Feature library

A feature library is a text file that contains the definitions of feature codes, attributes, linework, and control codes.

Control codes define the relationship between points so that the geometry of a line or polygon is drawn in the map. The easiest way to use control codes to create line, arc, and polygon features in the map as you measure points, or by drawing line and arc features using points already in the job is using the CAD toolbar.

An attribute is a characteristic or property of a feature in a database. All features have a geographic position as an attribute. Other attributes depend on the type of feature. For example, a road has a name or designation number, surface type, width, number of lanes, and so on. The value chosen to describe a particular feature is called the attribute value.

When you measure a point and select a feature code from the feature library in the Code field, if the feature code has attributes then the Trimble Access software prompts you to enter the attribute data.

If you have enabled Use descriptions, you cannot select codes from feature libraries in Description fields.

The GlobalFeatures.fxl feature library file is installed with the Trimble Access software. Use the GlobalFeatures.fxl feature library file to assign feature codes to points, enter attributes, draw features using the CAD toolbar, or measure and code features in one step using Measure codes. If required, you can edit the GlobalFeatures.fxl feature library in Trimble Access.

The GlobalFeatures.fxl file is installed to the System Files folder only for new installations of the Trimble Access software. If you are updating the software, then the GlobalFeatures.fxl file is not installed. If you already have Trimble Access and want to have the GlobalFeatures.fxl file, download the file from Trimble Access Downloads page and copy it to the System Files folder.

You can create your own feature library using the Feature Definition Manager in the Trimble Business Center software and then transfer the file to the System Files folder on the controller. Alternatively, you can create a feature library using Trimble Access.

Feature codes created using Trimble Access are used only to draw feature geometry. To create a feature library that contains attribute definitions you must use the Feature Definition Manager in Trimble Business Center.

To select a code in a survey, the job must be using the feature library that contains the appropriate codes.

To select the library:

  1. Tap and select Job. The current job is already selected.
  2. Tap Properties.
  3. Tap Feature library. The Select feature library screen shows the available feature library files in the System Files folder.
  4. To add a feature library file from a different folder, tap Browse and navigate to the location of the feature library file. Tap the file to select it and tap Accept. The file is copied to the Trimble Data / System Files folder and appears in the Select feature library list.
  5. Tap the feature library file to select it.