MapInfo MIF Files

MapInfo uses MIF files to export GIS data. MapInfo also exports database information to an accompanying MID file. MPSuperShape does not require the MID file.

MPSuperShape currently expects all coordinates in the MIF file to use longitude, latitude coordinates specified in decimal degrees using the WGS84 geoid. Eastern longitudes and northern latitudes must both be positive. Additional coordinate systems and geoids will probably be added in future versions of MPSuperShape.

MPSuperShape can import most MIF shapes, but MapPoint cannot support all of the variations and attributes available in the MIF format. Arcs, ellipses, and text shapes are currently ignored. Rounded rectangles are imported as conventional (right-angled) rectangles. Holes and complex polygons are imported as individual shapes.

Pen widths and colors are imported, but all lines are imported as solid lines. Also note that MapPoint only supports about 40 colors, and not the full 24-bit color range supported by the MIF format.

Brush pattern 1 (clear) is imported as a transparent fill. All other brush patterns are imported as solid fills.

There is no clear way to map MIF symbols into MapPoint pushpin symbols. Colors and symbol sizes are ignored. The symbol shape is imported using a simple numeric mapping:

MapPoint Symbol# = MIF Symbol Style# - 32

For example, a filled square (MIF #32) is mapped to a black pushpin (MapPoint pushpin #0).