Frame
The boundary or extent of a map or data view, important for defining the area of spatial analysis (standard GIS usage).
How is a Frame defined?
A frame, also known as a map frame or data frame, is a defined area within a map layout that shows a specific portion of spatial data in cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It functions as a window or viewport that regulates which layers are displayed, how the geographic data is scaled, and what portion of it is visible. For that particular area of the layout, the frame establishes the map's extent, coordinate system, and visual appearance.
In order to clearly and meaningfully organize spatial information, map frames are necessary. To display several geographic regions, scales, or themes—such as an overview map, a close-up, or a comparison across historical periods—a single map layout can have many frames. By giving users flexibility over which features are displayed, how they are represented, and how they interact with other elements like legends, titles, and scale bars, frames assist users in managing intricate map designs.
Overall, frames are a foundational tool in cartographic design and spatial analysis, ensuring that maps communicate accurate and relevant information effectively.
Related Keywords
In Geographic Information System (GIS) software, a GIS data frame is a container that arranges and shows layers of spatial data. It enables users to efficiently see, analyse, and manage numerous geographic datasets in a single view by defining the coordinate system, map extent, and layer order.
In GIS, a map frame layout is a specific section of a map layout that shows spatial data. In order to ensure proper visualization for analysis, reporting, or printing, it enables users to arrange and display maps with features like legends, scale bars, north arrows, and annotations. For successful narrative, map frames facilitate the integration of several map views into a single layout.
A data frame in ArcGIS is a group of layers that have the same coordinate system and map extent. Users can control scale, extent, coordinate systems, and display settings with its properties. The data frame's spatial reference, visibility ranges, rotation, and backdrop appearance can all be changed by the user. Accurate mapping, reliable analysis, and understandable geospatial data display are guaranteed by proper setup.
To arrange and show various sets of spatial data in a single map document, you can insert numerous data frames in ArcMap. You can view many layers, coordinate systems, or scales at once since each data frame functions as an independent map. Go to the Insert menu, choose Data Frame, and repeat as necessary to add more than one data frame. After that, you can link, rename, and arrange them for layout or comparative analysis.