KMZ files fade away as I zoom in

[Caine Dearman]

I build maps with an ESRI product (ArcMap).  I just mapped a cemetery for a client.  I am trying to provide my client with a digital map using an iPad and Google Earth.  They do not have the funds to purchase a GIS software.  So, I exported my map data (points and lines) into a KML file.  The files load perfectly on my desktop Google Earth and I have no problems.  But...on the iPad the file loads properly but when I zoom in the points slowly disappear.  The line features do not disappear, they work just fine.  Why do the points disappear on the iPad but not the desktop.  Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Caine

[stillinorbit]

Caine, I'm assuming that you're using the Arcgis tool "Layer to KML".  Sadly, that tool creates erratic output, and I've experienced the same problem that you describe, although my layer was a polygon instead of points, and the problem occurred on all platforms, not just the iPad.  In my case, somehow the output kmz layer appeared to be getting shoved under the earth's surface, rendering it invisible.  I solved my problem by using QGIS software (free, and less buggy than ESRI), right-clicking the layer in the TOC and "Save As" kml,  That output works fine.

Here are some suggestions:

1.  In Google Earth, take a look at the output layer's properties, particularly altitude.  It should be set to "Clamp to Ground", but try setting it's altitude at some level above ground, say 1,000 meters.  Does it show up now?

2. If you want to stick with ESRI software, I'd suggest that you alter some of the "Layer to KML" options such as the Layer Output scale.  Not sure if that will solve the problem...

3. As another alternative, take a look at the ESRI file output.  ESRI's "Layer to KML" tool creates a .kmz file, which is a zipped version of the .kml (Google Earth can read either version).  If you unzip the .kmz file, you'll notice the doc.kml file. Open that file and look around, I'd suggest starting by looking for <Altitude> tags.  You can get info on the kml language here.

Good luck, Stu