Convert coordinate systems

Converts objects which are in one coordinate system to another coordinate system. A coordinate system to be converted to, can be defined either by selecting an object with the desired coordinate system assigned, or by defining a system manually.

REFER TO How Do I? > Understanding Coordinate Systems for a background discussion of relevant components and derivations of coordinate systems. This discussion may help in understanding the significance and use of options in the function presented here.

Related commands:

Convert coordinate systems

  1. Select the object to convert.

  2. On the Position and Filter ribbon tab navigate to the Coordinates group and select Convert.

  3. Specify a coordinate system automatically by picking another object and transferring, or manually selecting attributes that describe it.

To transfer a coordinate system automatically from another object, give focus to the Specify system by picking object field, then either:

  • middle mouse-click and drag the reference object into the field
  • left-click the reference object in the View window

To set up and apply a coordinate system manually:

  • select the choosing from drop down menu, the Coordinate system panel will open and you can specify a coordinate system.

Coordinate system options include:

  • Several options based on industry standard setups.
  • You can define grid options allowing full flexibility in defining projection, plus Datum including full transformation capability (linear, rotational and scale settings)

  • Select the Calibration tab to apply custom offset measurements to horizontal and vertical references.
  • Select the Geoid tab to nominate Geoid setting or import a geoid file (*.asc, *.byn, *.ggf, *.gtx).

  1. 2D transform checkbox. Some conversions involving datum transforms can result in a change to the Z coordinate of the point. Check this box if the Z coordinates of the selected points are to be maintained.

  2. When a system has been defined, press OK or Apply to convert the selected objects into a new system.