Is there a symbol set that renders in both ArcPad and ArcSDE?

[DavidBrooks3]

I'm going a little nuts finding a symbol set that works in both ArcPad and ArcSDE.  For example if I use the ArcPad symbol set then publish the map to ArcSDE the symbols get converted into numbers.  If I use the Forestry symbol set the symbols are fine in ArcSDE but the symbols convert to numbers in ArcPad.  Do I have to have two ArcMap maps - one for ArcPad with ArcPad symbols and another for ArcSDE with Forestry symbols?  I'd prefer to use one symbol set that works in both ArcMap and ArcSDE thus maintaining one map.

I've given up creating custom symbol sets for ArcPad as they work fine in the tool bar and layer icon but on the map get converted into random symbols.

[TimHopper]

David,

Without digging into this too much..

Are you talking about the symbology once it gets over to your mobile device, or is the same issue present in ArcPad on your desktop?

As far as your SDE symbols not appearing in ArcPad (on your mobile device), it's probably just a lack of the specific font file on the mobile device.  Via the symbol selector in ArcMap, determine which font file (like esri_220.ttf) the symbol uses.

Open the symbol selector > Edit symbol > On the Character Marker tab you will see the font that's being used.

Copy that font from the C:\Windows\Fonts folder and paste it into the fonts folder on your mobile device ...\Windows\Fonts.

Most of the issues I've seen related to symbology becoming random symbols (like #, !, $, etc) is due to a missing font file on the mobile device.

If you try this and don't seen any different, reply with a little more info and we can go from there.

[DavidBrooks3]

Hi Tim,
We are using Trimble Ranger 3s with Windows Mobile.  There is no Windows\Fonts folder on the handhelds.  What other directory should I drop the font file in on the handheld?
Thank you,

[TimHopper]

David,

Oops.  I think I see what's going on.  Windows 7 is a bit pickier about what files and folders it will show on your mobile device.

If you were to use the File Explorer on your device you should see that there is a My Device\Windows\Fonts folder.

On your desktop machine (which I'd bet is Windows 7), it will be necessary to show protected OS system files.

Windows Explorer > Organize > Folder and search options > View tab > Un-check the box for "Hide protected operating system files"

That should do it.