Portable Basemap Server (PBS) v3.1 is a lightweight Windows application used by GIS professionals to stream high-resolution imagery—like Google Maps, Bing Maps, and OpenStreetMap—directly into desktop GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS . It works by wrapping various data sources into standard OGC WMTS or Esri REST services.
To optimize file creation and avoid getting your IP banned by public map providers, apply these configuration best practices:
PortableBasemapServer.exe : The primary graphical user interface (GUI) application.
Portable Basemap Server is a lightweight, easy-to-use map server application. Its primary function is to deploy OSM (OpenStreetMap), Google Maps, Bing Maps, or other raster map tiles directly from a local disk or USB drive. Portable Basemap Server V3.1.zip Download
Portable Basemap Server V3.1.zip SHA‑256 Checksum: [Insert actual hash here] Size: ~18 MB (compressed)
For field use, you want the server to start automatically. Use NSSM (Non-Sucking Service Manager) to wrap pbs.exe into a service.
Reads existing local tile schemas, including standard loose .png / .jpg directory tiles and compiled .mbtiles packages. Step-by-Step Installation and Setup Deployment Portable Basemap Server (PBS) v3
Saves viewed tiles automatically into a local MBTiles database or structured folder for 100% offline deployment.
Implements map tile parts of Esri’s “GeoServices REST Specification” and OGC WMTS.
Used by open-source web mapping libraries. Portable Basemap Server is a lightweight, easy-to-use map
Click the prominent button at the top of the interface. The status indicator will switch to active. A window log will display confirmation text showing that the WMTS and ArcGIS REST endpoints are live. Connecting PBS to Your GIS Software
Once you find the link, check the file size. The legitimate zip is typically 2-5 MB (it is tiny!). Use a checksum tool to compare against community-provided MD5 (often d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e - but verify on the forum).
: Use the Copy to Clipboard button to grab the OGC WMTS or REST service URL. Connect in ArcGIS : Open the Catalog window. Navigate to GIS Servers > Add WMTS Server . Paste the copied URL and click Get Layers .
Version 3.1 of the Portable Basemap Server comes with several improvements and features that make it a valuable tool for anyone working with GIS data:
: The software is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Even those with limited experience in GIS can navigate its interface and functionalities with relative ease.