Connect to PostgreSQL from ArcMap 10.2 failed

So, You’re Wrestling with PostgreSQL Connections in ArcMap 10.2? Let’s Sort it Out!

Alright, let’s face it: getting ArcMap 10.2 to play nice with a PostgreSQL database can sometimes feel like trying to herd cats. You’re not alone! This guide is here to help you troubleshoot those pesky connection problems so you can actually use your spatial data. Now, ArcMap 10.2 is getting on in years, but if you’re still relying on it, these tips will be invaluable.

Why the Connection Chaos?

Why does this even happen? Well, a bunch of things can go wrong. Let’s break down the usual suspects and, more importantly, how to fix them.

1. Missing Client Libraries: The Sneaky Culprit

This is a big one. ArcMap needs specific PostgreSQL “translator” files (aka client libraries) to chat with the database. Think of it like needing the right adapter to plug your device into a foreign outlet. Upgrading ArcGIS, especially from older versions like 10.1, can sometimes mess these up. I’ve seen upgrades where these libraries just vanish!

• The Fix: Head over to the My Esri Portal and grab the correct PostgreSQL client libraries for your version of ArcGIS. Seriously, double-check the version! You’re looking for files like libeay32.dll, libiconv-2.dll, and a few others. Then, carefully copy these into the ArcGIS bin folder (usually C:\Program Files (x86)\ArcGIS\Desktop10.2\bin). Restart ArcMap and give that connection another shot. Fingers crossed!

2. Database Says “No Entry”: Configuration Issues

PostgreSQL isn’t always open to everyone knocking on its door. It needs to be configured to accept connections from your ArcMap machine. Think of it as a bouncer at a club – it needs to know who’s allowed in.

• The Fix: You’ll need to tweak the pg_hba.conf file on the PostgreSQL server. This file is like the club’s guest list. You’ll need to add a line that allows connections from your ArcMap machine. After editing, restart PostgreSQL or use pg_ctl reload to make the changes take effect. Also, make sure the login role ArcMap uses has the CONNECT privilege. Without it, it’s like being on the guest list but not having ID!

3. Typos and Other Gremlins: Incorrect Connection Parameters

This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to mistype something! A wrong instance name, database name, username, or password will definitely kill the connection. Trust me, I’ve been there.

• The Fix: Go back to the “Database Connection” dialog in ArcMap and carefully double-check everything. Is the instance name or IP address correct? If PostgreSQL is using a non-standard port (not 5432), make sure to include it in the instance name (e.g., mamabear,49200). And, of course, verify that the username and password are spot-on.

4. Name Games: Database and Schema Naming Conflicts

ArcGIS can be a bit picky about database and schema names. Older versions, in particular, might choke on uppercase letters or special characters. It’s a weird quirk, I know.

• The Fix: Keep your PostgreSQL database names simple: lowercase letters only, please! Also, make sure the user account connecting to the database has the same name as the schema where you’re writing data. This can prevent some headaches down the road.

5. Firewall Foes: Blocking the Path

Firewalls are like security guards, and sometimes they’re too good at their job. They might be blocking the connection between ArcMap and PostgreSQL.

• The Fix: Check the firewalls on both your ArcMap machine and the PostgreSQL server. Make sure they allow communication on port 5432 (the default for PostgreSQL). You might need to create exceptions to allow the traffic to flow freely.

6. Privilege Problems: Access Denied!

Even with the right credentials, your ArcMap user account might not have the necessary permissions to access the database, schemas, or tables. It’s like having a key to the building but not to your specific office.

• The Fix: Grant the appropriate privileges to the user account. At a minimum, you’ll need CONNECT on the database, USAGE on the schema, and SELECT on the tables. Here’s the SQL you’ll need (adjusting for your specific names, of course):

  sql

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