---
title: "Preparing the NavVis MLX"
slug: "preparing-the-navvis-mlx"
description: "Prepare your NavVis MLX for use: clean surfaces, insert the battery and USB-C drive, ensure calibration, and secure the back cover for safe operation."
updated: 2025-05-16T11:46:33Z
published: 2025-05-16T11:46:33Z
---

> ## 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.

# Preparing the NavVis MLX

1. **Place the device on a flat surface** Place the device on a flat level surface such as a table or the floor.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/place on ground.png)

1. **Clean the cameras, scanner, screen** If there is dust or fingerprints on the cameras, laser scanner or screen, use the clean and dry Microfibre Cloth supplied to clean them gently.
  - Clean the cameras.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/Clean_Lense.png)
  - Clean the Visual Odometry Cameras (VO).

![A person cleans the lens of a high-tech device with a cloth.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/_8XL9556.JPG)
  - Clean the scanner.

![A person cleans a device with a cloth, focusing on its lens area.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/_8XL9570.JPG)
  - Clean the screen.

![A person cleans the screen of a high-tech device with a cloth.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/_8XL9577.JPG)
2. **Open the Back Cover** Push the latch on the Back Cover and open.

![A hand demonstrates how to open a device compartment using a latch mechanism.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/open back cover.PNG)
3. **Insert the Li-Ion Battery** Insert the charged Li-ion Battery into its slot at the back, as shown here (grooves to the left, battery-strap to the right).

> [!WARNING]
> ![caution(1)](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/caution(1).png) **Caution:** Do not remove the Li-Ion battery while the device is turned on or you will lose data.

![A person is inserting a battery into a device's compartment for operation.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/Insert battery.PNG)

1. **Insert the USB-C Flash Drive** Insert the USB-C Flash Drive into its slot at the back.

> [!WARNING]
> ![caution(1)](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/caution(1).png)**Caution:** Do not remove the USB-C Flash Drive while scanning or you will lose data.

![A hand is inserting a component into a device's compartment for assembly or maintenance.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/insert flash drive.PNG)

1. **Switch on the NavVis MLX** Press the On/Off button at the back of the device.

![A hand pressing the power button on a device's back panel.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/switch on.PNG)
2. **Close the Back Cover** Close the Back Cover and ensure it is secured in place.

![A hand demonstrates how to open a compartment on a device.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/Close back.PNG)
3. **Device calibration**

Wait for 30 seconds until the device is ready (indicated with a beep).

> [!WARNING]
> ![caution(1)](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/caution(1).png)Caution: Do not move the device while it’s calibrating.

![A handheld device with a screen and timer for measurement purposes.](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/wait.PNG)

> [!WARNING]
> ![caution(1)](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/caution(1).png)**Caution**:
> 
> - Always make sure that the Back Cover is closed and locked before scanning. The Harness System can then support the weight of the device. The Back Cover also secures the Li-Ion Battery preventing the battery from falling out causing damage or harm to yourself or others.
> - Do not use the device if the Back Cover or the Fan Filter are missing or damaged. This would void the IP rating and could lead to dust accumulation and water infiltration.

---

### FAQ

#### How should I place the device before starting?

Place the device on a flat level surface such as a table or the floor.

#### What should I use to clean the cameras and screen?

Use the clean and dry Microfibre Cloth supplied to gently clean the cameras, laser scanner, and screen.

#### Is it safe to remove the Li-Ion battery while the device is on?

No, do not remove the Li-Ion battery while the device is turned on or you will lose data.

#### What should I do after inserting the USB-C Flash Drive?

Do not remove the USB-C Flash Drive while scanning or you will lose data.

#### How long should I wait for device calibration?

Wait for 30 seconds until the device is ready, indicated by a beep.

#### Can I move the device while it’s calibrating?

No, do not move the device while it’s calibrating.

#### Is it necessary to close the Back Cover before scanning?

Yes, always make sure that the Back Cover is closed and locked before scanning.

#### What happens if the Back Cover or Fan Filter is damaged?

Using the device with a damaged Back Cover or Fan Filter would void the IP rating and could lead to dust accumulation and water infiltration.

#### Can I swap the USB-C Flash Drive for another one

Yes, but not while scanning and only for another of the same type as we have extensively tested the USB-C Flash drive for performance and correct form factor.

#### Can I get additional batteries?

Yes, refer to the following [Accessories for your NavVis MLX](https://knowledge.navvis.com/docs/accessories-for-your-mlx)
