Sh3Gen v0.8.1 Tracking Room -released-

[GlobalExplorer]

SH3GEN TRACKING ROOM

Because Sh3Gen was completely relying on ingame visualization, and the dire restrictions of the SHIII map station I decided I want to visualize the Sh3Gen data in an external application.

Sh3Gen Tracking Room Editions come with an option to export data that can be used with GIS (geographical information) systems.

You will need to download a tool that can display the map data. I have optimized it for usage with the (completely free) TatukGIS Viewer, a great program, but it’s possible to use it with other GIS tools that can read GML files.

With Sh3Gen and the viewer you can now study the strategic situation like in a real tracking room. Another great advantage is that you can now store and review your previous patrols, which was one of the things I really wanted to have.

The GIS view contains all the data that you are used to from Sh3Gen, plus a lot more through the data panels. There is now a detailed property table for every object in the map, while the SHIII Map is restricted to hold all informations in a 19 character string.

This should be extremely interesting if you run it on a two monitor setup or a second computer. I haven't tried that yet, but it should open up a whole lot of new possibilities!!

I don’t know of I will find the time to create documentation for the GIS part. Using the GIS initially requires a little bit of learning, but is also extremely powerful.

I hope you catch up in the idea, and help others getting the most out of it.

More information can be found on my site (http://www.global-explorer.de).

SCREENSHOTS

http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/aircoverage.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/aircoverage.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/caribbean.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/caribbean.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/drumbeat.jpg

(http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/drumbeat.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/events.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/events.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/medi.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/medi.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/merchants.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/merchants.jpg)

http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/mines_subnets.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/mines_subnets.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/norway.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/norway.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/revenge.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/revenge.jpg)

http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/traffic_asw.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/traffic_asw.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/traffic_merchants.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/traffic_merchants.jpg)http://www.global-explorer.de/thumbs/uk2.jpg (http://www.global-explorer.de/screens/uk2.jpg)

INSTRUCTIONS

It should be really simple.

Register and download the free TatukGIS Viewer (https://shop.tatukgis.com/Downloads/DownloadList.aspx#App).

Alternative download:
http://www.rockware.com/catalog/pages/freetatukgisviewer.html

Get the latest version of Sh3Gen Tracking Room (http://www.global-explorer.de/contentpage_download.htm).

UPDATE 2007-04-21: Temporary solution for the newer version of TatukGIS viewer: replace the file Sh3Gen\Tracking Room\Template\terrain.gml with the newer version from this file:

www.christian-wendt.org/terrain.exe (http://www.christian-wendt.org/terrain.exe)

Use Sh3Gen like previous versions until you exit the summary screen

After the summary screen a new window pops up which allows you to specify the place where the generator should place the tracking room files. Usually it should be ok to use the values automatically chosen by Sh3Gen.

If you click "Export", the generator will create a new folder and copy all the required files into it.

If you already have the TatukGIS viewer installed, and you have the "Launch automatically" checkbox on, the map will open up instantly.

Later you can launch any map generated previously by opening up Sh3Gen\UserData\<..>\ and double clicking the corresponding "Sh3Gen Tracking Room.TTKGP" file.

There is another file “Traffic Concentrations.TTKGP” which brings you directly to an alternative map with traffic hotspots for merchants, destroyers, warships and submarines.

The GIS viewer has a multitude of options, which we can discuss later. I have tried to set it up in a way that should be enough for most people. But you don’t get any “stupider” by learning some things about the GIS world. There is a lot more you can do with those tools than just zooming and panning about, and I hope to provide you with tips soon.

If it doesn't seem to do anything, make sure that the "Tracking Room" checkbox under "General Settings" is on (though it should be on by default).

If someone with talent for graphics would like to help me improve the map with little bitmap symbols, that would make my day!

A lot of information can be found in these older discussion threads for Sh3Gen:

http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=105840 (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=105840)

http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=88438 (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=88438)

[JCWolf]

WOW :o Awesome tool GO!

Love it thanks, for another great work mate!!!:rock: :rock: :up:

[irish1958]

GE
Great! A must have!

[Rab09]

What a differance to the game!! Haveing a general idea of whats going on gives one a better understanding of your part in the war. I also like haveing an objective to work for, besides just getting to your patrol station. Gives one a feeling that you are needed and are doing your part.
A massave well done and thank you!!:lol::lol::lol:


Proud son of a WWII Chief Torpedoman, forward tubes. Pacific.

[Church SUBSIM]

umm WOW!

Thanks Global for continuing to work on your mods/tools - they have become for me (and many here I am sure) must haves for the experience!

[Einsman]

WOOW!!! :up: It's compatible with SH3 Commander and GWX 1.02?

Great Work!!

[Tuddley3]

Yes Sir GE, You have done it again. I am dl'ding right now. This whole concept of the GIS is really an exciting feature, and can't wait to try this out. GE, you have taken SH3 to another level, my hat is off to you my friend. Expect me to spread the word to other forums as always :up:

[shegeek72]

Ack! I was going to d/l it when I saw it needs Microshaft's dotNET. Last time I installed .net it screwed up my custom desktop, that took two hours to get back to normal. :cry:
--
http://tarafoundation.org/sh3_wac_banner3.jpg

[Tuddley3]

I dont know what happened to you SG, but I have never had a problem with Dotnet 2, it has always worked for me with previous SH3 Gen versions. The only problem I have, is that GIS is not sending my password. I am ready to install this bad boy, but I am waiting for confirmation from these turkeys. What's holding up the train, I am ready to ride the rails of this exciting new concept of SH3 Gen(Most likely the biggest breakthruogh of SH3 so far)

[GlobalExplorer]

WOOW!!! :up: It's compatible with SH3 Commander and GWX 1.02?

Great Work!!

Yes, they are even recommended for it. Am using GWX 1.02 atm and having a blast. Go to http://www.global-explorer.de/ to see why it is safe to use Sh3Gen with any mod.

Ack! I was going to d/l it when I saw it needs Microshaft's dotNET. Last time I installed .net it screwed up my custom desktop, that took two hours to get back to normal. :cry:
--
http://tarafoundation.org/sh3_wac_banner3.jpg

Hm. I have installed dotNet on hundreds of different computers and never had a problem. Otherwise I wouldn't use it for my programs. Most problems I ever heard of was when people were downloading version 2.0 beta when they should have sticked with version 1.1. Apart from that, mostly Microsoft Angst.

Anyway, it's a decision you make yourself. If you don't trust a piece of software, or don't understand it, don't use it.

GE

[GlobalExplorer]

Tuddley, please check you pm. GE

[shegeek72]

I dont know what happened to you SG, but I have never had a problem with Dotnet 2, it has always worked for me with previous SH3 Gen versions. The only problem I have, is that GIS is not sending my password. I am ready to install this bad boy, but I am waiting for confirmation from these turkeys. What's holding up the train, I am ready to ride the rails of this exciting new concept of SH3 Gen(Most likely the biggest breakthruogh of SH3 so far)
Do you have a custom desktop with dual monitors? Perhaps it has no problems with Microshaft's stock desktop.
--
http://tarafoundation.org/sh3_U100.jpg

[Jimbuna]

I'm more than happy with this :rock: :up:

[GlobalExplorer]

Thats correct mam. I have never used / tested with a dual desktop, and as such your word weighs heavier than mine in that respect.

It's a pity because I am hoping for someone with a dual monitor to test Sh3Gen TR, because he/she could run the TR on the second monitor and look at it during TC.

To clarify for everyone what a runtime component like dotNET is: it provides libraries that are loaded (only!) if a program is utilizing the runtime. That means whenever the programmer is calling a function from the runtime, he doesn't have to write it himself, thats the whole point in it. It saves time / energy, and the programs run better because the runtime functions are well tested.

While you don't use dotNET applications, the runtime behaves like a normal application that is not running, i.e. it takes up disk space and thats it.

GE

[bert8for3]

Seems to be 2 threads on this, not sure which one to use.

Installed the tracking system version ... works great. Put the GIS viewer on my laptop, copied over the user data files, pulled them up in the viewer, no problem at all.

It's been said before, but I'll say it again, this really adds to the atmosphere of the game, thanks very much GE.

[GlobalExplorer]

Yeah I had hoped someone would do exactly that - put the tracking room files on a USB stick and open them on a laptop. Should be a very interesting way to review the patrol during TC, albeit only for diehard people ;)

If you should have time to make a photo of the two screens you can send them to mail@christian-wendt.org - I would like to publish it on my website.

Hope you enjoy it for a while,

GE

[bert8for3]

Yeah I had hoped someone would do exactly that - put the tracking room files on a USB stick and open them on a laptop. Should be a very interesting way to review the patrol during TC, albeit only for diehard people ;)

If you should have time to make a photo of the two screens you can send them to mail@christian-wendt.org - I would like to publish it on my website.

Hope you enjoy it for a while,

GE

Sure, I'll take a pic later today and send to you.

[Lord_Kitchener]

I cant get a password from TatukGIS :down:

[GlobalExplorer]

Sure, I'll take a pic later today and send to you.

Hi Nick,

Thanks a lot! Next time I update my site will I include your pics. That's the right way to play SHIII + Sh3Gen!

GE

bert8for3's photo:

http://www.christian-wendt.org/sh3gen_tr_laptop.jpg

[GlobalExplorer]

I cant get a password from TatukGIS :down:

Do a search in google, for instance "Download TatukGIS viewer"

http://www.google.com/search?hl=de&q=download+tatukgis+viewer&btnG=Google-Suche&meta=

For instance it can also be download here:

http://www.rockware.com/catalog/pages/freetatukgisviewer.html

Why do you not get a password? I know they will delete you registration if you put in mickey mouse or some crap, but apart from that I never had a problem.

GE

[Tazzie]

Hi GE

When I export into GIS i get the following messed up map.

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/2513/testib8.th.jpg (http://img267.imageshack.us/my.php?image=testib8.jpg)


Any ideas as to what I did wrong?

[Meridian]

All I can see are symbols, but no map as a background. Do the maps have to be downloaded seperately and installed?

[cardician]

Another question. Does this work with GWX 1.03? I'm sure it does, but just wanted to make sure.

[melnibonian]

Another question. Does this work with GWX 1.03? I'm sure it does, but just wanted to make sure.
SH3Gen is compatible with all versions of SH3/GWX/NYGM.

[cardician]

Excellent. Thank you. Now instead of patrolling and searching I can just patrol with intent to kill :up: Maybe no as realistic, but certainly satisfying :D

[cardician]

Alright, downloaded, installed, and running. However I have the same problem. On the GIS viewer I get only symbols and no map. Where is the map? How do I add the map layer? Is that another download that was not mentioned? Anyone?

[bert8for3]

Alright, downloaded, installed, and running. However I have the same problem. On the GIS viewer I get only symbols and no map. Where is the map? How do I add the map layer? Is that another download that was not mentioned? Anyone?

Check/try this. The map should be there automatically IIRC from the install. I don't recall if I had to add the map in or if it was defaulted, but in the viewer window, you should see a sort of a panel or menu bar down the right-hand side with one of the items/areas being called "Legend". Make sure the "terrain" box is ticked. If you don't see the panel, click View/Panels and select the "Legend" panel to show it.

[Meridian]

That's checked on mine. Even if I go into the user data folder and double click on the "Sh3Gen Tracking Room.TTKGP" file all I get is a lot of FLAGS and symbols on a light blue background.

[bert8for3]

That's checked on mine. Even if I go into the user data folder and double click on the "Sh3Gen Tracking Room.TTKGP" file all I get is a lot of maps and symbols on a light blue background.

Not sure what you mean ... a lot of maps. Are you seeing a big world map when you open the file?

[Meridian]

Yeah sorry, my mistake, I meant FLAGS, not maps.:damn:

[cardician]

Same here. No land. just flags and symbols and the ocean with some light colored circled areas that are zones of something I imagine. No land whatsoever...which basically renders the entire thing very hard to use.

Oh well, looks like for whatever reason this application is not going to work for me.:oops:

[Meridian]

OK, this is a screenie of what I see, any help please. Thanks.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v247/PJ_Meridian/0020.jpg

[cardician]

There you go, that is exactly what I see. As you can see, terrain is clicked. I've tried unselecting it and selecting it, no dice.

[bert8for3]

Well, only thing I can think of is uninstall/reinstall the viewer. I just did that myself to see if there's anything in the install that would make a difference. Don't know if it does, but at the end of install, it asks if you want to register all file extensions. I said yes.

Then, with the viewer open and when you open the tracking room file in the Sh3Gen user data folder, are you seeing the bottom left loading bar active and does that include "reading terrain"?

Other than that, I'm afraid I don't have any bright ideas, hopefully GlobalExplorer will be online.

[Meridian]

Tried reinstalling the viewer at least 6 times since this afternoon, nothings worked so far.

Yep, it does show loading terrain bottom left. Even if I try to open the Terrain.gml file direct I still only get a blank screen.

[cardician]

Yeah, ditto.

It's alright for me though I guess. Can't use the app this way, but I really would rather use danlisa's spy sat mod once he updates it to work with GWX 1.03. So in the meantime I guess I'll just have to find boats to sink the old fashioned way. Though the other added options, like mines being marked on your map, is very nice.

[Meridian]

I've got a feeling that the guys that are getting the terrain to display correctly have something installed on their PC's that I haven't. Other than the obvious ones like SH3Gen, the viewer & DotNet 1.1/2.

Maybe a font or something? i'm pulling my hair out here.

[Jimbuna]

I've been following your trials and tribulations daily and have to admit I've nothing to say that might be of help to you because you appear to have everything I've got with my install which is working fine....sorry mate :hmm:

[bert8for3]

I've got a feeling that the guys that are getting the terrain to display correctly have something installed on their PC's that I haven't. Other than the obvious ones like SH3Gen, the viewer & DotNet 1.1/2.

Maybe a font or something? i'm pulling my hair out here.

Nothing special here.

[Genferret]

I get the same thing. Icons and such load up fine, but no world map terrain.

I should also note this is my first time trying SH3Gen in any manner, so it's a fresh v0.8.2 install downloaded today. Figured now that I got dual-monitor goodness going on I should find something for me to look at on that other monitor. ;) SH3Gen Tracking Room seems like just the thing.

Edit: Mods I run

GWX 1.03 w/ 16km view on
SH3 Commander 2.7 w/ GWX optional skin pack installed
SH3Gen (as of today)

[cardician]

You know, I just tried it on another computer, still nothing. Icons, no land from terrain. Weird. There HAS to be something missing. If only the creator would log on and supply some input.:oops:

[Jimbuna]

Would it help if I posted links to the three programmes I downloaded and which are definitely working on my pc ? :arrgh!:

[Meridian]

Wouldn't hurt to give it a try Jim, thanks.

Everything I downloaded was from the authors links he provided, so i'm stumped.

[Jimbuna]

Give me an hour :up:

[Jimbuna]

File 1 of 3 :up:
http://files.filefront.com/dotnetfxexe/;7082190;/fileinfo.html

[Jimbuna]

File 2 of 3 :up:

http://files.filefront.com/Sh3Gen_v082exe/;7082219;/fileinfo.html

[Jimbuna]

File 3 of 3 Good luck people, fingers crossed :up:
http://files.filefront.com/TatukGIS_VWR_1_8_5_340exe/;7082276;/fileinfo.html

[Meridian]

Thanks Jim, downloading now. What's the DotnetFX file? thats one I didn't see on the files to download list.

OK just installed only the Viewer in your link and it works. The version I downloaded from Tatukgis was "TatukGIS_VWR_1_8_5_340.exe"

Problem fixed, thanks Jim.

[Jimbuna]

Pleased to hear it :up:

[Genferret]

Thank you good sir. It appears the newer version of Tatuk doesn't work with the map generated by SH3 Gen. However, the older version which you put up for us works like a champ.

[Tazzie]

Thanks Jim

The older version works like a charm with no problems. :up:

[Jimbuna]

Glad your sorted guys :up: better to have an older version that is working (I just haven't had the time to upgrade mine) :nope: than a newer version that's giving you problems :yep: Good Hunting :arrgh!:

@Meridian....I've just had a thought matey....you said you hadn't seen DotNET in the original download instructions....you definitely need that to install the programme, so I'm wondering if that was your specific problem :hmm:

I'm sure GE will be along to help you all when time/RL permits :yep:

Best Wishes
jimbuna :arrgh!:

[Meridian]

No m8, I realised what it was when I went to install it, DotNET 2. I thought it was an update to DotNET. When I went to install it and realised it was DotNET 2 I cancelled the install as I already have it.

Its definitely a viewer problem, just doesn't like the newer version.

It's working great now with the older version you posted, thanks again.

[Jimbuna]

Okay matey...no prob :up: :arrgh!:

[Genferret]

Glad your sorted guys :up: better to have an older version that is working (I just haven't had the time to upgrade mine) :nope: than a newer version that's giving you problems :yep: Good Hunting :arrgh!:

@Meridian....I've just had a thought matey....you said you hadn't seen DotNET in the original download instructions....you definitely need that to install the programme, so I'm wondering if that was your specific problem :hmm:

I'm sure GE will be along to help you all when time/RL permits :yep:

Best Wishes
jimbuna :arrgh!:

Yeah, just for clarification purposes I only downloaded the TatukGIS program you linked. It's an older version from the one that they currently have on their website for download.

I'm still using the version of SH3Gen Tracker Room that GlobalExplorer put out, and I already had .NET installed and up to date (necessary these days really with so many mods I get for games making use of it).

So whatever Tatuk did to their program with the last update broke the terrain import from SH3Gen.

Now if I could only figure out why I get insta-killed anytime I load up a saved game during a patrol. :damn::damn::damn:

Don't think that's mod related from searching these forums, think it's a SH3 issue with being too close to ships or something.

[GlobalExplorer]

Ok here I am. I see the origin of the problem has already been established - which is the viewer version. Thanks, as this will make it much easier to offer a solution.

I will download the new version tomorrow and have a look at the problem. Should not be difficult to fix, I only hope it is not something that has to be done with every new version of the viewer. Unfortunately I am also a bit busy atm.

Even if you click on the legend and add->Layer and browse to the terrain.gml file, it won't load right? Then there must either be a change in the TTKGP file structure (which is a text file containing all the project information) or in TatukGIS's GML reader. There are several solutions in my mind, one would be to switch to ESRI shapefiles, because they are more standard than GML.

For the time being, please use the link to the older version, and post any alternative mirrors .. the old version was fine. I will also check if I it is legally ok to offer the viewer permanently for download on my site - I think it is - and might do the same.

Somebody should have simply sent me an email instead of lamenting my absence - its not like I dont care ;)

Sorry for the inconvenience but this kind of thing I could not foresee.

[GlobalExplorer]

A gosh what a new ridiculous avatar :nope:

[Genferret]

Ok here I am. I see the origin of the problem has already been established - which is the viewer version. Thanks, as this will make it much easier to offer a solution.

I will download the new version tomorrow and have a look at the problem. Should not be difficult to fix, I only hope it is not something that has to be done with every new version of the viewer. Unfortunately I am also a bit busy atm.

Even if you click on the legend and add->Layer and browse to the terrain.gml file, it won't load right? Then there must either be a change in the TTKGP file structure (which is a text file containing all the project information) or in TatukGIS's GML reader. There are several solutions in my mind, one would be to switch to ESRI shapefiles, because they are more standard than GML.

For the time being, please use the link to the older version, and post any alternative mirrors .. the old version was fine. I will also check if I it is legally ok to offer the viewer permanently for download on my site - I think it is - and might do the same.

Somebody should have simply sent me an email instead of lamenting my absence - its not like I dont care ;)

Sorry for the inconvenience but this kind of thing I could not foresee.

Tried adding the terrain.gml file through both the add->layer option as well as dragging and dropping into TatukGIS. Neither worked. Naturally before all that I tried to check and uncheck the box next to it in the legend, but that didn't work either.

Like I said, old version of their program works like a champ, so SH3Gen is doing it's job properly, they changed something.

As a side note: Going on patrol number 3 with the tracking room running on my 2nd monitor. Even using it just for the subnets and mine locations in Axis ports alone makes it worth it to me. Definitely found that something I needed on the other screen while traveling long distances. :up:

[Jimbuna]

Welcome back GE....I'm away back to my bunker ;)

[GlobalExplorer]

Welcome back GE....I'm away back to my bunker ;)

Thanks a lot for holding the line for me!

Tried adding the terrain.gml file through both the add->layer option as well as dragging and dropping into TatukGIS. Neither worked. Naturally before all that I tried to check and uncheck the box next to it in the legend, but that didn't work either.

Like I said, old version of their program works like a champ, so SH3Gen is doing it's job properly, they changed something.

Pretty certain now the new version chokes with the format of my terrain.gml, which is a very complex file I have created from satellite data :yep: . So I will have to export it into a different format, create a new template viewer project, and make some minimal changes to the engine. Not a lot of work when I am at it, but right now I am busy with work, my coming move back to Berlin, and an application for a masters course.

On top of it, there is also nice spring weather in Germany, and I got back into playing games (in contrast to tinkering) :-?

The temporary, perfectly working solution for now will be to use the old version - which is working fine. In the next days I will make some changes to my website and documentation and offer the correct TatukGIS version for download on my site, or I might include it in the download.

For now use the link offered by jimbuna a bit further up in the thread.

http://files.filefront.com/TatukGIS_VWR_1_8_5_340exe/;7082276;/fileinfo.html (http://files.filefront.com/TatukGIS_VWR_1_8_5_340exe/;7082276;/fileinfo.html)

As a side note: Going on patrol number 3 with the tracking room running on my 2nd monitor. Even using it just for the subnets and mine locations in Axis ports alone makes it worth it to me. Definitely found that something I needed on the other screen while traveling long distances. :up:

I am glad you are using the concept to its full potential - keep me updated on your experiences as this will probably not be the last GIS application I write for a computer game ..

As much as I thought it could be a future trend for wargames / mitlitary simulation, I still want to find out if players are ready for it. From what I see atm you are slowly, but steadily realizing the potential - or thats what I hope .. It would also be interesting to know how many of you have used a GIS software before, certainly not many ..

[Capt.Crackerjack]

Great mod work GlobalExplorer!:up:

:hmm: However, is it normal in this new Tracking Room version for the war diary info not to be shown in the in-game logbook? Previously with SH3Gen v0.7.1 there was no problem. Thanks.

[Jimbuna]

The info should still be there :yep:

[GlobalExplorer]

I did not change that - the info should be there.

GE

[jrblyth]

Same probelm, No map, it goes through the motions of loading but no visible terrain appears.

I gave up and went to www.getech.com (http://www.getech.com) and downloaded one of their topo world maps. I load it in as a separate layer. It is not exact but it is close enough. Plus you get a 3d rendering of the sea floor.

If you want to try it go to Getech site, click on the services button until a drop down menu appears and then click on GIS arcview. Scroll down to the hot link for downloadable images.

I picked wtopo_atlas1. Be sure to move it all the way to the lowest layer or none of the other icons will show through.

[Spytrx]

looks like a first class addition - thank you foir sharing, mate :up:

[GlobalExplorer]

Same probelm, No map, it goes through the motions of loading but no visible terrain appears.

I gave up and went to www.getech.com (http://www.getech.com) and downloaded one of their topo world maps. I load it in as a separate layer. It is not exact but it is close enough. Plus you get a 3d rendering of the sea floor.

If you want to try it go to Getech site, click on the services button until a drop down menu appears and then click on GIS arcview. Scroll down to the hot link for downloadable images.

I picked wtopo_atlas1. Be sure to move it all the way to the lowest layer or none of the other icons will show through.

Of course you can always extend the viewer file like that. You can use any map that is scaled in standard longitude / latitude and import it into the project.

Sorry, the situation is that I still have not found time to look into the issue (and this might take a while). So for everyone who wants to use the export in the meantime, the advice is to download the previous version of TatukGIS from here:

www.christian-wendt.org/tatukgis.exe (http://www.christian-wendt.org/tatukgis.exe)

[Andayle]

Hiya all,

First off GlobalExplorer m8, your a bloody genius. I only ever considered 2 mods whilst playing SH3, they were GWX and the great SH Commander. After seeing this post and trying out the mod with the export it bring a whole new level to SH3. Looks like from now on there will have to be 3 mods that I use with SH3 hehe.

Once again many thanks for this, its great that people are still develpoing for this fantastic subsim.

Cheers
Andayle.

[GlobalExplorer]

Once again many thanks for this, its great that people are still develpoing for this fantastic subsim.

What is more suprising me is that there is still so much interest in SHIII! Looks like it has a lot of life left in it.

[GlobalExplorer]

Finally I have looked into the problem with the newer version of TatukGIS (TatukGIS_VWR_1_8_7_342), and it's easily cureable. The format of my terrain.gml was somewhat outdated and in the new version of the viewer they have dropped support for that - so the file had to be rewritten in an up-to-date format.

A new installation file with an updated terrain file will be released asap. For the time being everyone can download the corrected terrain.gml and use it to replace the old one in Sh3Gen/Tracking Room/Template. You can also drop it into any exisiting Tracking Room map folder to replace the old terrain file.

http://www.christian-wendt.org/terrain.exe

Please report back if you are able to run this with Sh3Gen 0.8.2 and the new TatukGIS_VWR_1_8_7_342 as I have done only basic testing.

[geosub1978]

I always recieve the following...thing after the generate command!:damn: :damn: :damn:


See the end of this message for details on invoking
just-in-time (JIT) debugging instead of this dialog box.
************** Exception Text **************
System.ArgumentException: Item has already been added. Key in dictionary: 'EastCoast' Key being added: 'EastCoast'
at System.Collections.SortedList.Add(Object key, Object value)
at Sh3Gen2.Foundation.Containers.CSortedCollection.ad d(Object Item, String Key)
at Sh3Gen2.Database.World.CWorld.initialize(CPeriod Period)
at Sh3Gen2.Database.World.CWorld.Initialize(CPeriod Period)
at Sh3Gen2.Applications.MapGen2.CMapGenerator.Run(Str ing PatrolGrid)
at Sh3Gen2.Applications.MapGen2.CMapGen2.Button_OK_Cl ick(Object sender, EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.OnClick(EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Button.OnClick(EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Button.OnMouseUp(MouseEventAr gs mevent)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WmMouseUp(Message& m, MouseButtons button, Int32 clicks)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.ButtonBase.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Button.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.O nMessage(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.W ndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.NativeWindow.Callback(IntPtr hWnd, Int32 msg, IntPtr wparam, IntPtr lparam)

************** Loaded Assemblies **************
mscorlib
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v2.0.50727/mscorlib.dll
----------------------------------------
Sh3Gen2
Assembly Version: 0.8.1.38621
Win32 Version: 0.8.1.38621
CodeBase: file:///C:/Program%20Files/Sh3Gen/Sh3Gen.exe
----------------------------------------
System.Windows.Forms
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Windows.Forms/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Windows.Forms.dll
----------------------------------------
System
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Drawing
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Drawing/2.0.0.0__b03f5f7f11d50a3a/System.Drawing.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Xml
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Xml/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Xml.dll
----------------------------------------
************** JIT Debugging **************
To enable just-in-time (JIT) debugging, the .config file for this
application or computer (machine.config) must have the
jitDebugging value set in the system.windows.forms section.
The application must also be compiled with debugging
enabled.

Does anybody know what ON EARTH can possibly means?:damn: :damn:

[GlobalExplorer]

Have you fiddled around with the Sh3Gen folder, particularly the camapign data? I ask because it looks like some part of the US East Coast data was added a second time.

Are you using the most recent version? If not, try this one:

http://www.global-explorer.de/Sh3Gen_v082.exe

This file also serves as an update to all people who had the problem with the new viewer version, it should work with the new version of TatukGIS.

If not, somebody must let me know, as I am not doing full tests anymore - but it should work.

[geosub1978]

No I did't tweaked anything. With the 7.1 version I recieved this:

See the end of this message for details on invoking
just-in-time (JIT) debugging instead of this dialog box.
************** Exception Text **************
System.NullReferenceException: Object reference not set to an instance of an object.
at Sh3Gen2.Database.Campaign.Interpreter.CInterpreter .prime(CGroups Groups)
at Sh3Gen2.Database.Campaign.Interpreter.CInterpreter .Run()
at Sh3Gen2.Database.Campaign.CCampaign.initializeCamp aignData()
at Sh3Gen2.Applications.MapGen2.CMapGenerator.Run(Str ing PatrolGrid)
at Sh3Gen2.Applications.MapGen2.CMapGen2.Button_OK_Cl ick(Object sender, EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.OnClick(EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Button.OnClick(EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Button.OnMouseUp(MouseEventAr gs mevent)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WmMouseUp(Message& m, MouseButtons button, Int32 clicks)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.ButtonBase.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Button.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.O nMessage(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.W ndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.NativeWindow.Callback(IntPtr hWnd, Int32 msg, IntPtr wparam, IntPtr lparam)

************** Loaded Assemblies **************
mscorlib
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v2.0.50727/mscorlib.dll
----------------------------------------
Sh3Gen2
Assembly Version: 0.6.1.29696
Win32 Version: 0.6.1.29696
CodeBase: file:///C:/Program%20Files/Sh3Gen/Sh3Gen.exe
----------------------------------------

Anyway it seems there is some imcompatibility with GWX and the 30enabled mods so I think I will give up!:cry:

[Jimbuna]

@GE
The original (and working) files are still available from my sig if anyone is desperate for a short term solution :up:

[GlobalExplorer]

Thanks a lot mate. Your help is well appreciated, and it did help quite a few people over the last weeks!

But it should not be necessary to use a fix anymore, if you download the corrected v0.8.2 from:

http://www.global-explorer.de/contentpage_download.html (http://www.global-explorer.de/contentpage_download.html)

I have exchanged terrain.gml with a corrected version in ESRI shapefile format - and no other changes were made.

I have tested a few times with the new viewer release, and it worked.

[Jimbuna]

Rgr that :up:

Is it a simple install over the top of the earlier version ? :hmm:

[GlobalExplorer]

The new file is identical to Sh3Gen 0.8.2 except some of the files in the Tracking Room/Template file which reflect the changes I had to make because of the terrain problem.

I never recommend to my users unzipping anything over the previous version any time - but you can do it ;)

Just delete /Tracking Room/Template/terrain.gml afterwards, because it is not needed anymore, but will still be copied into any new map folder, so a lot of diskspace might be wasted.

An alternative is to only replace the Tracking Room/Template folder with the one from the new version - everything else has stayed the same.

[Jimbuna]

Danke :arrgh!:

[GlobalExplorer]

I forgot to add this piece of information:

In case you have older Tracking Room folders that you want to continue to use with the new version of TatukGIS (and the just released second edition of Sh3Gen v0.8.2), you can do so if you move the following files from Sh3Gen/Tracking Room/Template (new Sh3Gen edition!) to any Tracking Room folder created in the first edition (Sh3Gen/UserData/<Kaleun name>)

terrain.dbf
terrain.shx
terrain.shp

Sh3Gen Tracking Room.ttkgp
Sh3Gen Traffic Concentrations.ttkgp

Or for people who understand this notation:
terrain.*
*.ttkgp

When asked, chose to simply overwrite the old files. You might also want to delete the older terrain.gml, as it is not needed anymore, and therefore will only waste disk space.

[Hartmann]

I decided try this program but there are two main versions
the normal and the Tracking room version and both seems to work different.
which is better ?? :hmm:

i installed the tatukgis program and i can see the map, but after, if i open other files like asw traffic or merchant traffic i only see a white screen with colour points.
traffic concentrations works well and i can see the map.:doh:

other question is when i open a file, before i have a box with this options"save all files"
save all ?? yes /no/cancel,

what is this ??

I´m not sure if i installed correctly the program :88)

thanks and good work,

[GlobalExplorer]

I decided try this program but there are two main versions
the normal and the Tracking room version and both seems to work different.
which is better ?? :hmm:

v0.8 Tracking Room version = v0.7 + map export, you already went with the TR version, which is recommended.

i installed the tatukgis program and i can see the map, but after, if i open other files like asw traffic or merchant traffic i only see a white screen with colour points.
traffic concentrations works well and i can see the map.:doh:

You can open single GML / SHP files they are not set up, but they only contain geometries, so all you will see lines / dots. Open a project file (.ttkgp) instead, because it sets up all required layers for a real map.

other question is when i open a file, before i have a box with this options"save all files"
save all ?? yes /no/cancel,

what is this ??

That happens if you made changes to the project file (colors, layers visibility etc), choose yes if you want to keep your changes, or discard them.

I´m not sure if i installed correctly the program :88)

no te preocupes, pienso que es perfecto ..

[g_BonE]

just a quick question: any ways to use this nice tool for silent hunter 4 ?

[GlobalExplorer]

just a quick question: any ways to use this nice tool for silent hunter 4 ?
Good question. That depends mainly on myself:

- will I ever get into playing SHIV?
- will I port over Sh3Gen one day?

Portation should be possible with reasonable effort because of similar data structures in SHIV. But atm I dont think I will do it, because interest in Sh3Gen has been unsatisfactory (yes it is a lot of work to make these kind of things).

It seems too few people had the energy to learn how Sh3Gen works, so it makes no sense to invest much more into this concept. However, what I do plan to do is release only the GIS files (first SHIII + GWX and possibly later for SHIV) stand alone, i.e. pre-generated without Sh3Gen executables. That would mean everybody can use them, without the hassle of setting up Sh3Gen.

Hope that answers your question.

[irish1958]

G.E.,
I am sorry to hear this,:cry::cry::cry: as I love your mod and use it with every patrol.:rock::rock:
I haven't played SHIV yet as my current computer cannot handle the graphics, but I will play it in the future when I get a new computer. :up:

[GlobalExplorer]

G.E.,
I am sorry to hear this,:cry::cry::cry: as I love your mod and use it with every patrol.:rock::rock:

Thanks. But there are just not enough users. If I should manage to release SHIII/SHIV map files standalone a lot more people might use them, so this could make more sense.

I haven't played SHIV yet as my current computer cannot handle the graphics, but I will play it in the future when I get a new computer. :up:

Same here. Still practically unused.

[g_BonE]

sad to hear. i really enjoyed using your tool with SH3. unfortunately i moved on to SH4. Nevertheless, keep up the good work !

[U49]

:up:
Together with that GISviewer .... simply great job!

This weekend I'm getting my PC ready for GWX2.0 and it was about time to switch to your newer SH3Gen version.

30% intel 30% randomness. That's almost like a real commanders briefing before leaving port :yep:

Although not many players seem to use your tool, I love it since v0.5 !

[Jimbuna]

I sincerely hope you stay aboard for GWX 2.0 :up:

http://www.itsnature.org/forums/images/smilies/wolfmoon.jpg


http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd320/pasquarade/wolf-38.gif

[Paco]

Hi,

I use the v0.8.2 Tracking Room Edition with GIS. Its nice to see the SH3 world outside the game as a neutral spectator :cool:

Thanks for the good work,
Paco

[JeromeHeretic]

I want to ask if is possible in some way tell to SH3Gen show lighthouses in map?
If so, simple RTFM answer is enough. :-)

[Sailor Steve]

I'm not sure, but I don't think so, as they are part of the environment.

[machiavelli]

It seems the DL links to this beast are broken, but I'm sure its available on Maiks server.

My question is, what is the benefit of this program as compared to using the Mission builder to find out where everything is at?

I always steered away from this because it seemed like it was bringing the GPS satellite positioning into the age of World War 2. It felt like cheating?

What exactly does this thing do other than what the Mission builder already does?

[SquareSteelBar]

http://www.global-explorer.de/SH3GEN/contentpage_download.htm

ftp://hartmuthaas.no-ip.org/public/Sharing/SH3COMMUNITYMODS/GLOBALEXPLORER/

[Pisces]

I assembled a 7-zip file containing a copy of version 0.82 of SH3Gen and a zipfile containing GlobalExplorer's webcontent, and asked Sailor Steve to upload it to the download section:

http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=4360

So no more worries about availability anymore.

(also contains a textfile with a current link to the free Tatukgis viewer. Needs registration though.)

[Tycho]

I drew SH3Gen: Theaters of operation scheme over the draggable convoy map in game:
http://oi57.tinypic.com/opd7yp_th.jpg (http://oi57.tinypic.com/opd7yp.jpg) http://oi59.tinypic.com/16924c3_th.jpg (http://oi59.tinypic.com/16924c3.jpg) http://oi62.tinypic.com/2w5q5mo_th.jpg (http://oi62.tinypic.com/2w5q5mo.jpg)

In my NYGM based installation the file is named "KonvoyMap.tga", and have resolution - 1026x1026. I see, that in other mods the file is "ConvoyMap.tga".
Sh3Gen_Map.7z (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/68990563/GridXXXX/Sh3Gen_Map.7z)

[BigWalleye]

It seems the DL links to this beast are broken, but I'm sure its available on Maiks server.

My question is, what is the benefit of this program as compared to using the Mission builder to find out where everything is at?

I always steered away from this because it seemed like it was bringing the GPS satellite positioning into the age of World War 2. It felt like cheating?

What exactly does this thing do other than what the Mission builder already does?

The difference is that SH3Gen gives you an "intelligence report." Lots of information, some of it may even be acurate.:) You can easily adjust the amount of information you receive and the accuracy, Although IIRC, you can not get 100% accuracy. And you don't know the quality of any particular report.

Using the Mission Builder, you can find out exactly what is where, and the actual probability of spawns. That's vastly different than SH3Gen's report.

[rhenus942]

Anyone know how to get this to work? Thanks