Leica HxMap v5.0.0 (3D Geospatial Mapping Software)

Overview of Leica Hexagon HxMap

Leica HxMap is a powerful, unified platform designed for interpreting and processing imagery and airborne LiDAR geospatial data. Developed by Hexagon’s Airborne Solutions division, this software creates a centralized workflow that enables rapid processing of data from Leica sensor systems including CityMapper, DMC III, TerrainMapper, and SPL100 .

The platform addresses the growing demand for efficient processing of large-scale datasets. As sensor technology advances, the volume of data captured during aerial surveys has increased dramatically. HxMap meets this challenge with high-speed processing capabilities that support larger and more detailed datasets .

Who Should Use HxMap?

HxMap serves a diverse range of geospatial professionals:

• Photogrammetry specialists processing aerial imagery for mapping projects

• LiDAR analysts working with point cloud data for terrain modeling

• GIS professionals requiring accurate georeferenced products

• Urban planners creating 3D city models and infrastructure documentation

• Surveying teams conducting regional or national mapping initiatives

Key Features of HxMap v5.0.0

HxMap v5.0.0 build 49982 delivers a comprehensive feature set designed to streamline geospatial workflows.

Multi-Sensor Data Processing

The software processes data from multiple sensor types within a single unified environment. This eliminates the need for separate processing schedules and independent workflows, creating better coordination in final outputs . Key sensor compatibility includes:

• Image sensors: DMC III, CityMapper, CityMapper-2

• LiDAR sensors: TerrainMapper, SPL100, Hyperion

• Bathymetric sensors: CoastalMapper

Quality Control and Final Product Generation

Built-in tools allow users to control flight data quality and apply necessary geometric and radiometric corrections to imagery. The software supports the complete production pipeline from raw data validation through final deliverable creation .

3D Urban Modeling

When combined with CityMapper or CityMapper-2 sensors, HxMap is specifically designed to generate accurate 3D models of cities, along with 2D image and LiDAR data. This makes it ideal for urban modeling applications and infrastructure documentation .

Large-Scale Mapping Projects

The platform handles large-scale surveying projects such as regional or national mapping initiatives that require precise, high-volume data processing. HxMap supports the increased data volumes required by modern airborne sensors .

What’s New in HxMap v5.0.0

Version 5.0.0 introduces several significant enhancements and improvements over previous releases .

New Processing Capabilities

• CoastalMapper support: Ingest and process datasets captured with Leica CoastalMapper sensors

• Enhanced global elevation handling: Improved global elevation source management based on the ALOS World 3D dataset

• Point cloud classification improvements: Ground classification now includes more points close to the ground surface

• Lidar ingest optimization: Lidar ingest is now split by time into multiple jobs per strip for better processing efficiency

Workflow Enhancements

• Global calibration repository: Now organized by sensor system serial number for easier management

• Image Adjustment improvements: Undo/redo functionality and curve editing using keyboard shortcuts

• Triangulation customization: Style of measurement cross in Triangulation perspective can now be customized

• Add Raw Session enhancement: Can directly load sessions recorded with image or lidar sensors disabled without modifying sensor descriptions

Performance Improvements

• Licensing simplification: Lidar ingest now only requires the HxMap Provider module instead of the Core Lidar module license

• Linux update: HxMap Linux has been updated to Ubuntu 24.04

• CUDA support: HxMap 3D Advanced now supports CUDA compute capability 12

Key Fixes in v5.0.0

The release addresses several issues present in earlier versions :

• Fixed GEM formatted geoid file application failures for German Combined Geoid (GCG2016v2023) and SWEREF99

• Resolved slow tie point measurement performance issues

• Corrected Mosaic tile cut GSD precision problems

• Fixed blocktool utility creating incomplete HxMap Block files

• Resolved 3D Advanced product generation path issues with spaces

System Requirements

To run HxMap v5.0.0 effectively, ensure your system meets these requirements:

Operating System

• Windows: Windows 11 (64-bit architecture tested and verified) 

• Linux: Ubuntu 24.04 (for Linux-based deployments) 

Hardware Considerations

• CUDA-compatible GPU for 3D Advanced processing (compute capability 12 supported)

• Sufficient storage for large geospatial datasets

• Multi-core processor for efficient parallel processing

Additional Requirements

• HxMap CCP Plus or Unlimited Processing entitlements must be updated for use with HxMap 5.0 

• Global calibration repository requires one-time upgrade before first use

Installation Guide

Installing HxMap v5.0.0 requires attention to specific upgrade procedures.

Pre-Installation Steps

1. Verify licensing: Ensure your HxMap CCP Plus or Unlimited Processing entitlements are updated for version 5.0 compatibility

2. Back up existing data: Save any critical projects and calibration data before upgrading

3. Review compatibility: Check that your sensor systems and FlightPro versions are compatible

Installation Process

1. Run the HxMap installer package

2. Install GeoData components (coordinate systems and global elevation data are now separate) 

3. Complete the global calibration repository upgrade using the official upgrade procedure

4. Verify installation by launching the application and checking module availability

Post-Installation Configuration

After installation, configure these settings for optimal performance:

• Calibration repository: Complete the one-time upgrade of the global calibration repository

• Coordinate systems: Verify that your required coordinate system definitions are available

• Elevation data: Install global elevation models as needed for your projects

Upgrade Notes

HxMap 5.0 is backwards compatible with data processed in HxMap 4.0 and newer versions. However, sensor misalignment data has been moved from sensor calibration files to the system calibration file, requiring attention during upgrade .

How to Use HxMap v5.0.0

HxMap follows a logical workflow from data ingest through final product generation.

Getting Started

1. Launch the Workflow Manager: This serves as the central hub for all HxMap operations

2. Create or open a project: Organize your work by project for efficient data management

3. Define a block: Set up the geographic area and coordinate systems for your project

Data Ingest

The ingest process prepares raw sensor data for processing:

1. Select the appropriate sensor type for your data

2. Configure ingest settings based on your capture parameters

3. For lidar data, note that ingest is now split by time into multiple jobs per strip

4. Monitor ingest progress and verify successful completion

Processing Workflows

HxMap supports several processing workflows depending on your data type and desired outputs:

For Imagery:

1. Run triangulation to establish geometric accuracy

2. Apply radiometric adjustments as needed

3. Generate orthomosaic products

For LiDAR:

1. Perform lidar matching and calibration

2. Run point cloud classification (note: ground classification includes more near-surface points in v5.0)

3. Generate DEM and point cloud products

For 3D Products:

1. Ensure CUDA-compatible GPU is available

2. Configure 3D Advanced product settings

3. Generate 3D city models or terrain products

Exporting Products

After processing, export your products in the required formats:

• Orthomosaics in standard image formats

• Point clouds in LAS/LAZ formats

• DEM products in GeoTIFF or other elevation formats

• 3D models in compatible formats for downstream applications

Best Use Cases for HxMap

HxMap serves a wide range of geospatial applications across different industries.

Urban 3D Modeling

Combined with CityMapper or CityMapper-2 sensors, HxMap excels at generating accurate 3D models of urban environments. City planners and infrastructure managers use these models for development planning, telecommunications network design, and smart city initiatives .

Regional and National Mapping

Government agencies and mapping organizations use HxMap for large-scale surveying projects. The software’s ability to process high-volume datasets efficiently makes it suitable for creating and updating national mapping databases .

Topographic Surveying

Surveying companies rely on HxMap to generate accurate terrain models and elevation data. The software’s improved ground classification in v5.0 ensures more precise DEM generation for engineering and construction projects .

Coastal and Bathymetric Mapping

With CoastalMapper sensor support in v5.0, HxMap enables coastal zone mapping and bathymetric data processing for environmental monitoring and marine infrastructure projects .

Infrastructure Documentation

Utility companies and transportation agencies use HxMap to document and monitor infrastructure corridors, including power lines, pipelines, and transportation networks.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages

Limitations

Alternatives to HxMap

While HxMap is a leading solution for Leica sensor data processing, several alternatives exist in the geospatial software market.

Agisoft Metashape

A photogrammetry-focused solution suitable for smaller-scale projects. Offers good image processing capabilities but limited LiDAR support compared to HxMap.

Bentley ContextCapture

Provides strong 3D modeling capabilities from imagery. Often used for infrastructure and construction applications but may not match HxMap’s integrated LiDAR processing.

Trimble Inpho

A comprehensive photogrammetry suite with strong aerial triangulation capabilities. Competes with HxMap in traditional photogrammetry workflows.

Open Source Options

• OpenDroneMap: Free, open-source solution for drone imagery processing

• PDAL: Point Data Abstraction Library for LiDAR data processing

• GRASS GIS: Comprehensive GIS with some LiDAR processing capabilities

Comparison Considerations

When evaluating alternatives, consider:

• Sensor compatibility with your existing equipment

• Required output formats and accuracy specifications

• Integration with existing GIS and CAD workflows

• Total cost of ownership including training and support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Leica HxMap used for?

Leica HxMap is used for processing and analyzing airborne imagery and LiDAR data. It supports applications including 3D urban modeling, topographic mapping, regional surveying, and infrastructure documentation .

What sensors are compatible with HxMap v5.0.0?

HxMap v5.0.0 supports Leica sensor systems including CityMapper, CityMapper-2, DMC III, TerrainMapper, SPL100, and CoastalMapper for both imagery and LiDAR data processing .

Is HxMap compatible with Windows 11?

Yes, HxMap v5.0.0 has been tested and verified to work on Windows 11 with 64-bit architecture. The software is also available for Linux with Ubuntu 24.04 support .

What are the key improvements in HxMap 5.0?

Key improvements include CoastalMapper support, enhanced global elevation handling, improved point cloud classification, lidar ingest optimization, and a reorganized global calibration repository .

Can I upgrade from HxMap 4.x to version 5.0?

Yes, HxMap 5.0 is backwards compatible with data processed in HxMap 4.0 and newer versions. However, the global calibration repository requires a one-time upgrade before use .

What GPU is required for HxMap 3D Advanced?

HxMap 3D Advanced now supports CUDA compute capability 12, requiring a compatible NVIDIA GPU for accelerated 3D processing .

Does HxMap require special licensing?

Yes, HxMap requires appropriate entitlements. HxMap CCP Plus and Unlimited Processing entitlements must be updated for use with version 5.0. Lidar ingest now only requires the HxMap Provider module .

Where can I get support for HxMap?

Support is available through Hexagon’s official documentation portal and customer support channels. The official documentation at docs.hexagon.com provides detailed technical information and release notes .

Final Thoughts

Leica Hexagon HxMap v5.0.0 build 49982 represents a mature, comprehensive solution for geospatial data processing. The platform’s strength lies in its integrated approach to handling both imagery and LiDAR data within a unified workflow, eliminating the need for multiple specialized applications.

The improvements in version 5.0, including CoastalMapper support, enhanced point cloud classification, and performance optimizations, demonstrate Hexagon’s commitment to advancing the platform. The reorganization of the global calibration repository and simplified licensing for lidar ingest reduce administrative overhead for organizations managing multiple sensor systems.

For professionals working with Leica airborne sensors, HxMap offers a purpose-built solution that maximizes the value of captured data. The software’s ability to generate accurate 3D models, orthomosaics, and elevation products makes it valuable across diverse applications from urban planning to national mapping initiatives.

Organizations considering HxMap should evaluate their sensor inventory, processing requirements, and existing workflows. For those already invested in the Leica ecosystem, HxMap provides a natural fit that leverages the capabilities of their sensor investments.