What is considered a good PDOP value for collecting data?

A PDOP value, or Position Dilution of Precision, is a measure of the geometric quality of the satellite configuration in relation to the receiver's position. It reflects the accuracy of position data based on the location of satellites at a given time. A lower PDOP value indicates a better potential for accuracy in positioning.

A PDOP of 4 is considered to be a good value for collecting data, as it signifies that the satellite geometry is favorable enough to achieve reasonable positional accuracy. Values less than 4 indicate even better geometric conditions, leading to more precise positioning capabilities. In the context of high-accuracy requirements, a PDOP value of 6 starts to signify potential issues with precision, while a PDOP of 8 is generally poor for data collection, indicating a low-quality satellite configuration and resulting in less reliable positioning.

Therefore, selecting a PDOP value of 4 aligns with common standards in the field, where it balances both good satellite geometry and adequate reflectivity for precision. Values above this are typically viewed as less ideal, leading to the choice of 4 as a prudent option for effective data collection.