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Input Data Requirements

This guide explains the required and optional input data for the pypopRF plugin.

Required Files

1. Mastergrid

A raster file defining your analysis zones:

  • Format: GeoTIFF (.tif)
  • Values: Unique IDs for each zone
  • Must match census data zone IDs
  • No gaps or overlaps between zones

2. Census Data

Population counts in tabular format:

  • Format: CSV file
  • Required columns:
    • Zone ID (matching mastergrid)
    • Population count

  • Example:

    id population
    1 2500
    2 3200
    3 1800

3. Covariates

At least one raster file containing predictive variables:

  • Format: GeoTIFF (.tif)
  • Must cover mastergrid extent
  • Common examples:
    • Building footprints
    • Road networks
    • Land use
    • Infrastructure

Optional Files

1. Water Mask

Excludes water bodies from analysis:

  • Format: GeoTIFF (.tif)
  • Binary values:
    • 1: Water
    • 0: Land
  • Must cover study area

2. Constraints

Defines areas with special population distribution rules:

  • Format: GeoTIFF (.tif)
  • Binary values for restricted areas
  • Must match mastergrid extent

3. Age-Sex Structure Data

Additional demographic breakdown:

  • Format: CSV file
  • Must include:
    • Zone ID (matching mastergrid)
    • Age-sex group columns (e.g., m0_4, f0_4)
  • Population totals should match main census

Important Requirements

Coordinate Systems

  • All raster files must use the same CRS
  • Check alignment of pixels
  • Verify extent coverage

Data Values

  • No negative population values
  • Census IDs must match mastergrid
  • Valid ranges for all covariates
  • Proper NoData values

File Structure

  • Use simple column names
  • No special characters
  • UTF-8 encoding for CSV files

Next: Settings Guide