GIS Tech News (#79)

First Look: Autodesk ImageModeler 2009

Generate 3D models from 2D digital images in a flash.

By Ron LaFon

Autodesk ImageModeler 2009 generates 3D models from 2D digital images, making it a highly useful tool for architects, product designers, civil engineers, and media and entertainment professionals. ImageModeler 2009 users can work from digital photographs or scanned images to reconstruct photorealistic objects, scenes, and cities; integrate CAD designs into existing environments; and measure buildings. ImageModeler and its sister application, Stitcher Unlimited, were developed by REALVIZ, which was acquired by Autodesk in 2008.

ImageModeler 2009 supports a broad array of digital image formats, including JPG, TIF, Photoshop, TGA, bitmap, and PNG. Once you have your 2D images in hand, you're ready to create 3D models. Downstream success with the 3D model relies on a well-executed 2D-to-3D conversion, so step-by-step tutorials are available to explain how to obtain the best possible results for your projects. Read more »

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Ron LaFon, a contributing expert for Cadalyst, is a writer, editor, and computer graphics and electronic publishing specialist from Atlanta, Georgia. He is a principal at 3Bear Productions in Atlanta.

First Look: PolyStation iQ470

You can find more powerful workstations, but this model will get your design work done for a mere $699.

By Ron LaFon

In theNovember/December 2008 Cadalyst Labs roundup, “Budget-Conscious Workstations,” we were surprised to find 64-bit workstations priced as low as $1,300, and we were equally surprised to find 32-bit CAD workstations being offered in early 2009 for as little as $699. Here we have a look at Polywell Computers’ PolyStation iQ470 in its lowest-cost configuration.Read more »

Mark Your Calendar: GIS Events

Cadalyst's complete list of upcoming events is always available on our Web site. Our sister Web site, Geospatial-Solutions.com, also offers a full calendar of GIS-related events.    

What's New at Cadalyst.com

Civil 3D Tutorial: Toolspace Settings 2

When defining exceptions or needs for different values, Civil 3D uses the Edit Feature Settings dialog box at critical control points in the Settings tree. Read more

First Look Review: HP Z600 Workstation

New design is innovative, impressive, and superbly engineered. Read more

Looking for "Hot Tip Harry?"

Hot Tip Harry's latest AutoCAD customization tips are now posted online at Cadalyst's CAD Tips site. Harry's posting tips all the time now, and you can find the latest ones by checking the Recently Posted list, along with the latest tips from Tips & Tools Weekly. You can also find out about the latest tips from Harry himself (aka Cadalyst's Bill Kramer) by hanging out on Harry's Tip Jar Discussion Forum. Look for the posts labeled "Hot Tips!" for regular updates.

Brand new, Cadalyst and Hot Tip Harry also introduce his new Programming Concepts Discussion Forum. Keep tabs and chime in to exchange AutoCAD programming expertise and advice.