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Since May 2014, ProOSM+ has brought OpenStreetMaps to ProCAD+ via a PC, then GetOSM came along to provide a means of obtaining the maps using RISC OS. Now, new releases of ProCAD+ and ProOSM+ have introduced a whole new usefulness to the maps.
Firstly, the ProCAD+ drawing files created by ProOSM+ have more data stored in them. The existing ProCAD+ ‘user units’ mechanism is set up for each map so that measurements can be made on the map in metres. This means you can measure distances or, if you select an area, say a building or a field or draw a shape and select it, then the Item Info. window will display its area in square metres.
The second feature claims the storage used by one of the eight zoom windows normally available to users. It names it ‘OSMdata’ and prevents it from being used as a window. The data stored in this space is used by ProCAD+ to enable a live display of longitude and latitude in a special dialogue box as the pointer is moved over the map. The dialogue box’s display is a writable icon so it is actually possible to enter a longitude and latitude then click on OK or hit Return to move the pointer to that position on the map.
See it for yourself. The evaluation version of ProCAD+ now available at www.dsnell.co.uk has the latest features. A sample map file is also available that will show off the metre units and longitude and latitude display. The sample ProCAD+ map of Dawlish has almost no filtering applied and so shows virtually the maximum amount of data available. The display of some of the data may be controlled using the layer and text class dialogue boxes.
Have fun!
