Extending the Functionality of the Consumer-Grade GPS for More Efficient GIS and Mapping Applications

Abstract

This paper will present a methodology for extending the geospatial data collection functionality of the consumer-grade Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for circumstances that previously required very expensive equipment, software and training. The approach presented here uses the waypoint name in a GPS receiver as an entire data record in the GPS database. This involves using a naming protocol based on a user-defined data dictionary. This procedure, when used with a relational database management system (RDBMS) and a geographic information system (GIS), can assist communities, organizations and agencies in the collection of high quality, accurate and sophisticated geospatial data under circumstances where funds and expertise are limited or nonexistent. Furthermore, the applications of this system are limitless. This paper shall discuss the applications of these protocols in several fields relating to disaster response and assessment; trail mapping; geospatial education and coastal resource assessment. Other applications shall be discussed or implied.