Overview of geocoding and routing file

The ArcPad StreetMap GRF file provides an easy way to share your location information with other workers and applications. The GRF file is an XML document containing information collected during StreetMap sessions. It contains data about stops, barriers, pushpins, and route information you created using StreetMap. The GRF file is dynamically maintained—the content of the file is automatically updated whenever you add or remove a stop, pushpin, barrier, or change their properties, or calculate a route.

If you have stops or barriers present in your map and you save the ArcPad map (.apm) document for the first time, a new GRF file is created in the default data path folder.

However, if you used StreetMap data just as a background layer without creating stops, barriers, or pushpins—therefore, without creating location information—the GRF file will not be generated. Also, if you create a stop or other location information and exit ArcPad without saving a map, the GRF file will not be created.

Once you save an ArcPad map document, whenever you open it, the corresponding GRF document is read, stops and other elements are displayed, and all subsequent changes are recorded.

You can only use one GRF document at a time; however, during your project lifetime you can work with multiple GRF documents. Simply open the StreetMap Preferences dialog box, tap the Locations File tab, and point StreetMap to a different GRF file. This unloads the current set of stops and barriers and loads the content of the new file into your map.

You are not limited to using existing GRF files. If you type a new name in the Locations File prompt, a new GRF file will be created and automatically populated with stops and barriers to reflect the content of your current map. In such a scenario the new GRF file can be considered a snapshot of your work. Throughout the day you may wish to create several files to document stops, barriers, and routes you were using at that time.

The GRF file can help you to stay on top of changes in your work orders. For instance, if you have access to e-mail in the field, you may request an updated GRF file with all changes to be e-mailed to you. Simply save the attached GRF file, open it in StreetMap, and immediately start using the updated information.