About this tool

Point Cloud Density Calculator is a free, independent tool for people who plan laser scans or check scan data before modeling. It answers two questions: what point spacing a scanner setting gives at a given distance, and how dense an existing point cloud really is.

Where the numbers come from

Spacing and density follow from scan geometry, shown in full on the calculator page. Scanner presets use only the resolution settings that each maker publishes in its datasheet or help pages; settings a maker does not publish are left out.

Limits

Results are estimates. Real scans vary with surface reflectivity, range noise, filters, registration and overlap. Use the numbers to plan and to check data, then confirm with a field test.

Code

The site is static HTML and JavaScript. All calculations and file reading run in your browser. The 3D view uses three.js (MIT licence).