Creating a new graphics layer
The ArcPad Graphics Layer (.apg) is an XML file that can store text, points, lines, and polygons. It is used for redlining or to make freehand georeferenced edits in the field. Graphics layer files can be easily imported into ArcGIS Desktop. If you select the Graphics Layer for editing, all previously selected layers are deselected. However, with the Graphics Layer selected, you can then select up to two shapefiles for editing. In this case, the shapefiles take precedence over the Graphics Layer when editing, but you are still able to add sketches and notes to your ArcPad map while adding or updating features.
A graphics layer is different than a shapefile or vector layer. You can have many features of different types in one layer such as a point feature, a freehand polygon feature, a line feature, and text.
When editing a graphics layer, you can use any of the feature types-point, line, polyline, freehand line, rectangle, polygon, ellipse, circle, freehand polygon-to create features for your layer.
- Tap the drop down arrow below the Open Map button to display the drop down list.
- Tap New.
The New submenu appears.
- Tap Graphics Layer.
- Type the name of the new graphics layer.
- Choose the folder and location where you want to save the new graphics layer.
- Tap Save to complete the task and create the new graphics layer.
The graphics layer will be created, added to your map, and checked for editing.
