geocach16

When projecting a waypoint, whole degrees must be specified. For example, you must say 088. To circumvent that limitation, I projected a waypoint at 088 degrees and also 089 degrees at a certain distance. My distance between P088 and P089 was 6 feet. If the actual direction was 88 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds, you could multiply 20/60 of a degree times 6 feet to get 2 feet. Then, project a new waypoint 2 feet south from P088. That's about the best you can do. Again, all the projections done to match a survey drawing is dependent upon the validity of the initial GPS reading which established the starting point. It requires luck and good fortune to get started accurately. I found great satisfaction in having a 0-1 foot match with the survey drawing distances. There may be limited value in the exercise, but it was fun anyway.

First, I choose UTM rather than the various forms of Degrees, because it offers the smallest distance you can express. Now to the main question. I am convinced the Internal Precision of the device is better than what you can enter from the outside world. Under Units, make sure Statute is selected. Ideally, your Projected Waypoint is in whole degrees. Select Ft, rather than Miles, while on the Projection screen. Now, you can express the distance in feet as xxx.xx. For example, you can say 127.35 feet at 088 degrees. I am able to be within 0-1 feet for the many survey points on my property when comparing the GPS distances with the survey drawing distances. Of course, you must establish the GPS provided starting point carefully, and Average the location many times. Then you can begin projecting your way points with more confidence. Trimble offers a free Planning utility where you can see the hourly DOP (Dilution of Precision) for your exact location. Select the very best times to take your initial base reading. Bill Tecumseh