Digitizer software allows you to extract data values from graphs when they aren't available. They convert an image file (graph or map) into numbers which can be copied into a spreadsheet or other format. These tools are used for estimating, designing, reverse engineering, artistic visualization, and much more. Some products are software only solutions, while others are designed to work with a digitizer tablet.
Digitizing software is used in a diverse set of industries and applications from Radioactive fallout maps, thermal engineering, pharmacology to embroidery designs and food processing. Some digitizer programs offer easy, step by step conversion of any graph or map to numbers. Other products have specialized tools designed for a specific industry.
Features and tools available with digitizing software include:
- 3 D scanning
- Automatic grid line removal
- Automatic point and axis matching
- Automatic curve tracing
- Image zooming, magnifying
- Drag and drop
- Copy and paste w/ clipboard tools
- Multiple platform releases
- Preview capability
- Support log and linear graphs
- Estimators - measure angles and distances on any photo
- Handles rotated charts and graphs
Major Vendors in the digitizer market:
- VectorTec
- DataTrends
- Immersion
- Digitize-It
Factors to consider when selecting your software for digitizer needs:
- Data formats can be unique – look for interface and translation ability for multiple formats
- If your industry has specific requirements, look for a digitizer product designed for your industry.
- Ease of use
- Software solution only, or is a digitizer tablet or other tool required.
- System resources: Not usually an issue, but sometimes small business environments are on over-taxed hardware already.