Understanding Raster Images in MapInfo Pro - 2023

MapInfo Pro Help

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MapInfo
Product
MapInfo > MapInfo Pro
Version
2023
Language
English
Product name
MapInfo Pro
Title
MapInfo Pro Help
First publish date
1985
Last updated
2023-09-12
Published on
2023-09-12T16:39:16.995549

Using raster image files, you can bring paper maps, photographs, and other graphic images into MapInfo Pro. For example, if you work with paper maps, you probably want to use those paper maps as the foundation for the maps you create in MapInfo Pro. Once you scan your paper map into a raster image file, you then can display it in a Map window.

Using Raster Images as a Backdrop for MapInfo Pro Maps

Using a raster image as the base layer of your map gives you a detailed backdrop for your other map layers. You can easily change the size, scale, or center point of the displayed image. For example, if you want to enlarge part of the image, use the Zoom In command. Keep in mind, however, that as you increase the image's size, the display will become grainier if you exceed a 1-1 pixel ratio. Each pixel in the image becomes more distinct, causing the image to look more like a series of blocks instead of the intended picture.

Using Raster Images as a Stand-Alone Image

You may have a satellite image of topography that would be impossible to duplicate as a vector image that you want to use for a presentation. You can display the image in MapInfo Pro and then incorporate it into a page layout.

Map Editing with Raster Images

Once you have superimposed map layers on top of your raster image, you can use the raster image as a reference while you edit your map layers. The process of editing based on a screen image is known as heads-up digitizing. (To minimize image distortion, only digitize from map images with known projections or rectified aerial photographs.)