Does anyone know of a freeware that can take a batch txt l,l,h file (WGS84) and convert it to state plane N,E,El?
I'm working with a small sub-consultant that does some gas line routing and they have a cheap sub-meter unit that can export coordinates in l,l,h. I'd like to send a link to how they can do it themselves from now on.
Corpcson will convert from NAD83 geographic to state plane, but WGS84 aint NAD83...
I've been using TBC, and unless I'm missing something I don't see anything in the NGS Geodetic Tool Kit Programs that will do it.
Most data collectors can do this. If you have a job with your desired projection set you should be able to import the L,L,H points as an ascii or csv file. Then simply export those points in a P,N,E,Z,D file in the desired projection.
If you are looking specifically for desktop software to do this, but do not have access to geodetic desktop software try CORPSCON.
Sorry didn't read the entire post. Maybe try Batch Convert. Good luck,.
Be very careful. SPCs are defined legislatively in NAD 83 only.
> Corpcson will convert from NAD83 geographic to state plane, but WGS84 aint NAD83...
I think if you do the conversions and have a look see, you'll see that they are pretty much the same - out to about 5 or 6 or so decimal points. Me, that's good enough for the work I do. If that is troubling I would be real quick to call a peer and ask them to check things out.
As noted, be careful with those conversions and what you tell people. Keep the data in your back pocket, maybe call your area NGS guy. They are the ones who administer all this gizmo gobbledygoop because they basically invented it (like a super hero ex VP who invented the internet).
Good luck and be careful.
There's roughly a 1 meter difference in northern WV (where this project is) between WGS84 lat/lon and NAD 83 lat/lon (and height).
For most purposes GRS80,WGS84,and ITRF are the same.
WGS 84 and NAD83 differ by approximately 1m horizontally across the lower 48. They are NOT mm difference.
Ok, I was wrong. Thanks for the corrective comments. I guess I was thinking ITRF?
I liked the world better when it was flat, but it's not so we do the best we can with the tools in our arsenal.... 😉
Doesn't change the fact that if it were me I'd be leaning on anything and everything that I could find out from NGS. I use their website all the time when I need to. And I would be real cautious about deliverables to clients who know less about SPC's than my SWMBO's cat.
While the GRS80 and WGS 84 ellipsoids are virtually the same the ITRF is a coordinate system not an ellipsoid. Since the DoD keeps redefining WGS 84 to be consistent with ITRF and should be labeled with the most appropriate realization and the epoch of the coordinates because WGS 84 is dynamic. The most current realization is WGS 84 (G1762) Epoch 2005.0
Instead of teaching them how to do it why do you contract to do it for them?
Just trying to understand the marketing philosophy...
They aren't a sub to me, but rather to my client (same as me). Pipeline routers aren't surveyors, and as a friendly gesture I've been helping them (sort of a marketing effort, they're good at what they do and would like for them to recommend me). This project is wrapping up and i thought I'd "teach them to fish".
Bill,
I understand what you are saying, and the situation you have is probably unique, but your remark that pipeline routers aren't surveyors is right on. Maybe we all shouldn't be trying to do everything. I can do a marginal job at many tasks, but I'm only good at a few. I'd rather pay a plumber, dentist, auto mechanic, etc. than screw it up myself...
And, although most surveyors don't seem to know it, there is nothing wrong with being a businessman. Maybe you can become these pipeline routers "trusted advisor" and make a few bucks too!
They can and were doing it themselves, I was just trying to save them the time from "one-at-a-timing" the placemarks into google earth.
It took me a few seconds in TBC to accomplish what was taking them a few hours. They aren't try to "survey", their product is the flagging that they hang - not the coordinates they generate. Most routers just use a smartphone!
Good point. Since they are using a sub-meter unit that could quickly become an issue.
> I've been using TBC, and unless I'm missing something I don't see anything in the NGS Geodetic Tool Kit Programs that will do it.
HTDP will go from WGS84 to NAD83, and Corpscon can take it from there.
Sounds like meter accuracy is good enough. They're not building a watch out there.
That should work, thanks!
Jim nailed it. Two step approach if you're going to do it right.
http://www.dimensionengine.com/excel/geogtools/
Excel spreadsheet.
