The costs and benefits of using field computers and GPS receivers

Recently, I ran into an old professor of mine and we chatted about the use of computers in field geology. Both of us were trained using little more than compasses, 1:24,000 topographic maps and aerial photo interpretation. And we both agreed that students need to be trained in these methods. “So,” he [...]

Free GPS software for the rugged handheld PDA

When you buy a Garmin or a Magellan, you are getting a computer + GPS receiver + software. Ready to go! However, if you choose to use a rugged PDA and attach a GPS receiver, you will need some sort of software to read the data and / or store the data and [...]

Creating databases on a handheld field computer (PDA): Part 2…Monkey Mapper!

In an earlier blog, I discussed some options for building a database for a rugged handheld. If you have no interest in creating a program, but just want to buy a pre-configured database, quit reading. Otherwise, I will lay out an example of a program I created using Visual CE for a researcher [...]

Why is importing waypoints into mapping programs so hard?

One of the more frustrating tasks I deal with is figuring out how mapping programs import data. Most will allow for you to hook up a commercial GPS, like a Garmin, and work live or download saved waypoints. But what if you just wanted to bring in a set of known locations? [...]

Easy GIS…for free!

I have a love / hate relationship with GIS (geographical information systems) software. I love what you can do with GIS and I hate that I am reduced to tears every time I try to use ArcGIS or its offshoots. Why is it so non-intuitive and difficult to use? As a professor, [...]

I am a Google Earth junkie

It has been a while since my last blog—I hope I am not breaking some sort of blog etiquette.  I’d like to use the usual excuses (busy classes, sick kids, the government), but the truth is I am addicted to Google Earth.   I like to mock people who waste hours in front of a television [...]