Create a mosaic dataset containing 16-bit and 8-bit imagery

Summary

Instructions provided describe how to create a mosaic dataset containing 8-bit and 16-bit imagery or referenced mosaic datasets containing 8-bit and 16-bit mosaic datasets.

It is possible to create a single mosaic dataset that contains imagery with different bit depths (pixel depths). In some cases, images fail to display properly in mosaic datasets that contain imagery with bit depths of both 8 and 16 bits. To correct this issue, an 8-bit mosaic dataset should be created and the Stretch Processing Template should be applied when adding 16-bit imagery.

Procedure

1. Create the mosaic dataset and set the pixel type to 8-bit unsigned.
   

   A. In ArcMap, navigate to ArcToolbox > Data Management Tools > Raster > Mosaic Dataset and select Create Mosaic Dataset.
   
   B. In the Create Mosaic Dataset window, specify the Output Location, name the mosaic dataset, and assign a coordinate system.
   
   C. Click Pixel Properties, and under Pixel Type select 8_BIT_UNSIGNED.
   
   D. Click OK to run the tool.

   
   
   
2. Add the 8-bit imagery (or mosaic dataset) to the mosaic dataset created in Step 1.
   

   A. In ArcMap, navigate to ArcToolbox > Data Management Tools > Raster > Mosaic Dataset and select Add Rasters To Mosaic Dataset.
   
   B. In the Add Mosaic Rasters To Dataset window, select the new Mosaic Dataset and add the 8-bit imagery.
   
   C. Click OK to run the tool.

   
   
   
3. Add the 16-bit imagery (or mosaic dataset) to the mosaic dataset created in Step 1.
   
   
   A. Open the Add Rasters to Mosaic Dataset tool.
   
   B. Click the Raster Type properties button located next to the Raster Type field.
   
   C. In the Raster Type Properties window on the General tab, set the Processing Template to Stretch, and click OK.
   
   
   
   
   

   Note:
   As long as the mosaic dataset is set to 8-bit when it is created, the 16-bit imagery can be added before the 8-bit. Set the Processing Template to Stretch when adding the 16-bit imagery so it displays correctly.

   
   
   

   Note:
   When creating a derived mosaic dataset, use the Table raster type rather than the Raster Dataset raster type. If the source mosaic datasets are added using the Raster Dataset raster type instead of the Table raster type, each source mosaic dataset is represented as a single item within the derived mosaic dataset. This limits the ability to perform queries.