ArcGIS Explorer – Adding Data

The new ArcGIS Explorer 900 has some really cool features to make exploring the globe fairly simple.  With ArcGIS Explorer, adding data could not be any easier.   Looking at data already provided my ESRI, Bing, USGS, etc. is one thing.  Adding in data, specifically your own makes ArcGIS Explorer even more useful.

Data that can be added in includes: ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Layers, Map Content Files, KML Files, GIS Services, Shapefiles, Raster Data, Geodatabase Data, Text Files, GPS Data Files, and Image Overlays.

Each of these data elements can be added directly from the Add Content button on the Home Menu ribbon.  By clicking the Add Content button, a menu like the one on the right will show and you can choose your data type.  Follow the specific directions provided and the data will be added into the Contents Window.  The data will be shown with various icons to indicate the data type.

One type of data that can be added in that will preserve the symbology is ArcGIS Layers and ArcGIS Layer Packages.  The symbology that is create in ArcMap can be shown in ArcGIS Explorer.  Since explorer has limited symbology, this helps take visualization to the next level.  The difference between ArcGIS Layers and  ArcGIS Layer Packages is that the packages area created so that both the data and symbology can be easily move from one computer to another computer in one file package.  The Layers can be used, but the data must reside on the some computer.

To create a layer package:

1. Right click the desired layer from the table of contents.

2. Click Create Layer Package…

3. Designate where to save the file.

4. A conformation of completion will pop up in an alert.

You can then use or send the file however you would like.

This example uses ArcGIS Explorer 900.  If you don’t have it, download ArcGIS Explorer 900 for free today!