New StablePower System improves performance and saves money!

Here's something that will
have YOU jumping for joy!

We recently received a call from one of our customers asking if we had a good battery backup system for his base radios and repeater. He had been using Astron RS-20BB power supplies with 12 volt automotive batteries for backup. This is what many of our other customers have been doing as a common practice for many years. The problem is that a continuous charge on the batteries ultimately burns them up and when they are needed, they are either dead or operating at reduced capacity.

Our customer suggested that if we were half as smart as we say, that we would come up with a better alternative. So we did, and we are delighted to share the results with other 2-way radio users who may have the same problem. Actually, we had the answer all the time, we just didn't realize what a problem this had been for so many people for such a long time. Here is our solution!

The first thing we did was completely reverse traditional thinking relative to the operation of 12 volt DC radios from 110 volt AC power. The device most commonly used for this purpose, known as a "Power Supply" converts AC power to DC power. There are two types of these devices. The most popular is the Astron RS-20BB since it has the ability to charge a remote battery and switch to battery power in the event of AC power failure. The second type is known as a "switching" power supply which simply means it "idles" until needed. Unfortunately, this type power supply is very susceptible to variances in AC line voltage (surges, spikes, and sags) as well as lightning. AC line surge protection is always recommended for both power supply types.

We reasoned that a number of problems would go away if we operated the radio directly from DC power. After all, the radio is designed to operate from 12 volts DC (a few models operate from 24 volts DC). Instead of using a "car battery" that is really not designed for backup power applications, we concluded that the better and more attractive choice would be the same type used in large UPS's. Batteries such as the PowerSonic PS-12100 are UL recognized with spill proof construction and valve regulation to allow operation in any position. So, we built our system around a pair of PS-12100 batteries which eliminates sag, surge, and spike damage to the radio caused by variance in AC line voltage. The problem with batteries, even good ones, is that they eventually must be charged. We addressed this requirement by sourcing an outstanding 12 volt SmartCharger that monitors batteries for optimal charging and maintenance. Indicator lights provide a visual display of battery condition and battery polarity protection is standard. Like the batteries, these units are UL approved.

The difference between the SmartCharger and a Power Supply is that the SmartCharger, actually a DuraComm Model SC-12 is not connected to the radio. It connects only to the battery. When the battery reaches a low voltage condition, the SC-12 applies a 7.2 amp charge rate to quickly bring the batteries back up to a charged condition, then automatically shut off. The radio is fully isolated from the AC line at all times, fully protected from all the bad things that can happen to the AC power circuit. Better yet, the batteries last MUCH longer since they are "exercised" by the SmartCharger rather than being subjected to constant charging.

The initial cost compares favorably with using a power supply and vehicle batteries. You can assume the cost of a standard power supply such as the Astron RS-20BB to be around $125. Throw in the cost of a pair of batteries at $50 each and $25 to make up some cables and you are looking at a cost of around $275. On average, you will burn up your batteries every year or two. Compare that to our StablePower System (that's what we call it) priced at $275. The initial cost is basically equal. The difference with StablePower is that you can expect your batteries to typically last twice as long (or more) than conventional AC charging systems. With the StablePower System, you will have power when needed and you can save a LOT of money!

For remote repeater stations, the aforementioned package is all you need. In an office environment, you may want to enclosed the charger and batteries in a cabinet for aesthetic purposes. For another $89, we will provide an attractive and durable storage cabinet for housing the StablePower system. The cabinet is made of high impact scratch and dent resistant resin. Measuring 30-3/8"W x 20-1/4"D x 36-3/8"H, this cabinet has a locking latch at the bottom and adjustable shelves.

Now - is there anything else we can do to make the StablePower System even better? As a matter of fact, there is! If you have a remote repeater station, you need to know when there has been a power failure so you can plan accordingly. But, how do you know when the power has failed without being there? The answer is a Falcon Direct exclusive product known as the ACR-JR (AC Reporter - Junior).

The AC Reporter Jr. plugs into any AC outlet. In the event of a power failure, it sends a short message via a VHF or UHF radio to alert the user. Normally, this unit transmits as a "mobile" through an associated repeater when power fails. It is assumed that the associated repeater or base station switches to battery backup and/or generator in the event of a power failure. Additional information is available at www.falcondirect.com/ACR

AC Reporter, Jr.

Frequency range - VHF 150-165 MHz or UHF 450-470 MHz
CTCSS, DCS
Channel spacing - 25 or 12.5 kHz
120 mW transmitter
AC wall adapter included
Size - 5.25" X 5.25" X 2.5"
Weight - 1 lb. excluding batteries, antenna & AC adaptor
Programmable voice message to notify you of failed AC power
Second set of contacts available
Operates from 6 AA batteries when power fails
Weather resistant housing and flex antenna included
Factory Warranty - 1 year parts and labor
Made in the United States of America

VHF Model
Our Price
$349
AC100

UHF Model
Our Price
$349
AC400

Magnetic door sensors for use with ACR100 or ACR400. Attaches to door frame and door with wires for connection to ACR unit. Easy to install.
$50

Portable phone with tone/pulse dial selector switch for use in programming ACR100 or ACR400 voice reporting devices. Complete instructions provided. Note: Actual unit may not be exactly as shown as these units are purchased on the open market from available inventories.

$25

A wide range of accessories is available for the AC Reporter. Call us at 1.800.489.2611 or email sales@falcondirect.com for additional information.

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.

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The Falcon Team
At your Service!

Falcon Direct, Inc.   -   36 - 20th Avenue NW - Birmingham, AL     -    Phone 1.800.489.2611