Pier Pilings Inspection (PPI) 1.1 Obtain a Chart

1.1 Download or Create a Chart

A pier pilings inspection can be done with or without a chart A chart will provide reference points for entry and exit, but will probably not help much with individual pilings unless that can be seen on the chart, which is probably atypical.

If you are conducting a Pier Pilings Inspection and do not have a chart or do not plan to use one, you can skip this and the next section about loading the chart and continue at step: 1.3 - Set Up the Video Overlay.

There are several programs and online services for obtaining charts for various locations around the world. Some are available for free and other sources charge fees. Alternatively, Google Earth and SAT2CHART can be used to create charts as needed at no cost. For more information about these options, see: Creating and Using Charts

SAT2CHART is a Microsoft Windows based program and a Windows computer is required in order to use SAT2CHART.

Once a chart is obtained, it will need to be copied to the operator control console. There is a charts folder in the home folder of the operator control console. When archiving the project, it is a good idea to copy any charts used for the project into the archive for that project.

The resolution and quality of charts will vary depending on the source and amount of area covered. If the planned inspection covers a large section of a pier and you want to maximize the resolution of the chart, you can create several charts to cover the area at higher resolution instead of one chart covering the entire area.