1.1 Add layer - LUPMISManual

1.1 Add Layer

Level of expertise required for this Chapter: Beginner; general Map Maker training

Introductory note: This Manual refers to general GIS concepts. It explains the processes at the choice-of-software Map Maker.

GIS consists of different map layers, which can be overlaid to lay on each other. There are two main different types of map layers:

• Vector layers, which are defined by one or more points, each with a set of coordinates (x and y)
  

• Raster layers, which are pixels (or ‘squares’), next to each other.
  

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A) Most important vector layers are:

• Points
  

• Lines
  

• Polygons (areas)
  

Map Maker has its own proprietary format for vector data (extension DRA).

Note 1: In Map Maker, all these different vector types can be in one file, though this is not recommended. Text annotations and arrows will be discussed in a later version of this Manual.

Note 2: You can directly load shape (SHP) files of ESRI, but it is strongly recommended to convert SHP files first to Map Maker’s DRA format: Main menu > Utilities > Vector utilities > Import files > ArcView Shape file (see Chapter 5.4.1). Only then you can manipulate them.

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B) There are different formats for raster maps (also called 'bitmaps'), such as:

• JPG
  

• BMP
  

• TIF
  

• ECW
  

All of them have their own advantages and disadvantages: BMP files are usually the biggest, but can have the best clarity. TIF files are also large and not the fastest to display, also different subformats might confuse. JPGs are fast to get on screen and take the least memory, but quality is compromised. Most of them can be edited and viewed in graphics software programs, such as Paint Shop Pro. When you extremely zoom in, you will only see ‘grain’ of the image.

For processing in LUPMIS, the established standard is the JPG format.

Note 3: You can convert between the different raster formats by Main Menu > Utilities > Bitmap Utilities > Convert file format

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C) You load layers by: Right-mouse > Project manager > Project manager window: Components > Layers > Add layer > Choose file window: Select file type (preferably DRA for vector maps, ECW or TIF for raster maps) > Select folder and filename > OK.

Layers, which are on top of other layers, might hide features of the layers beneath. This is particularly the case with raster maps, as they might cover all features ‘below’. To change this sequence, and to bring other features to top, use the buttons ‘Move up’ or ‘Move down’.

At the right side of this Project Manager window you see more details and settings of this layer, particularly under tab ‘Files’.

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You can take this layer out by Right-mouse > Project manager > Project manager window: Layers > Select layer > Clear layer > OK.

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General note: For fast access, this manual is made available in all LUPMIS installations through Main menu > Help > Useful web sites > LUPMIS manual (local). In external Map Maker installations, it can be called through the internet.

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More reading:

• 'GIS Introduction for LUPMIS: Vector Data (Chapter 2)' about vector data.
  

• 'GIS Introduction for LUPMIS: Raster Data (Chapter 5)' about raster data.
  

LUPMIS exercise: Go to folder LUPMIS \ Ghana \ Ghana dra, and add layer Ghana roads, Ghana districts, Ghana regions etc as vector layers, from folder LUPMIS \ Kasoa \ Kasoa photos \ 336098col_utmecw.ecw as raster map.