BluArmor C30 Helmet Intercom Device Long-term Review: Introduction

Gallery Introduction In the box Features Design What’s next?Product Details

Introduction

As a concept, helmet communication devices are fascinating and awesome. The fact that they negate the need to stop to communicate with your buddies on a group ride makes them such a handy piece of equipment. We have received one such device, called the C30, made by BluArmor — a brand which is popular for its wearable helmet coolers. While the C30 sits between some of the affordable and premium intercom devices in terms of pricing, the features it offers are quite impressive. In that case, let’s see what the C30 is all about.

In the box

Before we shed light on the features of the C30, here’s a list of the components that come in the box:

- C30 main module

- A pair of JBL headset

- One mic

- One adhesive mount

- One clamp mount

- A set of headset foam spacers

- One USB cable

- One Allen key

Features

Starting with the most crucial feature, BluArmor’s proprietary Ridegrid mesh intercom technology can connect up to 20 riders at once. This is accompanied by a 1.2km claimed range for each device. Notably, this is applicable only when all the paired devices are in the line of sight, and the range will be lesser with obstacles like trees and houses in between.

Other connection-related features include radar view to know the location of fellow riders, universal intercom pairing functionality, auto reconnection, and the facility to listen to music while being on a mesh connection. BluArmor also claims over 16 hours of battery life on a single charge which should add to the convenience factor. Meanwhile, the claimed zero to 100 per cent charging time of its 1,000mAh battery is one hour and 40 minutes. Lastly, over-the-air firmware updates are also supported by the C30.

Design

The main C30 module, as you can see in the pictures, is a boxy device with angular edges which make it look quite rugged. Speaking of ruggedness, it should be quite durable to use since BluArmor touts it as an all-weather-proof device with an IP67 rating. There are five protruding buttons on the outside, an antenna on the top, and charging and connectivity ports at the bottom. Tipping the scales at just 70gm, it shouldn’t hamper the weight distribution or aerodynamics of the helmet.

The installation of the device is quite straightforward too and the entire process can be learnt through videos that are accessible by scanning the barcode inside the box. The JBL speakers need to be pasted behind the cheek pads with the help of sticky Velcro provided in the box. For those who want the speakers to be closer to their ears, BluArmor provides thick spacers for the same. As for the mic, it runs from the left side speaker to the chin bar and the flexible stem makes adjusting the position of the mic easy.

As for the main module, it can be mounted on the side of the helmet with the help of the clamp mount which clips onto the left side of the helmet shell. If the thickness of the shell or the rubber bidding doesn’t allow the clamp to slide in, BluArmor also provides an adhesive mount to put the module in place.

What’s next?

We have received a pair of C30 which Neil and I will be using on our regular and weekend rides. During the next few months, we’ll bring you reports focusing on the audio and mic quality of the device, the robustness of mounts, battery performance, the real-world range of mesh connection, its processing speed, and the ease of using the buttons. And since monsoon is just about two months away, the durability of the device will also be scrutinised.