Blue Marble announce the release of Global Mapper LiDAR module version 16.2. Released in conjunction with Version 16.2 of Global Mapper, the latest version includes numerous functional enhancements and performance improvements that have been designed to help streamline the processing of LiDAR data. Updated functionality includes support for point cloud data with embedded Near Infrared (NIR) values for wetland and vegetation analysis; improved reclassification and feature extraction performance; and customization of the point classification names and colors.
The module now offers support for LiDAR data that includes NIR values. Using this embedded information, NDVI or NDWI values can be automatically calculated for vegetation or wetland analysis and the display of the point cloud will represent these values using the preconfigured NDVI or NDWI shader colors. Availability of NIR values in LiDAR data also improves the detection and reclassification of high vegetation and building points.
This latest release of the LiDAR Module also includes performance improvements when automatically reclassifying a point cloud or extracting features such as buildings and trees. This increased processing speed comes from the data being automatically broken up into smaller sections so the work can be efficiently performed in memory. The names and colors that are applied to point cloud classifications can now be customized and this new information will be automatically written into the header in any subsequently exported LAS or LAZ file.
“At Blue Marble, we recognize the increasing importance of LiDAR data in the geospatial community,” stated Patrick Cunningham, Blue Marble President. “The LiDAR Module offers a powerful toolkit for increasing the value and utility of point cloud data and the new features and functions in the latest release are a testament to our commitment to this technology.”
The LiDAR Module release is in conjunction with Global Mapper version 16.2 and is a complementary upgrade for current users of the LIDAR Module version 16. Global Mapper users can activate a trial of the module from the Module/Extension License Manager which can be accessed from the Help menu in the software; no separate download required. For a complete list of new features and enhancements or to download a trial copy of Global Mapper, visit www.bluemarblegeo.com/products/global-mapper.php.