Problem with ArcPad compass

Question

Hi Everyone,
I use ArcPad version 8 on a Nomad (Trimble) and am having problems with the compass. The compass and screen position icon arrow constantly change direction which make navigation with this device nearly impossible. This occurs even though we have a strong satellite fix and are on flat as well as open ground. The actual location of the position icon is still correct though. Does anybody have any idea what would cause this and how to solve this problem.   
Thanks.

Anonymous User · Answer

ArcPad is Software. The Iphone is a hardware device that has a compass chip built in. It is only when the GPS units are equiped with a compass chip simular to the iphone that this issue can be overcome.

Hello Craig

I use trimble Juno and GeoXT 2008. Do you mean that both these devices do not have compass chips? Can you suggest a windows mobile device with compass chip? Will ArcPad compass work correctly with such a device?

Regards
Yashwant

DaveChamberlin · Answer

Technically there is no compass at all on the gps unit or in arcpad.  Correct, it is based off GPS signals when movement is detected.  Standing still, the accuracy of the gps unit is directly linked to what is posted on Trimbles site.  if it says the unit receives 2-5 meters raw, then satellites will say you are at x, then y, then z, all within a 15 foot circle.  thats why the compass in arcpad spins...making navigating back to a point difficult in some aspects.

CraigClouet · Answer

ArcPad is Software. The Iphone is a hardware device that has a compass chip built in. It is only when the GPS units are equiped with a compass chip simular to the iphone that this issue can be overcome.