Range Report iPhone app for measuring distance

[pinzmann]

Found a new app for iPhone4's to measure distance out to your target. Since lately I've been shooting past 1k its been difficult getting an exact range to target. It looks like it uses Google Earth and works point to point or one can mark on the map. I've checked it versus using the ruler tool on Google Earth and its right on. Name of APP is Distancemap

 

[azimutha]

Re: iPhone app for measuring distance

I've found that distances, as measured in Google Earth or GIS software are pretty accurate. However, bear in mind that the measurement is only as good as the quality of the underlying data and the input of the device used to pick points, whether a finger or an arrow cursor on a screen. For example, on a desktop machine, where you can zoom into the maximum limit of resolution (typically 1 pixel per meter) you could use the arrow cursor to precisely pick the points. I'd be curious to see what input is actually like in this app.

 

[timelinex]

Re: iPhone app for measuring distance

The main downfall with these apps is elevation isn't accounted for, but I guess that only applies to mountainous areas

 

[pinzmann]

Re: iPhone app for measuring distance

Actually I would prefer using a good GPS to measure the distance and in fact have been using my Garmin 60cs but its been acting up lately and Garmin doesn't support it any more. The newer GPS's don't seem to have this feature of measuring distance in yds or meters as far as I can tell. The newer 62s should be able to do it but not sure. Besides I'm always looking at new ways.

 

[azimutha]

Re: iPhone app for measuring distance

timelinex, that's a good point. G.E. or even ArcGIS use algorithms employing an ellipsoidal model of the earth. While it takes the slightly squashed shape of the earth into account it doesn't factor in elevation.

GPS is pretty good but consumer-grade units I've used have never been more accurate than 2 meters, which means the total distance could be off +- 4 meters. Mostly it's more like 6-12 meters.