User guide

Chapter 3: Creating Grids Using Interpolation
User Guide 27
4. Is interpolation speed a factor?
Certain factors will influence the speed of interpolation. The smaller the cell and/or the more
points in the data, the longer it takes to calculate the surface. However, some interpolation
techniques are faster than others.
Rectangular can only handle data that is distributed in an evenly
spaced pattern.
Rectangular, NN, Kriging
This type of linear pattern generally occurs when data is collected
from aircraft. Samples are taken close together but flight lines are
some distance apart.
IDW, NN, Kriging
This type of linear pattern generally occurs when samples are
taken along roads.
NN, Kriging
Point Distribution Possible Interpolation Technique
Interpolation Technique Speed Limiting Factors
TIN Fast None
IDW Fast Search and display radius size
Rectangular Very Fast Search radius size
NN Slow Point distribution
Kriging Slow Number of directions analyzed