MARCS Frequently Asked Questions
MARCS (Multi-Agency Radio Communication System) is an 800 MHz voice and data network that utilizes state-of-the-art trunked technology to provide statewide interoperability in digital clarity to its subscribers throughout Ohio and a 10 mile radius outside of Ohio.
- What will it cost my agency to be a MARCS subscriber?
MARCS subscribers are responsible for purchasing and maintaining their own equipment. Motorola, Inc. is on state term schedule and subscribers can receive 20-25% off Motorola list prices on equipment.
MARCS subscription rates are based upon annual fees running parallel with the state of Ohio fiscal year, July 1 through June 30. Fees are based upon the type of units the subscriber has activated. Rates are as follows:
| Portable or Mobile Radio |
$240.00 per unit/per year |
| Control Station |
$480.00 per unit/per year |
The MARCS data network supports mobile data terminals and computer aided dispatch for state agencies. Rates for data subscriber units are as follows:
| Mobile Data Terminal |
$4,200.00 per unit/per year |
| Computer Aided Dispatch |
$21,000.00 per unit/per year |
MARCS is in the beta testing phase of a limited resource mobile data service for local agencies. More information will be made available at a later date.
Funding may be available via federal grants, appropriations, and bonding. The MARCS office encourages you to seek this funding to support your daily and emergency communications.
- What evidence is available showing the MARCS network works?
The minimum requirement for coverage was set at 97.5% for mobile coverage. While there is no guarantee of portable coverage, it has been found that the level of portable coverage usually surpasses that experienced with conventional analog systems.
Franklin, Cuyahoga, Hamilton and Montgomery counties also have 97.5% portable in street coverage through enhancements built into those counties. MARCS personnel will work with any agency to assess coverage needs and achieve specific requirements.
- Who maintains the radio equipment after purchase?
The subscriber is responsible for their own radio equipment maintenance after purchase.
- How can an agency become a MARCS customer?
Each MARCS customer must submit a MARCS Radio Use Agreement to the MARCS Program Office. Interested agencies may contact the MARCS Program Office to obtain details on specific steps the subscriber must take to become a MARCS customer.
- I just received an invoice and have some questions. Who do I contact?
Invoices for MARCS subscription fees are generated through the OIT Business Office (Office of Information Technology). The contact at the business office is Chris Murdock, 614-752-4693. You may also e-mail Chris at chris.murdock@ohio.gov.
If you prefer to speak to someone in the MARCS office, you may contact Teri Steward at 614-995-3526. You may also e-mail Teri at teri.steward@ohio.gov.
Many of our customers have been asking to make payment of MARCS services via credit card. The DAS/OIT business office now has the capability of accepting credit card payments. In order to accept your payment, the business office needs to know the agency name, contact name/phone number/e-mail and fax# and invoice number. Once they have that information, they will contact you (within 2 business days) and obtain the credit card information. You can complete the MARCS Credit Card Payment Request form and submit it to business office via fax (614-644-4887) or e-mail (phil.hacker@ohio.gov).
- Who is responsible for maintenance and repair of the MARCS network?
The MARCS Program office is responsible for oversight, maintenance and repair of the MARCS network. This work is funded through the subscription fees.
- What are the advantages of joining MARCS over building a stand-alone system?
The MARCS system is the soundest investment for your agency’s radio communication needs.
One of the benefits current subscribers recognize immediately is the clarity in which transmissions are sent and received. In addition, the MARCS system’s 97.5% mobile voice coverage speaks for itself. This kind of coverage and clarity could not be realized with a conventional analog system.
The MARCS Program office is your full service two-way radio communication solution. The MARCS office has staff members who can assist you in:
- Ordering the equipment to best suit your needs through discounted state term contract
- Talkgroup template design and programming your radios
- Training for your staff at no additional cost
You get all these benefits at no additional cost to you.
The MARCS system is an 800 MHz digital, trunked system and has been recognized as one of the premier public safety two-way radio communication systems.
- System Upgrades at No Cost to the End Use
The MARCS program office and management is constantly working to keep up with technology and enhancements. The system was built APCO Project 25 capable so future enhancements could be made. The end user does not have to pay any additional funds for these upgrades. The subscription fees are used to upgrade the system.
MARCS provides interoperability between local, county and state agencies. Currently, there are a number of federal agencies located in Ohio who have opted for the MARCS system for a means of filling their interoperability needs. This interoperability is achieved by simply changing talkgroups. The user friendly programming makes it easy for all users to be able to communicate with any other user in the state by simply pressing a button.
- Outstanding Radio Coverage
The MARCS system was designed to provide a minimum of 97.5% mobile radio coverage throughout the entire state of Ohio and a 10 mile radius. Although this level of portable coverage is not guaranteed through most of the state, enhancements in Franklin, Cuyahoga, Hamilton and Montgomery counties provide 97.5% portable in street coverage. Users have found portable radio coverage in the remaining counties usually exceeds that of systems they are accustomed to using.
- 24 x 7 x 365 System Support
The MARCS system has a Network Operations Center (NOC) monitoring the system and dispatching service and support as needed. With MARCS having this system and this level of support in place, each user pays a minimum. This service is included in your normal subscription rates, saving your thousands of dollars in maintenance calls, parts, staffing, etc.
- Is there a contract associated with becoming a MARCS subscriber?
There is no contract agreement with the MARCS program office, however you are strongly encouraged to make a two year commitment in order to realize the full benefit of being a MARCS subscriber.
- I need to be absolutely sure my agency’s talkgroups are not available to other MARCS users. How can I be sure my agency’s talkgroups are not being compromised?
The MARCS office maintains all talkgroup templates, hex codes, etc. in a secure database. Your talkgroups are only shared when we have a written letter signed by the owning agency’s director outlining precisely what talkgroup they wish to share and whom they wish to share it with.
- How can I find out what I need to do to make my MARCS radio work for the
anticipated rebanding efforts?
Paul Mayer, MARCS Frequency Coordinator, can address your specific questions regarding Ohio’s rebanding efforts. Please contact Paul at paul.mayer@oit.ohio.gov.
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