> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://stem-docs.intellectualpoint.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Base plate preparation

> Meet the flexible PEI build plate and remove the four shipping screws so the bed can move for calibration.

## Preparing the base plate

Now we prepare the **build plate** - the surface your prints are made on. First we will look at the removable PEI plate, then remove the **four silver shipping screws** that lock the bed in place for transport. Freeing the bed is required before the printer can calibrate.

<iframe src="https://iframe.mediadelivery.net/embed/697805/fd2c1aa1-9b02-4aae-9c87-60228b171eb2?autoplay=false&preload=false" style={{ width: "100%", aspectRatio: "16/9", border: "none" }} allow="encrypted-media; picture-in-picture" allowFullScreen />

## Meet the PEI plate

The gold-colored plate is a **flexible PEI build plate**, and it is one of the best features of this printer.

<CardGroup cols={3}>
  <Card title="Removable" icon="hand">
    Lift the plate right off using its handle to work with your print more easily.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Flexible" icon="git-commit-horizontal">
    Bend the plate slightly and finished prints often pop right off - no tools needed.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Magnetic" icon="magnet">
    The plate snaps back onto the magnetic bed. Slide it under the two rear clips and drop it down to seat it.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<Info>
  To reseat the plate, slide it under the **two clips at the back**, then lower the front - the magnets pull it flat. Sometimes prints pop off by flexing the plate; stubborn ones may need a scraper.
</Info>

<Tip>
  The PEI plate works best when you apply a thin coat of the included glue stick before printing. Adhesive helps the first layer grip so your print does not lift.
</Tip>

## Remove the four shipping screws

The bed is locked down with four silver screws for shipping. Each one has a **green arrow** printed on the surface pointing right at it, so they are easy to find.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Find the four screws by the green arrows">
    There are four silver screws around the base plate: one on the left, one on the right, and two at the far back. Each has a green arrow pointing to it.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose the middle Allen wrench">
    Use the **medium-sized** Allen wrench from your set of three.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Unscrew all four (lefty-loosey)">
    Turn each screw left to loosen and remove it. These screws are fairly long. Work around the plate: left, right, then the two in the back.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set the screws aside for good">
    Once all four are out, the base plate is free to move. **You will not need these screws again** - store them in your box.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Do not skip this step or leave any screw in. If the bed is still locked when the printer tries to calibrate, calibration will fail. The printer even reminds you on-screen to confirm the heated bed is unlocked before calibrating.
</Warning>

<Check>
  All four silver shipping screws are removed, the base plate moves freely, and the PEI plate is seated on the magnetic bed.
</Check>

## Up next

The bed is free. Next we install the **filament spool holder** on the back of the printer using the two black screws from the accessory bag.