The VHF version of Tait's advanced new TB8100 base station has now been released for sale worldwide, with the 800MHz version to follow next month.

Product Group Manager Infrastructure, Mark Gallagher says the UHF version of the TB8100, launched last year, has quickly earned a reputation as the world's most advanced analogue base station.

"There is significant international demand for VHF base stations, so we are pleased to be extending the range," says Mr Gallagher.

The TB8100 is a software flexible base station that is easily applied to a wide range of applications. It features intuitive PC-based programming, an advanced power management system with four power supply options, comprehensive remote control and diagnostics, a robust and modular design, and even has its own internal test instruments.

"The TB8100 is intelligent at its core," says Mr Gallagher. "This means that we can add customer requested features to this product range.

"For example, a new TB8100 feature, scheduled to be released before the end of the year, is a Computer Control Interface (CCI). The CCI will enable third-party system integrators to develop their own applications that remotely monitor and control a network of TB8100 base stations via a single RS232 port."

UHF Base Stations Gaining Favour

The UHF version of the TB8100 has proved particularly popular. One early customer is Vertel in Australia. It has used 35 TB8100 base stations in its ten-site trunked radio network in South East Queensland.

Managing Director Fred Van Tuinen says the TB8100s were chosen for the joint venture public access system because of their high performance and the longevity they would provide for the network.

"TB8100 is one of the newest MPT 1327 capable bases on the market," says Mr Van Tuinen. "The TB8100 is the future, and it keeps our options open particularly for the possibilities of upgrading to digital radio.

"We wanted the best. This is delivering customers superior network reliability and performance. They have commented to us that the quality of audio they are receiving on the network is very high."

For the fully story on the Vertel trunked radio system, see the latest Tait Oceania Update newsletter.