File extension .LYR
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| ArcView Layer Format | ESRI | Misc Files |
A Layer Recongnition file or .LYR is a data file generated by software programs such as ESRI ArcView GIS and ESRI ArcGIS for storing the inter-related elements of geographic maps. These layer elements are the components of visual maps which can include details such as points, lines and shapes, which represent physical features such as rivers, roads and states, as well as location elements like boundaries and labels.
An ESRI .LYR file is an easy way to store map elements so that they can be reused in different locations and shared with other users quickly and easily. LYR files contain definitions of layers and styles used to display and label features in a given map. For example within an LYR file you can find the exact dpi resolution you should use for each of its elements. Custom color coding and labeling information are also included in LYR files.
Editing & Converting LYR Files
As they are generally only compatible with tools from the ESRI range, they are not easily edited using other software programs. It is usually only possible to modify the contents of .LYR, by opening it with compatible ESRI tools such as ArcCatalog or ArcGIS.
To store the content of a LYR file in formats which can be opened with most popular mapping programs, it can be converted to alternative formats like .SHP, or .KML, or DXF. It is possible to export the asset data from the original mapping application - i.e. ESRI - into an alternate format such as MHML through conversion software like Global Mapper or FME Desktop.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .LYR) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .LYR extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .LYR file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .LYR extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .LYR extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .LYR file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .LYR file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .LYR file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .LYR file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .LYR file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines
Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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