How to Use ArcScene

Step 1: Add Data as in ArcMap

Most shapefiles and rasters will go into ArcScene with no problems.

Step 2: Prepare Data for 3D Display

When data is first loaded, it appears flat. You need to set elevation values for the data. Rasters inherently contain elevation data, which is used in the next step

Step 2: Prepare Data for 3D Display

Right click on the DEM layer and select properties

In the properties, click on the Base Heights tab and select the option to obtain heights for layer from surface. This will tell the program that you wish to use the raster’s elevation for 3D display.

Step 2: Prepare Data for 3D Display

With vector data, you need to have one column in the attribute table represent heights. If you do, select the option, “layer features have Z values. Use them for heights.” If they do not, as in this exercise, you can define a raster for their heights. Here, you can use the clear_dem raster to assign hieghts. Be careful, if there is more than one raster in the data frame, be sure to select the right one.

Step 3: Vertical Exaggeration

If the data still appears flat, right click on “scene layers” and select the properties. Change the vertical exaggeration to get a better view. Use the calculate from extent button to get a good estimate.

Step 4: Explore Your Data

You can now use the various tools to explore your data in 3D. All the tools are covered in the Cretaceous Raster handout, but go ahead and try out the “fly” tool. Left click starts, and each additional left click speeds you up. Right clicks slow you down until you stop, and then fly you backwards.

Step 5: Animate

The simplest way to animate is to zoom areas of interest and press the camera button. The animation will fly between snapshots. Watch the example in class to see how it works.