Managing layers using the Layer manager

Use the Layer manager to link files to the job and to manage the data that is visible in the Map screen.

To open the Layer manager, do one of the following:

  • Tap in the Map toolbar.
  • In the Job properties screen, tap the Layer manager button.

The Layer manager provides tabs for managing different types of data:

  • Use the Point files tab to link point files (CSV, TXT, and job files) so that you can view and use the points in the file without importing them into the job. See Managing point file layers.

  • Use the Map files tab to:

    • Link supported map files (including BIM model, DXF, RXL, and surface files) to the job so that you can use existing data from those files in Origin. See Supported linked file types.
    • Make items in linked files visible and/or selectable so that you can work with them. Items that are selectable ("active") can be used in various software functions, including navigating to a point, staking out, and some Cogo functions. See Managing map file layers.

    • Add a map background data to provide background maps and context information for other data in the map. Adding map background data is available only when you open the Layer manager from the map. See Adding background maps.

  • Use the Filter tab to filter the job data shown by measurement type or by creating a wildcard search. See Filtering data by measurement type.

  • Use the Features tab to make features in the job visible and/or selectable ("active") by feature layer. The feature layers listed are determined by the Feature Library FXL file linked to the job and by the feature codes used in the job. See Filtering data by feature layer.

To automatically update the data shown in the map as you make changes in the Layer manager, tap the Auto update softkey. A check mark on the Auto update softkey indicates Auto update is enabled.

Changes made when Auto update is enabled are retained when you exit the Layer manager using either the Accept or Esc key.

To view more of the Layer manager form when it is open alongside the map:

  • In landscape mode, tap and swipe left. The form will resize to the closest preset position.

  • In portrait mode, tap and swipe down to view more of the form

For more tips on resizing forms, see The Origin workspace.