Overview
The "Create Drawing from Map" feature allows you to quickly start a new drawing using a satellite image as a base. This eliminates the need to switch between tools, take screenshots, and import them into ArcSite. The drawing's scale is automatically calibrated, reducing the chance of errors.
Availability
Supported Platforms: All iOS, Android, and Windows devices
Subscription Requirement: Draw Pro and above
Permissions: Device GPS location permission required
Who Is This For?
This feature is helpful for users who need to visualize and create drawings based on real-world locations, such as:
Agricultural fence contractors
Construction professionals
Landscaping businesses
What It Does
The "Create Drawing from Map" feature integrates a mapping service directly into ArcSite. This allows you to:
Input an address to find a specific location.
Zoom in and out to define the boundaries of your drawing.
Incorporate a north arrow and drawing scale directly from the map image.
Automatically calibrate the drawing scale.
Where to Find It
The "Start from satellite image" card is located on the Create drawing page.
How to Use It
On the Create drawing page, tap "Map"
Grant device GPS location permission
Enter the address of the location you want to map or use your current location.
Use the zoom functions to adjust the map to the desired boundaries for your drawing.
Rotate the map preview using two fingers
Tap Capture Map (this will capture a high-definition map image by default for better clarity when zooming).
If you prefer a faster capture (lower detail), tap the dropdown arrow next to Capture Map and choose Standard capture.
If you choose HD capture, it may take a few seconds to generate the image—keep ArcSite open until the capture completes.
ArcSite will automatically calibrate the drawing scale based on the map data.
Begin creating your drawing using the satellite image as a base.
HD vs Standard Map Capture
ArcSite offers two capture quality options when creating a drawing from a map:
HD capture (recommended): Best for large sites and for tracing accurately after zooming in. This option produces a sharper base image, but may take slightly longer to create.
Standard capture: Faster, but may look blurry when you zoom in on the drawing canvas—especially if you captured a wide area.
If you’re capturing a large area (for example, close to a mile across), HD capture will typically provide noticeably better detail.
FAQ & Troubleshooting
Can I edit the satellite image after creating the drawing?
No, editing the satellite image after the drawing is created is not supported.
Can I crop the image when I start?
No, cropping the image at the start is not supported.
Is there a maximum distance for the map?
While not a hard limit, the feature is designed for creating drawings within a reasonable proximity, such as 1 mile x 1 mile.
Why is my map image blurry when I zoom in?
If you captured a wide area, the image may not have enough detail when zoomed in. Try capturing a smaller area and/or use the HD capture option from the Capture Map dropdown.Why does map capture take longer sometimes?
HD capture can take a few seconds longer to generate. If you see a loading indicator, keep ArcSite open and wait for the capture to finish.