What is the
System?
The MARIE System is a UHF
repeater and two meter remote base that is interconnected with
full-duplex links. The system was built by a group of friends
who wanted a radio system which was reliable and which had coverage
in El Paso and Southern New Mexico. The machine is
currently connected to the Cactus Intertie System (Thru Caballo) and The
Armadillo Intertie system (Thru an RF Link to Dark Canyon).
The Systems cover
large portions of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada,
Utah and Texas. Work has been recently completed on
our North East El Paso Repeater which via port 1 is
connected to the Armadillo Intertie & Intertie Inc. systems
in East Texas via a Raytheon NXU-2 Network Extension unit.
Work is ongoing to establish a DRIL link to Cactus via the
Jacks Peak Group at Jack's Peak so that we have some
redundant links both East and West. as we continue to search for and activate an alternate East bound RF link
to Armadillo Intertie Inc. in East Texas and Intertie Inc. in Southeast
Texas.
Who operates the
System?
MARIE is a privately owned
and operated system. The MARIE System is a members only
system. Due to it's complexity everyone is considered
a control operator.
What kind of person
uses the MARIE System?
Amateur Radio may be for
everyone but MARIE isn't. We are selective about our members
because we want a system that is enjoyable to operate, not one
where there is always controversy. Our members are generally
good friends and have been for many years. We socialize
with each other at all levels, not just on Ham Radio. We generally
seek individuals who:
- Will participate in
the system more than just by talking on it.
- Are capable of making
technical, financial, or other contributions for the benefit
of the organization.
- Are generally technologically-oriented
or work in a technologically-oriented field.
- Are enthusiastic about
MARIE, Cactus & Armadillo objectives.
- Take a professional
approach to an amateur avocation.
- Are socially compatible
with other members of the organization.
What does the group
expect from its members?
Participation
Members are encouraged
to participate in group activities. One of the main reasons
the system was built was so the members could organize social
gatherings.
Financial support
Members are expected to
support the group financially. This stuff is expensive
- if you use it, you should help pay for it. By the same
token, this is one of the main reasons the system is closed
- it's not fair to the people who paid for it to have people
who didn't using the system.
Contribution
Members are encouraged
to make a contribution to the system other than just talking
on it. There's always something you can do to make the
system better for everyone.
Compliance
Members are expected to
comply with a few simple rules about how the system is used
and controlled. This includes informing non-members/visitors
that the system is for members and invited guests use only.
Non-Members interested in membership should contact a current
member to discuss membership.
Enthusiasm
We want the members to
be enthusiastic about the system and its goals.
Reliability
Members should be reliable.
If you say you'll do something, do it.
How does one become
a member?
Membership to the MARIE
System is by invitation only. You must be recommended,
in writing, by a current member who is willing to vouch for
your credentials.
Interested persons are
encouraged to listen to the system to decide if the activity
on the system fits their interests.
Interested persons should
get to know other members by attending group activities.
Demonstrate your desire to participate.
Express your interest by
contacting someone in the group.
Expect a reasonable time
for determination of member status. We need time to get to know
a candidate.
What are the objectives
for the future?
- Reliable linking of
Cactus and Armadillo Systems.
- Handheld coverage
in the immediate El Paso area.
- Quality, quiet, duplex
operation in areas covered.
- Positive remote control
of the site.
- Consistent and known
system architecture.
- DRIL link into the
Armadillo System.
- Southeastern RF link
into the Armadillo system.
- Continued cooperation
with the Cactus & Armadillo Intertie Systems.
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