The TerraExplorer Application Programming Interface (API) provides a powerful way for integrating TerraExplorer, TerraExplorer Pro and custom applications. It also provides a way to create extensions that can access external information sources such as databases or Geospatial files. All of the interfaces, based on the COM protocol, can be managed through a scripting language (e.g., JavaScript) as well as non-scripting languages (e.g., C++ or Visual Basic). This manual describes how to use these interfaces and capabilities to enhance the TerraExplorer 3D experience.
TerraExplorer also provides a set of ActiveX controls. It allows using the 3D window, information tree, and navigation map as ActiveX objects within a customized user interface. A RunTime module allows easy distribution of the customized application.
The following main issues are addressed by the TerraExplorer API:
Controlling the plane and camera.
Information Tree management.
Layers and objects management.
Events notifications.
Embed TerraExplorer ActiveX controls in web pages and windows applications.
In addition, TerraExplorer's API allows a variety of other operations such as controlling the content of the containers, querying the terrain for height information, taking snapshots, controlling the mouse and more.
What to do with the TerraExplorer API?
The API provides power tools to develop client applications such as:
Create extensions to add support for additional file and database formats.
Real-time movement of objects for command and control applications.
Add custom-made objects (e.g., danger zone dome).
Advanced terrain queries (e.g., terrain profile).
Combine advanced map displays.
Combine HTML pages with advanced functionality as part of the TerraExplorer window (e.g., Fly to address).
Create custom RunTime applications, embedding the 3D and Information Windows as ActiveX components.