Adding a tabfile into Spectrum

If you need to view a map layer from a TAB file in Spectrum Spatial, you can do it temporarily by following these simple steps. This is great for one-off use. For a permanent setup, please contact the Digital Experience (GIS) team.

Make sure you have all the files that go with the TAB file:

  • .tab
  • .map
  • .id
  • .dat

Step 1: Zip the Files

  • Select all four files listed above
  • Right-click and choose Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder
  • Name it something like cables.zip

Step 2: Convert to KML

  • Open a TAB-to-KML converter website (search TAB to KML converter online).
  • Upload your ZIP file
  • Download the KML file after it finishes converting

Step 3: Add the KML File into Spectrum

  • Open Spectrum Spatial
  • Click the + (plus) button to add a new layer
  • Choose Add files to map temporarily
  • Click Choose File and select your KML file
  • Click Add

Step 4: Check Your Layer

  • Zoom in to see the new layer
  • Turn off other layers (like Prop Map) to view your file more clearly

Tips and Troubleshooting

If parts of the map are missing, it may be because the file includes different types of shapes (like lines and areas). Some converters only show one type

For more complex files, try using MapInfo or contact Digital Experience (GIS) support

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