2025 Update: Slamtec LiDAR for TouchDesigner

In this updated tutorial, we explore how to set up and integrate Slamtec RPLIDAR into TouchDesigner for real-time interactive installations. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is an incredibly versatile sensing technology used in interactive media, spatial tracking, and generative installations. This video walks through installing the necessary drivers, setting up the SlamtecCHOP plugin, and processing LiDAR data to create compelling, sensor-driven visuals.

📌 What You’ll Learn:
✅ LiDAR Basics – How it works, types of LiDAR, and why it’s great for interactive installations
✅ Setting Up Slamtec RPLIDAR – Installing drivers, configuring the SlamtecCHOP plugin, and troubleshooting
✅ Processing LiDAR Data in TouchDesigner – Tracking, instancing, and rendering real-time point cloud data
✅ Mapping LiDAR to Screen Space – Translating sensor input into a perfectly aligned interactive display

🚀 Whether you’re a new media artist, interactive designer, or developer, this tutorial will give you the tools to integrate LiDAR into your creative projects. Watch now!

🔗 Find me online:
📁 Project Files & Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/water__shed
🌎 Portfolio: https://www.lakeheckaman.com
📷 Instagram: https://instagram.com/lake_heckaman

00:00 – Intro to LiDAR with TouchDesigner 2025
02:21 – What LiDAR sensor do you need?
03:18 – What does LIDAR stand for and how does it work?
05:40 – Benefits of LIDAR sensors for interactive installations
07:52 – Using LiDAR data in TouchDesigner
10:50 – Setup: Silicon Labs UART Bridge Driver Download
11:23 – c++ plugin from github
12:15 – LiDAR data processing in TouchDesigner – build from scratch
20:42 – Mapping lidar data in touchdesigner with crop
26:35 – Outro