

First, you need to convert your map image to PDF. Including geospatial data in a PDF file requires several steps. Or you can use the geospatial tools in Acrobat 9 Pro Extended (Windows only) to make your own maps by adding data to a raster-based PDF map. Creating the mapĬommon types of maps on the market include Geo TIFF and JPEG2000 format files, both which open directly in Acrobat 9 Pro Extended.

But how about these ideas? You could use a map-prepared like the sample PDF document-as a downloadable file from a realtor’s site listing current properties, to identify items of interest for tech-savvy visitors at your upcoming class reunion, or as the basis for geography discussions in a classroom. The vast majority of PDF mapping pertains to industrial and government use. By adding the data identifying the locations, users can measure items like the perimeter of the lake, or the distance from one location to another. The sample file includes several locations identified in Central Park. On the other hand, if you want to make any measurements-and increase the wow factor significantly-add the georeference data. If all you’re doing is identifying locations on a map, it’s far simpler to use a button or text of some sort-as you see in Figure 1.įigure 1: Add labels or buttons for quick location references There’s no reason you can’t use a georeferenced PDF map for any project where you’re using a map. But how about preparing a project for a geography class, or a map for customers showing properties for sale, and/or for locating local businesses and services? You may not think you'd ever have a need for creating or using a geospatial PDF map. Rather than working with flat images of map layers (that lose their data) or trying to manage enormous Geo TIFF image files, workers in the field can access map data directly from their sources, add markups as necessary, and interact with the PDF-based map just as they would with any other PDF file.

There’s no doubt that including PDF mapping capabilities in the PDF 1.7 specification shook up traditional markets that use geospatial data, such as construction, surveying, public works projects and the like. If you’re not involved in an industry dependent on geospatial data, you can still use PDF mapping. Locations marked on a map include interactive coordinates. Acrobat 9 Pro Extended includes PDF mapping, the ability to use geospatial information as a document layer or embedded within a simple PDF document.
