Cap-based display for runners and other outdoor sports enthusiasts

Ultralow power RF specialist Nordic Semiconductor has announced that o-synce is employing a Nordic nRF24AP2-8CH 2.4 GHz transceiver to provide ANT+ wireless connectivity for up to eight ANT+ sensors in its Screeneye X head-up, cap-based display for runners and other outdoor sports enthusiasts.

The Screeneye X can display a full range of training data (current, average and maximum) including elapsed time, heart rate, speed, distance, stop times, lap times, cadence, calories consumed, plus training zones, coaching tips and ambient temperature. This data is projected directly onto a fluorescent plastic display powered by UV light collected by the cap during the day such that it can auto-dim and -brighten in response to ambient lighting levels while drawing a negligible amount of power.

This, combined with the use of the nRF24AP2-8CH ANT+ transceiver, which operates at 17 mA peak current, enables the cap to operate from an in-built 150 µAh rechargeable battery that is lower capacity and smaller and lighter than a typical 225 mAh CR2032 coin cell (watch) battery. In operation, the cap is set up and controlled via three waterproof keys located in the visor. All training data is recorded to within 1 s accuracy and can be exported to a PC at the end of a training session via a micro USB connection that will simultaneously recharge the onboard battery.