Hello, This is my first topic. I am excited. I have been a lurker for a long time. Any way… I was at the nearshore reef and tried the Sea Tow automated radio check. I was able to transmit far enough to get the automated response. Play back was so garbled, I am not sure it would have helped in an emergency situation. My Lowrance Link-8 Is registered with an MMSI number, and connected through my NMEA network to my HDS9. I do believe the distress signal would be strong enough to help in an emergency, just wondering if others with similar setups are getting the same results. Thanks in advance.
The ARC system is designed for “clarity” checks and not “distance” checks. The intended range is the greater I526 beltline including, Elliott cut, end of jetties, Iop conn to complete the perimeter.
The NR is just out of our range as designed.
In case you were wondering, the “garbled” response is what you sound like from the NR to the I526 Wando bridge at an attenae height of 53’ for the ARC system. That distance is approximately 13.5 linear miles over land strucure with obstacles blocking VHF signals. Remember that most 8’ VHF antennaes are designed to produce clear transmissions at or near to 20 miles(line of sight) with a standard marine vhf 25 watt radio. I’m not a radio expert but this is what was taught to all Sea Tow operators when the ARC was introduced.
I’m glad it is working for you and our marine community. It has removed several hundred weekend day “radio checks” from channel 16 freeing the airwaves for clear comms for individuals needing the air to communicate back to shore from long offshore spots without being inadvertly “stepped-on” by someone performing a harbor radio check.
It costs the local Sea tow franchises a lot of money each year but is well worth it!
Have a safe Independence Day, as always we’ll be…
Standing by
Very cool service offered by Sea tow. Frees up 16 for its intended purpose. Understanding that the nearshore reef is just out of the intended service area, I am pleased with my 4’ Metz mounted to my console. Anywhere I have tried inshore,clarity has been perfect. Thanks for your response and another great service offered by Sea Tow Charleston.
Take A Kid Fishing
If something were to happen at the nearshore reef, just swim to the closest boat.
Scout 185
Thanks to Sea Tow for the auto-radio check. Good job. Plus we appreciate your “being there”. We all hope not to call, but are confident you will come if we must.
Roger
What channel does this take place on
Charleston City Papers Best Guide of 2014