The improvements of the vector architecture cover the new 3D multiattribute, multilayer vector library, a modified NVIZ and a few database management tools. DBMS is now integral part of the system.
GRASS 6.0 features
Vector library (geometry):
multiformat - also external data formats supported (SHAPE-file, PostGIS) without the need of data conversion (through OGR library with 'v.external');
Optional PostGIS support implemented for geometry storage via OGR library. which probably allows for multiuser write access to the same vector map;
spatial index - v.build (was: v.support) significantly accelerated;
Database Management Interface (attributes):
Attribute storage in DBMS for compatibility with industry standards (SQL based interface for PostgreSQL, mySQL, ODBC, dBase)
multiattribute - attributes saved in dBase files (default) or saved in external DBMS
multilayer - features in one vector may represent one or several layers and may be linked to one or several external tables
2D/3D vectors may be created (see screenshot) (eg TINs), already supported in NVIZ
forms library implemented for user friendly query dialogs
Linear reference systems supported (LRS, to come)
Applications/Misc:
SQL queries/selects supported by vector modules
attributes updating is supported through the forms library (d.what.vect lets you modify directly the attached attributes)
Shortest path vector networking (screenshot) - based on DGLIB (Directed Graph Library), costs may be assigned both to nodes and arcs (and also different in both directions of a vector line)
new v.digit with GUI under construction (screenshot)
import and export of any OGR vector formats as supported by OGR (Shapefile, TIGER, MapInfo and GML2, PostGIS and DGN)
GUI generated by front end on runtime and display manager (screenshots)
i18n: support for multiple languages (at time framework implemented, translators needed)
multiple GRASS sessions: a user can start more than one session in parallel
Esri devMeetUps - locate a developer meetup taking place in a city near you
ERDAS Webinars - Register for a free, online webinar from ERDAS
ILMF 2012 - International LiDAR Mapping Forum, Denver, Colorado, Jan 23-25, 2012
Esri Dev Summit - The Esri Developer Summit (DevSummit) brings together developers and GIS professionals from all over the globe. March 26-29, 2012, Palm Springs, CA
Where2.0 - where the people working on and using location technologies come together to explore best practices and emerging trends in software development, tools, business strategies, and marketing. April 2-4, 20112, San Francisco, CA
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