By specifying a projection type and various required parameters, you create a mathematical algorithm for producing equivalent coordinates in degrees for the projected coordinate system. Each projection has specific parameters you can customize to make your maps more geographically accurate. The following table details each major coordinate system type and the parameters you can use to customize that system. The parameters are listed in the order they appear in the relevant projection entries in the MAPINFOW.PRJ file. To create your own coordinate system using a particular projection, you must add an entry into the MAPINFOW.PRJ file.
The parameters of a coordinate system are (in this order):
- Coordinate System Name
- Projection Type
- Datum
- Units
- Original Longitude
- Original Latitude
- Standard Parallel 1
- Standard Parallel 2
- Azimuth
- Scale Factor
- False Easting
- False Northing
- Range
For a complete list of common coordinate systems and their necessary parameters, see Projections and Their Parameters