Key Features of TNC Public Tools

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 149 views

Introduction

The TNC Public Tools is a comprehensive toolset designed to simplify and streamline everyday GIS tasks within the ArcMap environment. Developed against the .NET 2.0 framework using Visual Studio 2005, these tools are specifically tailored to aid users in efficiently managing and analyzing geospatial data. In this article, we will delve into the features and functionalities of the TNC Public Tools, exploring how they can enhance your GIS experience with ArcGIS Desktop 9.3.

Key Features of TNC Public Tools

1. Dockable Overview Window

The Dockable Overview Window is a powerful tool that enables users to select a layer from the map and use it as an overview layer within the dockable window. This feature allows users to navigate around the map from within the overview window by zooming to different areas. The dockable overview window provides a convenient and intuitive way to explore and analyze large datasets, making it an essential tool for GIS professionals.

2. Display Area

The Display Area tool is a simple yet effective tool that displays the area (in acres or hectares) of the polygons clicked on within the map. This feature is particularly useful for users who need to quickly calculate the area of specific polygons or layers. The tool can be easily activated by right-clicking within the map while the Display Area tool is active and selecting from the context menu.

3. Update Layer Metadata

The Update Layer Metadata tool is designed to update one or more layer files' metadata to reflect the metadata of the underlying data source(s). This feature is essential for maintaining accurate and up-to-date metadata, which is critical for data sharing, collaboration, and reproducibility. The tool provides a convenient way to update metadata for multiple layers at once, saving time and effort.

4. Batch Export Metadata

The Batch Export Metadata form is a powerful tool that allows users to export one or more metadata documents from datasets within the same workspace. This feature provides flexibility and convenience, enabling users to export metadata in various formats, including CSV, XML, and HTML. The tool is particularly useful for users who need to share metadata with others or integrate it with other systems.

5. List Datasets

The List Datasets tool is a useful feature that creates a dbf file that lists all of the datasets within a specified workspace (either a folder or a geodatabase). This feature extracts five key metadata attributes of each dataset, including 'Title', 'Abstract', 'Purpose', 'Origin', and 'Keywords'. The tool provides a convenient way to quickly identify and access datasets within a workspace, making it an essential tool for data management and analysis.

6. Set Transparency (group sub-layers)

The Set Transparency (group sub-layers) tool is a unique feature that allows users to set the transparency levels of each sub-layer within a single group layer. This tool is different from setting the transparency of group layers on the Effects Toolbar, as it sets the transparency of each individual sub-layer. This feature provides greater control and flexibility, enabling users to create complex and nuanced visualizations.

Benefits of Using TNC Public Tools

The TNC Public Tools offer a range of benefits for GIS professionals, including:

Increased productivity: The tools simplify and streamline everyday GIS tasks, saving time and effort.
Improved data management: The tools provide a convenient way to update metadata, export metadata, and list datasets, making it easier to manage and analyze geospatial data.
Enhanced visualization: The tools offer greater control and flexibility, enabling users to create complex and nuanced visualizations.
Better collaboration: The tools provide a convenient way to share metadata and datasets with others, facilitating collaboration and data sharing.

Conclusion

Introduction

The TNC Public Tools are a comprehensive toolset designed to simplify and streamline everyday GIS tasks within the ArcMap environment. In this article, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about the TNC Public Tools, providing clarity and insight into their features and functionalities.

Q: What is the TNC Public Tools?

A: The TNC Public Tools is a toolset designed for use with ArcGIS Desktop 9.3. The tools were developed against the .NET 2.0 framework using Visual Studio 2005 and were designed to aid in everyday GIS tasks within the ArcMap environment.

Q: What are the key features of the TNC Public Tools?

A: The TNC Public Tools include the following key features:

Dockable Overview Window: A tool that allows users to select a layer from the map and use it as an overview layer within the dockable window.
Display Area: A tool that displays the area (in acres or hectares) of the polygons clicked on within the map.
Update Layer Metadata: A tool that updates one or more layer files' metadata to reflect the metadata of the underlying data source(s).
Batch Export Metadata: A form that allows users to export one or more metadata documents from datasets within the same workspace.
List Datasets: A tool that creates a dbf file that lists all of the datasets within a specified workspace (either a folder or a geodatabase).
Set Transparency (group sub-layers): A tool that sets the transparency levels of each sub-layer within a single group layer.

Q: How do I install the TNC Public Tools?

A: To install the TNC Public Tools, follow these steps:

Download the TNC Public Tools installer from the Esri website.
Run the installer and follow the prompts to install the tools.
Once installed, the tools will be available in the ArcMap Add-In Manager.

Q: How do I activate the TNC Public Tools?

A: To activate the TNC Public Tools, follow these steps:

Open ArcMap and navigate to the Add-In Manager.
Click on the "TNC Public Tools" add-in and click "Activate".
Once activated, the tools will be available in the ArcMap toolbar.

Q: Can I customize the TNC Public Tools?

A: Yes, the TNC Public Tools can be customized to meet your specific needs. You can modify the tools' settings and behavior using the ArcMap Add-In Manager.

Q: Are the TNC Public Tools compatible with other GIS software?

A: The TNC Public Tools are designed to work with ArcGIS Desktop 9.3 and may not be compatible with other GIS software. However, some of the tools may be compatible with other Esri software, such as ArcGIS Pro.

Q: Can I get support for the TNC Public Tools?

A: Yes, Esri provides support for the TNC Public Tools through their website and customer support channels. You can also contact Esri directly for assistance with the tools.

Conclusion

The TNC Public Tools are a comprehensive toolset designed to simplify and streamline everyday GIS tasks within the ArcMap environment. By understanding the features and functionalities of the tools, you can get the most out of your GIS experience with ArcGIS Desktop 9.3. If you have any further questions or need assistance with the tools, please don't hesitate to contact Esri.