The first step in mapping is sensor calibration. This process is crucial to ensure highly accurate gyroscope and geomagnetic readings without bias. 


Calibration involves calibrating two sensors, which the MapCreator application will guide you through:


1. Start by tapping the blue button at the bottom of the screen in MapCreator.


2. Place the device on a flat, stable, non-metal surface: This allows the system to measure and remove any drift or bias from the gyroscope.


3. Rotate the device around its different axes: This calibrates the magnetometer to ensure precise geomagnetic readings. 


Tip : You can either 

  • Use both hands to rotate the device separately around each of the three axes, or
  • Use one hand to do the "figure-8" movement (see video). Keep the phone rotating around its center, don't move extensively up and down. 



The application will occasionally ask you to recalibrate, typically about every 20 minutes. This regular re-calibration is required for the exact same reason: hardware sensor biases can naturally drift over time, and refreshing them ensures your mapping data remains as accurate as possible.



Note!
Note: If the percentage stays in 0% in the first calibration phase, the device is either not stable enough or the gyroscope in your device is not a hardware sensor (see Supported devices)