LiDAR Tools in Global Mapper to Master Point Clouds

Published on January 06, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Screenshot of Global Mapper software showing a LiDAR point cloud colored by elevation, with classification tools and a digital terrain model generated in 3D view.

LiDAR Tools in Global Mapper to Master Point Clouds

The LiDAR component within Global Mapper offers a comprehensive package for handling massive point cloud datasets. This environment allows importing, examining, and processing information from LiDAR scanners and multibeam sonar systems in a seamless and effective manner. The program works with large files directly, without relying on external data structures, which speeds up the start of any project πŸ—ΊοΈ.

Filter and Organize Data Intelligently

A core capability of this module is filtering and classifying the millions of points that make up a cloud. Users can suppress noise and outliers, as well as assign points to predefined classes such as bare ground, vegetation in different strata, built structures, or power lines. It incorporates automated processes to isolate the ground surface and create terrain models, simplifying the obtainment of an accurate and cleaned digital terrain model (DTM).

Key classification functions:
  • Remove noise and outliers to clean the data.
  • Distinguish points into categories such as ground, buildings, or vegetation.
  • Use algorithms to automatically extract the terrain surface.
A raw point cloud may seem like digital chaos, but Global Mapper's filtering tools help bring order and meaning to it.

Extract Features and Create Practical Results

Beyond classifying, the module is designed to extract specific features from the dataset. It can automatically generate building outlines from already classified points or create three-dimensional models of vegetation cover. It also produces a variety of essential derived products, such as contour lines, earthwork calculations, cross-sections, and maps representing slope or laser return intensity. This transforms raw data into applicable knowledge for fields like topography, forest management, infrastructure planning, or civil engineering.

Products and analyses you can generate:
  • Vectorize buildings and create 3D models of vegetation.
  • Generate contour lines and calculate excavation or fill volumes.
  • Create cross-sectional profiles and thematic maps of slope or intensity.

An Integrated and Powerful Workflow

In summary, the LiDAR module of Global Mapper consolidates a complete workflow, from the initial loading of massive data to obtaining ready-to-use reports and models. Its ability to process, filter, and analyze without intermediaries turns the complex point cloud into structured and valuable information, proving to be a key tool for professionals working with high-density 3D geodata πŸš€.