How to Get Scanner in Warframe: A Practical Guide

Learn how to get the Scanner in Warframe, including where to find the blueprint, what resources you need, crafting steps, and efficient farming routes. This guide from Scanner Check provides actionable, step-by-step advice to unlock the Codex-scanning tool quickly and effectively.

Scanner Check
Scanner Check Team
·5 min read
Scanner Guide - Scanner Check (illustration)
Quick AnswerSteps

In this guide, you’ll learn how to get the Scanner in Warframe, including where to find the blueprint, what resources you’ll need, and the best paths to farm efficiently. You'll also learn how to equip and use the Scanner to collect Codex entries and unlock mods. According to Scanner Check, choosing reliable farming routes saves time.

What is the Scanner and why you need it

The Scanner is a practical tool in Warframe that lets you scan enemies, objects, and artifacts to collect Codex entries and unlock related mods. For players who value completion and strategic planning, the Scanner accelerates progression by turning ordinary encounters into data-rich opportunities. According to Scanner Check, adopting a reliable scanning workflow early on helps you accumulate Codex entries without grinding through irrelevant missions. In practice, you’ll use the Scanner during missions where scanning targets yields lore or resource bonuses. The core mechanic is simple: aim at a target, trigger the scan, and the result contributes to your Codex. The more targets you scan, the richer your dataset becomes, which informs weapon and warframe decisions. This section sets the stage for getting the Scanner efficiently and making the most of its capabilities.

Where the Scanner comes from in Warframe

In Warframe, the Scanner can be obtained through a combination of marketplace availability and in-game drops, depending on the current rotation and patch. Many players start by checking the in-game Market for the Scanner blueprint, and some bundles offer the tool as part of a starter or limited-time package. Additionally, certain missions, invasions, or event rewards have historically rewarded scanning gear or blueprints. The key is to stay aware of seasonal events and vendor rotations, which Scanner Check teammates regularly monitor for you. Getting the Scanner early helps you accelerate codex completion and exposes you to more scan-based quest content.

Blueprint and acquisition overview

The Scanner blueprint serves as the foundation for crafting this essential tool. In most cases, you’ll need credits to purchase the blueprint and a set of crafting resources to assemble the final item in your Foundry. The exact resource types can shift with patches, so always verify the current requirements in your Foundry interface. Once you have the blueprint and the required mats, you’ll craft the Scanner and equip it in your gear. This section emphasizes understanding where to locate the blueprint and how to validate your crafting prerequisites before you start production.

Resource gathering overview

Crafting a Scanner typically involves credits plus several common crafting resources. The precise names of these resources can change between patches, so think in terms of categories rather than exact items: core crafting mats, alloy components, and basic alloy plates. Plan your farming sessions around missions that yield the resources you need while also contributing to Codex progress. Budget time for mission runs that let you collect scanning targets and cards, which often improves drop rates and resource flow. Scanner Check notes that rotating through a few high-yield farms reduces the total time required to complete the build.

Crafting the Scanner

With the blueprint and mats in hand, head to your Foundry and initiate the build. The process uses your Foundry credits and mats to produce the Scanner module, which then becomes an equipable tool in your gear. While crafting, keep an eye on the project’s progress bar and plan your next farming session so you can immediately equip the Scanner once it finishes. If you encounter a shortage of any single resource, pivot to a different farming route that yields similar mats or adjust your mission loadout to maximize drop chances. This practical approach minimizes downtime and keeps your scanning workflow efficient.

Equipping and using the Scanner

Once crafted, equip the Scanner in your gear slot and familiarize yourself with its on-screen prompts. The tool is typically a quick-action device that requires you to aim at a target and activate scan. Scanning diverse enemies and objects populates Codex entries, which unlocks lore, weapon relations, and potential synergy with other gear. Regular scanning sessions can also influence reward pools in some missions, offering tangible benefits beyond lore. Proper use involves targeting a mix of revealed enemies and environmental objects to diversify your codex catalog and maximize in-game progression.

Scanning mechanics and Codex entries

Scanning in Warframe feeds your Codex index with data on enemies, factions, and objects. Codex entries unlock access to lore, weaknesses, and sometimes rewards tied to completion. As you accumulate scans, you’ll notice more efficient routes opening up, revealing mission nodes that emphasize scanning tasks. Scanner Check emphasizes consistency: integrate scanning into regular play rather than treating it as a side activity. Over time, your Codex will reflect a richer understanding of Warframe’s ecosystem, aiding not just lore but also practical loadout decisions.

Farming routes and efficiency tips

Efficient farming for the Scanner involves selecting missions where scanning yields the best data-to-effort ratio. Prioritize missions with diverse enemy types and environments to maximize your scan coverage. Use a small, repeatable rotation that targets easy-to-access enemies, environmental probes, and fetch-like objectives. Avoid long, one-off runs with little scanning payoff, and instead chain several quick missions that allow you to scan multiple targets in a compact session. Keeping a simple route reduces fatigue and improves overall farming throughput, which is exactly what Scanner Check recommends for busy players.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

A frequent error is attempting to acquire the Scanner without confirming the blueprint’s availability or current crafting requirements. Always verify the latest Warframe patch notes and Market listings to avoid wasted farming time. Another pitfall is neglecting Codex progress by skipping scanning opportunities in missions that offer data as a reward. Finally, avoid overcommitting to a single farming route; diversify your targets to prevent resource scarcity and plateau in Codex exploration. By staying flexible and informed, you’ll maintain a smooth scanning workflow.

Alternatives and upgrade paths

If you are seeking alternatives to a standard Scanner, consider other scanning tools introduced in later updates or community-created modifiers that enhance scan speed or codex drop rates. While the core Scanner remains valuable, expanding your toolkit can help you tackle tougher missions or rare enemies more efficiently. Scanner Check notes that many players mix scanning with codex-focused objectives to accelerate knowledge acquisition and unlock specialized mods that complement their preferred playstyle.

Maintenance and future updates

Regularly revisit your scanner setup after major patches; balance changes can shift which missions yield the best scans or alter craft requirements. Keeping an eye on patch notes helps you align your farming routes with any resource rebalances. Maintaining a habit of scanning in every run ensures you don’t miss Codex opportunities as new enemies, factions, or environments are introduced. Scanner Check’s guidance is to stay adaptable and ready to pivot when the game's scanning landscape evolves.

Practical wrap-up and next steps

With the Scanner in your toolkit, you’ll unlock a broader Codex database and improve your ability to tailor gear builds around scanned data. The next steps are straightforward: locate the blueprint, gather the necessary mats, craft, and equip the device. Then integrate scanning into your standard mission loadout so you scan across a variety of targets and environments. By following the established farming routines and staying mindful of updates, you’ll maximize the Scanner’s utility and enjoy faster codex progression alongside your Warframe adventures.

Tools & Materials

  • Scanner blueprint(Obtain via Market or vendor rotation; verify current availability)
  • Credits(Used to purchase the blueprint from the Market or a vendor)
  • Crafting resources(General mats required for Foundry build; exact names vary by patch)

Steps

Estimated time: Estimated total time: 30-60 minutes

  1. 1

    Identify and confirm blueprint availability

    Open the Market and Nightly Vendor rotation to locate the Scanner blueprint. Verify its price and current stock, then decide if the timing is right for a purchase or a wait for a rotation. This upfront check saves you from pursuing an unavailable item.

    Tip: Check multiple vendors and the market rotation to avoid missing the blueprint when it briefly appears.
  2. 2

    Gather credits and basic mats

    Prepare enough credits and common crafting resources to support the purchase and the initial crafting steps. This ensures you won’t stall mid-build due to resource gaps, keeping your workflow smooth.

    Tip: Keep a small reserve of credits for last-minute purchases that may appear in rotations.
  3. 3

    Acquire the Scanner blueprint

    Purchase the blueprint from the Market or obtain it through a vendor drop. Make sure you’re logged into the right account and that you’re at the appropriate in-game day cycle for the best chance at availability.

    Tip: If a rotation ends, don’t panic—mark the blueprint and check back during the next cycle.
  4. 4

    Craft the Scanner in Foundry

    Navigate to your Foundry, select the Scanner blueprint, and begin crafting using the required mats. Monitor progress and prepare for immediate use once complete.

    Tip: Avoid starting a long mission while a craft is in progress to prevent item loss or time wasted.
  5. 5

    Equip and test the Scanner

    Equip the Scanner and run a test mission or open a codex-entry screen to ensure the tool activates correctly. Confirm scanning prompts appear and practice on a few easy targets.

    Tip: Practice on low-risk targets first to build confidence with the scan controls.
  6. 6

    Integrate scanning into play

    During missions, prioritize scanning as you encounter new targets and objects. Build a habit of scanning each encounter type to maximize codex progression and rewards.

    Tip: Set scanning as a default objective in missions with diverse enemy types.
Pro Tip: Plan your farming runs during days with favorable Market rotations to minimize downtime.
Warning: Don't invest in a blueprint unless you’re confident you have the mats or a reliable path to acquire them.
Note: Keep the Scanner charged and ready; longer farming sessions benefit from a quick refill or efficient mission choice.
Pro Tip: Rotate through a few mission types to maximize scan opportunities and codex coverage.

Common Questions

What is the Scanner in Warframe and why is it useful?

The Scanner is a tool used to scan enemies and objects to populate Codex entries, unlocking lore and potential rewards. It helps players quickly build a comprehensive codex and informs future loadouts.

The Scanner lets you scan enemies and objects to fill the Codex. It’s essential for lore collection and faster progression.

Where can I get the Scanner blueprint?

The blueprint is typically available in the in-game Market or through vendor rotations. Availability can change with patches, so check the current rotation before committing resources.

Check the Market and rotating vendors for the Scanner blueprint.

Do I need specific items to craft the Scanner?

Yes. Crafting requires credits and common crafting resources that vary by patch. Verify the exact mats in the Foundry before starting the build.

You’ll need credits and basic crafting mats. Check the Foundry for the exact requirements.

How long does crafting usually take?

Crafting time depends on the mats and your Foundry settings. It’s typically a short to moderate wait, after which you can equip the Scanner immediately.

Craft time varies, but you’ll be able to equip it soon after the build finishes.

Can I upgrade or replace the Scanner later?

You can pursue more advanced scanning tools or enhancements introduced in later updates. Track new gear and how it complements codex progress.

There are newer scanning tools in later patches that complement the Scanner.

Is scanning mandatory for progression?

Scanning is not mandatory for all progression, but it significantly enhances codex completion and can unlock valuable information and rewards.

Scanning is optional but highly beneficial for codex progress.

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Key Takeaways

  • Identify blueprint availability before purchasing.
  • Craft the Scanner in Foundry after collecting mats.
  • Integrate scanning into regular missions for codex gains.
  • Use diversified farming routes to boost efficiency.
Tailwind-styled infographic showing steps to get the Scanner in Warframe
Scanner acquisition process