2011

Table Of Contents
It also stores queries, object data, styling information, printing layouts, and
any customized settings.
Each data set is a layer in the map.
Whenever you open a map file, all this information is immediately available
to you.
What is a data source?
A data source is any source of information that can be used in a map. It can
be any of the following:
A spatial database created with Oracle, SQL Server, or another relational
database management system
A file-based spatial data store, such as Autodesk SDF or ESRI SHP
An AutoCAD drawing file
A spreadsheet or other ODBC source that contains attribute data
A raster image, such as a TIFF or DEM file
The relationship between the sources and the map file is dynamic. If the data
in the source file changes, those changes are updated in your map file. When
you change the objects in your map file, you can save those changes back to
their original sources.
Map Files and Data Sources | 5