This document addresses the background behind dynamic display in the ArcGIS framework. What dynamic display is, who should use dynamic display, and the circumstances in which it should and should not be used are also discussed.
What is dynamic display?
The core capabilities of ArcGIS Engine have been enhanced to support dynamic geographic information system (GIS) display environments. Dynamic display capabilities include moving large numbers of display objects, animations, updating location, orientation, size, status and attribute information at subsecond refresh rates, while sustaining smooth and uninterrupted navigation and support for GIS data query. This is a feature only available in ArcGIS Engine. Therefore, it can be used and configured using ArcObjects on all supported development environments.
GIS often requires displaying information with frequent refresh rates to clearly convey geographic information. This information must be rapidly updated without interruption, including animating moving objects, updating the location, orientation, size, status, and attribute information.
The dynamic display strengthens comprehensive display capabilities of dynamic maps in ArcObjects. It allows for smooth panning, zooming, rotation, navigation, and display of dynamic graphics. The dynamic display allows the display performance required of real-time applications while using the existing tools and layer functionality of ArcObjects.
Who should use dynamic display?
Dynamic display is a developer technology. It is recommended for use by developers with a known controllable environment. This design allows the developer to optimize the ArcGIS display for near real-time feeds and tracking of objects. For this optimization there is a cost in quality, cartographic sharpness, and scarifies in functionality.
When should dynamic display be used?
Dynamic display is recommended for use when moving objects or maps on the screen, when object labels are dynamic and change rapidly, or when using a low-end computer and you want to maximize panning and zooming performance by using precooked data. For example, dynamic display is useful if you receive a dynamic feed from a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit on an object, such as a series of distribution trucks. Events can be fired off if the truck becomes troubled or is within a certain distance of an accident. The route can be recalculated and a message can be sent to the driver and a new time estimate can be relayed to the receiver of the goods. For more information, see Best practices for using dynamic display.
When is it not recommended to use dynamic display?
It is not recommended to use dynamic display when publishing high quality cartographic content. There is a cost of sharpness in images when dynamic display is enabled. Also, it is not recommended to use dynamic display when editing, using graphic tools, ink tools, or when nondynamic map parts are changing frequently. For more information, see Limitations for dynamic display.