NCSU Libraries GPS Device Lending
Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx | Garmin StreetPilot c550
NCSU Libraries has 14 Garmin 60CSx GPS handheld units available for students, faculty, and staff to check out for a two week period.
The GPS units can be somewhat complicated to use at first if you are not familiar with them. It is highly recommended that you read the documentation that comes with each unit or the PDF's below:
Additionally, an Instructional DVD is available for viewing in the Learning Commons.
Potential uses for the GPS units include collecting field data, geocaching, route navigation, orienteering, and many other applications. With these units, you can keep track of where you are, including your elevation, find your way to a specified location, and determine your direction and speed.
To work, the units must be able to connect to at least 3 satellites. The units work best outdoors with a clear view of the sky. They also reportedly work fine in heavy forest canopy and inside vehicles. However, they will not work inside buildings or locations heavily surrounded by tall buildings or mountain clifs, inside caves, and such.
The stated accuracy of the GPS units is < 10 meters (33 feet) 95% of the time. When WAAS enabled (recommended), the accuracy is 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) 95% of the time. To WAAS enable the unit, use the Page button to go to the Main Menu. Then select Setup -> System -> WAAS/EGNOS -> Enabled.
While in North America, the recommended "Position Format" or coordinate system setting is hddd.ddddd° and Map Datum should be set to NAD 83 or WGS 84. To check these settings, use the Page button to go to the Main Menu. Then select Setup -> Units.
NCSU Libraries has 5 Garmin StreetPilot c550 GPS navigation units available for students, faculty, and staff to check out for a two week period.
These units have a touch screen interface designed for ease of use. Just enter your destination and the c550 will show you the way with 2D or 3D maps and spoken turn-by-turn directions. In the event of a traffic alert or missed turn, the unit will recalculate your route automatically.
Please read the documentation that comes with each unit or the PDF's below for detailed information:
The c550 comes preloaded with City Navigator(R) NT street maps and a points of interest (POIs) database including hotels, fueling stations, and ATMs. Additionally, the c550 allows you to create and upload custom POIs using Garmin's POI Loader.
To update your c550 software and maps, download Garmin's WebUpdater and connect the c550 to your computer with the USB cable. Upon confirmation, WebUpdater will automatically download and install any available updates.
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