GY305 Lab 2: GPS Precision
Introduction
In this lab you will calculate the precision of a GPS instrument using the RMS (root mean square
calculation). In addition you will measure the position of the corners of the LSCB and plot the position on
the campus aerial map provided. Since we have a limited number of GPS receivers large classes will be
divided into groups and assigned a single receiver.
Problem 1: Precision Calculation
You or your group will be assigned a specific benchmark location on campus. Over several days you
should make 10 separate waypoint measurements on the same benchmark location. With the 10
observations calculate the average (mean) UTM x, y, z values, and then calculate the RMS 2D & 3D
values . Organize this in an Excel Spreadsheet to print and to turn in as a digital copy (one each per
group).
Problem 2: Position Measurement of the LSCB Building
In addition to the 10 measurements of the benchmark in Problem 1, also measure the 4 corners of the
LSCB and calculate the average X and Y position of each. Plot the position on the provided campus map
using the UTM grid.
NOTE: Set the GPS coordinate system to UTM NAD1927 datum.