GPS datum settings

[markwonder]

i'm just curious what GPS datum is? it's currently set to WGS 84. is that best setting for garmin mobile xt?

here are the options under
Tools\Settings\System\Datum

Tristan Ast'68
Viti Levu 1916
Wake-Eniwetok
WGS 72
WGS 84
Zanderij

thanks much.

[DaveMorrison]

WGS84 is the correct setting

Mark,

Unless you are working to some funny map, WGS84 is the one you want.
WGS84 is the primary datum for all GPS positions. They can then be converted to different datums and projections. But unless you really know what you are doing, best not to unless you really have to.

Regards
dave

i'm just curious what GPS datum is? it's currently set to WGS 84. is that best setting for garmin mobile xt?

here are the options under
Tools\Settings\System\Datum

Tristan Ast'68
Viti Levu 1916
Wake-Eniwetok
WGS 72
WGS 84
Zanderij

thanks much.

[markwonder]

thanks dave for clearing it up.

[oj88]

In a nutshell, these are the invisible predefined global reference coordinates with which the modern GPS systems are referenced to.

WGS84 is commonly used because it is the reference adopted by the DoD during the time the GPS was still being developed for the US military. This adoption was eventually carried over to us when the technology became available to civilians.