GIS Data Collection

Create, Edit, and Display GIS Data

ArcPad allows users to create and edit spatial data (points, lines, and polygons) using input from the mouse pointer, pen, GPS, rangefinder, or camera. ArcPad includes editing tools for offsets, repeated attributes, segmented line features, snapping, and more.

Users can record field sketches and notes into the data collection process with ArcPad. Sketches can be shared and exchanged as a graphics layer to and from ArcGIS Desktop. These sketches can become part of the geodatabase and the project record.

A key feature of ArcPad is the ability to display a variety of geographic and attribute information. ArcPad uses data directly from an individual's desktop or an organization's enterprise GIS without the need to convert to unique portable formats. ArcPad supports vector and raster data in a multilayered environment. Users can combine vector and raster data with the only limitations being the speed and memory capacity of the hardware in use.

ArcPad supports the following data formats:

• ArcPad AXF file (based on Microsoft SQL Server Compact Edition)
• ESRI shapefile
• ArcPad graphics layers
• ArcPad photo layers
• MrSID MG2 and MG3
• JPEG
• JPEG2000
• TIFF
• GIF
• PNG
• Windows bitmap
• CADRG
• ArcIMS Image Services via access to the Internet

ArcPad users are able to customize ArcPad and build focused applications using ArcPad Application Builder. Developers can build focused applications within the desktop environment and deploy them on numerous ArcPad devices in their organization.

Attribute Data Collection

Attribute data is descriptive information about a location and can be edited and collected with ArcPad data collection forms. These forms include fields that are designed for input using a variety of devices (Windows Mobile devices, laptops, Tablet PCs). Forms include field options for text boxes, menus, calendar/date selection, and more. Simple data collection forms can be created quickly with ArcPad from a shapefile. More specialized custom forms can be created with ArcPad Application Builder and deployed on ArcPad.