A budget is not a single answer to "how much does the device cost". The device itself is only the first item; software licensing, ports, training, upgrades and site preparation all affect the total investment.
1. The device itself
Different series serve different tasks: the facial plastic surgery series focuses on facial analysis and design, the oral and maxillofacial series on bone-surface measurement and the use of CBCT data, the skin analysis series on imaging and scoring, and the 4D series on dynamic capture. Define the task first, then compare models.
Within the same series, accuracy, scanning method, software modules and supporting services may also differ. When requesting a quote, ask for the model, configuration and included software modules to be listed, rather than comparing a single total price.
2. Software licence and dongle
The current software is authorised through a USB dongle; by default one device comes with one copy of the software and one dongle. The clinic keeps the dongle, and loss or damage affects use of the software, so it is advisable to register the serial number and designate a custodian.
The official website does not publish account-based licensing. If other licensing methods are offered later, the official notice and the contract prevail.
3. Sync ports and multiple workstations
When several consulting rooms, branches or departments need to work at the same time, capacity can be extended through sync ports. Sync ports are a paid add-on; each activated set of ports comes with a complete copy of the same software version.
The number of extensions and the concurrency method must be confirmed against the site and the contract. Do not assume that "one purchase covers unlimited workstations", and do not turn an occasional need to view data into a full set of port purchases.
4. Training, refresher training and upgrades
The P6 and 800 series include two working days of on-site training; the M2N and M6 series use online remote training, about 1 hour per session, booked in advance. Advanced training and refresher training are value-added services charged at standard rates.
The free software upgrade period varies by model: 3 years for the M6HD, C6HD and P6HD; the first year free for the 800, ZETTA, M2N, M6, N1, C6 and P6. Upgrade costs after the free period are not published on the official website and must be confirmed by version and contract.
5. Site and supporting equipment
Site modification, shading, dedicated outlets, computers, large displays, network and backup storage are all easily overlooked expenses. Multiple workstations also require cabling and intranet connectivity.
6. The 6 cost items at a glance
| Cost item | One-off / recurring | Confirm before signing |
|---|---|---|
| Device | One-off | Model, configuration, accessories in the box |
| Software and dongle | One-off | Included modules, licensing method, custody responsibility |
| Sync ports | One-off + later expansion | Number of ports, software version, concurrency method |
| Training and refresher training | Included initially + charged later | Training format, days, refresher rates |
| Upgrades and maintenance | Recurring | Free period, cost after the period, response method |
| Site and supporting equipment | One-off + recurring | Power, shading, computers, network, storage |
7. On payback: do not accept verbal numbers
Whether the investment can be recovered depends on the mix of patients, the service portfolio, staff usage rates and the reporting workflow; there is no universal answer. Any commitment to a specific payback period should be required in writing, with the calculation basis stated.
A more prudent approach: first work out the one-off investment and the annual recurring spending, then set observable usage indicators, such as actual scans per week, the number of reports produced and the use of multiple workstations. Review with real data rather than persuading yourself with estimates.
Related pages: 3D selection advisor, Procurement and service FAQ, MVS-800, MVS-P6, ZETTA.
This article describes product functions and processes and does not constitute medical advice; specific configurations, specifications and deliverables are subject to the product version and the contract.