MapInfo Interchange Format .MIF File Description

MapInfo Interchange Format .MIF files contain boundary objects including areas, curves and points. The objects optionally have attributes (such as color or line style) associated with them.

.MIF files are text files that are usually used as base maps.

MID File

Each. MIF file is usually accompanied by a file with the same name, but with the .MID file name extension. The .MID file contains attribute information about the objects in the map. This information is imported in the objects' attributes. The .MID file can be opened in the worksheet with the File | Open command.

Limitations

The MIF file format limits attribute values to 254 characters. If an attribute value has more than 254 characters, a warning message will be issued. MapInfo may be unable to read the exported MIF file. It is suggested that the attribute values be limited to only 254 characters.

The MIF file format limits all attributes for a single object to a total of 4000 characters. This includes all attribute names and attribute values. If an object has more than 4000 characters, a warning message will be issued. MapInfo may be unable to read the exported MIF file. It is suggested that the number of characters be reduced so that all attribute names and values are limited to less than 4000 characters.

The MIF file format requires that all attribute names start with a character other than a number. When an attribute name starts with a number in Surfer , the attribute name will automatically be renamed to start with an underscore. For example, the attribute name 1table will be renamed to _1table.

Attributes

All attributes for all polyline and polygon objects are automatically exported to all .MIF files. For contour maps, the Z value is exported as the "ZLEVEL" attribute for all polylines in the contour map.

Loading .MIF Files

MapInfo .MIF files can be loaded with the Home | New Map | Base commands.

Import Options Dialog