Some surfaces and shapes require preparations before they will 3D scan successfully. We have made the simple guide below.
Note that for some objects this applies to both surfaces and shapes.
![How to scan matte light surfaces with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-matte-opaque-light-color.webp?v=1656353301)
Surfaces: Matte, opaque, and light in color
Shapes: Asymmetrical with abundant scan alignment features
No preparations required.
Go ahead and scan.
![How to scan dark surfaces with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-dark-surfaces.webp?v=1656353473)
Dark surfaces
Add developer spray before scanning.
![How to scan shiny surfaces with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-shiny-or-reflective-surfaces.webp?v=1656353512)
Shiny or reflective surfaces
Add developer spray before scanning.
![How to scan transparent surfaces with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-translucent-or-transparent-surfaces.webp?v=1656353544)
Translucent or transparent surfaces
Add developer spray before scanning.
![How to scan partial shiny surfaces with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-partially-shiny-surfaces.webp?v=1656353578)
Partially shiny surfaces
Add developer spray before scanning.
![How to scan furry surfaces with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-Furry-surfaces.webp?v=1656353619)
Furry surfaces
If too fuzzy, fur is generally not 3D scannable.
![How to scan unsteady shapes with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-Unsteady-surfaces.webp?v=1656353649)
Unsteady shapes
Use modelling clay to fixate the shape to the turntable. (Needs removal in third-party software).
![How to scan movable shapes with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-Movable-shapes.webp?v=1656353674)
Movable shapes
Fixate the movable parts, for example with glue. (Do not glue it to the turntable.)
![How to scan objects that change shape with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-objects-that-change-shape.webp?v=1656353710)
Objects that change shape
If the object stays motionless once positioned, it will scan if only one scanning pass is required.
When adding additional scanning passes, the repositioning may change the overall shape and thereby corrupt the scan.
![How to scan shapes with holes with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-shapes-with-holes.webp?v=1656353731)
Shapes with holes
(Bottom of) holes that are not visible to the camera and laser will not be part of the final 3D model.
![How to scan symmetrical shapes with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-symmetrical-shapes.webp?v=1656353762)
Symmetrical shapes
Attach modelling clay to make the shape asymmetrical. (Requires removal in third-party software).
![Minimum object size SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-minimum-object-size.webp?v=1656356678)
Minimum object size
The minimum scannable size with SOL is 25x25 mm (diameter x height) with the scanner set in near position.
![Maximum object size SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/Sol-maximum-object-size.webp?v=1656355653)
Maximum object size
The maximum scannable size with SOL is 170x170 mm (diameter x height) with the scanner set in far position.
![Choose a stable scan setting with SOL 3D scanner](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/8962/1553/files/sol-pc-w-tent-cable.webp?v=1656356715)
Stable scan setting
Moving or touching the scanner or tent while scanning will most likely result in inaccurate or failed scans. Place the tent on a separate table to secure stability.
3 tips for a successful SOL PRO 3D scanning
1.- Always power your computer
2.- Use USB 3.0 ports (if USB hub is used, this must be powered)
3.- Place the scanner inside the tent and cover with the cloth
SOL PRO 3D scanner?
See how to scan various surfaces and shapes using SOL PRO 3D scanner.