LAS File Extension

What is LAS file?

LAS is binary file that stores LIDAR point data records. LIDAR is a technology that combines laser with radar. LIDAR is chiefly used in atmospheric physics. A LIDAR device emits light impulses that illuminate the target and measures the reflected light with specialized sensors. Data gather by the LIDAR device is then saved to LAS file.

LAS format development

LAS standard was first proposed by ASPRS as a standard format for storing and exchanging LIDAR data. LAS data is by default processed and checked for errors before being saved to output LAS files.

Programs which support LAS file extension

The following listing features LAS-compatible programs. Files with LAS suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 09/17/2022

How to open file with LAS extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening LAS files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to LIDAR Data Exchange Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with LAS files.

Step 1. Get the LASUtility

Problems with opening and working with LAS files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with LAS files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing LASUtility or different compatible program, such as Global Mapper, FME Desktop. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download LASUtility installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of LASUtility and update if needed

You still cannot access LAS files although LASUtility is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why LAS files are not compatible with LASUtility. The latest version of LASUtility should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open LAS files to LASUtility

After installing LASUtility (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open LAS files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the LAS with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where LASUtility is installed, check the Always use this app to open LAS files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the LAS file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select LASUtility and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with LAS extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the LAS file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper LAS file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the LAS in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the LAS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the LAS file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with LAS extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the LAS file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the LAS file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run LASUtility

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with LAS extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with LIDAR Data Exchange Format file. It may be the case that the LAS files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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