Magellan GPS PROMARK X User manual

630237 B
USER GUIDE
for the
MAGELLAN GPS PROMARK X
and the
MAGELLAN GPS PROMARK X-CM
Magellan Systems Corporation
471 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, California 95050
[phone]
FAX [phone]

© 1999 by Magellan Corporation. All rights reserved.
Rev. B
No part of this User Guide may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and
recording, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use
without the written permission of Magellan Systems Corporation.
Magellan™, GPS ProMARK X™, and GPS ProMARK X-CM™ are the
trademarks of Magellan Corporation.
630237 B

WARNINGS
A measure of knowledge by the user is required for proper and safe use of the
Magellan GPS ProMARK X™ and GPS ProMARK X-CM™. READ THE
USER GUIDE AND WARRANTY COMPLETELY.
Assess the Accuracy Required
The ProMARK X is generally capable of better than 12 meters (RMS) horizon-
tal accuracy in autonomous operation and better than 3 meters (RMS) horizon-
tal in differential operation — with a little averaging. While this makes it a
remarkable tool for some third-order surveys and for marking and relocating
geographical sites, the product is not intended as a replacement for the
intstrumentation needed for first-order surveys.
Use Good Judgement
This product is an excellent navigation aid, but it does not replace the need for
careful orienteering and good judgement. Never rely solely on one device for
navigating.
Use Care to Avoid Inaccuracies
The Global Position System (GPS) is operated by the U.S. Government, which
is solely responsible for the accuracy and the maintenance of GPS. Certain
conditions can make the system less accurate.
Accuracy can also be affected by poor satellite geometry. WHEN THE ACCU-
RACY WARNING APPEARS ON THE SCREEN, USE THIS DATA WITH
EXTREME CAUTION.
THE GLOBAL POSITION SYSTEM IS A DoD SYSTEM. The government can
make changes to the system that could affect the performance of GPS receiv-
ers.
WARNING
The accuracy of position fixes can be affected by the periodic adjust-
ments to GPS satellites by the U.S. Government and is subject to
changes in accordance with the Department of Defense Civil GPS user
policy and the Federal Radionavigation Plan.
Use Differential Judiciously
While differential and carrier phase can completely remove the effects of
government degradation of the GPS signal (selective availability), this process
assumes identically matched data sets. Prior to using differential or carrier
phase, the user must have a thorough understanding of datums and the theory
behind the differential process.

i
CONTENTS
Chapter 1 — Introduction
The ProMARK X ......................................................... 1-1
About This Manual .................................................... 1-2
Sample Displays ......................................................... 1-2
Key Representation .................................................... 1-3
Chapter 2 — Getting Started
Introduction .............................................................. 2-1
Batteries .................................................................... 2-1
Loading the Alkaline Batteries ................................. 2-2
Loading the NiCad Battery Pack .............................. 2-3
Battery Operation ................................................... 2-3
Battery Warnings .................................................... 2-3
External Power Operation .......................................... 2-4
The Keys .................................................................... 2-5
Light .......................................................................... 2-6
Entering Data ............................................................ 2-6
ON/OFF ..................................................................... 2-7
Power-On ............................................................... 2-7
Power-Off............................................................... 2-8
Initialization ............................................................... 2-8
Initializing Manually ................................................ 2-9
Self-Initializing ...................................................... 2-11
Orienting the Antenna ............................................. 2-12
The Position (POS) Key ............................................. 2-13
Collecting An Almanac ............................................ 2-14
Taking a Position Fix ............................................. 2-15
The Position Display .............................................. 2-17
Position Fix Updates .............................................. 2-18
Message Displays ..................................................... 2-18

ii
Chapter 3 — SETUP
SETUP ........................................................................ 3-2
Entering an Initial Position ..................................... 3-3
Selecting Mode and Entering Altitude ................... 3-4
Setting the Time .................................................... 3-4
Choosing a Mask Angle ........................................ 3-5
Data Sample Rate .................................................. 3-6
Choosing a Coordinate System ............................. 3-8
Selecting a Map Datum ....................................... 3-11
Choosing an Altitude Reference .......................... 3-12
Altitude Units ...................................................... 3-14
Magnetic Variation Display .................................. 3-14
Distance Units ..................................................... 3-15
Choosing Automatic or Manual Leg Switching
Modes ......................................................... 3-15
Velocity Average ................................................. 3-16
Battery Saver ....................................................... 3-16
Beeper Control .................................................... 3-17
Display Control ................................................... 3-17
Date Order .......................................................... 3-17
Chapter 4 — Auxiliary Functions
Receiver Status .......................................................... 4-2
Satellite Schedule....................................................... 4-3
Satellite Status ........................................................... 4-5
View Data Files .......................................................... 4-6
Data Input/Output ..................................................... 4-6
Waypoint Projection .................................................. 4-9
Erase Waypoints ...................................................... 4-10
Almanac Collect ...................................................... 4-11
Reverse Route .......................................................... 4-11
Memory Stats .......................................................... 4-13
File Maintenance ..................................................... 4-14
Deep Storage .......................................................... 4-15
Product Support ...................................................... 4-16

iii
Chapter 5 — Waypoints, Routes, and Navigation
Waypoint .................................................................. 5-1
Saving Positions as Waypoints ............................... 5-1
Entering Waypoints Manually ................................ 5-2
Viewing Stored Waypoints .................................... 5-3
Renaming Waypoints ............................................ 5-4
Clearing a Waypoint ............................................. 5-5
Saving an Averaged Position as a Waypoint ........... 5-5
Route ........................................................................ 5-6
Choosing a Route Mode ....................................... 5-6
Creating a Route ................................................... 5-6
Activating a Route ................................................. 5-8
Viewing and Editing a Route ................................. 5-8
Appending a Leg ................................................. 5-10
Activating a Route ............................................... 5-10
Reversing a Route ............................................... 5-10
Navigation ............................................................... 5-11
Chapter 6 — Attributes
Attribution ................................................................ 6-1
ATTR Key Operation .................................................. 6-1
Suggestions on Using the ATTR Key ...................... 6-5
Chapter 7 — Differential
DIF Functions ............................................................. 7-1
Averaging ............................................................. 7-1
Secondary Differential ........................................... 7-1
Mobile Differential ................................................ 7-2
RTCM ................................................................... 7-2
DIF Functions Operations ........................................... 7-2
Averaging ............................................................. 7-2
Stationary Differential ........................................... 7-5
Mobile Differential .............................................. 7-12
RTCM ................................................................. 7-18
File Structure ........................................................... 7-17

iv
Chapter 8 — Troubleshooting and Operating Tips
Error and Warning Messages ..................................... 8-1
Operating Problems ................................................... 8-5
Operating Tips ......................................................... 8-10
Unsure of Your Position When Initializing ............ 8-11
Search and Acquisition Errors .............................. 8-11
Initialization Errors ............................................... 8-11
The Signal Environment ....................................... 8-11
Insufficient Number of Satellties .......................... 8-12
Unit Searches Constantly ..................................... 8-13
Accuracy Warning Symbol ................................... 8-13
Signal Quality ...................................................... 8-13
Old Data ............................................................. 8-14
Choosing a Datum .................................................. 8-14
Using the Unit Near the Poles .................................. 8-15
Storing the Unit ....................................................... 8-15
When Nothing Else Works ....................................... 8-15
Magellan's Customer Support ................................. 8-16
Appendix
1 — Global Positioning System .................................. A-1
2 — Differential Theory ............................................. A-5
3 — User-Defined Datum Worksheet ......................... A-9
4 — Table of Constants ........................................... A-11
5 — British, Irish, and UPS Grids .............................. A-21
6 — User-Defined Grid Worksheet........................... A-23
7 — State Plane Coordinate Constants .................... A-25
8 — Waypoint Log, Grid .......................................... A-45
9 — Waypoint Log, Lat/Lon ..................................... A-47
10 — Position Dilution of Precision .......................... A-49
11 — Signal Quality ................................................. A-50
12 — Glossary ......................................................... A-51

v
Welcome to the world of accurate positioning through the Global Position-
ing System (GPS). This manual was created to serve as a reference guide for
the ProMARK X-CM and the ProMARK X GPS receivers, manufactured by
Magellan Systems Corporation.
The ProMARK X-CM receiver is a 10-channel, SPS receiver that can collect
carrier phase data. The ProMARK X receiver does not have carrier phase
capability. Both models were designed for professional applications. Through-
out the guide, references to the "ProMARK X" will be understood to mean
both models; where information is specific to the ProMARK X-CM, the
receiver is referred to as the "ProMARK X-CM."
This guide assumes that the user has a background specific to the application
for which the receiver is being used. The guide therefore does not describe
applications except where they directly affect the operation of the receiver.
The guide was designed to follow the logical order of the receiver's functions
wherever possible.
Feel free to skip the functions that do not pertain to your applications. Users,
for example, who do not use differential need not read Chapters 6 and 7. All
users, however, should read Chapters 1 through 4, which cover the basic
operation of the receiver and the setup and auxiliary functions. The user who
has no navigation experience may benefit from reading Chapter 5. Those
with no previous experience with global positioning may also want to read
the general information about GPS found in Appendices 6, 7, and 8.
The ProMARK X User Guide should be used in conjunction with the post-
processing software guide and, where applicable, the submeter guide.

vi

Introduction
ProMARK X
1-1
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
The ProMARK X
The ProMARK X-CM is a rugged, hand-held, 10-channel SPS code and carrier
phase code receiver that is designed to collect pseudorange and carrier phase
data. The ProMARK X collects pseudorange data only. Both models were
developed primarily for land-based professionals who require a high level of
accuracy in marking and relocating geographical sites. When used with
position averaging and differential, it is an excellent tool for some third-order
surveys, and is an ideal tool for GIS data collection, positioning, and
navigation.
Both receivers are fast, powerful, and very easy to use. Only a few keystrokes
are needed to access any features. You can also reset many of the unit’s
operating and display parameters, including operation mode (2-dimen-
sional, 3-dimensional, or automatic mode switching) position coordinate
system (geodetic, UTM, British grid, Irish grid, Malaysian, RSO, MGRS,
Indonesian Southern Zone, UPS, or user-entered), and altitude reference.
The ProMARK X displays altitude as either height above the ellipsoid (of the
selected datum) or as orthometric height (height above sea level). The
geoidal height used can be from a unit-maintained model or a user-entered
value.
The ProMARK X stores up to 500 user-stored waypoints, and as many as 10
routes of up to 20 legs each. In addition, the unit has sufficient memory to
allow the unit to log and store up to 9 hour’s worth of data in the field,
without the need for a separate data logger. (The data is downloaded to a
PC for post-processing.) The buffer is protected from inadvertent power loss
by an internal rechargeable lithium battery.
The ProMARK X is generally capable of 12 meters (RMS) horizontal accuracy
in autonomous operation and in the absence of selective availability (SA).
This can be improved by using the Magellan Post-Processing Software to
calculate differential; post-processed differential with the ProMARK X can
achieve 3 meters horizontal accuracy.
Centimeter (15mm ±3 ppm) and submeter accuracy (0.9 meters RMS) can
be obtained by using the carrier phase module for the Post-Processing
Software and a multipath-resistant antenna with the ProMARK X-CM.

Introduction ProMARK X
1-2
About This Manual
This chapter presents a general overview of the manual and a brief descrip-
tion of the ProMARK X. Chapter 2 introduces the user to the unit's keys,
walks the user through the initialization process, and describes how to get
position fixes with the ProMARK X. Chapters 3 and 4 provide the user with
a detailed description of the functions accessed through the SETUP and AUX
(auxiliary) keys. These chapters should be read by all users before proceeding
on to more complex topics such as navigation and the differential functions.
Chapter 5 introduces waypoints, routes, and navigation, and explains the
uses of each. Chapter 6 discusses attributes and their functional operations.
Chapter 7 is devoted to the various differential functions obtained through
the DIF key. If this is your first experience with GPS or differential processing,
you may want to first read Appendices 1 and 2, which will provide some
background information on GPS and differential theory. Specifications,
accessories, and other specialized background information are covered in
Appendices 1 through 5.
Sample Displays
Throughout this manual the ProMARK X's display screen will be represented
by graphics similar to the following example:
POS 34`04.00N
117`55.95W
3D 103m ALT
Ñ ~
Most screens consists of four display lines. The first three lines typically
represent position fixes, navigation information, or data entry prompts,
messages alerting the user to the current state or function of the receiver.
The fourth line usually conveys system warnings; the down and/or right
arrows alert the user to other options available from this screen. For example,
the above screen displays a three-dimensional position fix with a down arrow
in the lower right corner. The down arrow indicates that there is another
screen accessible by pressing the down arrow key.
The position in the above example screen represents latitude and longitude
in the format DEG/MIN, which will be used for all sample screens in this
manual unless otherwise indicated.

Introduction
ProMARK X
1-3
Key Representation
The key names are always shown in caps and are abbreviated to appear as
they appear on the unit's keypad: for example, the auxiliary key is "AUX."
The exceptions are the arrow keys, whose names are always spelled out: LEFT
ARROW or RIGHT ARROW.
How the keys are represented vary with the type of information being given.
If the information is a step-by-step instruction, the text is indented and any
key you should press is bolded. If the information is a general description,
the text is not indented, and the keys are not bolded.

Introduction ProMARK X
1-4

Getting Started
ProMARK X
2-1
Chapter 2 GETTING STARTED
Introduction
Before your ProMARK X is ready for use, there are several tasks that must be
completed. This chapter is intended to take the reader through these tasks
and prepare the user for taking position fixes with the receiver. This chapter
will cover operating the ProMARK X from either alkaline or NiCad batteries,
as well as from external power sources. Also covered in this chapter are the
keypad layout, entering data from the alphanumeric keys and initialization
of the starting position. After a few steps this chapter will guide the user
through obtaining a position fix and understanding the acquisition and
position fix displays.
Batteries
The ProMARK X requires that six AA batteries be installed at all times, even
when operating power is being provided from an external source. The
batteries are needed to maintain the unit’s memory between operating
sessions. (ProMARK X has a rechargeable lithium backup battery to retain
memory should the primary power source be lost.)
Battery power is provided by six AA alkaline batteries; we recommend
Eveready Energizer™ batteries. You can also use the Magellan Rechargeable
Battery Pack.
NOTE
NiCad and rechargeable alkaline batteries are never recharged
while in the unit.
Alkaline batteries provide up to 3 hours of continuous use. The drop off at
the end of their lives is gradual enough to allow the unit to display two power
warnings: an initial warning that battery power is low, and a second warning
that there is insufficient power remaining to continue operation.
The ProMARK X can also be powered from the Magellan Rechargeable
Battery Pack. The battery pack contains six high-capacity nickel cadmium
batteries, which are compatible with the power requirements of Magellan
products. The battery clip is not required when using the battery pack and
a connector for the charging adapter is available separately.
It is possible to use individual rechargeable batteries, but we cannot
recommend their use. Commercially available NiCad batteries typically have

Getting Started
2-2
ProMARK X
poor power performance after repeated use, and rechargeable alkaline
batteries maintain only 50% of the useful life of standard alkaline batteries.
Several things should be remembered when operating with the Recharge-
able Battery Pack. The battery pack can be charged in 4 hours. The battery
pack will power the unit for up to 3 hours of continuous use, after which the
power drop can be quite sudden. In some instances, the drop may be so
sudden that the battery pack may not retain enough charge to maintain the
unit's memory for very long. We therefore suggest that replacement
batteries, a fully-charged battery pack or external power be available when
the unit is being operated from the Rechargeable Battery Pack for long
periods.
The ProMARK X is shipped with alkaline batteries already installed. The
Rechargeable Battery Pack and a variety of charging adapters are available
as options from your Magellan dealer.
Loading the Alkaline Batteries. Use the procedure below to install
alkaline batteries in the unit.
1. Make sure that the unit is off. If the unit was being operated on
external power, also disconnect the ProMARK X from the external
power source.
2. Holding the unit as shown in the illustration, pull the battery cover
firmly towards the bottom of the unit until it stops, then lift the
door off. To create a seal against moisture, the cover fits snugly
and will not move easily.
3. Remove the old battery clip.
Removing the Battery Cover

Getting Started
ProMARK X
2-3
4. Remove the batteries from the clip and replace them with fresh
ones. Be sure the batteries are oriented as shown on the clip.
5. Insert the fresh clip into the battery compartment; it will fit only
with the open side facing you and the clip’s external contacts on
the right.
6. Remove any dirt, sand, or other foreign matter from the battery
compartment seal.
7. Replace the battery cover. Position the cover over the battery clip
and push up firmly until the door settles into place. Be sure the
door is secure.
Loading the Rechargeable Battery Pack. The battery pack is installed in
the unit in the same manner as alkaline batteries with the exception of
step 4.
Battery Operation. When the unit is being operated from battery-supplied
power, the ProMARK X remains on until the batteries become low or until
the unit is turned off. The unit will acquire satellites and compute position
fixes continuously after POS or NAV has been pressed.
You can generally expect about 3 hours of continuous use from alkaline
batteries and up to 2 hours from the Rechargeable Battery Pack. Battery life
can be extended by turning the Battery Saver on. When the Battery Saver is
on, the unit operates for 2 minutes, then turns itself off if no keys have been
pressed for the last 2 minutes.
Battery Warnings. There are two battery warnings. The first is a symbol
that appears when the batteries are low. This symbol remains on all displays
until the batteries are replaced.
If the Battery Saver is off when the
battery warning appears, the unit is
able to operate continuously for up
to 20 minutes. If the Battery Saver is
on, you can turn the unit on and
obtain position fixes 15 more times. Å

Getting Started
2-4
ProMARK X
If alkaline batteries are installed, they will have enough power to maintain the
unit’s memory for up to one month. If the Rechargeable Battery Pack is
installed, the amount of charge remaining will vary according to the age of
the battery pack.
External Power Operation
The ProMARK X can be operated from an external AC or DC power supply
with a Magellan adapter. Only Magellan equipment should be used to
connect the unit to any power source. All Magellan adapters and interfaces
have been designed to supply the correct level of DC voltage; the use of any
other equipment may harm the unit and will void the warranty.
As part of the power-on self-testing, the unit looks for an external power
source. If external power is available, the unit will bypass the batteries to use
external power. The batteries will not be recharged while external power is
in use.
The unit will not continue to draw on external power after it is turned off.
Batteries must therefore be installed in order to maintain the unit’s memory.
NOTE
External power bypasses the batteries. At no time are alkaline
or NiCad batteries recharged in the unit.
The unit can be operated from an AC power source when a Magellan adapter
is used. AC adapters are currently available for 110 VAC, 220 VAC, and 240
VAC. A regulated +12 VDC adapter is also available. Discuss your needs with
your Magellan dealer to be sure you purchase the correct adapter.
WARNING
Always be sure the unit is off when connecting or disconnect-
ing external power. Failure to observe this precaution may
result in memory loss or a frozen display.

Getting Started
ProMARK X
2-5
The external power jack is located on the right side of the unit, opposite the
antenna. Insert the 8-pin connector of the adapter into the power jack.
The power lost message appears when the level of external power being
supplied to the unit is below minimum requirements. The unit is operating
on battery power. If no key is pressed within two minutes the unit will turn
off.
The Keys
The ProMARK X has three types of keys: function keys, operation keys, and
alphanumeric keys. The function keys are the eight center keys at the top of
the unit. These keys are used to access the unit’s functions and to select non-
default operating parameters. The operation keys are the four keys in the
corners of the top keypad, plus the ENTER and CLEAR keys at the bottom of
the alphanumeric keypad. They are used to turn the unit and display light
on and off, to scroll through information displays, to turn options on and off,
and to save or delete information. The alphanumeric keys are used to input
information and are generally used in conjunction with the function keys.
Detailed information relating to specific keys are found in following chapters.
Key Placement
ON/OFF
MAGELLAN
MAGELLAN
POS LIGHT
ATTR
WPT
DIF
NAV
ROUTE
AUX
123
456
789
0
SETUP
Operation
Keys
Operation
Keys
Operation
Keys
Function
Keys
Alphanumeric
Keys
ProMARK X

Getting Started
2-6
ProMARK X
Light
The LIGHT key backlights the message display and keypad. Press the key to
turn the light on and off.
The light turns off automatically when the unit is turned off. It also turns off
when the second battery warning appears and if external power is lost.
NOTE
The light is a significant drain on your batteries
The brightness of the display when the light is on can be adjusted in SETUP.
Entering Data
Information must be entered into the unit from the alphanumeric keypad to
enter an initial position, to enter a user-entered datum or grid, to manually
enter a waypoint, or to name or retrieve a waypoint.
Look at the keypad. It is arranged in the same way as your telephone keypad
(reverse 10-key). Each key is assigned to a number and two or three letters.
Which character is displayed when a key is pressed is determined by the type
of information being entered; the unit will not display letters in a space where
a number should be entered. For example, the unit displays numbers only
when entering position coordinates in the Lat/Lon and UTM coordinate
systems. Either numbers or letters can be accessed when entering user grids
and waypoint names.
To enter position coordinates, simply press the appropriate alphanumeric
keys until the entire coordinate is entered; when entering geodetic coordi-
nates, also press the RIGHT ARROW to toggle between hemispheres. Press
ENTER to save the position. Trailing zeros can be entered by pressing the 0
key or by entering the coordinate up to the first zero. When ENTER is pressed,
the empty spaces will be filled with zeros. (This does not work for zeros in
the middle of the coordinate.)
An entry error can be deleted be-
fore ENTER is pressed by pressing
CLEAR. During data entry, CLEAR
operates like a backspace key; it
deletes the character to the left of
the cursor, then moves the cursor
one space to the left.
INIT 34`00.00N
_ ` . W
3D
!