The Bad Elf Flex Mini
Flex Mini is a mapping grade GNSS that provides reliable and high-performance GPS reception to any computing device, such as a tablet or a smartphone. The Flex Mini provides geospatial users and other professionals with an unmatched blend of location accuracy, reliability, usability, design, and value.
Since Bad Elf introduced the first iOS compatible GPS accessory more than a decade ago, they have built a reputation around delivering cutting-edge GPS solutions for the aviation, marine, military, geospatial, and survey communities. The new Flex Mini offers exceptional versatility and convenience with its compact and lightweight design. Bad Elf presents the ultimate location companion for a wide range of applications and environments.
Key features of the Flex Mini
Offered in standard or field upgradeable extreme configuration, Bad Elf's Flex Mini empowers customers to choose economy over accuracy to start, without foreclosing the opportunity to upgrade later.
- Standard configuration provides reliable 1.5-2 m accuracy in SBAS regions.
- Extreme configuration enhances the platform to enable RTK capabilities that achieves 1 foot or better measurements.
- Extreme configuration may be included at time of purchase or later as an over-the-air update.
Flex Mini leverages the latest multi-frequency GNSS technology to provide highly accurate location information even in challenging environments (e.g., urban canyons and tree canopy), with support of multiple satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou) for global coverage.
Looking to learn more about using the Bad Elf Flex for GIS? See our GIS Resources for detailed information and advanced usage.
Bluetooth GNSS Receiver & Datalogger
The Flex Mini seamlessly employs Bluetooth to connect to smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices, allowing users to leverage their existing technology for accurate and real-time positioning. The wireless connection ensures hassle-free setup and a clutter-free experience.
Mapping-Grade GNSS Powered by Bad Elf
The Flex Mini Extreme delivers 1-meter1 SBAS accuracy without any additional subscription or cost. Compatible with phones or tablets for use in GIS, mapping, and asset management.
On-demand data logging includes:
- Track and point logging
- Raw-data logging in RINEX format for post-processing (Extreme version only)
- Available standalone or through the Bad Elf Flex app
App Support
Flex Mini is compatible with all location-aware apps on Android, iOS and Windows2, and our free Bad Elf Flex companion utility app is available from the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. Learn More...
2See specifications for minimum OS versions
Flex Mini Standard
Flex Mini provides 1.5-2.0m SBAS accuracy sufficient for GIS, mapping, and aviation use. Simply pair the receiver with your tablet or phone and all location-aware apps become mapping-grade. No additional software or special configuration required.
Flex Mini Extreme
If you require higher accuracy, upgrade to the Flex Mini extreme to enable sub-foot RTK capability, 1 meter SBAS accuracy, and tilt detection. Purchase at time of sale or after without any penalty. The Flex Mini Extreme includes the following unlocked services:
- Daily cost - none
- Multi-frequency, multi-constellation - standard
- Training - none
- Daily cost - none
- Fully unlocked RTK engine
- Raw data recording for post-processing
- Tilt detection
| Flex Mini Standard | Flex Mini Extreme | |
|---|---|---|
| Part Number | BE-GPS-2500 | BE-GPS-3500 |
Positioning Engine |
||
| GPS | L1CA, L5 | L1CA, L5 |
| GLONASS | G1 | G1 |
| BeiDou | B1i, B2a | B1i, B2a |
| Galileo | E1, E5a | E1, E5a |
| QZSS | Yes | Yes |
| IRNSS/NavIC | TBD | TBD |
| SBAS | WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS | WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS |
Positioning Performance |
||
| Horizontal accuracy1 - RTK | n/a | 25 cm + 1 ppm |
| Horizontal accuracy1 - SBAS (WAAS) | 1.5m | 1.0m |
| Horizontal accuracy1 - Autonomous | 2.5 m | 2.5 m |
| Cold start time | < 30 s typical (almanac and RTC) | < 30 s typical (almanac and RTC) |
| Warm start time | < 30 s typical (almanac and RTC) | < 30 s typical (almanac and RTC) |
| Hot start time | < 10 s (almanac, RTC, and position) | < 10 s (almanac, RTC, and position) |
| Maximum speed | 1,850 kph (999 kts) | 1,850 kph (999 kts) |
| Maximum altitude | 18,288 m (60,000 ft) | 18,288 m (60,000 ft) |
| Differential options | SBAS, Autonomous | SBAS, Autonomous, RTK v3 |
| Correction I/O protocol | n/a | RTCMv3 (RTK) |
Interfaces |
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| USB | USB device via USB-C receptacle | |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth V4.0 (HS) with integrated Class 1.5 PA Supports 3 simultaneous connections | |
Compatibility |
||
| Operating system | iOS, Android, Windows | |
| Mobile App | The Bad Elf Flex App requires iOS 12.4+ or Android 9+ | |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth SPP, USB Serial | |
Operating Specifications |
||
| Operating | –4°F to +131°F (–20°C to +55°C) | |
Environmental Specifications |
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| Waterproof | IPX7 | |
| Humidity | 5% to 95% non-condensing | |
Mechanical Specifications |
||
| Dimensions | 3.5” x 1.8” x 1.3” / 90mm x 45mm x 32mm | |
| Weight | 7 oz / 143 g | |
| Enclosure | Polycarbonate | |
| Mounting | Bottom mount with 1/4”-20 thread | |
| User Interface | Transflective LCD Membrane Buttons 3 multicolor LEDs Audible tones |
|
Battery Specifications |
||
| Bluetooth connected | 24 hours | |
| Logging | 24 hours | |
| RTK | 24 hours | |
Product Specifications |
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| USB Port | USB-C port for charging and ElfPort™ expansion | |
| Accelerometer | 3-axis | |
| Display | 128 x 128 pixel transflective LCD screen with backlight | |
| Firmware | Field upgradeable via app or USB | |
Package Contents |
||
| Package Contents | Bad Elf Flex Mini Receiver 3ft (90cm) USB-C cable Accessory case Quick Reference Guide (downloadable PDF here) |
|
*Prices and specifications subject to change without notice.
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Bad Elf Flex App
Specifically designed for Bad Elf Flex, built-in NTRIP client, cross-platform compatible, complete receiver control.
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