Convert PMF to ECW

Understanding PMF and ECW file formats

PMF (Published Map File) is a proprietary file format used by Esri ArcGIS software. It stores map documents created with ArcGIS Publisher, including map layers, symbology, and layout, but does not contain the actual spatial data. PMF files are primarily used for sharing interactive maps with ArcReader.

ECW (Enhanced Compression Wavelet) is a high-performance image format developed by ERDAS for storing large raster images, such as satellite imagery or aerial photographs. ECW files are widely used in GIS applications due to their efficient compression and fast display capabilities.

How to convert PMF to ECW

Direct conversion from PMF to ECW is not possible because PMF is a map document, not a raster image. To achieve this, you must first export the map content from the PMF (using the original MXD or map data) to a raster format, then convert that raster to ECW.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Obtain the original map document (MXD) and data: PMF files do not contain data, so you need access to the original MXD and associated layers.
2. Export the map to a raster image: In ArcMap, open the MXD file, then use File → Export Map and select a raster format such as TIFF or JPEG.
3. Convert the raster image to ECW: Use a GIS software like ERDAS IMAGINE or GDAL to convert the exported raster (e.g., TIFF) to ECW format.

Recommended software for conversion

• ArcMap (Esri ArcGIS Desktop): For exporting map layouts to raster images.
• ERDAS IMAGINE: Industry-standard for converting raster images to ECW format.
• GDAL (Geospatial Data Abstraction Library): Free, open-source tool for raster format conversion. Use the command: gdal_translate -of ECW input.tif output.ecw

Summary

While you cannot directly convert a PMF file to ECW, you can export the map to a raster image and then convert that image to ECW using specialized GIS software. ERDAS IMAGINE and GDAL are the best tools for the raster-to-ECW conversion step.