Adding Microsoft Virtual Earth to ArcGIS 9.3.1

With the new ArcGIS 9.3.1 update, I searched high and low to find out how to access Microsoft Virtual Earth in ArcGIS as this was a big component to the new update.  It has not been as easy as I expected.  I thought that it would be a simple click to add the data to my map.  I found however, that it takes a few more extra steps to gain access.   Here is some information directly from ESRI’s Resource Center:

With ArcGIS 9.3.1, Microsoft Virtual Earth maps are seamlessly integrated into ArcGIS products. ArcGIS users who are current on maintenance and have an Internet connection will have access to Virtual Earth for a variety of up-to-date mapping content.

See the appropriate section below and follow the instructions to get started using Microsoft Virtual Earth in your ArcGIS 9.3.1 application:

• ArcGIS Desktop and ArcGIS Engine
• ArcGIS Server

I followed the ArcGIS Desktop process to gain access to Microsoft Virtual Earth.  This may vary from what you encounter, but it will give you a general idea for access.

Go to this website to request a new license file:

https://service.esri.com/index.cfm?fa=requestForms.requestLFileShowForm

1. Request a New License File

2. Select: Add newly purchased licenses to a new or existing license server

3. Enter Software Version

4. Enter Customer Information

5. Enter License Server Information

6. Enter number of licenses for Virtual Earth (bottom)

7. Submit Request

8. Agree to the additional terms

9. Submit Request

A new license file will be sent to you by email.  (Mine came within 30 minutes although the site says it could take one business day.)  Then update your license file.

On the Using premium Microsoft Virtual Earth Maps with ArcGIS 9.3.1 page there is an ArcMap document that can be downloaded that has the Virtual Earth service added.  There are Layer files and a ArcGlobe document (3DD) file on this website as well.  Open the downloaded map document and explore Microsoft Virtual Earth.