Digital elevation models (DEMs) are prone to error that, as they can
never be entirely eliminated, must be managed effectively. Thus, it is
important to understand the nature of error and their sources,
especially in the context of the intended use of a DEM. This paper
investigates the effects that can be expected when common DEM errors
propagate through a scaling analysis. The errors investigated include
those associated with perturbation of camera exterior orientation
parameters, focal length, and DEM image coordinates, which were
simulated numerically. The role of detrending was also investigated.
Scaling analysis, by way of the fractal dimension, using a new
two-dimensional approach was carried out on a variety of surfaces
before and after the introduction of error and the application of
detrending. The results reveal some serious procedural implications on
scaling analysis and cast doubt on the authenticity of some scaling
analysis results in the absence of robust quality assessment and of
independent supporting evidence.