Step 7: Creating a 3D Terrain Database File (MPT)

After all project layers have been modified as required, the completed TerraBuilder project can be processed into a single stream-optimized file (MPT) for loading directly in TerraExplorer or publishing to SkylineGlobe Server (SGS).

For projects whose source data is constantly being updated or modified, there is an alternative option - to skip the 3D terrain database file creation step, and instead publish the terrain database defined by the TerraBuilder project (TBP) to SkylineGlobe Server for serving by SGS DirectConnect Service (See step 8). This eliminates the need for time-consuming re-creation of a complete MPT file for the entire project. See “Publishing a DirectConnect Project” in the “Creating 3D Terrain” chapter for more information.

The project can be processed into a single stream-optimized terrain database file (MPT) in either of the following ways:

§  Locally – See “Creating an MPT" in the “Creating 3D Terrain” chapter for more information.

§  Over your network – See “Creating MPT Using Network Fusers” in the “Creating 3D Terrain” chapter for more information.

Before creating an MPT, you can create a preview of part of the project, to see if any adjustments need to be made. Especially when working on a big project, it is worthwhile to preview potentially problematic areas so that the necessary corrections are made before the time and resource-intensive process of MPT file creation is initiated. See "Preview Mode" in the “Creating 3D Terrain” chapter for more information.