Capture static background map images and insert them into the drawing as raster images (PNG, JPG, TIF) or OLE objects. Snapshots can be georeferenced using a World File, and you can select the image detail level. Ideal for presentations, printing, or external GIS use..

Get static “Snapshots” of the ‘Background Maps’

Spatial Manager™ for GstarCAD includes the command SPMBGMAPIMAGE that allows you to create (capture) a snapshot corresponding to the current view or a custom area of the shown ‘Background Map’.

As you will see, you can choose between four levels of map image detail and select if you want an externally referenced GstarCAD Raster Image (you can select the path and name of the file to be saved, or accept the proposed default path and name) or an embedded OLE Image. In addition, in the first case you can select the image format and if you want to attach a World File in order to geo-reference the saved image.

This command allows you many advanced graphic options when using ‘Background Maps’, as well as solving some printing issues.

“Snapshots” resolution

For getting better resolution images, follow these tips:

• Instead of making a unique capture for the working area, take multiple captures of smaller subdivision areas. Zoom in to the desired area, the closer the view is to an area, the better detail is obtained
• Execute SPMBGMAPIMAGE and select “Map detail level=Very fine”

“Google Earth” images

If you want to get high-resolution images from Google Earth, review this blog post for importing images from Google Earth and get an exact image of what you see in Google Earth. The same as the previous option, the smaller area, the best result.