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Basic information about LAS file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension LAS（*.LAS or *.las）, you do not need a computer expert. In most cases, using the helpful suggestions of experts contained in our website as well as appropriate programs, you can solve the problem with the LAS file yourself.

There are 1 file types using the LAS file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the LAS file with their brief description and a list of programs that support LAS file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the LAS file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the LAS file?
  • How to open a LAS file?
  • What programs do I need to open a LAS file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a LAS file?
  • How to convert LAS files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to LAS file format?


1.Detail information about LAS file extension: LIDAR Data Exchange File

File type LIDAR Data Exchange File Category Data Files
Developer ASPRS File format Binary
Description LAS file is a LIDAR Data Exchange File developed by ASPRS. File created in the standard LAS format, which was developed by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS); stores Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) data that is collected by optical remote sensors; used to exchange LIDAR data between data providers and data consumers.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert LAS files

Windows		 LASUtility
ESRI ArcGIS for Desktop
Safe Software FME Desktop
Geosoft Oasis montaj
Blue Marble Geographics Global Mapper



How to convert LAS files to another file format?

There are 2 records in our database eligible for LAS files to another file format conversion. If you want to achieve LAS to another files conversion, you may use the option.

LAS to ADF LAS to LAZ


Can't open a LAS file?

When you click a file to open it, operating system examines the filename extension. If operating system recognizes the filename extension, it opens the file in the program that is associated with that filename extension. When operating system does not recognize a filename extension, you receive the following message:

”Can't open this file: example.LAS”。

To open this file, you install one of the applications from the list of software programs that you found here, you should be able to open, edit or convert the file with the LAS extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support LAS file?

If you do not know where you can download the application from our list, click on the link (which is the name of the program), you will find more information there on the location where to download the required application. Most often they are the websites of software manufacturers.


How to change file associations?

  • Right-click a file with the extension whose association you want to change, and then click "Open With".
  • In the "Open With" dialog box, click the program whith which you want the file to open, or click "Browse" to locate the program that you want.
  • Select the ”Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” check box.


Can I change the extension of LAS files?

Changing the filename extension of a file is not a good idea. When you change a file's extension, you change the way programs on your computer read/open the file. The problem is, changing the file extension does not change the file format. Select a software program from our list and install it on your computer. If the file has not opened correctly, you have to look for a different software program from our list. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.


What else may cause problems width open a LAS file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a LAS file on your computer may be at least several. The easiest thing is to find a suitable application installed on your computer, which will open a LAS file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

  • Whether the LAS file is damaged.
  • Whether the LAS file is incorrectly linked in the registry entries.
  • Whether the LAS file extension has been accidentally removed from the Windows registry.
  • Whether the installation of an application that supports the LAS file format is incompletely.
  • Whether the LAS file is infected.
  • Whether the drivers of the equipment used for opening a LAS file are up to date.
  • Whether your computer has enough hardware resources to open a LAS file.

If the LAS file still not working with your software after eliminating the above shortcomings? That means that the problem is more complex and requires the help of a specialist.