When it was first released, the Earthmate PN-40 was designed to work exclusively with DeLorme software. Users of XMap and Topo USA could send maps to the device, collect waypoints and tracks on the PN-40, and exchange this data with the PC software. As the popularity of the PN-40 grew, due in large part to its durability, versatility, and capacity for displaying a wide variety of map types, questions such as the one asked in the title of this article, started to appear with increasing regularity in DeLorme’s email inboxes. It was decided, after consultation with ESRI representatives, that DeLorme would develop a tool to allow ESRI software users to work directly with the PN-40. What emerged from this effort is the Earthmate PN-40 Extension for ESRI software.
This straightforward tool offers two key functions:
- It allows maps to be captured in ESRI software and transferred to the device
- It offers the option to save downloaded tracks and waypoints, along with any field-collected comments, in shapefile format
The Earthmate PN-40 can extend the range of an ESRI-based GIS to locations where conventional GIS data viewers simply cannot reach. Enclosed in a rugged waterproof case and boasting an ultra bright screen, the PN-40 is at home in virtually any environment or under any conditions. Under the hood, the device features a super sensitive chipset and a dual-core processor for quick and reliable signal acquisition and virtually instantaneous map rendering.
As a fully capable mobile mapping solution, the PN-40 offers an array of on-device mapping tools including:
- On-road and off-road routing and navigation using DeLorme’s comprehensive road and street database
- Vector-based topographic maps for the entire U.S.
- Support for map data derived from a wide variety of vector and raster formats
- A digital 3-axis compass
- A barometric altimeter
- Distance and area measuring tools
- Extensive internal map storage capacity, as well as an SD card slot
Using the PN-40, field technicians and mobile professionals now have a perfect complement to an office-based GIS. Pertinent maps can now be viewed in their locational context where they are needed most: at the jobsite.
