Convert KML to TAB

Understanding KML and TAB file formats

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is a file format used to display geographic data in Earth browsers like Google Earth. It uses XML to represent geographical features such as points, lines, and polygons, along with associated data.

TAB is a file format used by MapInfo software to store geospatial vector data. It is part of a set of files that together represent spatial data, including .DAT, .ID, and .MAP files. The TAB file acts as a link between these files, organizing and referencing the data.

How to convert KML to TAB

Converting a KML file to a TAB file involves translating the XML-based geographic data into a format compatible with MapInfo. This process can be done using specialized GIS software or online converters.

Best software for KML to TAB conversion

One of the best software options for converting KML to TAB is FME (Feature Manipulation Engine). FME supports a wide range of spatial data formats and provides a user-friendly interface for data transformation.

To convert using FME, follow these steps:

• Open FME Workbench.
• Use the File → Open menu to load your KML file.
• Set the output format to TAB by selecting File → Export → MapInfo TAB.
• Run the conversion process.

Another option is GDAL (Geospatial Data Abstraction Library), a powerful open-source library for handling raster and vector geospatial data formats. Use the ogr2ogr command-line tool to perform the conversion.

Online converters

For those who prefer not to install software, online converters like MyGeodata Converter offer a convenient alternative. Simply upload your KML file, select TAB as the output format, and download the converted file.