ELKHART, Ind. ASA Electronics has introduced what it says is the ideal piece of audio equipment for the bus industry, the Jensen Heavy Duty JHD3510 stereo radio.

The 180-watt unit allows passengers to play their iPods (and simultaneously charge them as well), or operate any other MP3 player through the system.

Or, if they dont have an iPod or MP3 device, they can enjoy the hundreds of channels that SIRIUS satellite radio offers, from talk to news to sports to format-specific music.

And, the iPod and SIRIUS can be controlled directly from the radio head unit, allowing drivers to become familiar with only one piece of equipment. Theres no need to fiddle with an unfamiliar device.

Its ideal for those bus trips to the football, baseball or basketball game, allowing customers to provide their own music via iPod/MP3 or listen to the numerous games SIRIUS broadcasts, says ASA.

While many systems offer SIRIUS capability, the JHD3510 is unique in that it utilizes SIRIUS GEN3 technology. GEN3 allows a SIRIUS dock-and-play unit to act as the satellite radio receiver and eliminates the need for a separate tuner box.

"It gives the passengers control they usually dont get on a bus and allows them to feel right at home," says ASA Electronics national commercial vehicle industry manager Michael Padrnos.

The JHD3510 also offers such old standbys as AM/FM tuners and CD player with 40-second electronic skip protection (for when roads get bumpy).

In addition, it is equipped with a seven-channel weather-band tuner with a weather alert feature that transmits an audible warning tone that signals users when inclement weather is looming and automatically switches the stereo to the appropriate government weather channel.

Its a practical safety device for both operators and passengers.

For more information, go to www.asaelectronics.com.