RASTER MODEL
• In Raster data, data is represented by pixels (picture elements) that
have the structure of a multi-celled grid.
• Individual cells represents a specific area. It’s resolution or scale is
defined by the ground area represented by the raster grid cell.
• A cell could represent a 10m², 100m², or even 1000m² depending on
resolution/scale.
• The higher the resolution, more cells are required to cover a given
surface.
• Pixels are the result of capturing data through aerial photo or
satellite imagery.
• Each pixel has an unique numerical code called Digital Number (DN).
• Raster grid cells are identified in rows and columns, the location of
any raster cell is given by the column and row numbers.
• Raster cells define features in Geographically correct locations with
respect to all other features in the raster.
• A single cell is usually assigned only one value therefore, dissimilar
objects and their different values are assigned to different raster
layers.
• Each layer represents one group of objects and represents one
specific theme like forest, soil, built up area etc.
Advantages of Raster data
• Location of each cell is implied by its position in the cell matrix.
• Data analysis is usually easy to perform and quick to perform.
• It has a simple data structure.
• Overlay and combination of maps and remote sensed images are
easy.
• Raster data is the best way to represent continuous features.
Disadvantages of Raster data
• Cell size determines the resolution.
• Difficult to adequately represent linear features.
• Network linkages are difficult to establish.
• Output map has vey poor quality.
VECTOR MODEL
• Vector data is represented using points, lines and polygons.
• The real world objects can be divided into clearly defined elements
consisting of identifiable objects.
• Digital representation of spatial data in a vector data model is based
on individual points and their coordinates.
• Vector data are the type of data described and defined by their
discrete Cartesian coordinates (x, y) or (easting, northing) and the
origin (0,0) of a rectangular grid.
• Points are identified by their coordinates and lines by their
coordinates of end point, and polygons are defined by a series by
lines that loop back to the coordinate of the starting point.
• Vector data are useful for querying and routing and it is the best
method of representing Discrete features.
Advantages of vector data
• Data can be represented at it’s original resolution and form without
generalization.
• Accurate Geographic location of data is maintained.
• More suitable for the representation of discrete and cultural
features.
• Data from ground surveying equipments such as total stations and
GPS are directly available in vector form.
• It accurately represent true Shape and size of objects.
• It can store information about topology.
Disadvantages of vector data
• For effective analysis, vector data must be converted into a
topological structure.
• Algorithms for manipulating and analyzing functions are .
• Spatial analysis and filtering within polygons are impossible.
• Updating or editing of the vector data requires re-building of the
topology.
