Frequently Asked Questions
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Is there any way of creating a grid in Field-Map?
For the purpose of point sampling, Field-Map can generate a
user-defined regular grid of points within the plot boundaries.
On these grid points you can easily create concentric circles
which can be used for further detailed measurements and
mapping.
Field-Map also enables you to optimize the positioning of
user-defined circles inside polygons.
Line and polygon grids can also be created.
How does Field-Map perform in comparison with other
field data collection approaches?
The use of Field-Map greatly increases productivity. A general
rule is that the larger the plot in the field and the more complex the
field methodology, the greater are the benefits of using Field-Map.
In comparison with traditional methods based on standard
equipment and paper forms, Field-Map shows clear advantages.
But even in comparison with the approaches based on custom
software applications for particular projects, Field-Map shows a
substantial gain in efficiency. With Field-Map it is efficient to develop
applications even for just one research plot. Moreover, Field-Map
does not require qualified programmers for the development of field
applications.
This way your investment in Field-Map will pay-off in a very short
period of time.
What is the difference between digitizing already existing maps and mapping with Field-Map?
Data collected via Field-Map are in ready-to-use GIS format (ESRI shapefiles). Therefore there is no need for
conversion nor export. Compared to the usual digitizing of hard copy maps, Field-Map brings precise and up-todate
information free of digitizing errors and ready immediately upon returning from the field.
Field-Map itself is not meant as GIS for data evaluation, but as sophisticated and comprehesive tool for data
acquisition.
How difficult is it to learn Field-Map?
Despite its comprehensive nature, Field-Map is still use-friendly. The MS Windows environment makes the
software understandable for ordinary computer users. Field-Map makes the newest measurement technology
accessible to non-computer specialists.
The available technical support and training programme make your start quick and easy.
Are there any ways to expand Field-Map functionality?
Field-Map has a modular structure. Within the common user interface a number of modules can be used to
fulfill your particular needs. Additionally, external user modules in the form of dynamic libraries (DLL) can be
developed using programming tools such as C++, Delphi, etc. and run from within Field-Map. For example,
volume tables, biomass equations, growth and yield models, assortment tables and other extensions can be
attached.
What data formats does Field-Map use?
The internal structure of the Field-Map
database is based on Paradox tables for
storage of attributes and ArcView shapefi les
for storage of geographical entities. It is
easily possible to convert the attribute tables
to MS Access or dBase format using the
export utility of Field Map Project Manager.
How can the collected data be used?
Connectivity to external devices in the field
on one hand, and easy transfer of data
to external applications on the other are
important Field-Map functions.
Paradox, MS Access or dBase formats of
attribute tables allow you to use
Field-Map data with a number of
desktop applications for statistical
processing, visualization of data, etc.
The ArcView shapefile format of
geographic layers enables the use
of Field-Map data with other GIS
software (ArcView, Arc/Info, MapInfo,
SPANS, etc.) without any further
conversion.
How can a remote sensing specialist benefit from using Field-Map?
Most remote sensing projects need ground true data to verify the analysis methods. In Field-Map you can use referenced raster images as background maps and collect data for different layers.
What is the advantage of Field-Map over land surveying technologies?
In traditional survey techniques, you obtain a number of coordinates in the field using a total station. You take these coordinates to the office to create the map. The problem that might arise is that when you discover an error in the measurements you have to go back to the field again and make corrections.
With Field-Map you create a map directly in the field and so all such possible mistakes may be avoided. Of course the precision is not within millimetres, but the speed of data collection is incomparable.
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