Cost of intelligent magic items

[D'arandriel]

Are the costs for intelligent magic items added to the base costs for an item or are the standard costs of the item assumed to be included in the costs of the intelligent item? For example, if I had an item that could cast a 1st level spell (CL 1) three times per day, the normal cost would be (1 x 1 x 1800) / 5/3 = 1080 gp. An intelligent item with this ability would be 1200 gp. Is the total cost 1200 gp or 2280 gp (1080 + 1200)?

I know there are other costs involved (such as the 500 gp increase just for being an intelligent item). For this conversation, I am only concerned about the intelligent item power costs.

[TheGuyOverThere9888]

I think the item creation rules specify how much intelligent item abilities cost. If I remember correctly the ability to cast 1 lv 1 spell 3/day is on that list as you point out 1200gp. It seems to me that only the 1200 is required.

Further, the item would need to be masterwork and would need a casting score of 11 or better. (200gp)

I think the difference in price has to do with activating the ability. Remember, an intelligent item determines independent of the PC if it will act. That is to say, the item may help you...or not. And if it does act such action does not expend any PC action.