[GIS] Opening TIFF DEMs in QGIS

asterdemqgis

I have files, in Tiff format, downloaded from ASTER-GDEM.

Can I open this file with QGIS? If yes, how?

Best Answer

From your question, I'm assuming you are a new user of QGIS.
Tiff files are a type of Raster, which are supported in QGIS. The fact that your Tiff is a DEM (Digital Elevation Model) just gives meaning to the values of the pixels in the Raster, but does not affect the file format.

That all being said. Here is how to add a Raster (Tiff, in your case) in 2 easy steps.

  1. Click on Add Raster Layer Add Raster Layer
  2. Select the .tiff file, and press Open Select .tiff file

Here is the result: enter image description here

Since your raster is a DEM, there are a couple additional steps necessary to make it display properly.

  1. Right click on the image in the Table of Contents and Select Properties Select Layer Properties
  2. Select the Style Tab and under Contrast enhancement, Change the Current pulldown from Default No Stretch, to Stretch to MinMax Change Style property

Here is the end result with the DEM symbolized based on the raster values. Raster DEM Symbology

This process all being said and done, I would strongly recommend you to peruse the latest QGIS documentation: Version 1.8
As well, there is a wiki for QGIS that may be most helpful: How do I do that in QGIS?

It is likely that these two resources may lead you to an answer, as well as provide you with additional information.

Good luck!

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