Adding the data frame as dynamic text using an expression

Text based on data frame properties can be added to the text layout anywhere the product specification requires.

Available properties include map sheet properties such as the data frame name, description, distance or map units, and scale; geometric units; the coordinate system including the coordinate system name, factory code, alias, abbreviation, remarks, coordinate units, or datum.

Once you specify the data frame with the properties you want to use, you can choose the properties you want to display, or you can create a script to display specific properties in a specific way.

Choosing the Expression option allows you to add the data frame to the map sheet using a VBScript expression. The Expression Parser dialog box allows you to use a field value or array of field values for the selected field to use as the dynamic text.

Steps:

1. Start ArcMap.
2. On the main menu, click Customize > Toolbars > MPS Atlas.
3. Click the Add Dynamic Text button on the MPS Atlas toolbar.

   A crosshair with a letter A appears.

4. Click anywhere in the map sheet layout.

   A piece of dynamic text is inserted on the page.

5. Click the Dynamic Text drop-down arrow and choose Data Frame.
6. Click Insert.

   The Data Frame text appears in the text box.

7. Click the dynamic text element in the text field.

   The Data Frame Dynamic Text Properties dialog box appears.
8. Click the Expression option.
9. Click Edit Script.

   The Expression Parser dialog box appears.
10. In the Expression area, click to right of the Generate = expression.
11. Double click a field name in the Parameter list.

    In the Expression area, the field name appears to the right of Generate =: Generate = [NAME].

    Tip:

    Double click a field name without an _arr suffix.

12. Click Verify.

    The Output area lists Function evaluated successfully.

13. Click OK to close the Expression Parser dialog box.
14. Click OK to close the Data Frame Dynamic Text Properties dialog box.
15. Click OK to close the Dynamic Text Properties dialog box.

    The dynamic text displays in the page layout.

Note:

If you change the layer or data frame, the expression will be cleared. A new layer will require a new set of function parameters.