Post Processing with a GeoExplorer3 GPS

Collecting features with any Global Positioning System (GPS) unit can be beneficial and interesting. Most people encounter GPS units after all the data collecting and processing is complete. We are here to show you the initial stages of collecting navigation points, of course, on a much smaller scale.  The Trimble GPS unit that we used for this project is the GeoExplorer 3.This hand-held GPS unit can receive and collect data for relocation, mapping, and other data collecting with multiple navigation screens.

The two programs we used for this project were:

1. Pathfinder Office , a software program designed for data exporting/importing, mission planning, post processing, and other data analysis.

2. ArcGIS, a program designed to create layers that allow you to distinguish between the correct points and the actual points.

Note: For these specific instructions, we used these two programs because we had the most experience with them. These instructions may not work the same for other programs. If you do use these programs, we do hope our instructions are efficient and effective.

The following instructions are to aid you in transmitting your collected data as well as post-processing all or your files in Pathfinder Office and ArcGIS. We hope our instructions help you out in the best ways possible. Good Luck!

Step 1 Transmitting Collected Data Instructions: Steps 1-2

The following steps will assist you in uploading your data to a computer once you have collected your desired points using a GeoExplorer3 GPS unit.

1. Place the GeoExplorer3 GPS unit, containing your collected data, into the module cradle.

2. Connect the cradle to the back of your computer.
  
Note: The GeoExplorer3 uses a COM1 PORT, but other units may use a USB drive. Consult your user guide for the proper PORT.