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Capture Screen as KMZ

Purpose and Utility

This tool allows you to capture a specific CAD view as an image, georeference it using your current coordinate system, and export it as a KMZ file. The KMZ can then be directly viewed in Google Earth, overlaying your CAD snapshot over the real-world terrain.

It’s a simple yet powerful way to visually communicate CAD content in real-world geographic context, perfect for project updates, site planning, concept presentations, or client reviews.

Technical Description

  • Coordinate System:
    You must assign a projected coordinate system before using this tool. This step ensures the image overlay aligns accurately in Google Earth.
  • Area Specification:
    After launching the tool, you select two opposite corner points to define the screen area you want to capture.
    Export & Save:
    Once the area is defined:
    • You’ll be prompted to specify the output folder and filename for the exported KMZ.
    • The tool saves the selected window as a georeferenced image overlay within the KMZ.
  • Preview in Google Earth:
    After exporting, SPCAD offers to open the KMZ directly in Google Earth. If you click “Yes,” it immediately launches the file in Google Earth and places your selected CAD view at its correct geographic location.

Workflow

  1. Assign a coordinate system to the drawing
  2. Go to Coordinate System → GeoTools → Capture Screen as KMZ
     Or type CPKMZ_SP
  3. Specify a rectangular area by selecting two corner points (window selection)
  4. Choose the output folder and provide a name for your KMZ file
  5. Confirm export — the tool will create:
    • A georeferenced image
    • A KMZ file containing the overlay
  6. Choose to preview in Google Earth when prompted
  7. The selected CAD view will now appear accurately placed on the Earth’s surface

Tips & Notes

  • Ideal for generating quick overlays for project stakeholders, field teams, or Google Earth-based visual checks
  • Useful in urban planning, infrastructure monitoring, or preliminary site visualization
  • Works great in combination with tools like:
    • Cartographic Grid (for map context)
    • Coordinate Labels
    • Import OSM Vector Data
  • If you plan to overlay multiple CAD sections, repeat the tool with different extents