LAS LiDAR Binary (.LAS, .LAZ) File Description
The ASPRS LiDAR LAS binary file format stores 3D point data. LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging data. This data is generally created by software which combines GPS, IMU, and laser pulse range data to produce X, Y, and Z point data. To use binary LiDAR data, click File | Open and select the LAS file or click File | Import in the worksheet window.
Grapher imports compressed (.LAZ) and uncompressed LAS LiDAR binary files.
File Format
The format contains binary data consisting of a header block, variable length records, and point data. All data is in little-endian format. The header block consists of a public block followed by variable length records. The public block contains generic data such as point numbers and coordinate bounds. The variable length records contain variable types of data including projection information, metadata, and user application data.
Currently, Grapher imports 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3 format LAS files. These can contain up to 32 codes.
| Classification Number | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 0 | Created, never classified |
| 1 | Unclassified |
| 2 | Ground |
| 3 | Low Vegetation |
| 4 | Medium Vegetation |
| 5 | High Vegetation |
| 6 | Building |
| 7 | Low Point (noise) |
| 8 | Model Key-point |
| 9 | Water |
| 10 | Rail |
| 11 | Road Surface |
| 12 | Reserved |
| 13 | Wire - Guard (Shield) |
| 14 | Wire - Conductor (Phase) |
| 15 | Transmission Tower |
| 16 | Wire - Structure Connector (e.g. Insulator) |
| 17 | Bridge Deck |
| 18 | High Noise |
| 19-32 | Reserved |
Import Options Dialog
See LiDAR Import Filtering Dialog
Import Automation Options
See LiDAR Import Automation Options