Load Contour File & Create 3D Elevation Grid in Global Mapper

In this comprehensive masterclass tutorial by Hydro - GIS, learn how to load an AutoCAD 3D Contour DWG file into Global Mapper, configure UTM Zone 45N and WGS 84 datum, interpolate a continuous 3D digital elevation model (DEM), apply terrain shaders, query contour elevation attributes, and perform raster reclassification step-by-step. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS & CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Introduction & Opening DWG File 0:09 - Coordinate System & WGS 84 Datum Setup 0:34 - Inspecting 3D Polylines & Vector Options 1:09 - Confirming 3D CAD Z-Elevation Geometry 1:41 - Create 3D Elevation Grid (DEM) from Vectors 2:11 - Configuring Grid Bounds & Interpolation 2:47 - Terrain Shaders (Atlas, Gradient & Slope) 3:37 - Feature Info Tool & Querying Heights 4:21 - Restyling Contour Stroke & Interval Colors 4:50 - Raster Reclassification & Elevation Zones 5:31 - Exporting Thematic Terrain Dataset 📌 KEY WORKFLOW SUMMARY: 1. Ingest AutoCAD 2D/3D DWG/DXF directly without third-party converters. 2. Ensure Projection is set to UTM with WGS 84 datum for metric accuracy. 3. Generate seamless digital surface grids using 3D Vector interpolation. 4. Utilize Shader tools to visualize watershed slopes and drainage paths. 5. Perform Raster Reclassification for customized hydraulic elevation zones. 💻 SOFTWARE & DATASET SPECIFICATIONS: • Software: Global Mapper Pro v23 / v24+ • Input Data: AutoCAD 3D Contour Polyline Vector (.dwg) • Coordinate System: UTM Zone 45 North (WGS 84, Metric Meters) • Vertical Datum: Metric Heights (Meters above MSL) ⚠️ Disclaimer: This tutorial is created for civil engineers, hydrologists, surveyors, and GIS analysts for educational purposes. 🔔 Subscribe to Hydro - GIS for more bridge hydrology, watershed delineation, and civil GIS workflows! #GlobalMapper #GIS #ContourDWG #AutoCAD #BridgeHydrology #CivilEngineering #DigitalElevationModel #DEM #HydroGIS #TerrainAnalysis #Surveying