Map Tools - Generating a Vicinity Map with the SQLite File Type

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Generating a Vicinity Map with the SQLite File Type

When creating a Vicinity Map you may have noticed we no longer offer the ".SHP" or Shape file format as an option to export the map. This method has been replaced by the file type SQLite. There are many positives for this switch, number one was the great performance increase in generating your Vicinity Map. 

SQLite is an embedded SQL database engine. Unlike most other SQL databases, SQLite does not have a separate server process. SQLite reads and writes directly to ordinary disk files. A complete SQL database with multiple tables, indices, triggers, and views, is contained in a single disk file. The database file format is cross-platform - you can freely copy a database between 32-bit and 64-bit systems or between big-endian and little-endian architectures. These features make SQLite a popular choice as an Application File Format. (Information Source)

SQLite is a very versatile format in that it can be imported into most mapping software. If you are looking for a free mapping software, be sure to check out QGIS. A download of the latest version of QGIS can be found here. Once there you can choose either the network installer or the standalone installer. Follow the instructions of the installer to complete the software installation to your PC. Autodesk also offers a very informative step by step tutorial on how to import an SQLite file type into their AutoCAD software. 

After installing free mapping software such as QGIS you should be able to drag and drop your generated Vicinity Map SQLite file. An example of generating a Vicinity Map in SQLite file format and utilizing the free mapping software QGIS is available below.

1. Locate the Vicinity Map Tool via the Task Pane and Task List, see below.

2. Select the File Type you want to generate for your Vicinity Map. There are three file types available for your selection. SQLite and SDF will cost you 50 User Credits each. Note, the file type DWG will require a $50.00 service fee. See below.

3. Creating your Vicinity Map. After you have selected which File Type you want (ie SQLite, SDF, or DWG). You will need to select a Center Point for your Vicinity Map. See example below. 

4. Once you have clicked the Create File button, your selected File Type will be generated and emailed to you. See example below.

4. After you have received the Vicinity Map email, click the linked URL to download the generated file. 

5. Once you have the file downloaded, you can utilize the file in your mapping software of choice. For example, using QGIS, you can drag and drop the file into the software. When you drag and drop the file, QGIS will prompt you for what vector layers to add. You can choose which layers you want or choose to select all layers and import, see below for example. Don't forget you have the ability to customize your layer properties. You can do this by right clicking on the layer and selecting properties. There you can change the colors and other formatting.