# PCD Viewer

Free online PCD viewer. Open and preview point cloud files (.pcd) directly in your browser — no upload, no 3D software.

> Canonical page: https://elysiatools.com/en/viewers/pcd

- **Category:** 3D Models

- **Supported formats:** .pcd

## Overview

This PCD viewer renders point cloud data directly in your browser using WebGL. PCD (.pcd, Point Cloud Data) is a file format from the Point Cloud Library (PCL), widely used in robotics, LiDAR scanning and 3D computer vision. Pick a sample point cloud or choose your own .pcd file to preview it in an interactive 3D viewport, with no upload.

## When to use

- You received a .pcd file from a LiDAR or depth sensor and want to view it.
- You need a quick, private preview of point cloud data.
- You want to inspect a PCD scan on any device.

## How it works

- Select a built-in sample point cloud or choose your own .pcd file.
- The viewer loads the points with WebGL (three.js PCDLoader) in your browser — nothing is uploaded.
- Rotate, zoom and pan to inspect the point cloud.

## Use cases

- Previewing LiDAR and depth camera scans.
- Inspecting robotics and autonomous driving point clouds.
- Checking PCD files from photogrammetry.

## Samples

- **Sample PCD Model**: A PCD 3D model sample for in-browser preview

## Frequently asked questions

### What is a PCD file?

PCD (.pcd, Point Cloud Data) is a file format developed for the Point Cloud Library (PCL). It stores 3D point coordinates and optional attributes (color, intensity, normals) in either ASCII or binary format, and is the standard for LiDAR and depth-sensor data exchange.

### Are my PCD files uploaded?

No. Files you open from your device stay on your device and are rendered locally with WebGL. Only the public sample is requested from the server.

### What is a point cloud?

A point cloud is a set of 3D points representing the surface of an object or scene. Each point has X, Y, Z coordinates and optionally color or intensity. Point clouds are generated by LiDAR scanners, depth cameras and photogrammetry software.

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