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ArcGIS Field Maps is an app within ArcGIS Online that allows for data collection with mobile devices - smartphones, iPads, or GPS equipment. It can accommodate group projects and data that needs to be collected with high accuracy.
Field Maps is still a new application, so it is constantly changing! Occasionally, you will see new or beta releases in ArcGIS Online. If there are multiple version (regular & beta version), feel free to experiment with either option.
What resources do we have on campus for GPS equipment?
What resources do we have on campus for GPS equipment?
There are 2 types of GPS units that you may encounter when working on projects at St. Olaf:
High Precision Units - only needed for projects that might be working with elevation or terrain:
Trimble Geo7x (far left picture) and GeoXH (middle picture)
2 - 4 meter accuracy - recommended option for most projects:
Trimble TDC600 (Android OS - far right picture)
Using the Trimble TDC600
Using the Trimble TDC600
The Trimble TDC600 is recommended for most GPS data collection projects on the St. Olaf College campus. This android OS unit is able to connect directly to ArcGIS Online and pairs well with ArcGIS Field Maps. Multiple users can collect and upload data to a shared project from the field.
An ArcGIS Online account on the St. Olaf College ArcGIS Online site is required to use the TDC600 with Field Maps. If you don't have an Online account, visit the Getting Started page for more information.
For more information on using this unit for projects, check out the ArcGIS Field Maps page.
Using the R2 GNSS Receiver
Using the R2 GNSS Receiver
**This documentation is specifically for the R2 GNSS receivers for Environmental Studies. IT does not currently have an R2 available for checkout.**
In some cases, you may be using the R2 GNSS receiver along with the TDC600. This receiver can increase the accuracy of the GPS unit to sub-decimeter.
Please note: The R2 is compatible with devices that have a bluetooth connection. This antenna is NOT compatible with the Geo7x or GeoXH.
Using the Trimble Geo7x or GeoXH
Using the Trimble Geo7x or GeoXH
Getting Started
Getting Started
Read the Trimble Setup doc before starting work on any of the high precision units! These units are only needed for projects that study terrain and elevation. They require multiple steps for setup and data upload.
Trimble SetupGeneral Guidelines
General Guidelines
The GPS units should be able to handle most fieldwork, but there are a couple of tips to keep in mind:
If there is bad weather it is not recommended to take the units outside.
The units should be stored in a secure space (they are very expensive) - some of the equipment is not really replaceable without purchasing a whole new unit. Please handle with care.
Wear close-toed shoes - the end of the antenna pole is very sharp!
Please note - due to the age of these units, there may be some scenarios where we have limited troubleshooting capabilities if something goes wrong. We will do our best to develop a workaround for the problem in these cases!
Uploading the Dictionary
Uploading the Dictionary
Once the Data Dictionary is finished - save and upload to the unit using an SD card.
*5/31/2022 Update to this video* The Trimble units will no longer take an SD card that is a micro + adapter, so we will include USB adapters in the Trimble case that will work for a computer. Trimble units will only take regular SD cards only.
Check the time on the GPS unit before uploading the SD card - if the time is off, take the unit outside (antenna not needed) and give it a few minutes to detect satellites. This will sync the unit up and refresh the time.
Transferring Data with an SD Card
Transferring Data with an SD Card
Windows 10 and later are not compatible with some workflows in TerraSync and GPS Pathfinder. Use an SD card to transfer data from the device to the computer.
Post Processing GNSS Data in Trimble
Post Processing GNSS Data in Trimble
Correct data collected in the field to make it even more accurate.
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