GIS for the PDA
The GWPC has introduced PocketTerra, a set of mapping and GPS
components for field data collection for the Microsoft .NET Compact
Framework. With PocketTerra, end users can easily locate features in
the field using detailed topographic maps, aerial photographs, and GPS at
no cost. Once found, data can be entered using normal Windows Forms. Microsoft
SQL Server CE enables data to automatically synchronize to a
centralized SQL Server database whenever the device is connected to the
Internet. PocketTerra takes advantage of many of the features of the
Microsoft .NET Compact Framework to make writing field data
collection programs more productive. SQL Server CE provides
automated database syncing and replication with the central SQL
Server database. PocketTerra also utilizes Web services to download
detailed topographic maps and aerial photos from the Microsoft TerraServer
for use in the field. And because PocketTerra is written in Microsoft
Visual C# .NET, developers can depend on stability and easier
maintenance.
PocketTerra and the .NET Compact Framework provide a seamless,
powerful and elegant way to write field data collection programs for the
Pocket PC and other Windows Mobile-based devices with Visual Studio
.NET 2003. Using GPS and the free maps provided by the TerraServer Web
service, it is possible locate a position on a map on a PDA unit (Figure
6). Windows Forms makes data collection screens easy to write and use.
Finally, the web interface to SQL server then makes it a breeze to sync
data back to the central database.
Integrated documentation, complete source code, and full example
programs in both Visual Basic .NET and C# .NET are provided with the
program. No runtime royalties are charged so that a company can deploy
thousands of copies at no additional cost. Most GPS receivers
for Windows Mobile-based devices are supported. PocketTerra is
available to all RBDMS states at no costs.
GIS for RBDMS
GWPC continues to look for ways to integrate powerful mapping and
analysis tools with the latest advances in data delivery options. Such
software combinations give users the ability to access data for many
purposes. Many states have implemented geographic information systems
(GIS) to complement their data management tools (Figure 7). Internet-based
GIS tools will allow operators and interested parties to dynamically
select an area of interest to analyze for an array of environmental
conditions. GIS coverage’s showing the following information will be of
particular value:
