The Purpose of M.A.R.C.

Essentially, the purpose of the Toronto Marine Amateur Radio Club is to provide a system of study and product implementation, which is compatible to the needs of the sailing community for wireless communication at sea, including, of course, fax, weather forecasts, and e-mail.  

The products that can be used are not only varied but, as technical development proceeds, can become increasingly complex both in purpose and cost.  One can choose the single side band transceiver whether marine or ham (necessitating the acquiring of a ham radio license).  Alternatives such as satellite phone can also provide similar communication facility at much greater cost.  Your needs, philosophy and pocketbook will contribute to the decision you make with respect to the equipment and course of study you choose.

Once you have chosen your equipment, there is also the very important matter of effective installation. Such matters as the the following must be taken into consideration:

• the  age of the vessel and it’s wiring

• the manner and design of the vessel's rigging

• whether the keel is encapsulated ... or not

Each application will depend on what is required to effect the most efficient ground plane platform for the purpose and communication products to be installed.