Raster Processing Tips and Tricks

1. Cell Size. A number of factors go into choosing a cell size. These include cell sizes for data destined to be part fo the analysis (DTM, satellite data), minimum mapping unit, acceptable level if pixelation, and processing speed.
2. Workspace. Raster processign spawns a huge number of intermediate files. Be sure to set a work area that you can direct grids to.
3. Masking. Do you want your results to be clipped to a certain boundary? Set an analysis mask.
4. Analysis extent. This is a box which defines the extent of all the results you create.
5. Carefully manage NoData areas. NoData is a powerful condition that can be your best friend or worst enemy.
6. Do not over extend your baseline data. For example, do not make 2 foot contours from DTM data that are plus or minus 10 feet vertical accuracy.