How to Create DEM from Point Data in ArcMap

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create DEM from point data in ArcMap. DEM (Digital Elevation Model) is a 3D computational model from the elevation. It is pretty easy to generate DEM from ArcMap software. If you are not familiar with ArcMap, you can also use other software to create DEM. You can use MapInfo Professional, Global Mapper, QGIS, Micromine, Surfer, and many more.

In order to create DEM from points, you will need the following information in your table.

• Easting (X)
• Northing (Y)
• Elevation (Z)

Minimum you will need those three pieces of information in the table. Now let’s get started. In this case, I have a CSV file that contains that information.

Create DEM from Point Data in ArcMap

Step 1. Open the CSV file in ArcMap

Drag and drop the CSV file to ArcMap window. And then make sure it has all the information we need.

Step 2. Create Points from CSV

Right-click the CSV layer and then click Display XY data. Enter the correct X, Y column as well as the coordinate system.

Click OK and then you should see the points in ArcMap window as follow.

Step 3. Create DEM

Actually, there are several methods we can use to create DEM from point layer in ArcMap. This time, I am going to use the Topo to Raster tool. Go to 3D Analyst Tool >> Raster Interpolation>>Topo to Raster.

From the Topo to Raster window, select the Input Feature data. In this case, I choose my point layer. And then, do not forget to choose the Elevation field and type. Make sure you choose PointElevation because our data is point with elevation.

Specify the cell size. We can play this value based on how detail or resolution our product will be. Click OK when ready. The process will take longer depends on how many points we have.

Now our DEM is ready. We can play with the color set for the DEM. Double-click the DEM layer and then go to the Symbology tab. We can change the color in this tab.

Thanks for reading this tutorial How to create DEM from point data in ArcMap. See you on the next articles.