Vector charts use “intelligent” data to build the chart display. This data is held in layers and records every feature on a chart such as coastlines, buoys, lights, etc. These features and their attributes (position, color, size, shape, etc.) are stored in a database that allows them to be selectively displayed and interrogated. Vector charts are extremely accurate at their reference scales (as long as they are not “over-zoomed“), but can appear quite different from traditional paper charts.
Advantages:
- Charts appear at any scale.
- Depth units can be changed (to meters rather than feet).
- Chart details can be hidden to reduce clutter.
- Specific objects access detailed information.
MaxSea Vector Chart Display