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Data support in ArcGIS > Terrains

An overview of terrain datasets
Release 9.3 Last modified April 28, 2009	Print all topics in : "Terrains"

If you have data sources such as stereo-captured photogrammetric features and mass point collections of 3D data such as lidar, sonar, and bathymetry, chances are that using terrain datasets in the geodatabase can help you better manage this information.

There is increasing use of lidar and other sensors for collecting high-resolution and massively large point datasets of elevation observations. Geodatabases are useful for managing these critical data assets as well as for integrating these and other data sources into integrated terrain datasets.

Many users want to

Better represent and model the terrain of their study areas by integrating their 3D-based mass point observations with other data sources such as 3D features captured using stereo photogrammetry.

Use terrains for many types of 3D spatial analysis in their GIS using the ArcGIS 3D Analyst extension.

Derive raster-based digital elevation models for use in modeling and analysis systems such as the ArcGIS Spatial Analyst extension.

A terrain dataset is a TIN-based data structure with multiple levels of resolution. Terrains include pyramids that provide the appropriate levels of detail for use at multiple scales.

A terrain dataset is built from multiple data sources such as lidar mass point collections, 3D breaklines, and 3D-based survey observations. The data sources used to create terrain datasets are managed as a set of integrated feature classes in the geodatabase.

You can use the table below to find links to key information about ArcGIS support for terrain datasets including a number of common workflows for building and using terrains in ArcGIS.

Terrain dataset tasks

Tasks	Links for more information
Designing a terrain dataset	See Designing a terrain dataset.
Creating a set of feature classes within a common feature dataset in a geodatabase	See Working with feature datasets.
Loading 3D data into feature classes	See Data import and load tools for terrains.
Building a terrain dataset using ArcCatalog	See Building a terrain dataset with the Terrain wizard.
Building a terrain dataset using geoprocessing tools	See Building a terrain dataset with geoprocessing tools.
Drawing and displaying terrain datasets	See Displaying terrain datasets.
Using terrain datasets in ArcGlobe and ArcScene	See 3D Visualizing of a terrain dataset in ArcGIS.
Managing updates to terrain datasets and their feature class data sources	See Updating and editing terrain datasets.
Managing terrains in a versioned geodatabase	See Multiuser editing and versioning of terrain datasets.

An overview of terrain datasets