An overview of the Terrain Dataset toolset

The Terrain Dataset toolset contains tools that create and manage terrain datasets. Terrain datasets are TIN-based, multiresolution surfaces created from measurements stored in feature classes. Terrains reside in feature datasets and are composed of participating feature classes and rules that govern their participation.

Tools in the Terrain Dataset toolset

Tool	Description
Add Feature Class To Terrain	Adds one or more feature classes to a terrain dataset.
Add Terrain Pyramid Level	Adds one or more pyramid levels to an existing terrain dataset.
Append Terrain Points	Appends points to a point feature referenced by a terrain dataset.
Build Terrain	Performs tasks required for analyzing and displaying a terrain dataset.
Change Terrain Reference Scale	Changes the reference scale associated with a terrain pyramid level.
Change Terrain Resolution Bounds	Changes the pyramid levels at which a feature class will be enforced for a given terrain dataset.
Create Terrain	Creates a terrain dataset.
Create Terrain From BIM	Creates a terrain surface in an ArcGIS terrain dataset from a TIN surface in an AutoCAD Civil 3D file, or a surface in an Industry Foundation Classes (.ifc) file.
Delete Terrain Points	Deletes points within a specified area of interest from one or more features that participate in a terrain dataset.
Remove Feature Class From Terrain	Removes reference to a feature class participating in a terrain dataset.
Remove Terrain Pyramid Level	Removes a pyramid level from a terrain dataset.
Replace Terrain Points	Replaces points referenced by a terrain dataset with points from a specified feature class.

Tools in the Terrain Conversion toolset

Tool	Description
Terrain To Points	Converts a terrain dataset into a new point or multipoint feature class.
Terrain To Raster	Interpolates a raster using z-values from a terrain dataset.
Terrain To TIN	Converts a terrain dataset to a triangulated irregular network (TIN) dataset.

Related topics

• An overview of the 3D Analyst toolbox