Layout Map Grid Settings

A map grid is a network of evenly spaced horizontal and vertical lines used to identify locations on a map. Two types are available: graticule and kilometer grid. The graticule represents the geographic coordinate system (GCS) by displaying latitude and longitude lines, while the kilometer grid uses uniformly spaced lines to indicate projected coordinates.

The same map supports multiple grid overlays. Different coordinate systems determine available grid types:

  • Geographic Coordinate System Maps: Support both graticules and kilometer grids
  • Projected Coordinate System Maps: Support both graticules and kilometer grids
  • Planar Coordinate System Maps: Support kilometer grids only
Multiple Map Grids

Application Scenarios

  • Create standardized map products by configuring grids, coordinate markers, and map borders according to cartographic specifications
  • When map extents span multiple UTM zones, use multiple kilometer grids to accurately display coordinate information across different zones

Creating Grids

Supports grid creation through predefined templates or template files:

  • Predefined Templates:

    Access Paths:

    • Object Operations tab → Object Drawing group → Grid
    • Layout Map Properties panel → Add button on Map Grid toolbar

    Grid Parameter Settings:

    • Grid Type: Choose between graticule or kilometer grid
    • Coordinate System: Set projected coordinate system for kilometer grids (automatically matches map's GCS for graticules)
    • Horizontal Interval: Distance between vertical lines (degrees for graticules/meters for kilometer grids)
    • Vertical Interval: Distance between horizontal lines (degrees for graticules/meters for kilometer grids)
    • Rows/Columns: Dynamically calculated based on intervals (default 10x10 grid)
    Note:

    Grids maintain fixed intervals when map extents change. Finalize map layout bounds before generating grids for optimal results.

  • Template Files: Click Import on Layout Map Properties panel to create grids using XML template files

Managing Grids

  • Grid Settings: Modify grid parameters via toolbar settings
  • Grid Templates: Export/import grid configurations for reuse
  • Reorder: Adjust grid display hierarchy with Move Up/Down
  • Delete: Permanently remove selected grids
  • Visibility: Toggle grid display
  • Renaming: Double-click grid name to edit
  • Grid Styling:
    • Outline Style: Customize border lines via line symbol selector
    • Grid Type: Choose solid lines, crosshairs, or no lines
    • Line Style: Configure line attributes for grid elements
    • Primary/Secondary Marks: Set major/minor tick styles (secondary marks available for kilometer grids only)
  • Label Styling:
    • Surrounded Labels: Position coordinate labels around map frame
    • Corner Labels: Display coordinates at map corners with adjustable offsets
    • Display Formats: Choose between DMS or decimal degrees for graticules
    • Digit Settings: Optimize label precision for kilometer grids
    • Text Formatting: Customize font attributes and display effects