Setting a raster layer's base heights using a surface in ArcGlobe

Available with 3D Analyst license.

All supported raster data formats can be displayed in ArcGlobe and ArcScene as floating or draped layers. Only a continuous, single-band raster can be used as an elevation source for itself or other layers. When displaying rasters in 3D, you need to set the base heights for the layer. Floating layers require layer properties that directly specify their elevation source, which may be a constant value, a separate 3D surface data source, or itself. Draped layers in ArcGlobe will automatically use any elevation layers that have been added into the 3D view.

1. In the ArcGlobe table of contents, right-click the layer and click Properties.
2. Click the Elevation tab.
3. Click the Floating on a custom surface option.
4. Set the base heights using one of the following options:

   If the elevation surface is not already in the ArcGlobe elevation category	Click the Browse button, navigate to the source elevation surface, select the data, then click Add.
   If the raster is continuous and will provide its own height information	Click the drop-down arrow and select the option Elevation values provided by this layer.
   If the raster layer is already in the ArcGlobe elevation category	Click the drop-down arrow and click the name of the surface you want to use for the base height.

5. Optionally, set a layer offset distance to raise or lower the displayed raster from the base surface location.
6. Optionally, click the Surface Properties button to set a vertical exaggeration or change the resolution of the base surface.
7. Click OK.

   The raster layer is now drawn in 3D using the surface that you selected to provide the z-values.

Tip:

• If you have two floating layers using the same surface data and need them to have separate offset distances, you have to navigate to the data source for each layer's base heights setting. If the two layers point to the same layer in the combo box, they cannot have separate offset distances.
• To float the layer at an elevation provided by a constant offset, switch the option in step 3 to Floating without a surface and simply provide an offset in the combo box at the bottom of the dialog box.