Terrain Layer Support in Global Mapper Mobile v2.1

One of the many new features in Global Mapper Mobile v2.1 is support for terrain layers, which introduces a variety of new functions and settings within the app. These new tools add to an already robust feature set that help to extend  the reach of your GIS. While much of this functionality is available in the free version of the app, some more advanced options are part of the optional Pro Module.

Features available in the base version of the app:

Prior to the release of Global Mapper Mobile v2.1, a terrain layer exported from the desktop version of Global Mapper was handled as a simple raster layer, without any elevation information.  The new functionality recognizes terrain layers and their respective elevation information and metadata.

All terrain layers will be rendered using the Atlas Shader, one of the default shaders in the desktop version of the application. Users can also control whether hill shading is enabled via a new setting found in the Configuration settings in the mobile app.

Navigating to the Control Center within Global Mapper Mobile will feel familiar to users who work with the desktop software. The layer’s elevation range, units, and other related information are now available when viewing the metadata for a terrain layer. This provides a useful reference for users when in the field, providing situational awareness in relation to their data and surroundings.

The addition of terrain layer support to Global Mapper Mobile v2.1 also helps to expand location information by providing elevation information at a specific location. Enabling either Crosshair or GPS and Crosshair location mode will report the elevation values of the terrain at the crosshair location. This displays specific elevation information for a given location from a source other than the device’s location services.

Advanced options in the Pro Module:

Navigating to the new Shader Options section within Configuration provides Global Mapper Mobile Pro users more options to customize the terrain data. The Shader Name option allows access to any of the terrain shaders that are built into the desktop version of the software.

Users who need to simulate water level on their terrain data will find the Display Water Level settings beneficial to their workflows. Whether modeling water level rise or trying to understand what changes in water level will look like on the landscape, users can control when this is enabled, and at what elevation water is displayed.

Terrain layer support is just one of the many new features in Global Mapper v2.1. If you’re interested in exploring the app further, visit Global Mapper Mobile v2.1 for details. The app is also a free download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.