This error can be caused by various factors, and it's important to troubleshoot step by step to identify the root cause. Here are some additional steps you can take:
Temporary Folder Location: Check the location where ArcGIS is trying to create temporary files during the process of opening the DEM raster. Sometimes, issues with temporary folder access can cause this error. Make sure that the location has enough disk space and the appropriate permissions.
Geoprocessing Environment Settings: Ensure that the geoprocessing environment settings are properly configured. Go to Geoprocessing > Environments and review the settings related to output and workspace directories. Make sure these directories are accessible and have sufficient space.
Raster Formats: Verify the format of the DEM raster you're trying to open. Make sure it's in a compatible format supported by ArcGIS. GeoTIFF (.tif) and ASCII Grid (.asc) are common formats that should work well.
Special Characters and Spaces: Ensure that the file path and name of the DEM raster don't contain special characters, spaces, or other unsupported characters. Try placing the raster in a folder with a simple name and avoid any special characters in the file name.
ArcGIS Repair: If the issue persists, consider repairing your ArcGIS installation. To do this, go to the Control Panel, select ArcGIS from the installed programs list, and choose the option to repair the installation. This can help fix any corrupted or missing files.
ArcSWAT Compatibility: Confirm that the version of ArcSWAT you're using is compatible with ArcGIS 10.8.2. Sometimes, older versions of extensions like ArcSWAT might not be fully compatible with the latest versions of ArcGIS.
Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create files and datasets in the destination location. Sometimes, restrictions related to user permissions can cause this kind of error.
ArcGIS Updates: Check if there are any updates or service packs available for your version of ArcGIS. Applying updates can resolve known issues and improve software stability.
ArcSWAT Support: Given that you're using ArcSWAT, it might be beneficial to consult the ArcSWAT documentation or reach out to the ArcSWAT support community for assistance. They might have insights specific to working with this extension.
System Resources: If you're running other resource-intensive applications or your system resources (memory and CPU) are low, it could affect the ability of ArcGIS to create raster datasets. Close unnecessary applications and consider restarting your computer to free up resources.
If the issue persists after trying these steps, and especially if you're working in a professional or research setting, consider reaching out to the technical support of Esri (the company behind ArcGIS) for more in-depth assistance. They can provide guidance and troubleshooting specific to your setup and environment.