Computer-assisted cartography: principles and prospects.

A general text on the techniques and applications of computer-assisted cartography. An introductory overview leads into a section on the nature of computers, both in hardware and software terms. Two chapters than address Raster mapping techniques, ranging from lineprinter usage to new colour displays. Algorithms are detailed for analysis and display both for Raster methods and for Vector techniques. The use of computers for map projection and transformation is discussed in the context of data base retrieval facilities and experimental map design. A further chapter details the cartographic data structures that underlie these techniques. Design criteria form a final chapter, stressing aesthetics of map production and generalisation requirements. -M.Blakemore