WMS 8 - Flash Tutorial Overview

WMS 8 has major changes in the overall look and feel of the graphical user interface (existing users should view this) environment. Besides having a softer feel, WMS 8 has traditional items from past versions in new locations.  The main changes, covered in the instructional files, are listed below.  A complete overview of the GUI can also be viewed (new users and those who want a complete overview of the GUI should view this).

1. Modules are now stored horizontally above the Graphics Window.

2. The Project Explorer, previously called the Data Tree, is on the left side of the display, and contains information for all data objects (e.g. TINs, DEMs, images, coverages, etc.) simultaneously (previous versions were module dependent). 

3. The Edit Window, where xyz data were displayed and edited, has been combined with other properties and is now managed in the Properties window on the right side of the display.

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4. Various tools and macros are rearranged in location as well as orientation. Those shown horizontally by default are the macros and modules that provide the user with control. Those that are vertically by default are tools for the window, often associated with specific modules.

5. Tools specific to modules are automatically available when a module is active, and are shown directly to the left of the graphics window, docked vertically. When the active module is changed, the tools associated with the new module are displayed here. In addition, multiple sets of tools can be shown as toolbars that can either float or be docked.

6. Contour options have been modified and enhanced to include an option for overlay of linear contours on color-filled contours and each data set (DEMs, TIN datasets, etc.) has its own set of contour options.

In addition to location changes, traditional tools/features were changed and additional tools were added: (click on a link to see a Flash instructional file)

• Images - When images are opened, they are converted to JPEG format to allow multiple image types to be displayed simultaneously. In addition, a process known as building pyramids is employed to save multiple files of varying resolutions so that when an area is displayed, an appropriate resolution image is available to best represent the area. These options can be managed by using Image Preferences.

• The Display Options dialog is enhanced in that only the applicable tabs are shown (e.g., the DEM tab will not be accessible if a DEM is not loaded). Furthermore, the tabs are accessed from a listing on the left side of the dialog. In addition, lighting and shading options are now available in the Display Options dialog.  See hints on using the new Display Options to display the results of a typical watershed delineation.

• The Select Feature Objects tool is an intelligent tool for selecting objects. It can select arcs, polygons, points, etc. without having to change the tool.

• Many new right-click menus are available. These menus are more object specific than past versions.

• Improved support of HEC-HMS modeling

• Bridge, culvert and flow-control set up for HEC-RAS models

• Complete interface to the Orange County, California hydrology methods

• Improved interfaces to many of the models supported

Downloading DEM data

Download DEMs from the USGS NED site