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Convert Raster Data Format

Overview​

Converts input raster data to a target format while preserving cell values and spatial reference information as much as possible.

Method​

Format conversion mainly changes the data storage format and driver. It does not directly change raster cell values or feature positions, but the target format's support for fields, encoding, bands, and coordinate reference information should be checked carefully.

Use Cases​

  • Convert data formats between different GIS software, databases, or exchange workflows.
  • Export analysis results to raster formats that another system can read directly.
  • Standardize data containers for project archiving, sharing, publishing, and batch processing.

Supported Formats​

Input Formats​

The tool can read the following raster formats as input:

  • GeoTIFF (.tif)
  • Arc/Info ASCII Grid (.grid)
  • BMP (.bmp)
  • EHdr / BIL (.bil)
  • HFA / IMG (.img)
  • ENVI (.dat)
  • GS7BG (.grd)
  • SAGA (.sdat)
  • SRTMHGT (.hgt)
  • USGSDEM (.dem)

Output Formats​

The tool can output the following raster formats:

  • GeoTIFF (.tif)
  • Arc/Info ASCII Grid (.grid)
  • BMP (.bmp)
  • EHdr / BIL (.bil)
  • HFA / IMG (.img)
  • ENVI (.dat)
  • GS7BG (.grd)
  • SAGA (.sdat)
  • SRTMHGT (.hgt)
  • USGSDEM (.dem)
tip

If no special exchange format is required, GeoTIFF (.tif) is usually recommended as the output format. It has good compatibility and is suitable for later display, analysis, sharing, and archiving.

warning

Different raster formats support data types, band counts, compression methods, NoData, coordinate reference information, and metadata differently. After conversion, check cell values, band information, spatial extent, and coordinate system.

Parameters​

ParameterDescriptionNotes
Input fileSets the input file.Required
Output fileSpecifies the output file.Required

Steps​

  1. Start the tool: Open Geoprocessing Toolbox > Data Management Tools > Data Conversion > Format Conversion, then start Convert Raster Data Format.
  2. Prepare the input: Select the input data and confirm that it is complete and readable.
  3. Set core parameters: Choose the target output format by setting the extension or output file type required by the interface.
  4. Set the output: Specify Output file, and confirm that the output path, format, and naming rule meet downstream requirements.
  5. Run and inspect the result: Click Run. After completion, check extent, cell values, bands, and coordinate system.

Notes​

  • Different formats support data types, band structures, compression, NoData, and coordinate reference information differently. Sample-check the converted raster.