Resources
LAS, LAZ, GeoTIFF, 3D tiles, splat formats, and other spatial file types.
All guides6 articles
Learn the difference between GeoTIFF and Cloud Optimized GeoTIFF files, including georeferencing, tiling, overviews, HTTP range requests, browser viewing, cloud storage, and drone mapping workflows.
14 min read
Read articleLearn the difference between LAS and LAZ point cloud files, including compression, file size, metadata, classification, compatibility, and when each format is useful in drone mapping, LiDAR, and reality capture workflows.
16 min read
Read articleA practical guide to the files produced by drone mapping and photogrammetry, including orthomosaics, GeoTIFFs, point clouds, LAS and LAZ files, elevation models, 3D meshes, reports, and supporting project data.
11 min read
Read articleLearn the difference between DSM, DTM, and DEM elevation models in drone mapping and photogrammetry, including how each is created, what it represents, and when each product should be used.
14 min read
Read articleA plain-language guide to point clouds: how they are captured, what LAS and LAZ files contain, and why they are difficult to share as ordinary downloads.
3 min read
Read articleOrthomosaics explained: how drone imagery becomes a georeferenced map, how they differ from photos and Google imagery, and how to deliver them to clients.
3 min read
Read articleNext step
When capture and processing are done, SpearAtlas is the workspace for organizing, viewing, and sharing mapping project files with the people who need them.