Raster Data Model

The raster data model represents features as a matrix of cells in continuous space. Each layer represents one attribute (although other attributes can be attached to a cell). Most analysis occurs by combining the layers to create new layers with new cell values.

The map to the right uses raster data to depict the record snow load on the Front Range in Colorado in March 2003. Learn more.

The cell size you use for a raster layer will affect the results of the analysis and how the map looks. The cell size should be based on the original map scale and the minimum mapping unit. Using too large a cell size will cause some information to be lost. Using a cell size that is too small requires a lot of storage space and takes longer to process without adding additional precision to the map.