Export Tracing
This function has been significantly enhanced in Stereo Investigator 11.07. We recommend that you install the latest release (available from the Download Center) if you are using an older version.
Creates a vector or raster image of your data file for use in third-party software.
To export files to the the OBJ format for use in Blender or MATLAB, see "exporting 3D models" in 3D Visualization
Export options
Vector graphics
This option generates a Windows Enhanced Metafile (.emf).
Times screen resolution
Determines the dimensions and level of detail of the file to be exported. More specifically, the software creates a high-detail rendering of the data file which is then converted to a vector image. The resolution of the rendering is calculated as follows: (resolution of your tracing window) * (times screen resolution)
- For whole brain exports, use a smaller number.
- For single neuron exports, use a larger number.
Include images
Exports both the displayed image and the tracing.
Monochrome
Applies the settings defined in the Options>Display Preferences>View tab.
To view your exports on a different computer, install the MBF font file (mbfsymb.tff) to ensure that the symbols are displayed properly. This font file is compatible with both Windows and OS X. Download mbfsymb.tff now.
Image
This option generates a raster image (.tiff, .jp2, or .jpeg).
Use scaling
The default value is the current magnification for the tracings on the screen.
Fit: Automatically calculates an X and Y resolution based on the scaling value (microns/pixel) you specify. If you don't check Current view only, the image file contains the entire data file.
Center on current view
By default, the image file generated corresponds to what you see on the screen. But if the resolution you specify is very high, the image file is generated based on a larger field of view than what you see on the screen.
Monochrome
Applies the settings defined in the Options>Display Preferences>View tab. The tracings are usually exported in grayscale. If the background color is white, however, the color of the tracings is black.
Examples
To export only what you see on your screen at twice the resolution:
- Check Center on current view.
- In Use scaling, replace the current value with its half (e.g., if the current value is 0.008, replace it with 0.004).
- Click Fit.
- Click To File to export your tracing.
To export a black neuron on a white background:
- Use the Background color picker to set your background color to white.
- Check Monochrome.
- Click To File to export your tracing.
Stereo Investigator makes automatic adjustments to ensure that the export conforms to the resolution specified. If the resolution specified is higher than your data file's resolution, pixels of the specified background color are added; if the resolution is lower, cropping occurs around the center of your data file or current view.
Stereo Investigator 11 | MBF Bioscience Support Center | Downloads