Volume 23, Number 1
Spring 2006

Vernier Software & Technology

THE CALIPER IS A PUBLICATION FOR USERS OF VERNIER PRODUCTS

Use Garmin GPS with Logger Pro

Garmin eTrex Venture
Garmin® eTrex Venture

In Logger Pro 3.4.5 (available in May), we are adding support for some models of GPS (Global Positioning System) units. Environmental data collection is a great application for use of a GPS in conjunction with Logger Pro. With the GPS unit attached to a laptop, Logger Pro will read the GPS coordinates and position stamp your data as you take it.

Dave Vernier's commute in Logger Pro
Dave Vernier's commute in Logger Pro
A Logger Pro export of the data to Google Maps
A Logger Pro export of the Dave's commute to Google Maps

If you are not taking a laptop, you can simply mark all your collection sites as waypoints and then import them to your laptop when you are back in the lab. We have also found some great uses for GPS units in physics. A track can be set up so that the GPS latitude and longitude are noted at even time intervals. The distance between points is a measure of velocity, and it is a fun way to introduce the subject. This use was inspired by J.B. Sharma, of Gainesville State College, GA, who has been doing this kind of exercise using three Programs to get the job done. Now Logger Pro does it all.

The graphs to the right shows a trip from Dave Vernier's home to the office, taking two different routes. The GPS unit noted the car position every 30 seconds. Note the higher speeds on the freeway. Logger Pro 3.4.5 can now launch Google Maps and place the data on a map, as shown. These data were taken with a Garmin eTrex Venture.

Garmin eTrex Venture | Order Code GAR-VENTURE | $

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