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Decompressing Map Data

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GeoBase versions 4.5 and later introduced support for compressed GBFS map data files. Distribution of these new compressed files commenced in the third quarter of 2015, while distribution of the previous, uncompressed map data ceased at the same time. These newer compressed data files can be identified by a 'z' suffix (filez.gbfs).

Compressed map files are, on average, 26% smaller than their uncompressed equivalents, yet typically offer the same or better performance. These newer compressed files are, however, not compatible with previous GeoBase releases (that is, versions 4.4.x and earlier).

As a result, if you are unwilling or unable to upgrade to GeoBase 4.5 or later, you can use a command line tool to uncompress these new GBFS files. You can then use the new GBFS files with existing, legacy GeoBase installations.

Location and Usage

If you have installed GeoBase using an SDK MSI installer for GeoBase 4.6 or later, the decompression tool will already be installed on the destination PC, and will typically be located at C:\Program Files(x86)\Telogis\GeoBase\tools\GBFSDecompressor. However, it may be found at a different location depending on your chosen installation configuration.

If you have an older version of GeoBase, dowload the latest SDK from the GeoBase support website located at https://spatial.verizonconnect.com.

The tool consists of two files: one executable file and one library (dll) file.

  • GBFSDecompressor.exe
  • GBFSDecompressorCommon.dll

The tool is operated by navigating to the installation folder using a DOS command window, and executing the GBFSDecompressor file with two command parameters: the input (compressed) GBFS file name, which is required (together with the path, if not in the folder containing the tool), and an optional arbitrary output (uncompressed) GBFS file name. If the output file name is not supplied, the generated file will use the same name as the input file. These parameters are accepted using the following formatting:

C:\location\GBFSDecompressor [INPUT] [OPTIONAL OUTPUT]

For example:

C:\Folder\GBFSDecompressor>GBFSDecompressor INPUTZ.gbfs

Or:

C:\Folder\GBFSDecompressor>GBFSDecompressor "C:\folder 1\folder 2\INPUTZ.gbfs" "C:\folder 1\output folder\OUTPUT.gbfs"

Note Note

The parameters this tool will accept, and their correct order, are also described whenever the tool is executed using a DOS command line with no parameters.

When the compressed map file has been processed, the uncompressed data file should be copied to your existing map data folder. The decompressed GBFS file can also be validated by opening the existing GBFS analyzer tool located at Start | All Programs | Telogis GeoBase Developer’s Kit | Tools | Telogis GBFS Tool, selecting the Verify File option, and loading the file.

Customer Support

If you require additional assistance or support, or encounter any problems with this tool, don't hesitate to contact GeoBase support at gbsupport@verizonconnect.com. A member of the GeoBase support team will be glad to assist you.