Monthly Archives: February 2011

I wanted to correct this post because apparently, what I heard was not exactly what was said but it was inferred and some folks in our industry believe that TerrMatch is the only way to effectively calibrate. This post earlier today has had alot of action and I am glad it has started some good discussions about calibration because calibration is probably the most important function in LiDAR processing, but if you feel differently please feel free to comment. I always want to stir discussion but I also what to report events correctly so thank you Jim for commenting back on this.. See original post below:

My original post but not entirely true, it was inferred that TerraMatch is the only way to properly calibrate.

Although, I was not in attendance at the recent MAPPS meeting, LIDAR calibration was a topic of discussion. It is my understanding that it was indicated “that the only way to properly calibrate LiDAR was by using Terramatch”. I find this statement extremely incorrect.

I have experience calibrating using Optech, Leica, Reigl and several homegrown developed calibration processes including Terramatch. They all have yielded excellent results and in particular the manufacturers latest calibration software packages have showing exceptional results. Although, Terramatch can calibrate data well, I continue to be concerned with the assumptions it makes about the Sensors. I like to use Terrascan to fine tune the calibration and resolve very small errors if I use it at all. I guess the best way to sum up calibration is by something I used to say to one of my LiDAR technicians early in my career when he would beat on his monitor, “The computer is only as smart as the operator” and the same goes for calibration..! Comments welcome about your experience with calibration.