Batch add field, calculate field as filename

JasonDaniels

So here is my last and final question and unfortunately my largest hurdle.  I have a tonne of shapefiles (4249 to be exact).  I have never used a model builder or scripted anything.  I need to somehow batch add a field (named RTENO) and assign the shapefile name to that field.  The only other option I have is to batch calculate field with file name one at a time over 4000 times. If anyone knows of anything I could do to make this possible it would be a life saver.

YichiLiu1

Hi,

If I were you, I would use model buider and do the following:

1. Use iterator to read the feature classes that you would like to run. While excuting iterator, model builder will generate a system variable (it should originally show up as 'Name' in iterator), which stores the file name.

2. Use Add Field tool to add field.

3. Use Calculate field. This is when you need to use that system variable, use %Name% to get the feature class' name,

http://help.arcgis.com/en/arcgisdesktop/10.0/help../index.html#/A_quick_tour_of_using_iterators_for_iteration_Looping/002w0000001w000000/

Hope this helps!