2. A Simple Principle

The idea behind the Widio is simple: like Apple's AirPort Express, it's intended to deliver sound all over the house without wires. The Widio doesn't limit itself to music, though; it can also transfer other data. The system consists of a base station (transmitter) connected to the audio source and to an electrical outlet, and a receiver to which you connect the earphones of your choice. The receiver is battery-powered, and recharges on the base station.

The base station and receiver communicate using DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) technology. Multiple channels are provided because a single receiver can connect to seven different base stations. After you plug in a base station, you select a transmission channel for it by turning a dial on its rear. To switch from one base to another, you simply press the Scan button on the receiver until you hear the audio source you want.

Other than this scan button, the receiver is stripped down to the bare minimum: an on/off button, and a pair of buttons to increase and decrease the volume. The earphone outlet is a stereo mini-jack.

In addition to receiving the sound source from the base station, the receiver can also tune in to FM radio. To switch between modes, you hold the Scan button down for approximately three seconds. Once in radio mode, you use the Scan button to select FM stations; each time the button is pressed the unit will search for the next higher frequency where it detects a signal.