← Back to Documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about METARDU
Getting Started
How do I create my first project?
After logging in, click "New Project" on your dashboard. Enter a name, location, UTM zone, and hemisphere. Click Create and you're ready to add points.
What is a UTM zone?
UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) divides the world into 60 zones, each 6° wide. In Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania you're typically in zone 36 or 37. Check your survey brief or GPS for the correct zone.
How do I add survey points?
Open your project and click "Add Point". Enter the point name, Easting, Northing, and optionally Elevation. You can also import points from CSV.
Can I use METARDU offline?
Yes! METARDU works offline. Once loaded, you can perform all calculations without internet. Data syncs when you're back online.
Calculations
What precision does METARDU use?
METARDU follows N.N. Basak standards: distances to 2dp (cm), coordinates to 4dp (0.1mm), bearings in DDD°MM'SS" format, and areas in m² to 4dp.
How does traverse adjustment work?
METARDU uses the Bowditch method to distribute linear misclosure proportionally to each leg based on its length. Results show: formula → substitution → result for every step.
Why does my leveling show "Check Failed"?
Leveling requires the arithmetic check to pass: ΣBS - ΣFS must equal Last RL - First RL. If it fails, there's an error in your field notes. Check your BS/FS values.
What's the difference between closed and open traverse?
Closed traverse starts and ends at the same point (or two known points). Open traverse ends at an unknown point. METARDU supports both with appropriate error reporting.
Billing
What's included in the Free plan?
Free plan includes: 1 project, up to 50 points, all 15 quick tools, basic PDF reports, CSV import, and offline calculations.
How do I upgrade to Pro?
Go to /pricing, select Pro, choose your currency, and complete payment via M-Pesa or card. Your upgrade is instant.
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes, cancel anytime from your Account page. You'll keep Pro features until your billing period ends.
Do you offer student discounts?
Yes! Contact support@metardu.app with your student ID for 50% off any plan.
Technical
What browsers does METARDU support?
METARDU works best on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge (latest versions). For PWA installation, use Chrome on Android.
How do I install METARDU as an app?
Open metardu.app in Chrome on Android, tap the menu (three dots), and select "Add to Home Screen". iOS users can use Safari → Share → Add to Home Screen.
Can I export to AutoCAD?
Yes! Pro and Team plans include DXF export. Your survey points and lines export as AutoCAD-ready geometry.
How do I report a bug?
Click the Feedback button (bottom right) or email support@metardu.app. We're quick to fix issues!
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help.