LizardTech GeoViewer is a specialized mobile application designed for professionals who need to access and analyze high-resolution geospatial imagery directly on their Android devices. This powerful tool brings complex raster and vector data into the field, enabling detailed on-site inspections and planning.
What is LizardTech GeoViewer?
LizardTech GeoViewer is a professional-grade GIS (Geographic Information System) viewer. Its primary purpose is to open, display, and interact with high-resolution geospatial image formats, specifically MrSID and JPEG 2000. The app is targeted at surveyors, urban planners, environmental scientists, and other geospatial professionals who require access to detailed maps and imagery outside of a traditional office setting. Its core functionality revolves around visualizing complex geodata with precision.
Why Should You Use LizardTech GeoViewer?
Users choose this app for its robust handling of specialized, high-resolution image formats that are often unreadable on standard mobile map applications. It is an essential tool for field work where precise, data-rich imagery is crucial. Key advantages include:
Direct support for MrSID and JPEG 2000 files.
Advanced tools for measurement and analysis.
The ability to overlay vector data on raster imagery.
Seamless integration with GPS for real-time location.
Key Features of LizardTech GeoViewer
Multi-Format Image Support: Open and view MrSID and JPEG 2000 raster images with full pan and zoom capabilities.
Vector Overlays: Enhance imagery by adding vector data layers from Esri Shapefiles and KML files.
Band Selection: For multispectral images, users can select specific bands to view, which is critical for analysis.
Integrated GPS: Center the map on your current GPS location to see the surrounding imagery in context.
Measurement Tools: Accurately measure distances between multiple points directly on the image.
Additional Features
Layer Property Inspection
View detailed metadata for any layer, including its coordinate reference system, geo bounding box, and resolution.
Coordinate Search
Search for specific locations by entering geographic coordinates in WGS 84 (Lat/Long) or the image’s native coordinate system.
Customizable Viewing Preferences
Adjust visual settings like band selection for spectral images and line colors for vector overlays.
How to Download and Install LizardTech GeoViewer
1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Tap the search bar and type "LizardTech GeoViewer."
3. Select the app from the search results, identified by LizardTech, Inc. as the developer.
4. Tap the "Install" button.
5. Once downloaded, the app will install automatically. You can then open it from your app drawer.
How to Use LizardTech GeoViewer
1. Load Data: Transfer your MrSID, JPEG 2000, or supported vector files to your device's storage.
2. Open a File: Within the app, use the file browser to navigate to and open your desired image or layer.
3. Navigate: Use touch gestures to pan and zoom through the high-resolution imagery.
4. Utilize Tools: Access the toolbar to measure distances, enable GPS, or add vector overlays for more context.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
Exceptional performance with large, high-resolution geospatial files.
The interface is functional and designed for professional use.
Provides critical field capabilities that are typically desktop-only.
The measurement and GPS tools are accurate and reliable.
Cons
The learning curve is steep for users unfamiliar with GIS concepts.
It is a niche tool with limited appeal for the general public.
Functionality is dependent on users sourcing their own proprietary imagery files.
Is LizardTech GeoViewer Safe to Use?
Yes, LizardTech GeoViewer is safe to use. It is a legitimate application developed by LizardTech, Inc., a known company in the geospatial software industry. The app requires permissions to access device location (for GPS functionality) and photos/media/files (to open user-provided image files stored on the device). It does not misuse these permissions.
Compatible Apps or Tools
LizardTech GeoViewer is designed to work with files created by desktop GIS software. It is highly compatible with:
Esri ArcGIS: For creating Shapefile overlays.
Google Earth: For generating KML files to use as vector layers.
Various Desktop Image Processing Software: That output MrSID or JPEG 2000 formats.
FAQs
What image formats does LizardTech GeoViewer support?
It primarily supports the MrSID and JPEG 2000 (JP2) raster image formats.
Can I use this app without an internet connection?
Yes, the app works offline. You must first download the image files to your device's local storage.
Is LizardTech GeoViewer free?
Yes, the application is free to download and use.
Does it support other map services like Google Maps?
No, this app is specifically for viewing user-supplied geospatial image files, not standard online map tiles.
Conclusion
LizardTech GeoViewer fulfills a very specific and professional need impeccably. It is not a consumer mapping app but an indispensable mobile workstation for geospatial experts who need to interact with high-resolution imagery in the field. For its intended audience, the functionality offered by LizardTech GeoViewer is powerful and unmatched on mobile platforms.
