What open source tools allow for the creation of EMFs that conserve transparency in ArcMap? I tried VeryPDF and Any DWG to Image Converter, neither on actually gave me a vector file that provided transparency. Adobe Illustrator is a bit pricey when all I want to do is convert CAD blocks to vector symbols to use as ArcMap markers. Anyone know of a good software for this purpose?
[GIS] Program to create EMF that conserves transparency
arcmapmarkerssymbology
Related Solutions
From your first link, your features must be polygon features. You have point features. You can buffer your points to create polygons from them, after which you should have the Transparency option in the Symbology-Advanced dropdown:
This option should be present in all versions of ArcGIS since 8.1.
See also this answer: Creating symbology for multiple attributes within the same feature class in ArcMap 10
I just went through the same ordeal, I tried every export option imaginable and what finally worked for me was selecting "Print" selecting "Adobe PDF" as printer and using the slider under "Output Image Quality" to select "Fast" (1:5 ratio) and then "OK". I can't explain why, but this worked for me.
Best Answer
You can use Inkscape. It's a very powerful vector design Opensource software that will allow you create and export transparent vector symbols in to emf files.
You will then be able to import (or copy/paste) it in arcMap maintaining its transparency.
You can also fill the background with a color of your desire by Right-click Image > Properties > Frame > Background > Color.