Customize a symbol

Customize a symbol by adding text and graphic modifiers to the base symbol before adding it to the map. The applicable modifiers will be different depending on the type of base symbol chosen. For example, the Status graphic modifier will not affect an Area of Operations Control Measure feature.

Start with a base symbol

Create a custom symbol starting with a base symbol. Select a base symbol by doing one of the following:

Add graphic modifiers

Graphic modifiers add visual cues to different properties of the unit, equipment, and installation being represented. For example, a Headquarters graphic modifier adds a vertical "flagpole" to the left side of the symbol, and a Mobility - Wheeled modifier adds three circles to the icon.

Add graphic modifiers by doing the following:

  1. Click the Symbol tab in the Military Overlay pane.
  2. Change modifiers as desired.

    The symbol preview will update with changes to the modifiers showing what the symbol will look like on the map.

Add text modifiers

Text modifiers add contextual descriptors around the frame of a symbol. These modifiers include the Country Label for a piece of equipment, the Unique Designation of an installation, or the Direction of travel of a unit. Text modifiers are stored as attributes of the features when they are added to the map. Add text modifiers by doing the following:

  1. Click the Labels tab in the Military Overlay pane.
  2. Add the desired text modifier fields. The text modifiers will vary based on the type of symbol being modified.

    The symbol preview will update with changes to the text modifiers.

Note:

Use Clear All Labels to reset all of the modifier boxes to the default.