.sbx File

[Kimbery Challacombe]

Ihad created shape files a few weeks ago for a project we were working on using the mapexport command. When I created the shape files the following file extensions were created: *.cpg, *.dbf, *.idx, *.prj, *.sbn and *.sbx. My hard drive decided to crash a few days after and it had to be replaced. After having the hard drive replaced, I have tried to create shape files and all the file extensions come in except for the *.sbn and *.sbx. When we attempt to import these into ESRI, it gives an error message and does not load the shape files. Do these missing file extensions have anything to do with this issue? If so, how can this be fixed? If not, what may be causing this problem?

I guess that creates another problem for me then. I am not able to get the files to open up on the GIS viewer. Are there reasons why lines or polyline shape files will not be created, even if it appears they were created?

Right after exporting your file, you should immediately connect to the file in your MAP session using the FDO Data Attach in order to ensure you have a compete file. There are several things that can potentially go wrong with the export (wrong feature type, not checking close polylines, bad coordinate system, etc.)

The four files are that you need to allow others to view and use your shapefile are .shp, .dbf, ,shx, and .prj. Each file plays a different role: the geometry, attribute data, an index to tie the geometry and data together, and projection to accurately position the geometry against a know coordinate system. All four files must be in the same Windows folder, no exceptions. If the files are separated or if one of the four are missing, you will have issues opening the shapefile. It doesn't matter whether you use ESRI, AutoCAD or another program, the files must be together.

You may have two or more shapefiles in the folder as long as each shapefile has all four parts. The other files you mention, cpg, idx, sbn and sbx, may help or they may hinder, it depends on whether you are using the same program (ESRI or Acad) as the original author. You may put those files in a folder separate from the shapefile folder to reduce clutter--they are not needed--and if they are, you'll know where to retrieve them.

If you have Google Earth Pro, you may go to File=>Import=>navigate to your shapefile (be sure to change the file type from the dropdown menu to ESRI shape) then click open. Follow the prompts and your shapefile will display on the map. If you don't see your shapefile, go the left panel and in 'Places' section, scroll to bottom and put a check mark next to your shapefile's name.

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