MiniScale file management

Shaded relief file

Raster examples of MiniScale with shaded relief are provided to show what can be achieved with the Illustrator files. The relief file is embedded with individual 100 km shaded relief images fitted to the National Grid. These can be added to the main MiniScale map by using Illustrator’s ‘Paste in front’ option. Use the ‘multiply’ setting to control the transparency and strength of the shaded relief.

Using add-on files/merging earlier files

The shaded relief tiles are provided in a second Illustrator file. The document size and position of this relief file match that of the main MiniScale Illustrator file. Use the ‘paste in front’ command to copy the relief into the right position on the MiniScale map. Position the relief layer for desired effect. Use the ‘multiply’ setting to make detail underneath show through. If the document size and position have been changed, then use the 100 km squares to fit the relief tiles to.

Managing MiniScale files

MiniScale has been created as a vector data graphic map that is favourable for use within desktop graphic

applications. MiniScale’s use within GIS will be limited to backdrop mapping when using the TIFF only.

MiniScale is supplied as a single download with a variety of industry-standard formats. The Illustrator vector data is held in layers, with styled objects for easy customisation of map images. These can be easily converted to web images using appropriate software (not supplied).

File formats

MiniScale is maintained using Adobe Illustrator software. All the capabilities of editing and styling MiniScale may not be available in other applications.

Raster versions are also provided at 254 dpi. The TIFFs are LZW compressed and in RGB colours. New raster files can be created, styled and layered as required by using the Illustrator data.