Maintaining attributes in a coverage using geoprocessing tools

This topic applies to ArcGIS for Desktop Advanced only.

Coverages store their attributes in attribute tables known as INFO tables. Items, also known as fields, can be added or removed using one of two geoprocessing tools. The Add Item tool adds a new field (item) to a attribute table. This is done by creating a new INFO table that is identical to the original, but has the new field added. The columns of the new field will be empty. The Drop Item tool removes a field (item) from the coverage's attribute table. This tool also makes a copy identical to the original, but removes the desired field.