GeoMapSuite
Projections & Grids

Plus Code (Open Location Code)

Direct Definition: A Plus Code (Open Location Code / OLC) is an open-source, alphanumeric street address substitute developed by Google to give any spot on Earth a reliable postal code, especially in unaddressed rural or developing areas.

Technical Details & Mathematical Formulation

Codes are derived from latitude and longitude using a Base20 character set (23456789CFGHJMPQRVWX) that intentionally excludes vowels to prevent accidental spelling of words. An 8-character code covers an area of $\approx 275\text{ m} \times 275\text{ m}$; a 10-character code reaches $14\text{ m} \times 14\text{ m}$.

Mathematical Formula:\text{Example: } 87G8Q222+X8 \implies 14\text{m precision at NYC Central Park}
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Related Geodetic Concepts

Geohash →MGRS Grid →
Frequently Asked Questions

People Also Ask About Plus Code (Open Location Code)

Answers to key questions, technical definitions, and practical geodetic applications.

QWhat does the term "Plus Code (Open Location Code)" mean?

A Plus Code (Open Location Code / OLC) is an open-source, alphanumeric street address substitute developed by Google to give any spot on Earth a reliable postal code, especially in unaddressed rural or developing areas.

QWhat is the mathematical or technical basis of Plus Code (Open Location Code)?

Codes are derived from latitude and longitude using a Base20 character set (23456789CFGHJMPQRVWX) that intentionally excludes vowels to prevent accidental spelling of words. An 8-character code covers an area of $\approx 275\text{ m} \times 275\text{ m}$; a 10-character code reaches $14\text{ m} \times 14\text{ m}$.

QHow do professionals use Plus Code (Open Location Code) in GIS and surveying?

Cartographers, geospatial software engineers, and navigators utilize Plus Code (Open Location Code) to guarantee mathematical precision and consistent spatial reference frames across global datasets.

QWhich category of geodesy does Plus Code (Open Location Code) belong to?

This concept is cataloged under the "Projections & Grids" domain in the GeoMap Suite cartographic knowledge index.

QCan I test or calculate Plus Code (Open Location Code) on GeoMap Suite?

Yes. You can test live coordinates and see practical examples using our companion Plus Code Converter tool.

QWhat are key concepts related to Plus Code (Open Location Code)?

Directly related terms include Geohash, MGRS Grid.