This guide explains how to define a Coordinate Reference System (CRS) for your projects in DroneDeploy.
A CRS defines how a map’s 2D coordinate system relates to a real-world location. It's especially useful for engineers, surveyors, and other professionals who need to overlay maps with precise, real-world data.
Defining a CRS for new projects
To define a CRS for a new project, follow these steps:
- Create a new project.
- Choose the correct CRS for your project. DroneDeploy suggests a CRS based on the project's location.
- Select a different CRS from the drop-down list or add an EPSG code that isn't listed
Updating a CRS for existing projects
You can update a CRS for an existing project in two ways:
- In the project settings.
- By uploading Ground Control Points (GCPs). This will automatically update the project to the defined local CRS.
Using custom coordinate systems
Define a Project Level Custom-Grid
With an Advanced, Teams, or Enterprise subscription, you can define a custom CRS at the project level. Upload a Trimble .JXL calibration file or a .CSV file with coordinate pairs of points. When you apply a custom grid, all location annotations, imports, and exports will default to this custom CRS.
We recommend that you provide at least four points in both published and custom coordinates when using a coordinated-pair .CSV to define a custom grid.
How to add a Custom-Grid to your project
- In project settings, from the Coordinate System dropdown choose Upload Custom Grid
- Select Choose Files
- Upload your Trimble .JXL calibration file or coordinated pair CSV (for convenience, unit based templates are available for download)
- Confirm Upload
- Your Project-CRS is now set to the custom grid defined in your calibration file!
GCPs and custom coordinates
If your Project CRS is set to a Custom Grid, you may then provide GCP coordinates in custom coordinates only.
CSV Templates:
Custom Latitude / Longitude Template (m)
Custom Northing / Easting Template (m)
Custom Northing / Easting Template (ft)
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q: Can you view State Plane Coordinate System (SPCS) coordinates?
A: Yes, you can view SPCS coordinates on your projects.
Q: What happens when you upload new GCPs?
A: The project's CRS will automatically update to the defined local CRS.
Q: Can I specify custom EPSG codes?
A: Yes, this is a feature available for Teams and Enterprise subscriptions.
Q: Does a new CRS change the locations of my annotations?
A: No, your annotations will remain in the same location.
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