GPS verification marks for accurate navigation
MSV is installing GPS satellite navigation validation signs around the Victorian Coast and Port Phillip BayMaritime Safety Victoria (MSV) is installing global positioning system (GPS) satellite navigation validation signs at a number of public boat ramps and jetties along the Victorian Coast and Port Phillip Bay.
At the GPS validation sign locations, boaters can validate their position and map datum settings. The signs are installed as either standalone signs or incorporated into boating safety information signs.
The accurate GPS coordinates have been posted so boaters can check them against their own device. In an emergency, knowing your exact location could save your life!
HOW TO USE THEM
Manoeuvre your GPS unit as close to the sign as possible.
As part of your launch preparations, turn on your GPS system to compare the sign coordinates to those displayed on your screen.
Keep in mind that a GPS system does take a little time to initialise before displaying accurate coordinates.
Ensure that your GPS unit is tracking at least five satellites and is set to the correct coordinate type (LAT/LONG) and datum (WGS84/GDA94).
Make sure your GPS unit coordinates on its display match the surveyed coordinates of the sign.
Agreement with the coordinates shown on the sign should be possible to within 15 metres or 0.008 minutes.
VARIATIONS IN GPS POSITION
Variations as to the information on the sign and what is displayed on the screen may be due to a number of factors, such as proximity to the sign, quality of the receiver, and the placement of the GPS unit.
If your navigation equipment displays a significant variance to the position displayed, check that your system is using a base datum of either WGS84 or GDA94. This information should appear during system start up or on a system settings/information screen.
If your system is using the correct datum and still shows an inaccuracy of greater than 0.01 of a minute, you should contact the product manufacturer or retailer for advice. (ED: Older units might have a chart-offset feature to allow for manual position correction).
During the rollout of GPS signs, MSV intends to list sign locations as they are installed. For GPS sign and other maritime updates follow its Facebook page Boat Safe Ride Safe.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
