One of the features of DeLorme’s PN-Series GPS receivers that sets it apart from other devices is its ability to display an incredible variety map data, both vector and raster. For XMap users, this flexibility means that GIS data can be carried right to the jobsite, wherever that might be. On the PN-Series device, layers transferred from XMap retain their symbology and labels, providing a snapshot of your maps as they were created in XMap and offering a rugged mobile GIS viewer.
Note that while any current version of XMap can be used to transfer GIS data to the PN-Series device, only the Enterprise and Editor versions have the tools necessary for editing or updating the data.
Before transferring GIS layers from XMap to the PN-Series device, there are several considerations that should be taken into account:
- It is likely that the lighting conditions will be significantly different in the field than in your office, so you may need to adjust the display characteristics of the relevant data layers. A layer whose color or shading is easily discernable on your PC may not be as clear under bright sunlight conditions. Usually darker colors work best on the device.
- If you intend to layer a polygon over an aerial image on the device, you should make sure the polygons are unfilled using the Symbolize Layer functionality in XMap.
- If possible, point data layers should be symbolized using the Earthmate PN-Series symbol set, as the same symbols are preloaded unto the device. This ensures that you will see an exact match of the layer as it appears in XMap.
- To enable searching on the PN-Series device, the objects in the layer must be labeled using the relevant attribute field. For instance, if you would like to be able to search for objects by name, make sure that the name field is assigned as the label for the layer. You cannot search for unlabelled objects on the PN-Series device.
- If you would like to be able to control the appearance of labels on the PN-Series device, create a copy of the appropriate layer, adjust the symbology so that the objects on the copied layer are transparent, and assign labels as normal. The result is a layer in which the actual objects cannot be seen but the labels can. Displaying this layer in conjunction with original, allows you to turn the labels on or off as needed by simply choosing not to display the copied layer.
As with any type of map data, the transfer of GIS layers to the PN-Series GPS receiver requires that you first create one or more map packages. While it is possible to combine all of the required layers—as well as imagery and topographic maps—in a single map package, it is recommended that you create separate packages for each layer. This allows you to turn on or off each layer individually on the device. If all layers are incorporated into a single map package, all GIS layers will be displayed or turned off concurrently.
Follow these steps to create a map package containing a GIS layer:
- In the GIS tab, clear the check boxes for all of the layers except the one you want to include in the map package.
- Click the Handheld Export tab and click the Options button.
- Clear the check boxes for all of the Data Type choices except for GIS layers.
- Adjust the zoom level range for the layer. Note that on the device, the layer will be visible only within the selected range.
- Select either Less Detail or More Detail. This setting adjusts the resolution and visual clarity of the display of the data on the device and, as a consequence, it determines the size of the file that is created.
- Click OK to apply the selected options.
- In the Handheld Export tab adjust the grid size to the extent that it is easy to select grids that cover your area of interest.
- Use the Select/Edit tool to highlight the required grid tiles.
- Type a name for your map package, preferably using the same name as the GIS layer that it contains.
- Click the Save button and repeat this process for each required GIS layer
- When all of the necessary map packages have been created, attach the PN-Series device to your PC and click the Exchange button.
- Note that in most cases, map packages containing only GIS layers are relatively small so it is usually possible to transfer them directly to either the internal or the external memory of the device using the Send button. If your map package is large, you can remove the SD card from the battery compartment of your device and use a USB SD card reader to transfer the file.
The PN-Series GPS receivers provide a low-cost solution for a recurring problem in the field of GIS: How can I access my maps where I need them most; at the jobsite? Now you can display all of your data layers as well as aerial imagery and topographic maps on a device that fits in your pocket.
