Setting symbology using a layer file

When model outputs are added to the ArcMap table of contents, their symbology can be predefined by referencing a layer file (.lyr).

Setting symbology using layer file

Model data variables have a Layer Symbology property wherein a layer file can be specified to define the symbology of the variable when it is added to the ArcMap table of contents.

Steps:

1. Create a layer file containing the desired symbology.
2. Right-click a data variable in a model and click Properties.
3. On the Layer Symbology tab, enter the path of the layer file.
Legacy:

Prior to ArcGIS 9.3, the layer symbology property could be set to either a layer file or an existing layer in the ArcMap table of contents. When the model was saved, the symbology was read and stored with the model, the layer file could subsequently be deleted, and the symbology would still be applied. In ArcGIS 9.3 and later, the layer symbology property can only be set to a layer file, and the layer file must exist each time the model is run. If it does not exist, the model still runs, but the data is drawn with the default symbology. This change was made in ArcGIS 9.3 to support advanced symbology.

Layer symbology support

Layer Symbology is only supported for variables of the following data types:

• Feature Class
• Feature Layer
• Raster Dataset
• Raster Layer
• TIN dataset
• TIN Layer
• Network Analysis Layer

List of supported geometry types for layer symbology

For feature classes, the symbology layer file must be the correct geometry type (point, line, or polygon). That is, a polygon symbology cannot be defined for a point feature class variable.

Note:

To apply symbology when the geometry type is unknown or cannot be determined until the tool is run, use a script to set symbology.