Opening TIFF DEMs in QGIS

Question

I have files, in Tiff format, downloaded from ASTER-GDEM.

Can I open this file with QGIS? If yes, how?

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

From your question, I'm assuming you are a new user of QGIS.
Tiff files are a type of Raster, which are supported in QGIS. The fact that your Tiff is a DEM (Digital Elevation Model) just gives meaning to the values of the pixels in the Raster, but does not affect the file format.

That all being said. Here is how to add a Raster (Tiff, in your case) in 2 easy steps.

1. Click on Add Raster Layer
2. Select the .tiff file, and press Open

Here is the result:

Since your raster is a DEM, there are a couple additional steps necessary to make it display properly.

1. Right click on the image in the Table of Contents and Select Properties
2. Select the Style Tab and under Contrast enhancement, Change the Current pulldown from Default No Stretch, to Stretch to MinMax

Here is the end result with the DEM symbolized based on the raster values.

This process all being said and done, I would strongly recommend you to peruse the latest QGIS documentation: Version 1.8 As well, there is a wiki for QGIS that may be most helpful: How do I do that in QGIS?

It is likely that these two resources may lead you to an answer, as well as provide you with additional information quicker than waiting for an answer on GIS.se

Good luck!