GPS Datums?
Submitted: Tuesday, Mar 08, 2005 at 21:56
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Big Woody
Hi Guys,
Which datum do most people use on their GPS for sharing co-ordinates?
Up until now I have always used WGS-84 as this is the datum that most of the locals in the
Bundaberg area use for sharing our fishing spots. I have had one guy supply his co-ordinates using WGS-66 but he is the only one. I am just interested to know if there is a most common datum that is used by the majority and also if it varies depending on where you go in the country?
Cheers,
Brett
Reply By: Member - Michael- Tuesday, Mar 08, 2005 at 22:12
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2005 at 22:12
Stay with WGS-84
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AnswerID:
101635
Reply By: Mad Dog (Australia) - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2005 at 22:30
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2005 at 22:30
WGS-84 appears to be very common. Your GPS should be set to the same datum as the map you're using. The most important thing is to give the datum along with coordinates when sharing. GPS users should have the ability to convert between datums using the GPS or PC. Set your gps to the same datum as given, enter the position then change back to the datum of the map you're using.....the conversion will be done.
AnswerID:
101638
Follow Up By: Big Woody - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 22:33
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 22:33
Thanks Mad Dog,
As my GPS is a Map series Garmin, I usually only have to use the maps that I have loaded into the GPS itself so it does not matter which datum I use but I would like to stay with the most common datum that will make it more simple to share data with others.
Brett
FollowupID:
359685
Reply By: Nudenut - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 07:48
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 07:48
one must look at the map to see what it has been configured to...most are WGS 84 but it all depends on how old your maps are....
AnswerID:
101680
Reply By: Pluto - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 08:40
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 08:40
Yhe most important thing when sharing GPS waypoints is that the datum is specified. However, to ensure the data can beshared without problem, use WGS84, because all GPS units recognise this datum. Most currently available units will recognise AGD66 but you can't be certain of that.
AnswerID:
101687
Reply By: Tuco - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 11:18
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 11:18
Click the link and all will be explained.
Tuco
AnswerID:
101712
Follow Up By: Big Woody - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 22:49
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 22:49
Thanks Tuco,
That is great info. The only problem is now I am more confused. It seems GDA94 might be the way of the future. Had a quick look at my list of datums to choose from (about 60 of them) and I have GDA but not GDA94. Does anyone know if it is the same?
Cheers,
Brett
FollowupID:
359695
Follow Up By: Mad Dog (Australia) - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 22:56
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 22:56
Woody, there's only a few centimetres difference between wgs84 and gda94, close enough for the average user.
FollowupID:
359700
Reply By: Bonz (Vic) - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 16:59
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 16:59
I use ITRF as WGS-84 is only accurate to 2-3 metres at best. ITRF is accurate to a few centimetres. Much better.
AnswerID:
101779
Follow Up By: Mad Dog (Australia) - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 17:16
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 17:16
yep, you should be able to find your car easily enough with that. accuracy. For a few cm accuracy you must have some fancy gear like my mate with Barwon Water.
FollowupID:
359612
Follow Up By: Bonz (Vic) - Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 17:19
Wednesday, Mar 09, 2005 at 17:19
DGPS and WAAS whenever it turns up in OZ gets me down that low Ray. Sometimes however it only locates the left front wheel and after that I am on my own.
FollowupID:
359613