Do LAS dataset properties filters apply…

[JohnCarr]

…when these data are input to subsequent analyses?

For example, I select ground returns in the LASd properties filters (not the toolbar). Are only ground returns used as input if I next use the surface contour tool?

Does this apply to surface constraints as well (i.e., if I point to some breaklines files in LASd properties)?

[CodyBenkelman]

John - this is an excellent question and unfortunately one that can confuse a lot of people. 

The answer is "it depends on where you access the LASD to load it into the tool".

• If you access the LASD from the TOC, that's actually a LAYER based on the LASD.  Any filters applied to the LASD will be shown in the layer, and if you drag that layer into a GP tool, then the filters will be applied.
• If you access the LASD from ArcCatalog, then filters applied in the map are NOT applied.
• Settings on the LASD itself (e.g. features used as hydrologic constraints) apply in all cases (e.g. both when viewed in the map as a layer, or when processing in a GP tool).
• Note the toolbar is simply a handy shortcut to the layer properties, so toolbar or TOC-->properties both apply to the layer, then will be honored (applied) only if you input the layer into the GP tool.