GRASS Basics - Desktop GIS: Mapping the Planet with Open Source Tools - page 305

GRASS GUIs

GRASS itself has two GUI interfaces currently: gis.m and d.m .
There is currently work being done on a new interface using
Python and wxWindows. ∗ That interface isn't far enough along
for us to use in our examples, but it's something to keep an
eye on. Oh, and don't forget the other GRASS GUI option—
Quantum GIS.

∗. http://wxwindows.org

using grass62 -text , and then enter the command to bring it up. So far we
have been using GRASS 6.2 in our examples. Now we will switch to the
bleeding edge a bit and use GRASS 6.3. Everything we have done so far
in terms of creating locations and mapsets is the same between 6.2 an
6.3, so you don't have to start over and learn something new. In fact,
our locations and mapsets all work with 6.3, so we are in good shape.

To view GIS data, obviously you need a GUI, so we will start up GRASS
6.3 in that mode, using the -gui switch. This gives us the new and
improved display manager. The first thing you will notice is that three
windows pop up. GRASS requires a bit of screen real estate in which
to operate. You can use it on a 12-inch laptop display, but that's not
ideal. The first step is to rearrange the windows so you can get a look at
all of them at the same time. With a bit of resizing and moving, you will
be able to fit them all nicely on your display. You should now have the
GIS Manager, Map Display 1, and Output windows arranged so each is
visible. Let's add a vector layer and see what happens.

Everything starts with the GIS Manager. Its toolbars are organized by
function, in particular the raster and vector functions are those we
are interested in at the moment. Like other GIS applications, GRASS
has tooltip text for each button on the toolbar(s). Hover the mouse to
learn what each tool is for, or consult the manual. The button to add a
vector layer looks like a stream with a green polygon and red markers
on a white background. Clicking it adds a generic vector layer to the
manager window. To actually display something, we have to add a layer
to this vector “object.” To do this, click the newly added Vector 1 item.
This opens up a new form on the lower half of the manager window
where we can set up the display parameters and options. To specify the
layer to use, click the Vector Map to Display button just to the left of