The magnetic desktop base only lets you use the key detached from the radio on a desktop or on any metallic surface that the magnets in the bottom of the base can hold on to Four strong magnets at the bottom of the base can hold it securely on many metallic surfaces. The combined weight of the key and the base is about half a pound - so, if you have a heavy hand and no metallic surface for the magnets, you can use the mounting holes in the base to secure it in place.