IGN maps offer detailed French geographical data, readily exportable to PDF format for offline use and sharing. This process involves creating,
copying, and ultimately saving your customized IGN map as a portable document.

Utilizing the print function or dedicated save options allows seamless conversion, ensuring map accessibility and preservation for future reference and distribution.

What is the IGN?

IGN, or the Institut Géographique National, is France’s national mapping agency. It’s a public institution responsible for producing and maintaining comprehensive geographical data for the entire country. This includes detailed maps, aerial imagery, and digital terrain models, serving a wide range of users from professionals to outdoor enthusiasts.

The IGN provides various data products like Plan IGN, BD TOPO, BD ORTHO, and SCAN 25, each catering to specific needs. These resources are accessible through IGN applications, interactive platforms, and data connections like XYZ and WMS/WMTS. A key function is the ability to define and then save these maps, often as PDF documents, for offline access and sharing.

Essentially, the IGN is the authoritative source for accurate and up-to-date geographical information in France, empowering users to explore, analyze, and understand the landscape. The ability to export maps to PDF is a crucial feature for practical application.

Importance of IGN Data

IGN data is critically important for a multitude of applications across diverse sectors. Accurate mapping is fundamental for urban planning, environmental management, infrastructure development, and emergency response. The detailed topographic information provided by IGN maps supports informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation.

For outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and mountaineering, IGN maps are invaluable for navigation and safety. The ability to define a specific area of interest and then save it as a PDF allows users to access crucial map data even without an internet connection. This offline accessibility is paramount in remote locations.

Furthermore, IGN data serves as a foundational layer for Geographic Information Systems (GIS), enabling spatial analysis and modeling. The ease of exporting maps to PDF facilitates data sharing and collaboration among professionals.

IGN Data Products Available for Download

IGN offers diverse products like Plan IGN, BD TOPO, and SCAN 25, enabling detailed map creation. These can be defined, customized, and then saved conveniently as PDFs.

Plan IGN: Reference Mapping

Plan IGN serves as the foundational reference map for professional applications, accessible on mobile devices, websites, and within Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Defining a map with Plan IGN involves selecting your desired area and zoom level within the IGN application or compatible software. Once defined, customization options allow for annotation and feature highlighting.

To save this customized map as a PDF, utilize the print function, ensuring the printer is set to a PDF creator. Alternatively, dedicated “save as” options within the software often provide direct PDF export. This creates a portable, shareable document of your defined IGN map. Remember to choose appropriate resolution settings during PDF creation for optimal clarity and file size. The resulting PDF retains the detailed cartography of Plan IGN for offline use and distribution.

BD TOPO: 2D and 3D Terrain Modeling

BD TOPO provides both 2D and 3D modeling of French territory and its infrastructure. Defining a map using BD TOPO involves specifying the geographic extent and selecting desired layers – contours, elevation data, or 3D representations. This allows for detailed terrain visualization within compatible GIS software or IGN applications.

Saving a customized BD TOPO map as a PDF follows a similar process to Plan IGN. Employ the print function, selecting a PDF printer, or utilize dedicated export options. When exporting, consider the complexity of the 3D model; higher detail requires increased resolution for a clear PDF. The resulting PDF can then be shared and viewed, showcasing the terrain features defined from BD TOPO data. Remember to register a project example for future map creation.

BD ORTHO: Geographic Imagery

BD ORTHO delivers geographic imagery of France, offering a “view from the sky.” Defining a map with BD ORTHO involves selecting the area of interest and choosing the desired imagery layer – orthophotos with varying resolutions and dates. This provides a realistic visual base for your map.

To save this as a PDF, utilize the print function within IGN applications or compatible GIS software, selecting a PDF printer. Ensure the resolution is sufficient for clear imagery in the final document. Alternatively, dedicated export options allow direct PDF creation. Remember to copy the carte and save it under a new name. The resulting PDF preserves the geographic imagery, suitable for sharing and offline viewing. Consider saving a project example for streamlined future map creation.

BD Forêt: Forestry Geographic Data

BD Forêt provides a specialized geographic reference for forestry professionals and environmental actors. Defining a map utilizing this data involves selecting forest areas, identifying tree types, and visualizing forest infrastructure. This detailed layer enhances map clarity for forestry-related projects.

To export this as a PDF, employ the print function within IGN applications or GIS software, choosing a PDF printer. Adjust settings for optimal resolution and map legend inclusion. Alternatively, dedicated save options facilitate direct PDF creation. Remember to copy the carte and save it under a new name. The resulting PDF preserves the forestry data, ideal for reports and field work. Saving a project example streamlines future map creation, allowing quick access to this specialized data.

RGE ALTI: National Terrain Model

RGE ALTI delivers a high-resolution digital terrain model of France, crucial for visualizing elevation and slope. Defining a map with RGE ALTI involves selecting an area and displaying the terrain in 2D or 3D. This data is invaluable for route planning, hydrological studies, and landscape analysis.

Exporting to PDF requires utilizing the print function, selecting a PDF printer, and configuring settings for optimal detail. Alternatively, dedicated save options allow direct PDF creation. Ensure the map legend is included for accurate interpretation. Carte copied and saved under a new name. This PDF preserves the terrain model, suitable for reports and presentations. Saving a project example simplifies future map creation, providing quick access to this vital elevation data.

SCAN 25: 1:25,000 Digital Maps

SCAN 25 provides detailed topographic maps at a 1:25,000 scale, ideal for precise navigation and detailed planning. Defining a map involves selecting a specific area and customizing its display with various layers. This digital version of traditional paper maps offers enhanced clarity and accessibility.

To export to PDF, utilize the print function, choosing a PDF printer and adjusting settings for optimal resolution. Alternatively, dedicated save options allow direct PDF creation. Remember to include the map legend for accurate interpretation. Carte copied and saved under a new name. This PDF preserves the detailed topographic information, perfect for field use and documentation. Saving a project example streamlines future map creation, offering quick access to this valuable resource.

Methods for Accessing and Using IGN Maps

IGN maps are accessible through applications and connections like XYZ or WMS/WMTS. Defining a map involves selecting an area, then saving or exporting it as a PDF.

Using IGN Applications (Mobile & Interactive)

IGN’s mobile and interactive applications provide a user-friendly interface for defining and exporting maps as PDFs. Begin by exploring the French territory and its features within the application. Zoom into your desired area and customize the map view to include specific details.

Once satisfied with the map’s composition, utilize the application’s print function. This function often allows you to select PDF as the output format. Alternatively, some applications offer a direct “Save as PDF” option.

The interactive map allows you to interrogate the territory and its riches. After generating the PDF, you can easily reuse or share it. Remember to explore the application’s settings for optimal PDF export quality and resolution. This ensures a clear and detailed map for your needs. The application provides a convenient way to access and preserve IGN data.

Connecting to IGN Data via XYZ Connections

Establishing an XYZ connection to IGN data allows for map definition and subsequent PDF export. After installing the maps through this connection method – as an alternative to WMS/WMTS – create a project within your GIS software. This project serves as the foundation for your customized map.

Define the extent of your map, focusing on the area of interest. Once the map is visualized to your satisfaction, proceed to the saving stage. The software will offer various export options, including PDF, JPEG, and PNG.

Select PDF as the desired format. You can then configure settings like resolution and page size. IGN data, accessed via XYZ connections, provides a robust base for creating detailed maps. Remember to save or copy the map to the clipboard for easy sharing and reuse.

Connecting to IGN Data via WMS/WMTS Connections

Utilizing WMS/WMTS connections to IGN data facilitates defining and exporting maps to PDF. Once the connection is established and maps are installed, create a new map project within your GIS application. This project will house your customized geographical representation.

Define the map’s boundaries and zoom level to focus on your area of interest. After visualizing the map, proceed to save it. The software provides options to export as PDF, JPEG, or PNG. Selecting PDF allows for a portable, high-quality document.

Configure PDF export settings, such as resolution and page layout, to optimize the final output. Remember to save the project for future modifications or to copy the map to the clipboard for quick sharing. IGN’s WMS/WMTS services offer a reliable pathway to detailed map creation.

Creating and Saving Maps

IGN maps are created within a project, allowing customization before saving. PDF export is achieved through the print function or dedicated save options,
preserving your defined map.

Project Creation and Saving

Creating a project within the IGN application is a best practice, especially when planning to save maps for later use or export them as PDF files. This allows for organized map management and streamlines the process for subsequent maps. After defining your desired map view – including zoom level, layers, and any annotations – navigate to the “Project” menu and select “Save”.

This action stores your current map configuration, enabling you to return to it precisely as it was. The application suggests creating an example map to familiarize yourself with this workflow. Saving a project is crucial because it allows you to bypass initial setup steps when creating similar maps in the future; you can simply load the project and continue from where you left off. Remember to choose a descriptive name for your project to easily identify it later. This foundational step is essential for efficient IGN map utilization and PDF generation.

Copying Maps

Once your IGN map is defined to your specifications, the application offers several options for handling it, including copying. The “Carte copiée” (Map Copied) function duplicates your current map view, allowing you to create variations without altering the original. This is particularly useful when experimenting with different export settings or annotations.

Beyond simple duplication, copying to the clipboard provides flexibility for pasting the map into other applications. However, for archival purposes and PDF creation, direct saving is preferred. The application interface clearly presents options to “enregistrer un jpeg”, “enregistrer un png”, or “enregistrer un pdf” immediately after copying. This streamlined workflow ensures quick access to your desired output format. Remember that copying doesn’t save the map permanently; it’s a temporary action requiring a subsequent save operation.

Exporting IGN Maps to PDF

IGN maps can be easily exported to PDF using the print function or dedicated save options, ensuring accessibility and preservation of your defined map views.

Using the Print Function for PDF Export

Exporting your IGN map to PDF via the print function is a straightforward method. Initiate the print process from within the IGN application or interactive viewer. Instead of selecting a physical printer, choose the option to “Save as PDF” or a similar virtual PDF printer.

This directs the map rendering to a PDF file instead of paper. Before finalizing, carefully review the print preview to ensure the map scale, orientation, and included elements are correct. Adjust settings as needed, such as paper size (which influences the PDF page size) and margins.

Once satisfied, specify a file name and location to save the PDF. This method effectively captures the current map view as a static image within a portable document, ideal for offline viewing, sharing, and archiving. Remember to verify the resulting PDF for clarity and completeness.

Saving Maps as PDF

Directly saving IGN maps as PDF files streamlines the process, offering a dedicated option within the software interface. After creating and customizing your map, locate the “Save” or “Export” function. A menu will appear, presenting various file formats, including PDF. Selecting PDF initiates a save dialogue box.

Here, you can specify the file name, location, and potentially, PDF quality settings. Higher quality settings result in larger file sizes but preserve greater detail. Some applications allow customization of PDF metadata, such as author and title.

This method often retains interactive elements, like layer visibility, if the PDF format supports them. Confirm your selections and save the file. This creates a self-contained PDF document of your IGN map, ready for distribution or long-term storage.

Saving Maps as JPEG and PNG

Alongside PDF export, IGN maps can be saved as raster images – specifically, JPEG and PNG formats. These options are ideal for quick sharing or embedding maps into documents where vector formats aren’t suitable. Access these formats through the “Save As” or “Export” function, selecting either JPEG or PNG from the available file types.

JPEG offers smaller file sizes, making it suitable for web use, but it employs lossy compression, potentially reducing image quality. PNG, conversely, uses lossless compression, preserving detail but resulting in larger files.

Consider the intended use when choosing. For detailed maps requiring high fidelity, PNG is preferable. For general sharing or web display, JPEG may suffice. Like PDF saving, you’ll be prompted to name the file and select a storage location.

Reusing and Sharing IGN Maps

IGN maps, once saved as PDFs, are easily reusable and shareable. Copying to the clipboard or saving for later allows convenient access and distribution of geographical data.

Saving Maps for Later Use

Saving IGN maps ensures your customized geographical views are readily available for future reference or modification. After defining your desired area and map details, utilizing the project saving function within IGN applications is crucial. This creates a dedicated project file, allowing you to quickly reload the map and continue working without repeating the initial setup process.

Furthermore, exporting the map as a PDF provides a portable and universally accessible format. This PDF can be stored locally on your device, shared via email, or archived for long-term preservation. Remember to choose a descriptive filename for easy identification. Regularly backing up your project files and PDF exports is recommended to prevent data loss. This proactive approach guarantees your valuable IGN map data remains secure and accessible whenever needed.

Consider organizing your saved maps into folders based on region, project, or date for efficient management.

Copying Maps to Clipboard

Copying IGN maps to your clipboard offers a quick and convenient method for transferring map visuals to other applications or documents. Once your map is defined and displayed, the “copy to clipboard” function allows you to instantly capture the current view as an image. This image can then be pasted into documents, emails, presentations, or image editing software.

However, remember that copying to the clipboard doesn’t save the map as a reusable file. For long-term storage and preservation, exporting to PDF, JPEG, or PNG is essential. The clipboard copy is ideal for immediate sharing or integration into other projects, but it’s a temporary solution. Utilizing the PDF export function ensures a high-quality, scalable version of your IGN map is readily available for future use and distribution.

Always verify the pasted image’s resolution and clarity after copying.

Troubleshooting and Further Resources

PDF export issues may arise; check printer settings and IGN support resources. Tutorials and FAQs offer solutions for defining and saving maps effectively.

Common Issues with PDF Export

Several challenges can occur when exporting IGN maps to PDF. One frequent problem involves resolution; ensure your print settings are configured for sufficient DPI to maintain map clarity. Low resolution results in blurry or pixelated PDFs. Another issue relates to map scaling – the map might not fit neatly onto a single PDF page, requiring adjustments within the print preview.

Incorrect printer selection can also lead to export failures. Verify that a functional PDF printer (like Microsoft Print to PDF or Adobe PDF) is chosen. Furthermore, complex maps with numerous layers or detailed annotations may cause the export process to slow down or even crash. Simplifying the map content can mitigate this.

Occasionally, font embedding issues can arise, leading to font substitution in the final PDF. Always test the PDF on different devices to confirm proper font rendering. Finally, if you encounter persistent problems, consult the official IGN support documentation or forums for specific troubleshooting steps and solutions.

Where to Find Additional IGN Support

For comprehensive assistance with IGN maps and PDF export, the official IGN website (geoportail.gouv.fr) is the primary resource. It hosts detailed documentation, frequently asked questions, and tutorials covering map creation, customization, and saving as PDF. Explore the ‘Aide’ or ‘Support’ sections for specific guidance.

IGN also maintains active social media channels (Twitter, Facebook) where users can seek help and share experiences. These platforms often provide quick responses to common queries. Furthermore, the IGN forums are a valuable community resource, allowing users to connect with experts and fellow map enthusiasts.

Dedicated online tutorials, often mirroring the official IGN guides, are available on platforms like YouTube. Searching for “IGN map PDF export” will yield relevant results. If you require personalized support, consider contacting IGN directly through their customer service channels, details of which are available on their website.