Base Layers Tool

Introduction

The Base Layers Tool is a sophisticated background mapping system that provides high-performance, professionally curated base maps for enhanced spatial visualization. This essential tool offers intelligent access to authoritative base map services from the Land Information System Tasmania (LIST) and Esri, featuring progressive loading, automatic optimization, and seamless coordinate system handling to ensure optimal map rendering performance across all zoom levels.

Available Base Layers

Horizon provides five professionally curated base layers from LIST:

Name	Description	Source	URL
Hillshade	Detailed terrain visualization	LIST	Link
Topographic	Comprehensive topographic mapping	LIST	Link
Topographic Grey	Subdued topographic visualization	LIST	Link
TasmapRaster	Traditional TASMAP representation	LIST	Link
Orthophoto	High-resolution aerial imagery	LIST	Link
Esri Topographic	Esri designed basemap	ESRI	Link
Esri Imagery	World Imagery provided by Esri	ESRI	Link
Esri Street	This worldwide street map provided by Esri	ESRI	Link
Hillshade Grey	Grey Style Hillshade	LIST	Link

Using Base Layers

Accessing Base Layers

1. Locate the Base Layer icon in the left panel
2. Click to open the base layer selection panel

Selecting Base Layers

1. Review available base layers in the gallery
2. Click desired base layer to apply
3. Wait for the new base layer to load

Managing Visibility

Toggle base layer visibility using the dedicated controls:

• Toggle Basemap

Additional Notes

• Only one base layer can be active at a time
• The active base layer persists while you switch between other tools and panels
• All base layers are streaming services provided by LIST or Esri — no download is required
• The visibility toggle lets you hide the base layer entirely without changing your selection

Best Practices

1. Base Layer Selection:

   • Choose appropriate base layer for your analysis
   • Consider data visualization requirements
   • Match base layer to project purpose

2. Performance Optimization:

   • Enable only necessary base layers
   • Consider zoom level requirements
   • Monitor system resources

3. Visual Hierarchy:

   • Use appropriate base layer opacity
   • Balance with overlay layers
   • Maintain map readability

Troubleshooting

Issue	Solution
Base layer not loading	Check internet connection and refresh
Blurry or pixelated display	Adjust zoom level for optimal resolution
Performance issues	Disable unused layers, clear cache
Layer misalignment	Verify coordinate system settings

FAQ

1. Q: Can I use multiple base layers simultaneously? A: No, only one base layer can be active at a time to ensure optimal performance and clear visualization.

2. Q: How often are base layers updated? A: Base layers are updated periodically by LIST. Check metadata for specific update schedules.

3. Q: What determines base layer resolution? A: Resolution varies by zoom level and source data quality. Each base layer has optimal zoom ranges for best display.

4. Q: Can I download base layer data? A: Base layers are streaming services. Contact LIST for data acquisition options.

Video Tutorial

Watch this comprehensive guide on using the Base Layers Tool:

The Base Layers Tool is fundamental to creating professional, context-rich maps in Horizon. Understanding and effectively utilizing base layers enhances your mapping capabilities and ensures high-quality visualization of your spatial data.

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