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

# Fix a Scanner Scale That Reads Below Zero

> Steps to fix a POS scanner scale that shows a negative weight or keeps drifting below zero.

If the live weight display on your POS cashier screen shows a negative number, or the scale keeps drifting below zero between items, the scale's zero point has shifted. These steps work for both the Magellan 9800i and the Zebra MP7000 scanner scales.

### Why the scale reads below zero

A scale sets its zero point when it's zeroed or powered on. If something was resting on the weight plate at that moment and is later removed, the scale reads below zero. Debris under the plate, a plate that isn't seated flush, or air blowing across the plate can cause the same thing.

### Fix a negative reading

Work through these steps in order. Check the live weight display after each one.

**1. Clear the weight plate.** Remove anything resting on the weight plate or leaning against the scanner tower, such as bags, papers, cables, or a cashier's hand.

**2. Zero the scale.** With the plate empty, press the zero button (`>0<`) on the scanner tower. The display should read 0.00.

* **Magellan 9800i:** the top left button on the tower above the weight plate.
* **Zebra MP7000:** the top button on the right side of the vertical tower.

**3. Check under the weight plate.** Lift the weight plate off the scale and remove any debris, such as crumbs, twist ties, or produce stickers. Place the plate back so it sits flush and fully aligned, then zero the scale again.

**4. Check the counter and surroundings.** Make sure nothing on the counter touches the edge of the weight plate. Check for air from a vent, fan, or open door blowing across the scale, and redirect it if you can.

**5. Soft reset the scale.** A soft reset restarts the scale and sets a fresh zero point. Clear the weight plate first, then follow the steps in [Soft Reset the Scanner Scale](https://help.vori.com/hardware-and-peripherals/cashier-handheld-scanner-and-countertop-scale/how-to-soft-reset-the-scanner-scale.md).

**6. Restart the POS app.** On the cashier screen, tap the **Gear icon** > **Device Status**, then select **Restart App**.

### If the scale keeps drifting

If the scale still drops below zero after these steps, contact Vori Support. Let us know which lane it's on and when the drifting started. The scale may need to be recalibrated or replaced.

⚠️ **Caution:** Contact Vori Support before you change any scale settings.

### Related articles

* [Troubleshoot the Magellan 9800i Scanner Scale](https://help.vori.com/hardware-and-peripherals/cashier-handheld-scanner-and-countertop-scale/troubleshoot-the-magellan-9800i-scanner-scale.md)
* [Troubleshoot the Zebra MP7000 Scanner Scale](https://help.vori.com/hardware-and-peripherals/cashier-handheld-scanner-and-countertop-scale/troubleshoot-the-zebra-mp7000-scanner-scale.md)


## Related topics

- [Troubleshoot the Magellan 9800i Scanner Scale](https://help.vori.com/hardware-and-peripherals/cashier-handheld-scanner-and-countertop-scale/troubleshoot-the-magellan-9800i-scanner-scale.md)
- [Troubleshoot the Zebra MP7000 Scanner Scale](https://help.vori.com/hardware-and-peripherals/cashier-handheld-scanner-and-countertop-scale/troubleshoot-the-zebra-mp7000-scanner-scale.md)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://help.vori.com/faqs.md)