Loading iPaqs With Data
In this exercise, you'll learn to prepare your iPaq for collecting data in the field. On the iPaq, we use ArcPad, GIS software specifically designed for Pocket PCs. Next week, we'll take the iPaqs outside, and run through the data collection process, using the files you load this week.
1) Prepare the data to be loaded. This is where we need a basic understanding of map projections and how Arc deals with them.
Understanding and checking projection information
ArcPad cannot project data on the fly, as is done in ArcMap. For this reason, all the data sets you put onto your iPaq must be in the same projection. This includes basemaps as well as the set of shapefiles that you'll use to input data. The basemaps to load are located at \langtang\public_d2\user_data\fieldcamp05\cambridge data and the shapefiles are at \langtang\public_d2\user_data\fieldcamp05\MapSmith\Blank Shapefiles.
Instructions for changing projections are here
Another important note - - ArcPad can only read MrSid rasters. MrSid is a very highly compressed raster format, and changing rasters from other formats (.jpg, .tif, etc..) is straightforward. Lucky for you that the data we have is already in .sid format.
2) The next step is to connect the iPaq to the computer. We use Microsoft ActiveSync on the computer to link to the iPaq. ActiveSync is installed and is generally always running, so all you should have to do is plug the iPaq into its dock and plug the dock into the computer using the USB port. ActiveSync should realise what you've done and make a connection. You don't want to set up a partnership.
3) Now you need to install ArcPad on the iPaq.
Here are your instructions for doing that
4) Next you need to install the MapSmith Tools we've created for data collection, as well as the basemaps and shapefiles you'll be using to collect data.