APEKS FQA | How to Create a New Project in Your Field Software
How to Set Up a New Project in Your Field Software – A Beginner-Friendly Guide
If you're about to begin work on a new construction or survey site, there's one essential step you should never skip — creating a new project in your field software.
It might sound simple, but setting up your project correctly from the very beginning will save you time, reduce errors, and keep your data clean and organized throughout the entire job.
In this post, I'll walk you through the setup process step by step. Whether you're a beginner or just need a quick refresher, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and get your project off to a smooth start.
Why Creating a New Project Matters
Before diving into the how-to, let's quickly talk about why creating a new project is important:
- Keeps your data separate from previous jobs
- Ensures your measurements align with the correct coordinate system
- Helps you avoid confusion when working with multiple clients or locations
-
Makes it easier to share and export data when the job is done
Step-by-Step: How to Create a New Project
1. Open Your Field Software
Launch the field software on your controller or tablet.
2. Go to the Project Manager
Tap Project, then Project Manager, and then tap New to create a new project.
3. Name Your Project
Use a clear and consistent name, like:
APEKS 20250508 (May 8th, 2025)
4. Select the Coordinate System
Tap Coordinate System.
Choose the one required by your project drawings.
If you select the wrong system, your position data will be inaccurate.
5. Enter the Central Meridian
Scroll down to the Projection section.
Manually enter the central meridian from your drawings.
Or tap the auto-detect icon if no specific value is provided.
6. Tap OK
Confirm your settings.
7. Leave Other Settings as Default
You don't need to change anything else unless your project requires it.
Quick Setup Guide: Creating a New Project
|
Step |
Action |
Notes |
|
1 |
Open Field Software |
Ensure your device is ready |
|
2 |
Go to Project > Project Manager > New |
Start a new project |
|
3 |
Name Project |
e.g. APEKS 20250508 |
|
4 |
Select Coordinate System |
Based on your project drawings |
|
5 |
Enter Central Meridian |
Manual input or auto-detect |
|
6 |
Tap OK |
Save your settings |
|
7 |
Keep Defaults |
Other values can stay as-is |
What Is a Coordinate System, and Why Does It Matter?
A coordinate system is the grid that helps your software understand where things are located. It converts local measurements into real-world positions.
There are global systems (e.g. WGS84 for GPS) and local systems (e.g. CGCS2000, UTM).
Why it matters:
- Aligns your data with drawings and maps
- Prevents positioning errors
- Ensures data compatibility with other users or software
❗ Choosing the wrong system may cause data to shift by hundreds of meters!
What Is the Central Meridian?
The central meridian is the central longitude line of your projected coordinate zone.
It's used to reduce distortion when mapping a curved surface (the Earth) onto a flat one.
For example:
- UTM Zone 50N → Central meridian = 117°E
- UTM Zone 51N → Central meridian = 123°E
If the central meridian isn't correctly set, your measurements might appear slightly skewed or misaligned, especially in large projects.
Summary
|
Term |
Meaning |
Why It Matters |
|
Coordinate System |
Defines positions on Earth |
Keeps your data aligned with real-world locations |
|
Central Meridian |
Center longitude of your zone |
Minimizes distortion, improves accuracy |
✅ You're All Set!
Now your project is correctly configured and ready to go. Starting with the right settings saves you headaches later and ensures your survey results are accurate and professional.
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