Bad Elf Flex Mini: RTK Fix Vs Float
Bad Elf Flex Mini: RTK Fix Vs Float
Overview
When collecting GNSS data with the Bad Elf Flex Mini, you may notice two points shot at the same location differ significantly in accuracy or elevation. This usually happens when one point is recorded in RTK Fix and the other in RTK Float.
Always verify your receiver is in RTK Fix before collecting points. Float positions often appear more accurate than they really are.
What You’ll Need
- Bad Elf Flex Mini (Standard or Extreme)
- Active RTK correction service (CORS, FPRN, Geodnet, etc.)
- Stable cellular or Wi-Fi connection
Explanation
Though the algorithm will report the float at a certain level of vertical accuracy, we highly recommend against collecting points without a RTK fix, as the actual accuracy is significantly worse than reported with a RTK float in our experience.
A float basically means the math equation used to calculate the Flex Mini's corrected position couldn't be solved without a remainder, resulting in more uncertainty. This is caused by an insufficient number of common satellites between the Flex Mini and the base station, an old message resulting from an unstable internet connection, or by not giving the Flex Mini enough time to calculate a fix.
Step-by-Step
- Open the NTRIP tester by going to App Settings “𝄙” -> Configuration in the Bad Elf Flex app.


Complete the checklist.
Choose the location to be sent to the network:
Use the current location from your phone, or
Enter custom location coordinates
Save your RTK via NTRIP profile in the Bad Elf Flex app if you have not done so already.
Bad Elf Knowledge Base Guide to Configuring an NTRIP Profile
Tap Connect.
Tap the “>” next to Corrections flowing.

If corrections are not flowing, please:
Double check for typos.
Verify RTN subscription and network status.
Verify your phone is connected to the internet.
Verify the location override coordinates.
Enter the mount point manually if the list will not populate.
Scroll to the bottom of the screen and select copy by tapping the “⧠”.
Using your email app, create a new email and paste the contents just copied into the body of the email.
Related Articles
Bad Elf Flex Mini: Point/Track Logs - CSV Specification
CSV Specification The Bad Elf Flex Mini is capable of exporting data logs as a lightweight .csv file. The list below contains the field names and definitions for a Bad Elf Flex Mini generated point or track log CSV file. Field Name Description LINE ...
Bad Elf Flex Mini: Updating Firmware
Overview Ready to upgrade your Flex Mini to the latest firmware? Just follow these steps: On your phone or tablet, install or upgrade to the latest public Bad Elf Flex utility app available on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). ...
Bad Elf Flex Mini: Hardware Overview
The Bad Elf Flex Mini GNSS receiver has an interface that will allow users to navigate and adjust settings, as well as use the various functions of the Bad Elf Flex Mini. Product Overview - Front Up, Down, Enter, and ESC/BACK buttons: Allows you to ...
Bad Elf Flex Mini: Upgrade to Flex Mini Extreme (BE-GPS-3500)
Overview: This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to upgrade your Bad Elf Flex Mini Standard (BE-GPS-2500) to the Flex Mini Extreme (BE-GPS-3500). Please ensure your device is running firmware build 1314 or later before proceeding. ...
Bad Elf Flex Mini: Bluetooth Pairing with Android
Connect your Bad Elf Flex Mini to your Android phone or tablet by following these steps: Once pairing is completed, opening the Bad Elf Flex App will initiate the Bluetooth connection. Close the Bad Elf Flex app on Android if you have not already. ...