36 - 20th Avenue NW- Birmingham, AL 35215 - Phone 205.854.2611 - Toll Free 800.489.2611

Confused as to which base
  station is right for YOU?


Hardly a day goes by that someone doesn't ask us for a price on a Base Station.  The problem is that that the meaning is completely different depending on the users needs. To properly answer the question requires asking a few questions such as how far it needs to talk and to what?  For example, an on-site users needs can generally be met by a low cost, highly efficient base station known as The Patriot. By definition, on-site generally means on specified premises such as a church, hospital, manufacturing plant, or school.  However, in many cases, the Patriot base station is suitable for use by public safety users, particularly when a repeater is used or when special features such as Auto Answerback (the ability to automatically respond to an emergency page to verify receipt of the message).

The Patriot base station, available in both VHF and UHF, provides verification to a dispatch operator that a message to a first responder has been received (at least at the station, if not by an individual user).  This validation of message delivery is an essential component of 9-1-1 operating protocol as well as I.S.O. requirements for fire departments.  Code Blue medical teams using voice pagers can also benefit from this capability.  Knowing that a page message has been delivered is very important to many of our users.

A Patriot base station is capable of sending a single 2-tone code to activate a group of tone alert voice pagers such as the Motorola Minitor IV or US Alert NOVA as well as radios with 2-tone alert capability such as the Motorola CP150/200, PR400, HT750.1250/1550 and EX500/600 series as well as the Relm RP and TEKK GT series.  

The Patriot base station is also capable of decoding a 2-tone alert signal (which is used as a part of the Auto Answerback feature). The page decode feature makes the Patriot ideally suited for use as a fixed station monitor at fire stations, schools, or other locations where the use of a selective alert receiver would be beneficial.  VHF models of the Patriot base station can be programmed for severe weather alerts issued by the National Weather service.

Compatibility with other radio systems is a common requirement.  The Patriot base station can be programmed on up to ten channels of the users choice in the 150 -162 MHz range for the VHF model or between 450 and 470 MHz in the UHF range.  Both CTCSS and DCS privacy tone systems are programmable options as well as priority scan.

Unbelievably, the Patriot base station measures just 1.4" x 3.8" x 5.6" (about the size of a desk calculator) and it can be used on a desk or wall mounted.  No external microphone is required.  The Patriot has a built in intercom type push to talk bar.  No external speaker or power supply is required.  Everything is in a single self contained package.  Now, are you ready for the price?  It's just $295 including programming.  Add $16 for shipping plus tax if you are in Alabama and non-exempt.  That's it!  Here are the specifications on the Patriot base station.

You can purchase the Patriot base station on line by clicking on the applicable Buy-Me buttons below.  You can use your American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or VISA.  Purchase orders also acceptable from approved accounts.

The operating range of any base station is determined by five factors - Antenna height, antenna gain, transmission line receiver sensitivity, and transmitter power.  Contrary to what you might expect, power is the LEAST important factor.  The order of importance is as listed below with antenna height being the most important.  Answering that all important question of How far will it talk? is not easily answered, but we sum it up by providing a few examples.

If your base station will be communicating through a repeater station (click here for more information on repeater stations), the range will be equal to or slightly better than a 4 to 5 watt handheld radio using a standard 7" flex antenna.  Although the Patriot VHF base station is rated at 2 watts (3 watts for UHF), the antenna used provides approximately double the efficiency of a rubber duck.

If the Patriot is used as a stand alone base station, the range with the standard antenna provided will be about equal or slightly better than two 4 to 5 watt handheld radios talking to each other.  Range to a pager or mobile would be similar to the range of a handheld radio operating under the same conditions.

If you need more range, you can add an external antenna since the Patriot uses a standard quick disconnect BNC connector.  We offer several base station antenna models to meet a variety of needs as listed below.  You can click on the applicable Buy-Me button to purchase on line.

The above calculations assume an antenna mounting height of 15 feet at the antenna base.  Greater range is possible by installing the antenna at an area of high elevation over average terrain and/or erecting a tower (this can get expensive).  If you would like a quote on a tower, just give us a call at 1-800-489-2611.

Most base station radios are actually a combination of a standard mobile radio, an AC power supply, and a microphone (either mobile or desk station type).  If you prefer a station with more power, the TEKK MT-800 for VHF or the MT-900 for UHF is an excellent choice with up to 32 channel capability, 40 watts of power, and alphanumeric display plus all the features of the Patriot and more.  Technical specifications are available by clicking here. Detailed Our direct on line pricing for the TEKK radio with base station accessories is as follows:

	TEKK MT800 and MT-900 Mobile
	TEKK MT-800 VHF or MT-900 mobile is the ideal companion for the GT Series portable. A built in scrambler is standard.  Part # MT-800/900	$299
	Accessories for TEKK mobiles
	Base station microphone for TEKK mobiles Part # BSM-800 Base station power supply for TEKK mobiles Part # PBS-10	$69 $89
	PC Programming Kit for MT-800 and MT-900
	Windows compatible PC programming kit with software and cable for MT-800 and MT-900 Part # PG900M	$99

Shipping is not included.  Add $11 for first radio and $5 for each additional radio.  Shipping is FREE on accessories when ordered with radio(s).  When ordering, please fax your programming information to 205.853.6178. 

Motorola GR1225 Series

The Motorola GR1225 is our best base station radio.  The GR1225 has a self contained power supply and is supplied with a desk microphone.  The feature that sets the GR1225 apart from all others is the ability to be converted to a repeater when your needs change.  When you are ready to upgrade to repeater capability, just add a duplexer, reprogram, and you are good to go!  The GR1225 is available in two models - the standard model with adjustable power from 1 - 10 watts.  The HP model can be adjusted for power outputs of 25 - 45 watts with your choice of VHF or UHF.  This is an excellent choice with up to 16 channel capability, up to 45 watts of power, plus all the features of the Patriot and more.  Technical specifications for the GR1225 are available by clicking here. Our direct on line pricing for the Motorola GR1225 is as follows:

All fixed stations must be licensed - period, no exceptions, ever, for anybody except one.  The MURS (Multi Use Radio Service) is available for anyone to use - business, personal or public safety.  Five frequencies are available in the VHF 150 - 154 MHz band for fixed station, mobile, handheld or paging use.  Additional information is available by clicking here.

External Antenna and cable Systems

Most on-site communications systems do not require an external antenna system.  For those who require extended range we offer the following choices.

Base antennas & cable	Item	Description	Price
	Antenex Model FG1523	Antenex model FG1523 fiberglass omni directional VHF base station antenna.150-174 MHz 3db gain  (5 dB UHF) Gold Fiberglass Base Station antennas are collinear designs enclosed in a high density fiberglass, which is covered with a protective ultraviolet inhibiting coating. Mounting bracket set model FM2 included.  Oversize UPS shipping charges will apply. Part number AT107.	$209
	Decibel Model DB-224	Decibel Products DB-224 is a 5.25 db exposed dipole base station antenna used for maximum range.  A UHF model is also available at the same price with a 10.0 omni-directional gain.   Mounting bracket for standard 2" pipe included. Oversize shipping charges will apply. Shipping weight approximately 50 lbs.  Shipping by Motor carrier only. Part Number AT108.	$749
	Cable Kits RG213 Heliax 1/2"	We offer two cable kits.  For lengths of up to 100', we offer low loss RG213 with dual Type N connectors at a cost of $1.50 per foot.  For lengths over 100', we recommend the ultra low loss 1/2" Heliax cable at a cost of $3.00 per foot plus $50 for connectors (Type N normally provided although other connectors can be supplied on request. Part number AT109.	RG213 - 100' w/connectors @ $150 Heliax -  100' w/connectors @ $350

Note:  Other accessories may be required for installation.  If the antenna is to be mounted on an existing tower, a side mount bracket may be required.  The Antenex antenna can be installed on a CB/TV type mast since it weighs only 3 lbs and is approximately 6' in height.  The DB-224 is approximately 20' high and weighs approximately 40 lbs.  This antenna is designed for mounting on a commercial grade tower such as the Rohn #25G. If you have any questions, please send us an email at sales@falcondirect.com or call (205) 854-2611.

Base Station Accessories

Base station accessories	Item	Description	Price
	Polyphaser	The Polyphaser provides lightning protection on the transmission cable. Direct lightning strike damage caused by entry through the antenna feed line is greatly reduced by adding this device. Part number AT110.	$69
	UPS Surge Protection	Our new Sy-Com surge protector provides protection for both AC outlets and phone lines plus UPS battery back-up for critical application equipment such as PC's telephone switches, or anything else you need protected for sags, spikes, surges, and even lightning!  Part number AT111.	$99
	Paging Encoder	The P1000 paging encoder can be connected to any of our base station to provide the ability to selectively call up to 999 individual pagers, with or without group call. Custom installation cable for selected radio is included. Part number AT112/	$349

Post Sale Service Plans

Customer is responsible for return to Icom, Midland, Ritron, TEKK, or other manufacturer as applicable during warranty term  (Motorola pays shipping both ways).  If you wish, defective radio(s) can be dropped off to Falcon Direct who ships to the applicable manufacturer and returns to customer ($35 charge).  Falcon can also provide a loaner radio (model may be different than customer radio) by adding $40. Next Day Exchange (N.D.E.) provides a replacement radio  (same model type) within 24 hours.  Falcon sends UPS call tag to pick up defective unit and pays for all shipping.  Cost is $29 on the Ritron Patriot radios or TEKK MT Series. The cost is $178 annually on the Motorola GR1225.   After the warranty period, there is a choice of time and materials shop service, flat rate repair, or annual contract plans.  See chart below for applicable charges.  Prices include standard ground shipping via UPS.

* Note:  Flat rate repair service is not available on Base/Repeaters over 50 watts.  Repair cost on a time and material basis would be calculated at $80 per hour plus parts and shipping.  Add $.80 per mile one way from our shop to your location if on-site service is desired.  Damage caused by lightning, floods, or misuse is not covered under either warranty or Next Day Exchange plans.

Thanks for visiting with us.  If we can be of service in any way, please call us locally at 205.854.2611 or nationwide toll free at 1.800.489.2611.  If you prefer, email sales@falcondirect.com, or fax 205.853.6178.  Better yet, come see us!

User information.  Products sold by Falcon Direct are warranted to be technically compliant with the manufacturers specifications.  No other warranty relative to use of the equipment or related service, when applicable, is expressed or implied.  Falcon Direct makes no claim for suitability or fitness of users purpose or application.  Falcon Direct is not responsible for claims arising from the use of equipment or services provided by or through Falcon Direct in which there are losses attributed to the use or application of equipment and/or related services.  User agrees to these terms as a condition of purchase.

                             36 - 20th Avenue NW- Birmingham, AL 35215 - Phone 205.854.2611 - Toll Free 800.489.2611

Copyright 2005 - Falcon Direct, Inc.
This page was last updated on 04/07/2006