Introduction
MapInfo is a family of formats created and read by MapInfo Pro from Pitney Bowes. MapInfo Pro is a geographic information system software used for mapping and analysis.
FME can read and write several proprietary formats created by MapInfo Pro. Depending on the version of FME you have installed and your operating system, you will have access to a variety of these formats. This article will help you determine which format is right for your workflow based on your needs.
Formats
-
MapInfo TAB (EFAL)
- This newer format supports tables over 2GB in size as well as Unicode.
- It can be used as a replacement for the older MITAB reader to improve performance.
- Only available on Windows.
-
MapInfo Extended TAB
- Same functionality as MITAB.
- Can support tables over 2GB in size as well as Unicode.
- Only available on Windows.
-
MapInfo TAB (MITAB)
- Available on all platforms.
-
MapInfo MIF/MID
- A published ASCII format that is only used by third-party applications that can read it.
Format Differences
| Support Tables over 2GB | Unicode Support | Stores Attributes & Geometry in One File | Field Character Limit | Available on Mac or Linux | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPINFO_EFAL | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Extended Tab | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| MITAB | No | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| MIF/MID | No | No | No | No | Yes |