Etrex Garmin GPS Receiver Accuracy Testing

Abstract

Global Positioning System (GPS) is a system that helps users to determine their geographical position with sufficient accuracy. Accuracy of the obtained coordinates depends on number of parameters such as the type of GPS receiver used, and observation technique adopted. Since hand held GPS receivers are mainly manufactured for navigation purposes, sometimes users utilize these receivers for mapping purposes without knowing the accuracy of observed coordinates and suitability of collected data for particular mapping scale. Here, in this research work, EtrexGarmin hand held navigation GPS receiver was tested to evaluate its accuracy and justify suitability of its collected coordinates mapping purposes. Results showed that Etrex Garmin GPS receiver produces planimetric accuracy of 3.16m. On the other hand, the vertical accuracy above ellipsoid was found to be 7.68m. If topographic maps are intended to be produced, thenit has to take into account that linear accuracy that can be obtained with EtrexGarminGPS receiver is 8.30m.
DOI: 10.17762/ijritcc2321-8169.150558