topic Re: In which format should base maps be rendered in ArcGIS API for Silverlight Questions

In which format should base maps be rendered

xariaD — Mon, 24 May 2010 07:26:20 GMT

We will be hosting the base maps on our own server.
For mapIt to interact with these maps; in which format should the REST services provide the maps.
Is jpeg alright? Will it support zoom in and zoom out?
Or do we have to provide the maps as shape files or mxd?

TIA

Re: In which format should base maps be rendered

dotMorten_esri — Mon, 24 May 2010 20:47:33 GMT

When you publish your MXD to ArcGIS Server you get to pick betweem JPEG, GIF and PNG. GIF is not supported by Silverlight. Choose PNG or JPEG based on the type of data you have. JPEG compresses imagery really well, but is poor for line graphics like topographical maps, which PNG is better at compressing. JPG doesn't support pixel transparency either, so that might also be an issue if your map is not used as a baselayer.

Re: In which format should base maps be rendered

xariaD — Tue, 25 May 2010 05:51:50 GMT

So we need to have a ArcGIS Server to host the maps? We cannot host the maps on normal webserver?

Re: In which format should base maps be rendered

dotMorten_esri — Tue, 25 May 2010 15:00:37 GMT

You need some sort of mapserver that can spit out image tiles. Meaning render the vector data based on their styling defined in the MXD. This is what ArcGIS Server mainly does.
You can use a 3rd party mapserver, but you would have to write your own client layers as well then.