What is KML?

KML stands for Keyhole Markup Language, which is a file format used to display geographic data in earth browsers such as Google Earth and Google Maps. It is an XML-based language that utilizes a tag-based structure with nested elements and attributes. The tags, which are case-sensitive and must appear exactly as listed in the KML Reference, can include both optional and required elements.

As a software tool, KML allows for the conversion of various data formats such as GPS tracks, GPX, CSV, and DXF files into KML. Additionally, it enables the conversion of KML files back to DXF and supports the transformation between geospatial coordinates. The KML directory also offers free hosting for the KML files generated.

KML also operates as a type of service through KML network links, which enable dynamic viewing of KML content over the web. These network links are accessible by default to map and image services and can be used with applications like ArcGIS Earth and Google Earth. They allow the served KML to contain a mix of raster and vector elements and can include additional REST network links for operations such as map layer queries and geocoding.

How to Export KML to a CSV File

Using the Conversion Tool

This tool allows users to convert KML files, commonly used in applications like Google Earth and GPS devices, into CSV format, which is compatible with spreadsheet software such as MS Excel, LibreOffice, and OpenOffice. The conversion tool is designed to handle multiple coordinate systems and allows for the batch conversion of multiple files simultaneously. Users can upload files in various formats and methods, including direct uploads from Google Earth, Fusion Tables, Maps, and GPS devices. It also supports converting data from OpenStreetMap. To maintain privacy, the tool does not share user data unless the user chooses to do so. A fee is charged to cover server operation costs.

Supported File Types and Encoding

The conversion tool supports KML files with encodings such as ASCII, UTF-8, UTF-16, and ISO-8859-1. When exporting point type data, the tool will output XY coordinates in the resulting CSV file. It's important to note that if the input KML format is directory-based, users must pack the entire directory for conversion, not just individual files within it.

Conversion Capabilities

For those requiring advanced conversion capabilities, MyGeodata Converter is an alternative that supports over 90 vector and raster GIS/CAD formats. This option is suitable for users who work with a variety of GIS data and need to convert between different file types beyond KML and CSV.

Import KML Directly to Your Spreadsheet with Sourcetable

Utilizing Sourcetable offers a streamlined alternative to the cumbersome process of exporting KML files to CSV and then importing them into another spreadsheet application. By choosing Sourcetable, you benefit from the ability to sync your live data from almost any app or database directly into a user-friendly spreadsheet interface. This seamless integration not only saves time but also reduces the possibility of data conversion errors that can occur during the export/import process.

Sourcetable excels in automation and business intelligence, allowing you to effortlessly pull in data from multiple sources. This means that with Sourcetable, you can automatically import KML data into your spreadsheets, enabling real-time data analysis and decision-making. The convenience of working with live data ensures that your insights and reports are always based on the most current information available, giving you a competitive edge in business intelligence.

Common Use Cases

• K

  
  Use case 1: Converting GIS data from Google Earth to a CSV format for analysis in spreadsheet applications like MS Excel
• K

  
  Use case 2: Transferring spatial information from GPS devices into a CSV file to use in CAD applications
• K

  
  Use case 3: Batch converting multiple KML files to CSV format for use in data management or reporting tasks within LibreOffice or OpenOffice
• K

  
  Use case 4: Adjusting KML data to the correct coordinate system for use in specialized GIS software that accepts CSV input

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a KML file and how is it related to CSV?

A KML file is an XML file used for geographic data, which can be converted into a CSV file, a type of spreadsheet file, for data manipulation.

Can I open a KML file with Excel?

Yes, a KML file can be opened with Excel if it is first saved as an XML file.

How do I convert a KML file to a CSV file using Excel?

To convert a KML to CSV using Excel, save the KML file as an XML file, open it in Excel, which will convert it into a spreadsheet, and then save the spreadsheet as a CSV file.

Do I need special software to convert KML to CSV?

No special software is required as any XML tool can convert a KML file to a CSV file, and Excel can be used for the conversion by saving the KML as an XML file.

What are the requirements for a KML to CSV reader to read a KML file?

The KML to CSV reader can read KML files if the file has a .kml extension and the file's schema is common.