Bad Elf Flex Mini Extreme FAQ
SKU: BE-GPS-3500
Product page:
https://bad-elf.com/collections/bad-elf-flex-mini/products/bad-elf-flex-mini-extreme
Flex Mini Knowledge Base:
https://badelfllc.zohodesk.com/portal/en/kb/bad-elf-flex-mini
Firmware updates: We recommend running the latest firmware available through the Bad Elf Flex App.
Support FAQs — Flex Mini Extreme
How do I know if my firmware is up to date?
Firmware updates are delivered through the Bad Elf Flex App. Keeping firmware current ensures compatibility with operating system updates and positioning services.
See the firmware update article here
Why does my Flex Mini Extreme disconnect from my phone or tablet?
Bluetooth connections are managed by the operating system and can be deprioritized during long field sessions. If your Flex Mini Extreme disconnects during extended use, try the following:
- Toggle Bluetooth off and back on on your phone or tablet
- Power cycle the Flex Mini Extreme
- Reconnect the receiver via Bluetooth
Why won’t my Flex Mini Extreme get an RTK fix?
RTK issues are usually related to invalid correction network credentials, NTRIP profile errors, internet connectivity, or sky obstruction. RTK requires an active internet connection to receive correction data, and if connectivity drops the receiver will fall back to SBAS or standalone GNSS.
See this article for more information about RTK: Choosing the right RTK network
Why is my accuracy worse than expected under open sky?
Accuracy depends on correction mode, satellite geometry, and environmental conditions. With SBAS, the Flex Mini Extreme provides approximately 1.0m accuracy. With RTK and a stable correction source, centimeter-level accuracy is possible.
See this article for best practices for GNSS data collection
My Flex Mini Extreme is connected via Bluetooth, but my position isn’t showing in Maps or other apps. Why?
You should always start by confirming you are seeing a multi-constellation SBAS fix in the Bad Elf Flex App.
On iOS, third party apps (including Apple Maps) use the iOS CoreLocation framework to obtain position data from our receivers. Steps to confirm this are located here:
On Android, you’ll need to enable mock location support for non-SDK apps to receive position data from Bad Elf receivers. You can find instructions here:
Why does my app show ~5 meters accuracy even though the Flex Mini Extreme is more precise?
If an app has not integrated the Bad Elf SDK, it relies on accuracy metadata reported by OS-level location APIs.
On iOS, the reported accuracy has a floor of approximately 5 meters, even when the receiver is providing more precise data. The actual accuracy can be viewed in the Bad Elf Flex App and on the device itself.
On Android, enabling a mock location app or selecting the external GNSS receiver in supported apps ensures the most accurate data is flowing to the app.
Why does the Flex Mini Extreme behave differently in ArcGIS Field Maps compared to other apps?
ArcGIS Field Maps has integrated the Bad Elf SDK and handles external GNSS data differently than non-SDK apps. In Field Maps, you must explicitly select the Bad Elf Flex Mini as the location provider to ensure the app is using the external receiver instead of the internal GPS. Differences in behavior or displayed accuracy are typically resolved by confirming this setting.
See the Field Maps setup guide for details.
Why is vertical accuracy worse than horizontal?
GNSS systems naturally produce lower vertical accuracy due to satellite geometry and atmospheric effects. This is expected behavior across GNSS receivers. Vertical accuracy is typically around 1.5 times horizontal accuracy.
Do I need internet connectivity for RTK?
Yes. RTK corrections require an internet connection to receive correction data from a provider. Connectivity can be provided via cellular networks, Wi-Fi, or satellite internet services. Without connectivity, RTK fixes are not possible.
How accurate is the Flex Mini Extreme?
The Flex Mini Extreme provides approximately 1.0m accuracy with SBAS. When used with RTK corrections under good conditions, it can achieve approximately 1.5cm horizontal accuracy. Actual accuracy depends on sky visibility and correction quality.
What changed after an iOS or Android update?
Operating system updates can change how Bluetooth devices and external GNSS data are handled. This may affect connection stability or how apps receive location data. Refer to the Cleared to Update page for current guidance.
Still need help?
If your issue isn’t resolved above, open a support ticket (top of this page) so we can troubleshoot your specific setup.
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