In ArcCatalog, the geoprocessing tools for representations require a layer file as the input type, whereas in ArcMap, the tools accept either layer files or feature layers. The distinction is the location where the tool derives information about symbology. In ArcMap, the layer properties provide this information; in ArcCatalog, a layer file is used to provide that information.

You need to create layer files for some feature classes to use the geoprocessing tools: Right-click each feature class and choose Create Layer. In this example, BuildingP (in the TopographicMap feature dataset) HydroL (in the Hydrography feature dataset) RoadL (in the TopographicMap feature dataset) RailroadL (in the TopographicMap feature dataset) need layer files.

After each layer file has been created, open the properties of the layer file and set the renderer on the Symbology tab to Representations.

The next step is to establish some settings for the geoprocessing tools. These settings will control how your data is processed and the location where the results are saved.

Open the ArcToolbox window, right-click ArcToolbox, then click Environments.

Click Cartography Settings and choose Same as Input for the Cartographic Coordinate System parameter.

Type “24000” for the Reference Scale parameter.

Click General Settings. Set the Current Workspace. This is where output feature classes will be stored. In this example it is in Exercise_5, in the TopographicMap feature dataset inside the Representations_5 geodatabase. This will be used as the default location for the output from geoprocessing tools.

Click OK to close the Environment Settings dialog box.