MapMaker Notes
---------------

MapMaker is a Java based application for generating background maps for
the Java-IRAS tool.  This release of the software is "as-is" and no warantee
is provided.  This document describes what is needed to run MapMaker and
some basic information on how to use it.


Installation
------------

MapMaker has been developed using Java release 1.3 from Sun Microsystems.
One can get the latest Java run-time software from Sun's web site.  It is
delivered as part of the Java-IRAS software package.

The Java-IRAS software is distributed in Java archive format.  The ".jar"
file can be installed using the "jar" command as follows:

	% jar xvf <jarfile>
	
where <jarfile> is the name of the Java archive file.

One should install the software in a directory pointed to by the
CLASSPATH environment variable.


Starting MapMaker
------------------

To run MapMaker enter the following:

	% java MapMaker
	
How to use MapMaker
-------------------

MapMaker assumes that the master USGS digital line graph data file exists.
If it does, then you use the MapMaker GUI to define a rectangular region
(using lat/lon coordinates) to be extracted from the master map file.  It
is important that you define a region small enought so the resultant map
file is less than 1.5 Mb.  If not, you should reduce the size of the region.

First you should define the master map file and location using the "Master
File" button.

Next, you need to specify a name and location for the output map file by
selecting the "Output File" button.

Next, you should define upper left and lower right lat/lon coordinates
for the extract region.  Be sure to end each entry with the enter key.

Finally, Select the "Create Map" button to begin the extraction process and
create the map file.

Final Comments
--------------

Work is continuing to add additional features to Java-IRAS.  Updates will
be made available whenever new features have been added.  Comments on how to
improve this software are welcome.  Since this work is being done on my free
time, the scope of what can be done will be limited by my schedule.  I hope
to continue supporting this effort indefinitely and hope that you find it
useful.

If you have any questions or comments you can send them to me at:

	David.Priegnitz@nssl.noaa.gov