the two companies were in discussion and by June 28 the deal was done.
Patriot acquired virtually all of Nanotronics' technology and assets in exchange for 5 million shares of Patriot common stock and 5 million more in an earnout escrow agreement.
Helmut Falk, founder, president and sole shareholder of Nanotronics gained control of 36 percent of Patriot. Falk became chairman and CEO, replacing Elwood Norris, who stayed on as a director.
Patriot is hopeful the ShBoom Chip will complement its exciting sensor and computer processing technology. "Management believes the ShBoom Chip has applications in a variety of existing and new embedded control systems but because of its advanced features it has applications beyond," the company reported in its latest 10KSB filing. "Although generally more expensive per unit and requiring more support logic and memory, these devices offer many advantages for more sophisticated embedded control systems."
The company may integrate the product into its core research on ground penetrating radar (GPR), a technology developed by Norris.
Patriot is testing GPR through a penetrating microwave radar evaluation system (PMR), a mix of laboratory equipment with internal software and hardware and specialized components such as antennae, power generators and amplifiers.
It uses electromagnetic radiation techniques capable of "seeing" up to 200 feet below the surface of earth or through solid objects such as buildings.
Patriot says the technology holds several advantages over existing systems. Because GPR isn't required to touch the object it is looking through, the system is mobile and can look sideways--through walls, for example. The images are produced on-site, allowing the user to change surveying strategies if needed.
GPR technology is designed to provide cross-sectional, color-enhanced images of sub-surface objects as small as 12 inches in diameter. Previous technology penetrated only a few meters and provided only crude graphical or chart depiction of surface characteristics. One of Patriot's goals is to provide 3-D subsurface images.
Patriot thinks its technology will have a variety of applications in industries such as oil and gas exploration, mining, archaeology, geology, water drilling, pollution control, defense and law enforcement.
In February the company readied PMR for commercial deployment and testing. Three months later the company said it discovered a new sensor-related development with broad applications in the technology industry. Then-president Mark Gaspar said Patriot is preparing patent filings before releasing technical details.
Earnings and Revenues
In 1995's first quarter ended Aug. 31, Patriot lost $459,986, or 2 cents per share, on revenue of $15,890, compared with losing $212,673 on $6,517 in the same quarter the year before.
For its entire 1994 year ended May 31, the company lost $973,290, or 8 cents per share, with interest revenue of $64,196. This compared with a loss of $386,924 on $8,726 in '93.
Directors and Officers
Helmut Falk replaced Elwood Norris as chairman and CEO in June and took over for Mark Gaspar as president in August. Falk founded DH Technology Inc. and is president and founder of Nanotronics. Norris remains a director. Robert Putnam, CEO of American Technology Corp., is secretary, treasurer and a director. Each is affiliated with Norris Communications Corp.
Executive Compensation
In fiscal 1994 Norris was paid $42,000 and a $10,000 bonus from Patriot, compared with the $42,000 salary and 150,000 shares of longterm compensation in 1993.
Major Shareholders
Falk beneficially owns 10 million shares, or 36 percent, of Patriot stock. Five million of these shares are in escrow. Norris controls 5.15 million shares, or 18.5 percent of the common stock. Putnam owns 93,332, less than 1 percent. All officers and directors as a group own 15.24 million shares, 54.5 percent.
Stock Price
Traded over the counter, Patriot stock closed the calendar year at 28.2 cents, following an annual high of $3 and low of 21 cents.
Less Vital Statistics
Address: 12875 Brookprinter Place, Suite A, Poway, CA 92064. Phone: (619) 679-4428. Last annual meeting: Jan. 11, 1995.
_________________
Hammacher Schlemmer - Mid-Winter 1995
PERSONAL DIGITAL RECORDER is always just a reach away, letting you record every important idea, thought, appointment and special occasion instantly--any time, anywhere. Its solid-state digital technology allows for its small size and light weight (about the size of four credit cards stacked on top of each other). It fits in a shirt pocket, purse, on a night stand or your car's dash, ensuring that you'll never lose another thought again. Record up to 30 minutes of high-quality voice messages and, thanks to its instant random access playback feature, find the exact message you want with the press of a button. Its Fumble-Free two button control lets you scan forward and reverse as well as play the message back at high speed or low speed (without changing the pitch of your voice) all with one hand. Its exclusive 30-minute SoundClip memory bank can be reused indefinitely and also removes for use at a later time. Because it uses no interior moving parts, it will bring you years of performance. Runs on two AAA batteries (included). (2.8 ounces)
63508X.............$249.95
Additional Sound Clip
63531X..............$69.95
______________________
SuperLife - February 1995
Revolutionary Voice Recorder
It Doesn't Use Tapes!
Flashback is a miraculous advancement in the history of personal recorders. It doesn't use a cassette tape, operating easily by the touch of just 2 buttons, and is smaller than your hand and lighter than your wallet. Plus, thanks to digital voice recording, Flashback has no moving parts that can whine, hum, buzz, get stuck, or otherwise fail. The "Instant Access" feature lets you find important thoughts instantly, so there's no more painfully slow searching. And what's really cool is that you can add thoughts anywhere, just the way you insert text on your word processor, without recording over previous thoughts.
Now you can single-handedly capture any length memo, note, dictation, or brainstorm wherever and whenever they occur. PCMCIA compatible. Includes one 30-minute SoundClip. Requires one AAA battery (not included).
Flashback Digital Recorder
Item #11295...........................$249.95 (7.00)
Additional 30-Minute SoundClip
Item #86018...........................$69.95 (5.00)
CAPTIONS:
Two-button design is easy to operate in the dark or while driving.
Gives instant access to important thoughts. No more slow searches!
Lets you add thoughts anywhere without recording over previous note.
Plays back at fast or slow speeds without changing your voice pitch.
Exclusive removable SoundClip never needs rewinding, can be used indefinitely, and will never be "eaten" by your recorder.
The World's Smallest FM Radio!
Wear it in your ear and pick up crystal clear reception. The patented Ear Phone technology has helped produce the smallest possible FM radio. This "In the Ear" FM radio is a true marvel of electronic miniaturization. Measuring only 8" x 1 1/2" x 1/4", it still uses over 40 transistors, features touch tuning, on/off volume control, and weighs less than 1/4 ounce. It comes with a custom carrying case and is perfect for leisure and sports listening. Batteries and antenna included.
FM Radio
ITEM #11400...................$29.95 (3.50)
__________________
Technology Marketplace - Spring 1995
THE INSIDE TRACK
WHO TO WATCH IN 1995
THE NEXT GENERATION OF INDUSTRY LEADERS
BIG THINGS IN SMALL PACKAGES
NORRIS COMMUNICATIONS
Elwood G. Norris, "Woody" is a man with small ideas who is in the forefront of innovation. The consummate inventor, Norris runs or directs half a dozen independent companies that are developing and manufacturing unique miniaturized electronics. Norris Communications, his flagship effort, developed Flashback, a palm-sized digital voice recorder with no moving parts. Flashback uses Intel 'Flash' memory chips to record memos, notes or even music. It can store an hour of recording on a 4 megabyte chip about the size of a 50 cent piece. Sound is compressed onto the chip using proprietary algorithms in the microprocessor. The recorder even has a random access system to instantly replay recordings and export them to other media.
Each company Woody is involved with has a different product focus. American Technology Corporation boasts "The World's Smallest Radio", an FM receiver that fits neatly within the user's ear. Patriot Scientific, produces advanced Penetrating Microwave Radar (PMR) designed to look beneath or through the ground, buildings and other solid objects. American Surface Mount Devices (ASMD), another Norris company, manufactures surface-mount printed circuit boards for Norris' companies as well as on a contract basis for local electronics firms.
A master of "the gadget," Woody and his companies are growing steadily. In addition, Norris' disciples are beginning to branch out on their own. Randy Grannovetter, president of JABRA (story on page 19) is a former Norris executive. The JABRA EarPHONE was originally designed at Norris. Its a small wonder!
__________________-
THE SHARPER IMAGE - February Catalog 1995
World's smallest FM radio hides in your ear.
Barely larger than a typical earbud, this miracle of miniaturization weighs less than a 1/4 oz. Yet it packs a true digital tuner for clearest reception, an amplifier, and a high quality speaker. Controls include Scan, Reset (begins new low-to-high scan) and a three-position volume/power switch. Comes with local and long-range antennas, protective case, ear clip (for snugger fit), and batteries. Made in USA. 90-day warranty.
Ultralight FM Radio #29.95 (4.50)
Introducing new Flashback digital voice recorder.
30-minutes of thoughts on a removable chip!
Now there's a featherlight digital voice recorder that fits in your shirt pocket or purse. Quick and easy to use, new Flashback records 30 minutes of your best ideas and inspirations. Carry it everywhere--it's as small as a credit card, and weights just 2.6 oz.
Your thoughts, memos, reminders, and verbal notes are recorded on a removable 30-minute SoundClip that's PCMCIA compatible. Unlike a tape, it never has to be rewound or flipped over, and can be reused indefinitely.
Five ways better than tape recorders.
Exclusive "Fumble Free" two-button controls let you record and play with just one hand. The ergonomic buttons are easy to find by touch, even in the dark or while driving. Two LEDs guide the simple operation.
"Instant Access" digital design speeds you immediately to any point, eliminating tedious tape advancing and rewinding. Once you're there, the "Random Insert" feature lets you add thoughts, without recording over your previous thoughts. Now you can "edit" your verbal notes just like you insert text on your word processor, including "Random Delete."
In a hurry? New "Vari-Play" feature lets you listen at a very fast (or very slow) speed without changing the pitch of your voice. Perfect for a fast review of your notes before a talk. Or for writing down recorded facts (such as phone numbers or addresses) slowly without errors.
Dependable under harsh conditions.
The interchangeable 30-minute SoundClips (one included) are remarkably durable. They're impervious to magnets, sunlight, blistering heat, and freezing cold. For reliability, the solid-state Flashback has no motors, no tapes to tangle, and no moving parts to wear out.
The patented design offers superior fidelity through the built-in speaker. Made in USA. Comes with 2 AAA batteries and 90-day warranty.
Digital pocket recording is here! Every business day, you'll discover more uses for this new technology.
Flashback Digital Recorder $249.95 (7.50) #NS300
Additional 30-minute SoundClip $69.95 (4.50) #NS301
CAPTIONS:
30-minute digital recorder fits in your shirt pocket. Simple controls can be operated in bed or while driving.
"Meeting recorded Tuesday 10 a.m."
Built-in microphone and speaker
Simple 2-button controls
Seamlessly delete old material
Variable speed playback
Insert new material without recording over the old
Removable 30-minute SoundClip
_____________
J&R MUSIC WORLD COMPUTER WORLD - Pre-Summer '95
Norris Communications Flashback
Digital Voice Recorder
Our Low Price $249.95
SoundClip Spare 36-Minute Chip
$89.95
________________
SuperLife - January 1995
Revolutionary Voice Recorder
It Doesn't Use Tapes!
Flashback is a miraculous advancement in the history of personal recorders. It doesn't use a cassette tape, operates easily by the touch of just 2 buttons, and is smaller than your hand and lighter than your wallet. Plus, thanks to digital voice recording, Flashback has no moving parts that can whine, hum, buzz, get stuck, or otherwise fail. The "Instant Access" feature lets you find important thoughts instantly, so there's no more painfully slow searching. And what's really cool is that you can add thoughts anywhere, just the way you insert text on your word processor, without recording over previous thoughts.
Now you can single-handedly capture any length memo, note, dictation, or brainstorm wherever and whenever they occur. PCMCIA compatible. Includes one 30-minute SoundClip. Requires one AAA battery (not included).
Flashback Digital Recorder
Item #11295.................$249.95 (7.00)
Additional 30-minute SoundClip
Item #86018..................$69.95 (5.00)
CAPTIONS:
Two-button design is easy to operate in the dark or while driving.
Gives instant access to important thoughts. No more slow searches!
Lets you add thoughts anywhere without recording over previous notes.
Plays back at fast or slow speeds without changing your voice pitch.
Exclusive removable SoundClip never needs rewinding, can be used indefinitely, and will never be "eaten" by your recorder.
_______________
Amtrak Travel Mall - Summer 95
Instantly record your thoughts, appointments or phone numbers any time, any place.
PERSONAL DIGITAL RECORDER gives you instant recall of any message with the touch of a button. No waiting for a tape to rewind. Solid-state digital technology allows for its small size and light weight. Fits in shirt pocket, purse, on night stand or car dash, ensuring that you'll never lose a thought again. Record up to 30 minutes of high-quality voice messages and, thanks to its instant random access playback feature, find the exact message you want with the press of a button. Fumble-Free two-button control lets you scan forward and reverse as well as play the message back at high speed or low speed. Exclusive 30-minute Sound Clip memory bank can be reused indefinitely and also is removable. Because it uses no interior moving parts, this recorder will bring you years of performance. Runs on two AAA batteries (included). (2.8 oz.)
63508 $249.95
ADDITIONAL 30 MINUTE SOUND CLIP FOR EXPANDED MEMORY
63531 $69.95
_________________
DELTA'S WORLD OF GIFTS - LATE SPRING 95
No tape, no wait, no weight - 3-oz. all-digital recorder holds one hour of voice notes!
Clunky, noisy tape recorders are obsolete! Miracle memory chips replace motors, recording heads, cassettes--all moving parts--in the revolutionary Flashback recorder. About the size and weight of 4 of your credit cards, it records up to an hour on a removable "sound clip," does things no tape machine can do: Its simple, 2-button control gives instant access to any portion of the recording (no tape rewinding). You can insert new comments without erasing any recorder material! If you want to save voice notes you can download into a PC or other recorder. Sound clips are interchangeable, can be used indefinitely and are impervious to heat, cold or magnets. Digital sound quality is superior!
Flashback is so compact it will always be with you. Its fumble-free control is so easy, you will use it while driving or traveling.
#9FD664 - Flashback Digital Voice Recorder, 30 min. - $299.95
#9FD665 - Additional 30 minute Sound Clip - $69.96
#9FD666 - Additional 60 minute Sound Clip - $99.95
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HELLO Direct - Summer 1995
Recording Devices
Think on your feet! Pocket-size recorders save you time, energy...money.
Put 30 minutes of digital recording power in the palm of your hand.
NEW
Total convenience! And with just 2 ergonomically-designed buttons to press, you can use our shirt-pocket size FlashBack digital Recorder anywhere, single-handedly. In the car, in the dark.
What's more, because you're recording digitally, there's no tape to wear out...and no belts, cogs, gears, or other moveable pars to break down. If you're tired of replacing gnarly, tattered tapes, you're sure to appreciate this feature.
A full 30 minutes of recording!
This powerful little recorder comes with a removable, reuseable 30-minute SoundClip with a PCMCIA-style connector. When your 30 minutes are up, you can either record over previous messages (Relax, the unit won't let you accidentally erase!) or pop in a new Clip. SoundClips can be safely stored indefinitely.
A bonus: You can randomly insert or delete a message in the middle of a previously recorded message, without erasing. Fast forward, reverse, pause, normal-speed and half-speed playback benefits are also available.
FlashBack weighs just 2.6 oz. Order now!
FlashBack Digital Recorder
ITEM# DESCRIPTION PRICE
3781A With 30-minute SoundClip $249.00
3782A Additional 30-minute SoundClip $ 69.95
CAPTIONS:
Smart SoundClip won't let you accidentally record over previous messages.
Just snap in a new SoundClip when your 30 minutes are up.
So easy to hold in one hand, you could operate it blindfolded!
_____________________
It's NEW! - May/June 1995
everything new under the sun
Flashback
guarantees you'll never lose another thought while on the go
Microprocessor-controlled Flashback is a new personal recording device which weighs less than three ounces, is smaller than held a deck of playing cards and easy to use.
It utilizes Intel flash-based SoundClip technology, allowing for up to thirty minutes of high-quality, randomly accessed voice recording for quick and easy indexing. And because it's PCMCIA compatible, Flashback also allows you to download your recorded entries to a personal computer or personal digital assistant. Further features are:
Available at consumer electronics and department stores nationwide at under $250, including a 30-minute SoundClip, batteries and accessories. Additional 30-minute SoundClips can be purchased for $69.95. For ordering information, contact Norris Communications Corp. at (619) 679-1504.
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USA TODAY - March 3, 1986
Life
Monitor keeps track of wandering kids - by Mary Ann Norborn
It's the latest in child security--a device that tracks kids.
Heightened awareness of missing children in the past few years has spawned a range of devices to alert parents when their kids are in danger.
The newest, Guardian 1, goes a giant step further. It's the first to assist in tracking and locating a missing child.
Guardian 1 was developed by electrical engineer Elwood Norris after he spent a panic-stricken hour and a half searching Disneyland for his 5-year-old son.
Here's how it works:
The child wears a small, 1-pound transmitter on a belt. It sends a constant low beep up to 500 feet away to a portable monitor.
If the beep signal is interrupted--such as when a child gets trapped inside an abandoned refrigerator or drainage pipe, falls into water, wanders out of range--or if someone tries to remove the belt, a piercing alarm goes off.
Then an antenna on the monitor takes over, acting like a Geiger counter or a divining rod in locating the child.
"The beauty of it is that you don't waste time looking where the child isn't," says Norris, who developed Guardian 1 for Protek Communications Inc. in Salt Lake City.
"You don't look anywhere that you don't get a signal. You can cover large areas of parks, beaches and department stores in seconds."
The system can pick up a signal through rubber seals around refrigerator doors or any break in a solid structure. Pointing the antenna into the end of a drainage pipe will immediately tell you whether a child is inside.
Guardian 1 is now available by mail order for $99.99, by calling (800) 441-3636.
________________
San Diego Daily Transcript - February 21, 1993
Norris Reprices and Renames Recorder
Product Introduction Team Lining Up For 'Flashback'
As it nears the market, Poway-based Norris Communications Corp. continues to refine plans to introduce a handheld voice recorder with no moving parts.
The product now is known as "Flashback" and is expected to retail at less than $200, Norris said last week. Last September, it was called "Speak Easy" and was to sell for less than $100.
The device is smaller than the thickness of a half-deck of playing cards and weighs three ounces. Previously it was described as the size of three stacked credit cards. That's small, however you measure it.
President Elwood G. "Woody" Norris hopes the product will double revenue in the fiscal year starting April 1.
"We have set this goal based on achieving less than 2 percent sales of the total market during the first year," he said. "The combination of experienced marketing and sales organizations coupled with our proprietary technology and state-of-the-art manufacturing capability on site, provides an opportunity to substantially increase company growth while managing costs and maintaining the highest quality."
_______________
San Diego Daily Transcript - February 21, 1993
Flashback And SoundClips--
Last week, Norris disclosed another new name, SoundClip, a removable solid-state medium. This is akin to the tape cassette put into a tape recorder. But these SoundClips are non-moving and non-volatile, need no battery back-up and are impervious to magnetic fields. They can be recorded over hundreds of thousands of times or archived for years without degradation of sound quality, says Norris.
The company says all features available on portable tape recorders can be duplicated on Flashback with its SoundClip. In addition to record, play, fast forward, reverse and pause, the Norris product offers random access and the ability to insert or edit messages without erasing or recording over speech. Also, Flashback has the ability to insert or edit messages without erasing or recording over speech. Also, Flashback has the ability to scan recordings at either a high or low rate of speed without altering the pitch of the voice.
"Initially," Norris said, "SoundClips, the removable solid-state recording media, will be sold in 30-minute versions."
The company expects to introduce 60-minute and 120-minute clips within a year of product introduction. Thirty-minute clips will retail for less than $50 at first, but are expected to drop to less than $30 later this year.
The recorder will be introduced to the industry April 1 with a national product rollout scheduled for midyear.
The company said more than 800 million recorders have been sold worldwide and another 35 million are sold each year--this despite the "personal recorder syndrome." The symptoms of the syndrome are typified by the "too awkward, too heavy, too conspicuous, didn't use it enough, it seemed like a good idea, but it's in a drawer somewhere" experience commonly associated with mechanical recorders.
While some components will be bought from suppliers, all key manufacturing and assembly operations will be handled by American Surface Mounted Devices, Norris' manufacturing subsidiary in Poway.
Norris Communications has retained two firms to assist with the product introduction. Tri-West Marketing, a Los Angeles-based national sales representative, was hired to begin nationwide distribution. Flashback and SoundClips will be sold through distributors, retailers, catalogs and will be redesigned for original equipment manufacturers to sell under their own labels.
Norris also hired Connors Communications, a New York public relations firm specializing in product launches.
Currently, Norris is negotiating agreements with international sale representatives.
Norris anticipates a loss this year.
The firm lost $970,060 on revenue of $1.31 million in the third quarter ended Dec. 31, compared with $4.09 million lost on revenue of $1.48 million a year earlier. For the nine months, it lost $189,539 on revenue of $5.34 million against $4.38 million lost on revenue of $5.80 million a year earlier.
Norris said the loss anticipated for the year ending March 31 is due to increased costs to develop its new recorder and due to the reorganization of American Surface Mounted Devices. Not only is Norris expecting to double revenue in fiscal 1995, but he predicts the company will return to profitability.
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HEMISPHERES - July 1995
Tired of Fumbling with Old-fashioned Magnetic Tape Recorders?
Remember that slow, bulky tape recorder that devoured your valuable tape? Trying to locate that all-important passage was a hassle.
Frustrated with the Limited Capacity of Memo Recorders?
Their size is convenient, but they measure their total storage time in SECONDS. Such a brief time limit is self-defeating.
Finally, A Digital Voice Recorder For The Serious User.
Flashback Digital Recorder
At the Frontier of Recording Technology
With Flashback you can store unlimited information without the hassle of tape. Record and erase over and over again. Get instant access with no moving parts or magnetic media. That means no degrading of sound over time, no accidental erasure, no tangles or broken tape ever again. Flashback. Changing the way we live and work.
Flashback
Hold That Thought
An invaluable tool for busy executives and professionals who need to record conferences and locate specific passages.
Featherlight and Compact
Drawing on the most advance digital technology, the Flashback is making tape recorders obsolete and memo recorders passé. Flashback weighs just 2.6 ounces (with batteries installed) and fits easily into a shirt pocket or purse.
Foolproof and "Fumble Free"
Flashback has no moving parts that can fail. Two ergonomic buttons are easy to find by touch--even in the dark. Record, play or edit single-handedly, even while driving.
Holds Up To 36 Minutes On A Single SoundClip
Now you can record your ideas, memos, and even entire meetings digitally on Flash memory using Norris Communications' proprietary, removable, reusable SoundClips.
Dependable Under Harsh Conditions
Removable, solid sate, non-volatile SoundClips utilize flashmemory chips that can be used repeatedly without sound degradation.
SoundClips are virtually impervious to magnets, blistering heat and freezing cold.
Locate and Play Back Passages Instantly
Flashback's "Instant Access" digital design advances you immediately to any point, eliminating tedious tape delays.
Add a Thought Within a Thought
Flashback's "Random Insert" and "Random Delete" features let you insert or delete unlimited thoughts without recording over previous passages. It's like editing text on a computer word processor.
PlayBack at High or Low Speed
Flashback's "VariPlay" feature lets you listen at half speed for dictation. Or, at double speed for quick review without changing the pitch of your voice.
Download to Your PC
Flashback is PCMCIA compatible. "Flashback Connect", an exclusive option coming soon, will let you download recordings to your PC or access voice mail.
Top Value
$199. Complete with 18 minute SoundClip, two AAA batteries and detachable wrist strap. Additional 18 minute and 36 minute SoundClips are available.
30 Day Risk Free Trial
If you're not completely satisfied, return in new condition for a full refund.
Order Today.
Call Toll Free for immediate delivery.
1-800-916-6267
Order with MasterCard or VISA. Or send check or money order for $199, plus $6.95 for shipping and handling. Overnight shipping available.
12725 Stowe Drive
Poway, CA 92064
Tel: (619) 679-1504
Fax: (619) 486-3922
Norris Communications Corporation
NO CONTEST
Recording Time Suggested Retail Price
VoiceIt
75 seconds
$79.95
Voice Organizer 4 minutes
$199.
Flashback
Unlimited
$199.
Only Flashback gives you:
__________________
THE SAN DIEGO UNION TRIBUNE - January 11, 1997
BUSINESS
BUSINESS BRIEFING
SAN DIEGO AND CALIFORNIA
Root leaves Norris post
Bob Root, president and chief executive of Poway-based Norris Communications Inc., has resigned, citing personal reasons. The company said company founder and chairman Elwood G. Norris would resume his duties as chief executive. Fred Falk, vice president of business development, was named president and will take over daily operations. The company specializes in digital voice recording technology.
_________________
PC WORLD - May 1995
LOTUS EDITION
New Hardware
Handheld Digital Recorders Let You Speak Your Mind
I do my best thinking when I'm driving. The clouds inside my brain lift, brilliant ideas flood my synapses, and I suddenly remember I forgot to pay the gas bill. Yet the moment I get near a pen or a keyboard, all that brilliance clouds over again. Fortunately, I've discovered three digital devices that let me record these fleeting insights as they strike and make them easy to find later.
Voice It Worldwide's Personal Note Recorder--a gizmo the size of a credit card--holds from 20 seconds to 2 minutes of voice recording in its internal memory chip, capacity depending on the model. The 20-second VT-20 sells for about $50; the 2-minute VT-120 goes for about $100 (there are also 40- and 90-second models).
Like Voice It, Norris Communications' Flashback also works just like a microcassette recorder, but this cool-looking device uses removable 30-minute or 60-minute memory cards, called SoundClips, instead of tapes. The $249.95 Flashback lets you search for entries, tack new thoughts onto the end of previously recorded items, and insert new recordings anywhere you want.
Sycom Technologies; Voice Input Planner (VIP) 9000 Plus looks like your average handheld organizer, with a two-line LCD, a dinky alphanumeric keypad, and the usual organizer functions--memo pad, address book, and scheduler. But the $399 VIP Plus lets you record 11 minutes of voice notes and then set alarms so the notes play back at specified times.
To check out these gadgets, I carried them around for a few days, recording bits of wisdom.
Geek on Wheels
For my first test, I took the devices mountain biking. In short order, I recorded my first brilliant insight: In my bike helmet and shorts, with a fanny pack full of digital recorders, I looked like a complete geek.
Voice It's VT-20 fit easily in my hand while I rode, and its record, play, skip, and erase buttons were all within thumb's reach. But 20 seconds of storage proved far too brief; even 2 minutes wouldn't be enough for a long rid. Norris's Flashback also operates with one hand, though its two-button controls are less intuitive than the VT-20's. Still, the Flashback is probably the safest choice for someone on two wheels, thanks to a handy wrist strap that leaves fingers free for braking and shifting.
While Sycom's VIP 9000 let me record entries using one hand, trying to do anything else proved perilous. For example, to set an alarm I had to press the buttons with my nose, narrowly missing several unwitting pedestrians.
After that, I switched to four wheels, cruising down the freeway in my 1981 Honda, recording pithy observations, and listening to ZZ Top's "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide." Insight number two: The recorders differ noticeably in sound quality. The VT-20 produced consistently crisp recordings with minimal background noise. Flashback's entries were crackly yet audible, but Sycom's VIP 9000 made it sound like I was trapped in a fire at a cellophane factory. Even in a quiet setting, the VIP had the poorest sound quality of the lot.
Now What?
Next, I had to do something with my digitized thoughts. With the VT-20, my options were to transcribe them manually or erase them to make room for new entries. By the time you read this, the Flashback and the VIP 9000 will be able to download voice files to your PC's hard disk--the Flashback SoundClips card will plug into any PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) slot; the VIP will transfer voice and data files via a serial port link.
You'll be able to save the downloaded recordings as WAV files and play them back using a sound card--useful if you want to transcribe an entry in your word processor, attach a voice comment to a Windows document, or simply store a recording for reference. Me, I didn't have any thoughts worth saving, though I did record a wicked vocal on "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide."
-Daniel Tynan
Norris Flashback, Sycom VIP 9000 Plus, Voice It Personal Note Recorder
A trio of digital devices that record your thoughts.
Norris Communications
619/679-1504
List price: $249.95; 30-minute SoundClip $69.95, 60-minute SoundClip $99.95
Reader service no. 705
Sycom Technologies
800/773-2503,
610/660-5770
List price: $399
Reader service no. 706
Voice It Worldwide
800/999-3522 ext. 40
List price: $49.95 to $99.95
Reader service no. 707
CAPTIONS:
SPEAKING IN TONES: The $399 VIP 9000 Plus lets you record 11 minutes of notes and play them back at specified times.
SMALL TALK: The credit-card-size Voice It personal Note Recorder holds up to 120 seconds of voice recordings.
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Norris Communications Cordially Invites You To
FLASHBACK TO THE FUTURE
A Revolution In Recording Technology Is Now At Hand With The Arrival of Flashback
Thursday, June 23, 1994
7:00 p.m.
Ed Debevics
640 North Wells
Chicago, Illinois
R.S.V.P. by June 15, 1994
Connors Communications
Tel: 212-995-2200
Fax: 212-995-2332
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CALIFORNIA LAWYER - August 1995
NO TAPE. NO RISK. NO KIDDING!
THE COMPETITION IS COMING UNWOUND
Discover the Advantages of Digital Voice Recording with Flashback's Removable Flash Memory SoundClips.
Discover Flashback, the featherlight long-play DIGITAL recorder that lets you record and playback single-handedly--with NO moving parts.
No Tape. Flashback's exclusive Flash memory SoundClips never have to be rewound or flipped over, and can be used again and again--indefinitely.
No Fumbling. Record and playback with one hand using only two buttons. The ergonomic buttons are easy to find by touch, even in the dark or while driving, with two LED's to guide this simple operation.
No Waiting. Find your thoughts in a flash. With digital recording there's no more fast-forwarding or rewinding to locate your important ideas. You're always right where you want to be--in an instant.
No Time Limit. Until now, memo recorders gave you a maximum of 120 seconds--usually much less. Flashback SoundClips record 18, 36 or 72* minutes, and when one is full, just slip in another. Recording time is virtually unlimited.
No Comparison. Flashback's Random Insert feature lets you add to any recording at any point--just like inserting on your word processor. Now you can edit as you go, without recording over existing thoughts! Soon, Flashback's options will allow you to transfer your voice recordings directly to your computer.
Nothing to Lose. For a limited time, members of the legal profession may order Flashback directly through the factory at the special price of $199 plus $6.95 shipping and handling. That's a $50 saving over the nationally advertised price.
No Risk. Interested? Call our toll free number: 800-916-6267. Try Flashback for 30 days. Discover the advantages of digital voice recording. If Flashback isn't the hardest working, lightest, fastest and easiest-to-use full-featured voice recorder you've ever had, send it back for a prompt refund.
No Kidding. Call 800-916-6267 and ask for Flashback at the special price of $199. You've got nothing to lose, and only 3 featherlight ounces to gain.
800-916-6267
Flashback Digital Recorder
Norris Communications Corp. 12725 Stowe Drive, Poway, CA 92064
Made in U.S.A. Patents Pending
Circle 133 on Reader Service Card
CAPTIONS:
Magnetic tape player with hundreds of moving parts.
No tape. No moving parts.
Compact size allows convenient portability.
SoundClips available in 18, 36 or 72* minute clips.
* 72 minute SoundClip available fall '95
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PC Computing - March 1995
Technolust
Your business doesn't grind to a halt just because you're on the road. Well, maybe it does, but it shouldn't when every piece of office equipment you need slips in and out of an overnight bag with ease. You can take the office with you, whether you're in a cab or a hotel room.
Flashback/Norris Communications/ (619)679-1504/ $240 est. street price/Reader Service No. 704
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SGB - October 1998
UNIQUE PRODUCTS for people on the go!
World's Smallest FM Radios
ATC American Technology Corporation
1-800-41-RADIO ext. 171
13114 Evening Creek Dr. So., San Diego, CA 92128 * www.atcsd.com * e-mail: degarv@atcsd.com
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Los Angeles Times - November 4, 1996
PERSONAL TECHNOLOGY
HOT STUFF/Mary Purpura and Paolo Pontoniere
Gigaherz and Ye Shall Receive
Tiny Radios: Here's a novelty for Walkman fans: a tiny, self-contained radio that fits inside the ear. Available in both AM and FM models, the radios, made by American Technology Corp. of Poway, Calif., weigh about a quarter of an ounce and are smaller than a large paper clip.
The radios sell for less than $30.
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Popular Science - September 1996
SMALLEST RADIO ON EARTH
Technology of Tomorrow is Here Today!
It's a great gift too!
90 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE (LESS S&H)
Check/Money Order to:
MAXPO ENTERPRISE
4587 MACK ROAD
SACRAMENTO, CA 95823
BATTERIES INCLUDED
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PC NOVICE GUIDE TO GIZMOS
AUDIO
Audio Accessories
FM Sounds
Why Buy: The world's smallest FM radio
The FM Sounds radio allows you to hear your favorite FM tunes in the smallest of packages. The whole radio basically fits in your ear.
The radio has a comfortable speaker attached to the radio. Flip the On switch, press the Scan button, and the radio tunes in whichever stations are in your area. Hit the Reset button to begin your scan from the bottom of the FM scale.
Obviously, the big draw for this item is its tiny size. It fits comfortably in your ear and delivers decent sound. The radio comes with a sturdy carrying case, so you won't lose track of it.
Because the radio is so small, it does have some drawbacks. For example, there is not enough room on the radio to display which channel you're listening to, so it may take a little while to find your favorite station. Also, the radio isn't very loud. Even when you switch the volume to its maximum output it still is rather quiet. The radio reception is OK, but not great.
If you want to be discreet while listening to your favorite radio station, this radio is for you. - MS
FM Sounds
$12.99
American Technology Corp. (ATC)
(619) 679-2114, (800) 417-2346
http://www.ATCSD.com
AM Sounds
Why Buy: The world's smallest AM radio
The AM Sounds radio is even smaller than its counterpart, the FM Sounds radio. It is so small, the entire unit fits comfortably inside your ear.
It is similar in design to the FM Sounds radio, which is reviewed on the previous page. A small speaker, which is about half of the whole radio, nestles gently into your ear. There is a small tuning dial on the outside of the unit, which you turn to tune in stations. A small thin antenna wire extends from the radio.
As with the FM Sounds radio, the attraction here is size. The radio is so tiny, you'll hardly notice it. The dial is preferable to the FM Sound's scan button for tuning in stations. The sound quality is decent. This is the perfect item to take with you to sporting events if you want to listen to the game while you're there in person.
This unit has similar drawbacks to the FM Sounds radio. First, there isn't a display to tell you which station you're listening to. Second, the reception is somewhat limited. Third, there isn't a volume control. This is unfortunate, because the radio could stand to be a little louder.
This gadget has a few drawbacks, but is still quite useful. - MS
AM Sounds
$12.99
American Technology Corp. (ATC)
(619) 679-2114, (800) 417-2346
http://www.ATCSD.com
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PRIME HEALTH & FITNESS - September 1997
in one ear
Exercising without music can be boring, but using a stereo can damage your hearing and decrease your awareness of potential hazards. So, do you want to be bored, deaf or dead? Now you don't have to choose. FM Sounds, from American Technology Corp., is perfect for running, biking or working out in gyms with lousy music. It weighs in at less than one-quarter ounce and measures only 1 1/2 - by - 1/2 - by - 1/2 inches. The unit lets you keep one ear cocked for menacing motorists, is volume-regulated to avoid hearing damage and comes with a sports-tube carrying case and a detachable ear clip. "They're so light, that if you drop them, they just sort of float to the ground," says David Carleton, ATC vice president of sales and marketing. Retailing for about $20, the radios are available in a variety of colors. For more information, call (800) 41-RADIO.
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FREIZEIT KURIER - 4, Februar 1995
MIKRORADIO
Angeblich ist es das kleinste Taschenradio der Welt, "Ultralight 2000" wiegt nur ganze 28 Gramm und kann als Ganzes einfach ins Ohr geklemmt werden.
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HEDONICS - Fall & Winter 95
The World's Smallest, Lightest FM Radio Hides In Your Ear
This innovative ear-plug radio, is a digital FM radio so tiny and light you may forget you're wearing it. It's a great little radio that delivers big sounds for walking, biking, gardening - anywhere. Features auto tuning that scans the FM band and 2-stage volume control. Works on button-cell batteries (incl). Comes with local and long range flexible antennas, ear clip, extra batteries and a carrying case. Measuring in at 1/4D x 1 1/2H x 1/2W" it weighs less than/ ounce. Please specify Black or Yellow.
FM Radio #SP125 $34.99 S&H ($5.00)
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TigerSoftware
The Most Knowledgeable Telephone Staff In The Business.
PRESS-TIME SPECIAL OFFER! A TIGER EXCLUSIVE!
The World's Smallest, Lightest FM Radio. It Booms!
So Tiny; So Light, You May Forget You're Wearing It!
Great sound in the World's smallest package! I've found a manufacturer that has taken miniaturization to a new low--low on weight, low on size--and Tiger makes them low on price!
It's a high-quality FM radio receiver built into a tiny earpiece--complete with ultra-thin local antenna (also includes long-range antenna). This little thing delivers big, booming FM sound through the advanced, miniscule speaker that fits snug in your ear. The amazing Mini FM radio is great for use outdoors; walking, hiking, biking, gardening, car-washing or just lounging--it sure beats lugging around a Walkman or pair of radio-headphones. So small, no one will notice you're wearing it! It's not a toy--it's built to take the pounding of everyday use--and sound absolutely incredible! I was skeptical before I actually tried it; you won't believe how such rich, crisp sound comes from such a small device! The volume and tuning controls are tiny touch-pads on the unit and the kit comes complete with main battery, spare batteries, earclasp and handy carrying case--a $99 value--yours for just $29.95!
A33-2000 Ultralite 2000 Mini FM Radio.............$29.95
Please Specify Black or Yellow
SPECIAL TIGER MINI-RADIO OFFER $29.95 ULTRA COMPACT!
Now Available in Black and New Sports Yellow!
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Lexington Herald-Leader - May 11, 1996
TODAY
Gadgets
Tiny FM Radio has a big sound - Tom Carter, Herald-Leader Staff Writer
Radio remains popular despite more than a half-century of competition from television, movie theaters, video, cable and now computers. One reason is that radio receivers always have been offered in enormous sizes.
If you wanted a big radio, you could always get one. Yesterday's Atwater-Kent consoles have given way to today's Bose house-rockers. On the other hand, pocket portables have shrunk to almost absurd proportions, perhaps none smaller than the "FM Sounds" radio from American Technology Corp.
A one-earphone-only model, this quarter-ounce powerhouse is small enough to fit in a tablespoon. The size takes people aback. But this is no toy.
Robert Putnam, president of the company based in California, said the FM Sounds, as well as a revamped AM model due back on the market soon, are the reactions of inventor Woody Norris, a former University of Washington faculty member. Norris developed the radios using technology unusual enough to warrant new radio patents. He's now chairman of the company's board.
"Woody is kind of a self-taught inventor whose background is mainly in acoustics. One of his geniuses is to micro-miniaturize existing technology. There's some material in this radio's speaker that gives you some nice bass and very clear highs that you don't expect in a radio that small," Putnam said.
Norris' AM Sounds was first produced in 1986. Putnam said that through the AM radio was well received, buyers in the 1980s were more eager for an FM version.
Since the FM model arrived in 1994, AM has enjoyed a national renaissance because of "talk radio" and sports. But a second-generation AM model as good as the FM version has eluded the company because the inventors could not achieve the same degree of tuning sophistication and sensitivity. A new AM model is being tested.
American Technology made an FM Sounds model available for my assessment. While it has startling fidelity for its size, it's a challenge to deal with something so tiny that a dog could easily swallow it, or fumbling fingers could tear it apart.
Though the threadlike and necessary 2-foot antenna detracts from this marvel of miniaturization, the antenna can be tucked away inside a shirt or coat. Still, it's a hassle to keep rolling up the antenna between listening sessions, hoping that it won't break just from handling.
Touching the "scan" button causes the tuner to "seek" the next strong station, moving from the low (88 MHz) to the high end (108 MHz) of the FM band. To return the tuning to the low end of the band again, there's a "reset" button. The tuning also is somewhat eccentric.
For example, to receive WUKY-91.3 FM in the downtown Lexington area, we had to tune it outside where the signal was strong in order to listen to it inside later where the signal was not as strong. Once tuned, however, the station sounded fine even around a computer terminal, where many radios break down from overwhelming signal interference.
Volume control is defined by two click stops in a volume setting. The first click is low volume, the second is middle. Clicking a third time turns the radio off.
American Technology's FM Sounds, at $30, comes with a large yellow case, a more secure earpiece for jogging, and two tiny, watch-type batteries for power. Among the retail and mail-order firms that sell it are the Sharper Image (800-344-4444) and Natural Wonders (which has a store in Fayette Mall). Expect to find them in mass retailers by fall.
CAPTION:
The FM Sounds radio is small enough to fit in a tablespoon, but it's not a toy. The little radio can be found locally at Natural Wonders in Fayette Mall.