The MP3 player is part of the revolution in this age of ever-changing technology. It is the most recent entry into the world of music. None of the previous models come close to the conveniences that this MP3 player provides. The bonus point is that you can hold it in your hand or put it in your pocket carrying over a thousand songs on the go. The entire contraption weighs less than an ounce. This point about portability has attracted more consumers.
The revolution came in the second half of the 1990s. MPEG stands for Moving Picture Experts Group. The objective was to compress in a single device innumerable data, be it audio or video. A person who uses an MP3 device with a storage capacity of 1 GB can transport 240 melodies, which is the same amount that 20 CDs contain.
The history of capturing music began in 1877 when Edison invented the first phonograph. In 1887 flat zinc discs were incorporated. In 1896 the radio debuted. Sony and Philips now rose to the challenge and introduced one marvel after another: Walkman compact disc, 8-track magnetic tape, etc. In 1989 the Fraunhofer Institute in Germany patented the MP3 format. The idea was to take off where the audio cassettes left off. Philips and Sony introduced their version, and the first MP3 players were introduced and sold in Korea.
Earlier models of music players required moving parts, but an MP3 player uses only solid-state memory. It is a storage tool that has built-in software. Allows the transfer of MP3 files to the player. MP3 can also copy music not only from the radio but also from CD`s and Internet websites. The list is organized for the convenience of the user. An MP3 is an amalgamation of many technologies. The basic elements consist of data port, memory, micro and digital signal processors, screen, playback controls, audio port, amplifier and power point.
MP3 files are stored in the player’s memory. Memory types are internal-flash, compact-flash, smart-media, memory stick, and internal micro-drive. Except for the internal microdrive, all types are solid state. It means there are no moving parts and therefore more reliable with no skips in the music.
The brain of the MP3 player consists of the microprocessor. The input is monitored through the playback controls. Information is displayed and instructions are given to the chip regarding the storage and playback of music.
Rechargeable batteries power all MP3 players. It lasts from 10 to 28 hours. There are also AC adapters that can be plugged into an electrical outlet. Others have DC adapters that can be used in cars.
There are countless types of MP3 players. The choice depends on how much music you want to store and how much you’re willing to pay for it. Basically there are four types. A flash memory player is the smallest and contains fewer songs. The hard drive and mini-hard drive models are larger and offer more storage capacity. The MP3 and MiniDisc CD player models can hold 10 hours of melody. A CD recorder is required for this model. MP3 hasn’t stopped dead in its tracks, but new services appear with each passing day. It comes with satellite radios, DVD players, sunglasses, and even a military knife! It’s a hybrid culture within your budget.
