15 August 2018

Using Esri MSD Data with AutoChart

In recent posts, we've shown how AutoChart can import features directly from a File Geodatabase feature class and add the GIS Attribute table as MAP Object Data to allow symbolisation of the entities in AutoCAD based on Object Data expressions.
The MAP Object Data functionality relies on the user running AutoCAD MAP or Civil 3D, so what options are there if you are using vanilla AutoCAD or BricsCAD?

The answer lies with ESRI Mapping Specification for Drawing (MSD) Data. This is a new specification created by ESRI which provides a method of defining and creating GIS content within CAD files.
When using AutoChart's GIS Attach/Import commands the user has the option of adding GIS attribute information either as MAP Object Data (in AutoCAD MAP or Civil 3D) or as ESRI MSD Data (in all versions of CAD).

Both Object Data and MSD Data operate in the same way when setting up the attribute mapping table, the required fields and their associated source values can be set up as required and the relevant information will be added to each entity.

Whereas MAP Object Data values on specific entities can be viewed directly in the AutoCAD Properties Palette, unfortunately this isn't the case with MSD Data. Instead you can use the AutoChart Show MSD Data command to view and edit the associated MSD values:

The AutoChart Style Features, Batch Style Features and Select Features commands can be used with both MAP Object Data and ESRI MSD Data.

One advantage that MSD Data has over MAP Object Data is that rather than having to export the CAD entities to an ESRI shp file with the associated object data values, a Dwg containing entities with attached MSD Data can be accessed directly as features in ArcView with the associated Attribute Table information.


The link below will open a video showing the process of using ESRI MSD data in AutoChart and accessing that data in ArcView.


If you have any questions about this functionality please get in touch with us at Support@Wishsoftware.com


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