Map compilation, a process through which aerial photography is transformed into maps, has reached a cross-road. The map compilation industry is at a juncture where the digital processes are beginning to surpass the mechanical processes of analog and analytical stereo plotters. It is a logical evolution, considering the advances in personal computer hardware and software technology.
AMSA Digital Compiler
AMSA Digital Compiler, or Softcopy, is a leader in the new generation of desktop digital map compilation systems. The "brain" behind this system is one of the most powerful modules in theAMSA line of software. As such it is fully compatible with and works seamlessly in the AMSA environment.
Fully Compatible with other Major Mapping Software
With our CONNEX data conversion software, AMSA Digital Compiler can generate a final product that is also fully compatible with other major mapping software, including Intergraph and AutoCAD.
3-D Stereo Model on Your Monitor
AMSA Digital Compiler utilizes the AMSA's advanced image
processing technology, which allows a stereo
model pair to be displayed on your monitor.
With Stereoscopic visualization devices i.e. stereoscopic monitors, stereo conversion kits for existing CRT monitors, and
LC shutter glasses from RealD (website:
www.reald.com
) or from MacNaughton, Inc. (website:
www.nuvision3d.com ), users are able to view stereo images and perform a variety of mapping tasks, such as analytical and photogrammetric restitution, stereo superimposition, and DEM image processing.
More About Hardware Requirements
In addition to the Stereoscopic
visualization devices, the AMSA Digital Compiler module requires two hand wheels
for x and y input, a foot disk OR a 3D digitizing mouse for z-elevation, a
Windows operating
system with 1024MB of RAM, and AMSA mapping
software to complete this digital analytical system. Other hardware upgrades, such as a
Stereo-ready graphic card from ATI FireGL(website:
www.ati.amd.com
), Matrox Parhelia(website:
www.matrox.com
), NVidia Quadro(website:
www.nvidia.com
), PNY Quadro(website:
www.pny.com ), high performance graphic adapter, and more RAM, are recommended for improving overall performance.
With the above (minimum) hardware
and software requirements, AMSA Digital Compiler system can handle digital
images with a scan resolution of 7 to 10 microns with ease. Viewing controls such as
dynamic panning and zooming allow users fast image manipulation.
