Feature library

A feature library is a text file with an FXL extension that contains the definitions of feature codes, attributes, linework and symbology, and control codes:

  • Feature codes define the code for types of features, so that features of the same type use the same code.

  • 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 Origin software prompts you to enter the attribute data.

  • Linework and symbology define how the feature appears on the map, including line thickness and color. For points, different symbols can be used to represent different point features.

  • 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 using the CAD toolbar.

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

You can create your own feature library using the Feature Definition Manager in the Spectra Geospatial Survey Office software and then transfer the file to the System Files folder on the controller.

You can also create a feature library using Origin, however the functionality in Origin for defining an FXL file is more limited. When you create a feature library file in Origin, you can only define feature codes, line type and color or polygon line type and color, and control codes. See To add or edit a feature library in Origin.

To create a feature library that contains attribute definitions or to add symbols you must use the Feature Definition Manager in Survey Office. See Survey Office feature libraries.