Mosaic datasets display a checkerboard pattern when viewed from a different machine

Description

When viewing a mosaic dataset from the Preview tab in ArcCatalog on the machine wherein the imagery files reside, the mosaic dataset displays correctly. However, the mosaic dataset fails to display as expected when shared to another machine on the same network, and instead, a checkerboard pattern displays. The image below displays the checkerboard pattern of a mosaic dataset preview in ArcCatalog.

Cause

The checkerboard pattern displays instead of the actual mosaic dataset because the path used to store imagery files of the mosaic dataset is not changed to the name of the host machine on which the mosaic dataset is created. This causes the imagery files to be missing when viewed on a different machine in the same network.

The imagery files stored in a folder using the drive directory, C:\<Folder>, on the host machine, must be connected to the machine viewing the mosaic dataset using the Universal Naming Convention (UNC) path, \\computer name\shared directory\. For more information, refer to Paths explained: Absolute, relative, UNC, and URL.

Solution or Workaround

To resolve this issue, follow the instructions provided below.

1. Share the folder containing the imagery files used to create the mosaic dataset with the other machine by selecting the user's Windows account name. The host machine name is used for the UNC path to store the files (for example, \\hostcomputer\sharedrasterfolder\). For more information, refer to How To: Share folder connections in ArcCatalog with other machines.
2. Run the Repair Mosaic Dataset Paths tool to set the UNC path for the imagery files. In the Paths List section of the tool, type in the Original Path and New Path. For example, if the original path is C:\Raster, set the new path to the UNC path using the host machine name, and click OK. The mosaic dataset displays correctly when previewed from another machine.