In ArcGIS, how do I convert a vector dataset to a raster dataset?

You can convert any shapefile, coverage, or geodatabase feature class containing point, line, or polygon features to a raster dataset. If the input field contains floating-point values, the output raster will be floating point; otherwise, it will be integer. To convert the dataset:

1. From ArcMap or ArcCatalog, click ArcToolbox.
   
   
2. In the ArcToolbox catalog tree, expand Conversion Tools, and then expand To Raster. Double-click the Feature to Raster tool.
   
   
3. In the dialog box that opens, select the following:
   
   
   • The vector dataset
   • The field to assign values to features
   • The output raster name and location
   • The cell size for the output raster dataset

   As with all data conversions, pay careful attention to parameters. The output cell size is optional in the tool wizard, but it is a critical feature for data representation. A larger output cell size will result in a more coarse output raster resolution with a small file size.

When working with shapefiles and geodatabase features, you can use the Feature to Raster tool with both ArcView and ArcInfo product levels. However, if you are working with coverages, you will need an ArcInfo product level for ArcGIS. If you have problems converting your coverage directly to a raster, try converting the coverage to a shapefile, and then converting the shapefile to a raster.

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