> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://propagation-labs.gitbook.io/propagation-labs-user-manual/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://propagation-labs.gitbook.io/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/quick-start-guide.md).
# Quick Start Guide
How to get started with your Snow Scope Probe
## A Note of Caution
The snow covered regions of the world are dangerous. The Snow Scope Probe does not replace your brain. Just as you wouldn’t trust a single snow profile, test result, or other observation to tell you a slope is safe, you shouldn’t make decisions based on Scope profiles alone. Additionally, never fully trust a single profile to tell you that a weak layer isn’t present. The Scope is intended to build a greater understanding of spatial variability, not eliminate it.
That being said, we do believe the Snow Scope Probe will help you develop an improved understanding of the snowpack beneath your feet, and empower you to collect better data and make better assessments, forecasts, and decisions in the backcountry.
## Getting Started
1. **Setup the Snow Scope App**
1. Download the Snow Scope App ([iOS](https://apps.apple.com/au/app/snow-scope-app/id1489492572#?platform=iphone), [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.propagationLabs.android)) , create an account, and log in. **You must do this when you have cell service or wifi!**
1. If you already have the app downloaded, **make sure it is the latest version** (revisit the app store to check if there are updates)!
2. If prompted, make sure to enable bluetooth, location data, and "nearby devices". These permissions **are required** to allow the Snow Scope Probe to connect and transfer location data. On Android, this will require exiting the app and going to your phone settings. [More info here.](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/troubleshooting.md#my-probe-is-not-transferring-data-or-location-when)
3. If you are associated with an organization, create or join the org. If you want to keep your probe data private to yourself or your organization, you must have a "pro" account. This can be [purchased through the app ](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-app/pro.md#how-to-subscribe)or through a [organization purchase code](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-app/enterprise.md#getting-started-with-enterprise). [Learn more about privacy here](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-app/privacy.md).
2. **Setup Your Probe**
1. Unpack your Snow Scope Probe. unscrew the [connector ](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/how-it-works.md#parts)and install the included 3 AAA batteries (+ side towards tip).
2. Turn your Snow Scope Probe [on by removing the cover.](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/how-it-works.md#on-off) You should see a slowly [pulsing green light](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/how-it-works.md#led-indicator-lights).
3. **Connect to Your Probe**
1. Open the main menu icon (top left), tap "Enable Snow Scope Probe", and "Connect to Scope". You should see the name of your Scope - click on that to connect. The [Blue LED](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/how-it-works.md#led-indicator-lights) on the probe should light up and you should see the probe appear in your status menu on the app. Once you connect to your probe once, your phone will remember it and[ auto-connect in the future](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/probing-tips-and-tricks.md#autoconnecting-and-probing-with-the-phone-in-your-pocket).
2. If you are not prompted, tap "check for firmware update" from the main menu under "Snow Scope Probe". If there is an update, make sure to [update your Probe Firmware](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/updating-probe-firmware.md)
4. **Measure Your First Snow Profile**
1. Go find some snow and collect your first profile! Make sure you have at least 30cm of snow, and watch the below videos to learn how to probe!
{% embed url="" %}
5. [**View your recorded profile**](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/viewing-snow-scope-probe-data.md) **on your phone,** and manipulate, share, and export your data using all the tools in the [Snow Scope App](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-app/getting-started.md).
6. **Learn more about how the Snow Scope Probe works** by clicking on the links below! We highly recommend reading these and watching the included videos to get the most out of your probe.
{% content-ref url="/pages/FRO2DTK5RF8fPuv5BYRS" %}
[How it works](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/how-it-works.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/fGkBt6docfNRm5FTOhmJ" %}
[Viewing Snow Scope Probe Data](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/viewing-snow-scope-probe-data.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/xckVuytD6s0vB4v8L1r6" %}
[Probing Tips and Tricks](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/probing-tips-and-tricks.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/iPTSUwptMFjaLMx40ut9" %}
[Profile Grouping and Privacy](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/profile-grouping-and-privacy.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/V9WJGjz44Np4Bfpxzx3d" %}
[Exporting Data](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-app/exporting-data.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/dIE9DOhvsHPYhmCGVvre" %}
[Care and Maintenance](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/care-and-maintenance.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
{% content-ref url="/pages/ItstMrN5lItsllTWs4DU" %}
[Troubleshooting](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-probe/troubleshooting.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
Also check out all the other pages in the user manual for the[ Snow Scope App](/propagation-labs-user-manual/snow-scope-app/getting-started.md) if you want to use the app for manual observations too!
