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GPS Support

This page provides information regarding frequently answered questions for Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

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GPS FAQs

Q: The Garmin Map 76 goes blank with a line down the side of the screen during data collection; what is the solution to fix this?

A: This issue is related to the unit communicating with the WAAS satellites that were deployed in late 2006. The Garmin Map 76 needs the latest software version 4.00 installed to communicate correctly with these satellites.  The software update is available from Garmin here.

Q: Having difficulty lining up the 4-pin gray cable with the 4-pins on the back of the Garmin Map 76.  Do these wires need to be replaced?

A: The wires will not be replaced, there is nothing wrong with them.  They have been thoroughly reviewed and measured and are exactly to specifications.  Following are some issues that users should be aware of: (1) The alignment of the plug to the port must be exact - it is possible to insert the plug mis-aligned but that will result in broken pins.  This requirement is no different than the Garmin PC plug.  (2) The plug is made from a different material than the port - therefore there will be some friction that may give the user the idea that something is not right.  Insertion/extraction a couple of dozen times improves the workability.  (3) The receptacles inside the plugs are tight - this was done to provide a margin of safety - fewer drops and no loss of data - note that the Garmin PC plug is not all that tight.

Q: What cables do I need to connect a GPS receiver to a Cassiopeia PDA?

A: To connect a GPS receiver to your Casio will need the PC serial cable (provided with your PDA), and (depending on the model of GPS receiver you are using) you may need a null modem adapter. Some GPS receivers such as the Trimble Pathfinder Pocket do not require any additional cables or connectors other than the Casio PC cable.

Q: What cables do I need to connect a GPS receiver to my Newton PDA?

A: You can connect a GPS receiver to a Newton PDA through the serial port or card slot.  You will need the data cable provided with your GPS receiver (this may need to be purchased separately depending on the GPS model). To connect though the serial port (located on the top of the MP2000) you will need a Newton/serial null modem cable, which you can request through the NRCS GIS Office. To connect through the card slot you will need to purchase a PCMCIA serial card.

Q: What GPS receivers can I use with FieldWorker Pro on the Newton MessagePad or Casio Cassiopeia?

A: FieldWorker Pro (on MessagePad or Cassiopeia) can collect GPS data from any NMEA compliant GPS receiver.

Q: Ho do I set up a Rockwell PLGR/GPS to work with FieldWorker Pro?

A: Follow the setup instructions provided here PLGR-GPS & FieldWorker Pro Setup Instructions (PDF, 9 KB)