What’s a Layered (Vector) Map?


What’s a Layered (vector) Map?

Layered (vector) maps are graphical representations of geographic databases that create the displayed map with lines, or "vectors." These lines, or "vectors," are used to depict roads, intersections, and geographic points/areas of interest (e.g., lakes, rivers, etc.). While this type of mapping does not offer the aesthetic effect ("pretty-picture" attractiveness) of a raster map, it does allow the user to utilize a single map source to support his mapping needs. A single layered map can be zoomed out to show large coverage area and then zoomed in to reveal the underlying detailed roads. This can only be accomplished with raster maps by using individual raster images for each "zoomed in" view desired. Also, and most significantly, the map is just a database and can support street name or geo-coded searching. RASTRAC offers the system operator the ability to use raster, layered, or both when he designs his map display. It’s the "best of both worlds," an underlying philosophy of RASTRAC.