Looking for GIS knowledge
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I have an MFC (VC6) program that shows a graphical representation of where certain devices are in the area. These devices have GPS lat/long coordinates that I place on a static map image that is built in the program. This was a demo program but now it looks like the company wants to take it a step further. They would like the satilite map images downloaded via the web, much like Google maps (Keyhole) or NASA World Wind so that this demo can be shown in different locations. They also need it quick. I am not sure of the best way to approach this, given the short deadline. I thought of writing something, perhaps with some head starts with HTTP GETs from Google maps but that is a learning curve as well. I think basically I need a control that I can pass in a lat/long coordinate, a zoom level (or scale factor), and some options, and get back a bitmap image I can bitblt as a 2D background. The options I am talking about are the type of image returned (USGS 1m ortho, USGS Topo, LandSat7 Visible, street detail, etc.). If it had any kind of caching ability, that would be icing on the cake. I am Google'ing on the web for this but not having much luck. Things I have found are complete applications and/or are way too complex. I just need basically need a DLL. Anybody else know of such a thing? Or can anybody think of a better approach? Thanks in advance! -Paul
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I have an MFC (VC6) program that shows a graphical representation of where certain devices are in the area. These devices have GPS lat/long coordinates that I place on a static map image that is built in the program. This was a demo program but now it looks like the company wants to take it a step further. They would like the satilite map images downloaded via the web, much like Google maps (Keyhole) or NASA World Wind so that this demo can be shown in different locations. They also need it quick. I am not sure of the best way to approach this, given the short deadline. I thought of writing something, perhaps with some head starts with HTTP GETs from Google maps but that is a learning curve as well. I think basically I need a control that I can pass in a lat/long coordinate, a zoom level (or scale factor), and some options, and get back a bitmap image I can bitblt as a 2D background. The options I am talking about are the type of image returned (USGS 1m ortho, USGS Topo, LandSat7 Visible, street detail, etc.). If it had any kind of caching ability, that would be icing on the cake. I am Google'ing on the web for this but not having much luck. Things I have found are complete applications and/or are way too complex. I just need basically need a DLL. Anybody else know of such a thing? Or can anybody think of a better approach? Thanks in advance! -Paul
Hi, You may want to look into ESRI's MapObjects. It's basically an ActiveX control and supporting library, and it really powerful. You create a window with the Map control, add layers (such as shapefiles, MrSID images, etc), set the extents, and it'll take care of the rendering. You can use the evaluation version (fully functional, 60 days) for now, and then worry about pricing/looking for other options later. As far as getting the ortho photos, check with your local GIS department. County is usually better, but your city's GIS is also an option. www.esri.com/software/mapobjects/index.html If you need more help, or help getting started, let me know! -Chris