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I have many ASCII files containing LiDAR xyz values. In order to create an ArcGIS LASD file, I need to convert these ASCII files into las files. I can do this with FME or LAStools, but I can't see a way in ArcGIS.

Does anyone know if this is possible in ArcGIS Desktop 10.3.x?

Andre Silva
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Robert Buckley
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3 Answers3

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I don't believe there's an option to convert any file format to LAS within ArcGIS, out of the box.

You can support this idea (there are also additional suggestions on the page): https://geonet.esri.com/ideas/4809

phloem
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Workaround for creating a stripped down LAS file:

  1. Create XYZ fields on point file.
  2. Populate X field via update geometry. Repeat for Y and Z.
  3. Create ascii file (generate format). Requires 3D Analyst/Feature Class Z to ASCII.
  4. Import XYZ fields to LAS.

Alternatively, Data Management Tools/Features/Add XY Coordinates will create and populate XYZ fields to singularly process steps A and B.

Midavalo
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Derek
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  • Thank you for your work around. I think I will keep using FME. I really wanted to keep my workflow in ArcGIS so that all my colleagues could use the same method, but this looks unlikely. – Robert Buckley Feb 03 '17 at 20:21
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I do not think ArcGIS should be your software of choice for producing proper LAS files because Esri added support for LiDAR very late and was not a contributing partner of the LAS community.

Although ArcGIS can now consume LAS files and generate a number of derivatives, I would advise you to stick with LiDAR softwares that are specialized in producing specification-compliant LAS or LAZ files. There are many ways one can get this wrong and generate less-than-optimal LAS files.

If you insist on doing it within ArcGIS then you could have a look at our LAStools toolbox for ArcGIS and the free and open source 'txt2las' tool.

Disclaimer: I am the developer of LAStools.

PolyGeo
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LAStools
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    Only the third paragraph here really comes close to answering the question, the rest seems to be personal opinion/bias (as per your last line). As you appear to be promoting your own product here, please [edit] your answer to include disclosure of your affiliation with the product (see [help/behavior]), and I'd suggest removing the opinion and focus on answering the question – Midavalo Feb 26 '17 at 01:04