NCSU Libraries GPS Device Lending
NCSU Libraries has 14 Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx Global Positioning System (GPS) 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.
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