NPS GUID Generator for ArcGIS v 1.1

Updated September 8, 2009

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The GUID Generator is a tool that generates Globally Unique Identifiers (GUIDs) in a text field of a feature class, geodatabase table, or shapefile in ArcCatalog. In this case, the term Globally Unique Identifiers refers to 38-character number/letter combinations, such as {1493C697-8DE7-4E71-9A92-4CF22113B432}, that are guaranteed to be unique within each generation and have a statistically insignificant chance of being duplicated between generations. It is a highly useful tool to create unique record or event identifiers when developing large-scale datasets (i.e. nation-wide datasets) since duplicate values are not a concern with GUIDs.

Using the GUID Generator

The GUID Generator is used within ArcCatalog. Once installed, the tool is available in the context menu of a feature class, geodatabase table, or shapefile by right-clicking on the desired dataset in the Table of Contents and selecting "GUID Generator." The desired field for the GUID values must be a text field of at least 38-characters in length. The GUID Generator is installed via an executable installation file contained in the posted zipfile along with additional information and instructions. This software is provided “as is” and the National Park Service gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of this software.

Installation and Use Instructions (pdf)

Download GUID Generator v1.1 (568 kb)