Optimize the performance of LAS datasets in ArcGIS Pro

Summary

A LAS file stores lidar point cloud data, which includes metadata about the lidar survey in a header block, followed by individual records for each recorded laser pulse. Optimizing the performance of LAS datasets in ArcGIS Pro is crucial because it ensures efficient handling of large-scale lidar data, which is often extensive and complex. Efficient optimization allows for faster rendering and smoother navigation when viewed in both a map or a 3D scene. This optimization also accelerates analysis and allows for more detailed spatial analyses by using the Build LAS Dataset Pyramid tool and the point thinning option. This article provides the workflow on how to optimize the performance of a LAS dataset in ArcGIS Pro.

Procedure

Note:
The Create LAS Dataset and Build LAS Dataset Pyramid tools require a 3D Analyst or Spatial Analyst license.

1. Open the ArcGIS Pro project.
2. Create a LAS dataset using the Create LAS Dataset tool. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Create a LAS dataset using the Create LAS Dataset geoprocessing tool for instructions.
3. Optimize the LAS dataset rendering performance using the Build LAS Dataset Pyramid tool.
   1. On the Analysis ribbon tab, in the Geoprocessing group, click Tools.
   2. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and click Build LAS Dataset Pyramid (Data Management Tools).
   3. In the Build LAS Dataset Pyramid pane, for Input LAS Dataset, select the LAS dataset created in Step 2 from the drop-down list.
   4. For Point Selection Method, specify a preferred method for the point in each binned region to be selected to construct the pyramid from the drop-down list. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Pyramid selection methods for more information. In this example, the Closest to Center method is specified.
   5. Click Run.

4. Use the point thinning option to reduce the density of the LAS dataset. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Access point thinning options for instructions.