PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi + PR-BMK: A Better-Value UHF Antenna Setup
, by Jesus Moraga, 3 min reading time
A wider UHF operating range and a lower combined price make the PR antenna and mount a practical alternative to the FG4500 and FM2.
For many fixed-site UHF radio systems, the Purchase Radios PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi antenna and PR-BMK mounting kit offer a more economical setup with broader frequency coverage than the TE Connectivity FG4500 and FM2 combination. The antennas have similar gain, so the key advantages are frequency flexibility, component cost, and the PR antenna’s higher power-handling rating.
- Shop the PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi antenna
- Shop the PR-BMK mounting kit
- Explore the higher-gain DB404-B antenna
How the PR combination compares
The PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi is an omnidirectional fiberglass base station antenna designed for UHF applications. Its 420–520 MHz operating range is substantially broader than the FG4500’s 450–470 MHz range, giving system designers more flexibility when selecting equipment for different UHF frequencies.
Both antennas provide approximately 2 dBi of gain. The PR antenna is rated for up to 150 watts of RF input power, while TE’s FG4500 datasheet specifies a 100-watt maximum at 25°C ambient temperature. The PR antenna is therefore worth considering when broader frequency coverage and higher power handling matter more than increased antenna gain.
| Feature | PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi + PR-BMK | FG4500 + FM2 |
|---|---|---|
| Antenna frequency range | 420–520 MHz | 450–470 MHz |
| Antenna gain | 2 dBi nominal | 2.15 dBi |
| Maximum antenna power rating | 150 W | 100 W |
| Mounting hardware | PR-BMK steel clamp kit | FM2 aluminum mounting kit |
| Current listed component prices | $84.99 + $19.99 | $94.95 + $39.99 |
| Combined listed price | $104.98 | $134.94 |
Prices are based on current Atlantic listings and may change. Confirm frequency, power, connector, and mounting requirements for the intended installation before ordering.
A mounting kit designed for the installation
The PR-BMK is the cross-reference replacement for E/M Wave’s EMBKT-BFG05 mounting kit. Its manufacturer datasheet lists compatibility with the EM-BFG11402-NJ antenna—the E/M Wave model associated with the PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi—and other specified base station antennas.
The kit includes two steel bracket assemblies with a Dacron finish and stainless-steel hardware. It is designed for a typical 1½-inch pipe mast and supports mast diameters up to 2 inches. The PR-BMK is sold separately from the antenna, so include both components when budgeting for the installation.
When a higher-gain antenna is the better choice
The PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi is a value-oriented option, not a higher-gain replacement. If greater antenna gain is the priority, consider the Purchase Radios DB404-B.
The DB404-B is listed with 5.9 dBi gain for 450–470 MHz operation and includes its DB365-OS mounting kit. Its higher gain may help improve coverage in a suitable installation, but actual communication range also depends on antenna height, terrain, obstructions, coaxial cable loss, radio power, and the receiving equipment. It is a different solution for customers whose priority is coverage performance rather than minimizing upfront component cost.
Choose the right UHF base antenna
For customers whose operating frequencies fall within 420–520 MHz, the PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi paired with the PR-BMK offers a cost-conscious alternative to the FG4500 and FM2. Its wider frequency range and higher rated power handling provide practical advantages, while its approximately 2 dBi gain remains comparable to the FG4500.
- Shop the PR-BASE-420-520-2dBi antenna
- Shop the PR-BMK mounting kit
- Shop the higher-gain DB404-B antenna
