PROBLEM
The background of an ArcMap Service is not transparent
Description
When overlaying an ArcMap Service on top of local layers or other service layers the background of the ArcMap Service layer is not transparent. The features of the layers underneath the ArcMap Service are not visible, even where there are no features of the ArcMap Service.
Cause
Along with map features, the data frame also consists of a background. A color for the data frame background is set within the Frame tab of the Data Frame Properties dialog. One of the options for the background is '<None>'.
A misconception is that '<None>' is by default transparent. It is not. '<None>' is a color with an RGB value of 254 255 255. It is not by default transparent.
Solution or Workaround
ArcMap is different than an ArcXML map configuration file in that it does not have an option to set a transparent color for the background. See BACKGROUND in the ArcXML Programmer's Reference Guide for more information. ArcMap Server does not hard code any color to be transparent since this would conflict with other clients setting their own transparency color.When working with an ArcMap Service layer, it is up to the client to explicitly set a color as being transparent.
Article ID:000006837
- Legacy Products
Get help from ArcGIS experts
Download the Esri Support App
Related Information
Discover more on this topic
Search for related information
Find training related to this topic
Explore ideas and give feedback