When preparing geometry files for import, you can review and modify the .DBF file to ensure they contain accurate and up-to-date data.
This step is usually optional. You can first review the results of your geometry imports in Borealis and then, if required, troubleshoot using the .DBF file.
Open a dBase (.DBF) File in Excel
Before you begin, extract the .DBF file from the geometry file (compressed ZIP file) and save it to a folder on your computer.
Important: It is recommended that you keep a backup copy of the original .DBF file before making any changes, in case you need to restore the original data.
To open a .DBF file in Excel:
- Open a new blank Excel workbook.
- Click the File menu and select Open.
- Browse your computer to the location of the .DBF file you want to open.
- Click the file extension selector drop-down list, usually sporting the default label All Excel Files, and select dBase Files.
- Select the .DBF file you want to review.
- Click the Open button.
Review the Content of .DBF file
Once you open the file, review the data of your .DBF file as needed.
Important: Although you can edit the contents of the .DBF file, be mindful of the following requirements:
- Records in the .SHP and .DBF files have a one-to-one relationship based on their record number (position) in each file.
- The items in the ID column of the .DBF file must remain in the same order as the corresponding items in the .SHP file, so that they can be linked together by the system during import.
- Changing the order of records may prevent Borealis from correctly linking geometry data with its associated attributes during import.
Save the Updated .DBF File and Add It to Your ZIP File
Once you have finished reviewing and updating the .DBF file, save it in its original .DBF format.
Then, add the updated .DBF file back to the ZIP file, replacing the existing version if necessary.
You can then proceed to Import Geometry Files.