SUBNAUTICA / EQUIPMENT

Scanner

A handheld tool used to catalog organisms and collect blueprint data from fragments.

QUICK REFERENCEFirst SubnauticaReviewed 2026-10-28Reference / noindex

OVERVIEW

Understanding Scanner

A handheld tool used to catalog organisms and collect blueprint data from fragments.

This is an original reference for the first Subnautica. Your current depth rating, oxygen, available tools and navigation route determine when an objective is practical. Follow actual in-game PDA and Fabricator information for any values that vary by version.

PRACTICAL APPROACH

How to use this information

Make this early; scan fragments systematically instead of hoarding random technology parts.

COMMON MISTAKES

What to avoid

Many blueprints require multiple fragments and cannot be unlocked by a single glance.

CONTINUE ON VOLPEDIA

Related topics and walkthroughs

GUIDESScanner And Blueprint Completion

Unlock essential equipment by systematically scanning fragments

PROGRESSIONEarly Blueprint Route

Use the Scanner on fragments to unlock necessary vehicle, tool and base technology.

BASESScanner Room

A base module that scans for selected resource types in the surrounding area.

TIPSUse Scanner Room Efficiently

Its range and searched-resource capabilities are local, not planetwide.

EQUIPMENTBeacon

A deployable navigation marker that appears on the HUD after placement.

EQUIPMENTFlashlight

A battery-powered light useful when exploring dark wrecks and caves.

EQUIPMENTHabitat Builder

The handheld tool that places seabase structural components and furnishings.

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Independent Volpedia editorial encyclopedia about the first Subnautica, reviewed 2026-10-28. Unaffiliated with Unknown Worlds Entertainment. Category illustrations are original diagrams, not in-game maps, screenshots or exact creature portraits. No fabricated damage statistics, spawn probabilities or detailed map coordinates. References are documented privately and not shown as outbound research buttons.