Description
When attempting to import a DEM into Arcview with Spatial Analyst, the status bar flashes a message but a grid is not returned. When attempting a second time, ArcView sometimes locks up.
Cause
There are three known issue that may cause this problem.
- Conflict with Graphics Display driver
- $HOME directory is not 8.3 compliant
- Insufficient file and folder permissions
Solution or Workaround
Test for a graphics card conflict.
- Make sure you have a copy of the DEM loaded on the local machine.
- Boot the computer in Safe/VGA MODE
Safe Mode (Windows 95/98):
- Select Shut Down from the Start menu.
- Check Restart and click OK.
- Press and hold down the F8 key when the screen goes blank.
- Release the F8 key when the menu appears.
- Select the menu option #3 for Safe Mode.
VGA Mode (Windows NT/2000):
- Select Shut Down from the Start menu.
- Check Restart and click OK.
- Select VGA Mode and press the Enter key.
3. Perform the import function again.
Note:
If the import works properly, then you will need to update your graphics display driver. The most up-to-date drivers are available via the graphics card manufacturer's Web site.
Make sure the $HOME variable is set to an 8.3 compliant directory
1. Determine the $HOME variable path.
- Open a new view.
- Select Add Theme from the View menu.
- Replace the path in the Directory field with the environment variable, for example $HOME
- Press the Enter key.
The Directory field will now show the actual path.
2. Examine the path for 8.3 compliant violations.
For a file or path name to be 8.3 compliant, the prefix portion of the name must not be longer than 8 characters. The suffix portion of the name must be 3 characters long exactly. Additionally, the path or file name must not contain special characters, such as, spaces, #, $, and so forth.
3. Set the $HOME variable to a valid directory, if needed.
See: How To: Set ArcView's home directory
Make sure you have proper file and folder permissions
You must have read\write privileges for the $AVHOME\bin32 (sometimes $AVHOME\bin) directory. When importing a DEM, a temporary grid is created in this location then deleted when DEM import is complete.