---
title: "Capture Control Points - NavVis VLX"
slug: "cop-957-best-practices-for-capturing-surveyed-control-points-with-navvis-vlx-1"
updated: 2026-06-03T09:03:04Z
published: 2026-06-03T09:03:04Z
canonical: "knowledge.navvis.com/cop-957-best-practices-for-capturing-surveyed-control-points-with-navvis-vlx-1"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://knowledge.navvis.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Capture Control Points - NavVis VLX

## Introduction

Use this guide when the project requires geospatial orientation, and your surveyor has provided marked control points on site. You'll need at least three well-distributed control points with known coordinates. By the end, you'll have a dataset that aligns to project coordinates with minimal rework.

> Note: For detailed instructions on how to capture control points with NavVis VLX refer to [https://knowledge.navvis.com/docs/control-point-management](https://knowledge.navvis.com/docs/control-point-management)

![A person capturing a control point](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/pano_capture(1).png)

# Planning the Scan

## Why it matters

- Surveyed control points anchor and constrain the dataset, which helps reduce drift during capture and processing.
- Loop closures strengthen SLAM stability and help prevent local misalignment.

## What to do

- Use at least three surveyed control points. Use more whenever possible for better accuracy.
- Distribute control points evenly across zones and levels. Do not concentrate them in one area.
- Plan the control point network before you scan.
- Revisit control points throughout the scan (early, mid-route, and near loop closures). Do not capture them all at the end of a long session.
- Build in frequent loop closures by crossing your path regularly, even when you use surveyed control points.
- Avoid layouts where control points fall on a single line. Use a geometry that spans the area or volume.

# On-Site Guidelines

- Remain still while capturing a control point and move away only after confirming successful capture.
- Press the Control Point Button on the head of the device or the one below the screen to capture the control point.
- Keep a good distance and viewing angle. Include nearby flat surfaces (for example, wall and floor junctions).
- Ensure the device is stable and the laser scanners have a clear field of view when capturing the control point. The body must not obstruct the field of view.
- Stay behind the NavVis VLX and avoid leaning over or covering the front sensor.

![A woman capturing a control point on the floor](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/6b2d32ff-11b8-4d9e-acd1-a86b0285f5c7.png)

---

### FAQ

#### What is the purpose of using surveyed control points in a geospatial project?

Surveyed control points anchor and constrain the dataset, helping to reduce drift during capture and processing.

#### How many control points are recommended for accurate scanning?

At least three surveyed control points are recommended, but using more is better for improved accuracy.

#### Should control points be concentrated in one area?

No, control points should be evenly distributed across zones and levels to ensure better results.

#### Is it important to revisit control points during the scanning process?

Yes, it is important to revisit control points throughout the scan, not just at the end.

#### What should you do while capturing a control point?

Remain still while capturing a control point and only move away after confirming successful capture.

#### Can I lean over the NavVis VLX while capturing a control point?

No, you should stay behind the NavVis VLX and avoid leaning over or covering the front sensor.