Accessing Data in ArcGIS

Many sources for data exist and can be accessed through ArcMAp and ArcCatalog. Sometimes you will want to download data files to your local machine and then add them to the map document. By saving files locally, you maximize loading speed and can update or edit these files as needed.
Another option is to link to remote data sources either over a local area network or the internet. Some agencies make data products available online and ArcMap is able to add such resources to your map document. In this case editing is not usually possible but you can access large datsets that are regularly updated without having to manage or store them locally.

Connecting to the WUSTL GISPUBLIC Data Server

The WUSTL GISPUBLIC server has been established to provide a local source for GIS data of interest to the Washington University community. Data layers have been compiled from sources including St. Louis City and County governments, and the data that are distributed with the ArcGIS software. This server is available only when connected to the campus network and all files are "Read-Only".

Please be aware, these data layers are compiled from several sources and are made available for your convenience. The layers may have different creation dates or geographic projection parameters. No alteration of original data has been performed except for some layers that were clipped to smaller extent to reduce network traffic. The server can be accessed from ArcGIS by following these instructions...

In ArcCatalog:

Click on the "Connect to Folder" icon.


Type

\\epsci.wustl.edu\gispublic

into the “Choose the folder...” text box.
 ArcCatalog Connect to Folder
Once connected, an entry for "\\epsci.wustl.edu\gispublic" will appear in the "Catalog" section in ArcCatalog or in the browser window that launches when you click the "Add Data" icon in ArcMap.

To add layers from the GISPUBLIC directory in ArcMap:

  • Click the “Add Data” icon Add Data.
  • A browser window will show all available storage connections.
  • Click on the “\\epsci.wustl.edu\gispublic” drive.
  • Browse to files of interest and select to add.

GISPUBLIC directories containing files of local interest include:
  • Architecture: Layers specific to St. Louis City.
  • StLouisCountyPlanning: Layers for St. Louis County.

Connecting to Online Data Resources

Base layer data such as imagery, street maps, and topography can be accessed through web-based services from commercial or public sources. One source for ArcGIS users is through ESRI's ArcGIS Online service.

To add ESRI Resource Center data to your ArcMap document, click on File -> “Add Data from ArcGIS Online”.




A browser window will open showing available data layers (“.lyr” files).
Click on the dataset you need to either open a new ArcMap document containing the layer or to download a file that you can add to an existing map document.		 Accessing ESRI Resource Center

The “GIS Servers” folder in the “Add Data” window contains wizards that will guide you through the process of connecting to other types of online GIS services. One such service is offered by the Missouri Spatial Data Information Service. MSDIS offers online access to 2 foot resolution aerial imatges of eastern Missouri among other data layers.Visit their website for more information.

To add a link to an online GIS Server, click on the “Add Data” icon.


Select "GIS Servers" from the Catalog listing.

 

 

A new window will open showing links to wizards that will guide you through the process of adding new connections.

Add GIS Server

 

Connecting to ArcGIS Online Services

For example, streetmap, aerial photos, and other data can be accessed from ESRI using the Add GIS Server wizard.

 


Select "Use GIS Services"


Click "Next"

 

 

Enter: http://services.arcgisonline.com/v92

and click "Finish".