5 replies to this topic

[J. Harris]

Hey all-

I've reciently started doing a lot of digitizing of hand drawn data on existing maps. (eg. Weed treatment areas or vegetation types in a property). I find that it takes a fair amount of time to digitize the data so my main reason for getting one is productivity. I've started looking into external digitizers and was interested to get your input.

I was looking at 2 types.

1. The pen/mouse type for every day use.

• Are these any faster than just using my current mouse? I gues I like the idea of being able to "draw" polygons.
• Do you have make/model reccomendations?
• Any other reasons I should or should not get one?

2. A large Format Digitizer like the Drawing Board 4. to input data from existing maps/plats.

• Same questions apply.

Thanks for your input.

-Jonathan

[GISRox]

Jonathan,

I highly recommend going the route of "heads-up" or on-screen digitizing. At one of my contract sites we have completely removed the use of large digitizing tablets with a scanner and software that can digitize on scanned images. It is much more efficient and easier for the person doing the digitizing.

Feel free to drop me a note with further questions.

[J. Harris]

Hi Petro-

Thanks for the quick reply. I've never heard of heads up digitizing but it makes sense. If you could post or PM more info regarding what I would need so I can evaluate if it would work for our situations.

Most of the maps I'm digitizing off of have aerial images incorporated (not just CAD drawings). can the software detect features on these maps? Thanks.

[frax]

Harris - what software are you using?

[J. Harris]

Harris - what software are you using?

ArcMap 9.3.1 w/ ArcView License. Single User.

[Robert2009]

If the budget is not concern of you, Here is the website that you might want to take a look at Wacom, in which you can use the pen and digitize it. Take a look at it http://www.wacom.com...gis_mapping.php .

Robert