# UgCS Custom Digital Elevation Model This document outlines the UgCS custom **Digital Elevation Models** or **DEMs**, how to create custom terrain models for precise flying without a rangefinder. Maps are available from the USGS website or using the UgCS Mapper application. Here is a quick tutorial video from SPH to explain the process: {% embed url="" %} ## Finding or Creating Custom DEMs ### USGS {% embed url="" %} The USGS website has map data available for download, using the website above you can locate the most accurate terrain data available for your flight area. 1.) Select the Data checkbox for Elevation Products. 2.) **Zoom in** to your planned flight area and **select the polygon option**, outline the borders of your desired area. 3.) Select **Search Products** to see available DEM options in the area.

You will then see the available map options in the area. Choose **Download Link** to get the **.tiff file** to upload into UgCS.

## UgCS Mapper UgCS Mapper gives you the ability to create your own DEM from orthomosaic datasets. **Select your image database and output directory**, then when processing is complete you will have .tiff files for orthophoto and terrain.

## Uploading to UgCS ### Terrain On the top of UgCS window, select the **Map Options** button.

Select the **Elevation** tab, then **Add** to bring up the creation menu.

Give your elevation source a name, then hit the **Create** button.

Then select **Upload** to load your .tiff elevation data file. The map icon will appear filled in when the data has finished loading, you will also see on the UgCS Map view the terrain turn green when viewing the enabled elevation data source.

### Map Overlay Using the orthophoto .tiff file created, you can also overlay the digital imagery on the UgCS map view. From the **Map Layers** window, **add a source** and **upload the orthophoto file** using the same method as **Terrain**.