Failed to add layer package. Invalid data source within layer file.

[Anonymous User]

Original User: diegollamas

Hi,

I need to see some shapefiles in computer that does not have ArcMap. I create a project where my layer has labels. I read that there is not supported labels on ArcGIS Explorer 2500. So I create Layer files for all the shape files that has labels in my project. In my MXD I activate Store relative pathnames. I copy the shapefile, mxd and layer file to desktop (same information as my usb)

[ATTACH=CONFIG]25464[/ATTACH]

but when I try to add my layer file in ArcGIS Explorer I receive an error "invalid data source"
[ATTACH=CONFIG]25465[/ATTACH]

But if I add the same layer file from my usb, it can be added with no problem.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]25466[/ATTACH]

am I doing something wrong? I should be able to do that, right?

Hope anyone can help!

Best regards,

Diego Llamas

[Anonymous User]

Original User: mbockenhauer

Diego,

Make sure that when you create your layer file (MXD) all of the data is in a folder, not at the root C: drive or other letter level.  From you first screenshot.  If you copy the "New Folder" on to the USB drive.  The Layer File within should work fine off of the USB.  A parent folder is needed for the relative paths to work, as the relative paths in the MXD contain the parent folder in them.  When you copied the contents of the folder to the USB, the parent "folder" is the E drive.  This will not work.

Drive partitions will not work as a parent folder for a relative path.  So, I think you were really close to having it, just copy the folder with all of the relative pathed content it contains to the new location where you want to use it.

Also, from ArcMap 9.3.1 and later, you can create layer packages and these will work in ArcGIS Explorer desktop as well.

Mark