Boundary Backdrop

The Draw | Image | Backdrop command creates a color graded image outline around boundary objects.

Creating a Boundary Backdrop

To create a backdrop:

1. Create boundary objects (polygons, polylines, points).

2. Select Draw | Image | Backdrop.

3. Select the backdrop options in the Boundary Backdrop dialog.

The Boundary Backdrop Dialog

You can select the backdrop image dimensions,

color, backdrop width, and the backdrop layer

in the Boundary Backdrop dialog.

Create Backdrop for All Visible Layers:

Check the Create backdrop for all visible layers box to create a backdrop for all objects on all layers, excluding layers containing cartogram maps or prism maps.

Backdrop Soft Edge Width:

Set the backdrop width in the Backdrop soft edge width box. The units depend on the surface distance units selected in the Property Manager.

Resulting Backdrop Image:

The Resulting backdrop image group contains options to set the backdrop image properties including the width, height, color depth, and whether or not to maintain the aspect ratio. The color depth options are True color or 256 colors.

Edge Inner/Outer Color:

Select the color closest to the objects by clicking on the current color for the Edge inner color and selecting a new color from the palette.

Select the outer color by clicking on the current color for the Edge outer color and selecting a new color from the palette.

Place Backdrop Image on Another Layer:

Check the Place backdrop image on another layer box to create the image on a different layer. Select a layer from the list below. The list does not include locked layers or layers containing cartogram maps.