GIS files contain geographical data including spatial information. A GIS file format encodes geographic information into a computer file for GIS and geospatial applications. Over 100 formats exist for storing spatial data.
The E00 extension was used to exchange GIS coverage files. E00 files need processing before adding to ArcGIS. To convert E00 files, use the ‘Import from E00’ ArcToolbox tool.
Common GIS file extensions are SHP, KML, KMZ, GeoJSON, FileGDB and OpenStreetMap. The .DAT extension stores GIS data like coordinates, tables, or feature attributes. Its structure varies by software.
MXD files are ArcMap documents created by Esri’s ArcGIS software. Over 100 GIS, CAD and Remote Sensing applications exist. They use file formats categorized as vector, raster, imagery and legacy.
