GCP .CSV File Formatting

This guide explains how to format your Ground Control Point (GCP) data into a CSV file for successful uploading and processing in DroneDeploy. Proper formatting ensures our system accurately ties your map to the high-accuracy coordinates you collected in the field.

Ground Control Points (GCPs) are marked points on the ground with a known geographic location. When you provide these coordinates in a .csv format, DroneDeploy uses them to increase the global accuracy of your maps.

CSV Requirements

Before you upload your file, ensure it meets these specific formatting rules:

• File Type: Save your file as a CSV (Comma Separated Values).

• Header Row: Do not include a header row. The first line of the file must contain the data for your first GCP.

• Order of Columns: Arrange your data in the following order: Label, Latitude, Longitude, Elevation.

• Coordinates: Use the WGS84 (EPSG:4326) coordinate system unless you specify a different CRS during the upload process.

• Decimals: Use decimal points for coordinates (e.g., 37.7749) rather than degrees, minutes and seconds.
   

  

  

Download the CSV Templates here: 

Northing / Easting Template (ft)

Northing / Easting Template (m)

Latitude / Longitude (m)

Custom Latitude / Longitude Template (m)

Custom Latitude / Longitude Template (ft)

Custom Coordinate Template (m)

Custom Coordinate Template (ft)

How to format your GCP CSV file:

1. Open your spreadsheet software.

   Use a program like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to organize your data.

2. Input your GCP data.

   Enter your data into four columns without any titles or labels in the top row.

   • Column A: The name or label of the GCP (e.g., GCP1).

   • Column B: Latitude (Y).

   • Column C: Longitude (X).

   • Column D: Elevation (Z).

3. Check for special characters.

   Remove any symbols like the degree symbol (°) or extra spaces within the cells.

4. Save the file. Navigate to File and select Save As. Choose CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv) from the format options.

5. Name the file. Use lowercase letters and underscores for the filename (e.g., project_gcp_data.csv).
   

Key Details

• No Apostrophes: Always refer to multiple points as GCPs. Do not use GCP's.

• Consistent Units: Ensure all elevation values use the same unit (meters or feet) throughout the entire file.

• Accuracy: DroneDeploy expects at least 5 GCPs for optimal processing results.

Limitations

• DroneDeploy does not currently support .xlsx or .txt files for GCP imports; you must convert these to .csv.

• Files exceeding 1,000 rows may experience slower processing times.

FAQs

Q: Can I include a header row if I label it clearly?
A: No. Our processing engine expects the coordinate data to begin on the very first line of the CSV file.

Q: What happens if my Latitude and Longitude are swapped?
A: The upload tool will likely show the points in the wrong hemisphere or ocean. You can use the swap toggle in the DroneDeploy interface during the upload step if you notice the columns are reversed.

Q: Do I need to include the elevation?
A: Yes. Elevation (Z) is required for 3D map accuracy and terrain modeling.

v2.2