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Hello Eric,

Thanks for opening yet another important topic.  The info in this one could help keep folks alive.

Here are several issues concerning GPS and (I hope) the answer to your question as well:

The key is to use the correct datum setting first.  Many folks who don't know GPS are not aware of this.  Look at your maps and use the datum listed in the footer.  Many maps up here use WGS 84 or NAD 27.  If you don't use the correct datum, your coordinates will not be accurate.

To answer your question specifically, you want to use degrees, minutes and seconds.  If you have an emergency and you have voice communication (radio or satphone), ALWAYS call the coordinates in first!  This way if they lose your transmission, they can always come back to you.

Another note:  ALWAYS get the local area radio frequencies and the company frequencies from your air charter (if you're using a radio).  These frequencies change from one area to another.  The emergency frequency for aviation VHF is 121.5 mhz, but that frequency is not always monitored.  Area frequencies are; even by commercial jet traffic far overhead.

Hope this helps!

-Mike

Message Thread:

• specific details on GPS EricL Jul 31 2005
  • The word from SAR experts- WGS84! Michael Strahan Aug 04 2005
  • Here is a great way to build confidence sapperski Aug 03 2005
  • SAR familiar w/most coordinate systems? Alex_Cena Aug 02 2005
  • NAD 27/ WGS86 Rutting Moose Jul 31 2005
    • Datums rost495 Aug 01 2005
      • A Call to the SAR folks Michael Strahan Aug 01 2005
  • GPS for Emergencies Michael Strahan Jul 31 2005
    • Datum for GPS John S Jul 31 2005
      • Villages Daveinthebush Jul 31 2005