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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