LAS Dataset toolbar—Filter options
The LAS Dataset toolbar allows you to display a LAS dataset as points or as a surface based on a set of predefined lidar point filters.
A lidar pulse can be reflected from one or many features and, therefore, return more than one laser pulse. You can use these separate laser pulse returns to display the lidar data referenced by the LAS dataset. The most common filters are Ground and Non Ground, basically meaning ground laser returns and feature laser returns, respectively. Being able to separate out lidar data based on different laser returns allows you to analyze and visualize lidar data quickly and efficiently for various applications.
For more information on lidar returns, see What is lidar data?
Predefined lidar filters are available on the Filters drop-down menu on the LAS Dataset toolbar. Choose from several common predefined lidar filters with which to display the LAS dataset points or surface. Once a selection is made, the changes will be applied to the LAS dataset listed in the active LAS dataset Layer drop-down menu.
Select from any of the following predefined lidar filters:
Point or surface filter | Description |
|---|---|
All | Use all the lidar points to display the LAS dataset. |
Ground | Use only the lidar points flagged as ground points to display the LAS dataset. |
Non Ground | Use all the lidar points that are not flagged as ground points to display the LAS dataset. |
First Return | Use only first return lidar points to display the LAS dataset. |
Note:The Filters drop-down menu on the LAS Dataset toolbar provides a quick way to access common lidar filters. There are several other options available in ArcGIS to filter lidar data of the LAS dataset. Use the Layer Properties in ArcMap or ArcScene to select from other filter options.