Since the release of Patch 1.2.0, Frequency Modulation Boxes-commonly shortened to FM Boxes-have become one of the most critical yet elusive resources in ARC Raiders. These rare blue-tier items act as a major progression bottleneck for most players, as they are mandatory for advancing through Phase 4 of Expedition Project 2 and crafting high-tier tech gear. Unlike common materials, FM Boxes cannot be bought, crafted, or looted from enemy drops. They only spawn in specific high-risk areas, requiring careful planning and ARC Raiders BluePrints strategic exploration. This guide details the best locations, farming tactics, and safety tips to help you consistently find these valuable components.

What Are Frequency Modulation Boxes, and Why Do They Matter?

FM Boxes are classified as Exodus-category components, meaning they are tied to advanced technology and industrial operations within the game. They contain specialized circuitry and radio parts that make them irreplaceable for late-game progression.

At first glance, their sell value of 3,000 Raider Coins or recycle yield of advanced electrical components and speaker parts might seem tempting. However, their role in Expedition Projects and high-tier crafting far outweighs any immediate reward-hoarding them is essential for long-term success.

Beyond progression, FM Boxes can also be traded with other players for valuable gear, though this is rarely recommended given their scarcity. For most players, their primary purpose remains unlocking late-game content and upgrading equipment.

The Key to Finding FM Boxes: Exodus Zones

FM Boxes exclusively spawn in Exodus Zones-specialized high-risk areas across the game's maps. These zones are linked to advanced technology and industrial activity, and they come with distinct traits that set them apart from other regions.

Exodus Zones feature higher-tier loot pools, denser and more dangerous ARC enemy patrols, and are relatively rare compared to standard areas. Looting civilian buildings, generic warehouses, or outdoor containers is a waste of time if your goal is to find FM Boxes, as they will never spawn in these locations.

Recognizing Exodus Zones is simple: they often have industrial aesthetics, with metal structures, advanced machinery, and sometimes tattered blue tarps. When you enter one, your map will subtly indicate the high-risk area, guiding your search.

The Best Map for FM Box Farming: Stella Montis

If efficiency is your priority, Stella Montis is the undisputed top choice for farming FM Boxes. It is currently the only map in ARC Raiders with multiple Exodus Zones, drastically increasing your chances of finding these rare items.

Stella Montis is a high-risk, high-reward map, often contested by other players looking to farm FM Boxes. For solo players or those with limited gear, a stealthy approach and careful route planning are essential to avoid PvP encounters and enemy ambushes.

Below are the most reliable Exodus Zones on Stella Montis, ordered by spawn rate and accessibility.

1. Assembly Workshops: The Most Reliable Spawn

The Assembly Workshops on Stella Montis are the gold standard for FM Box farming, boasting the highest spawn rate of any location in the game. This industrial area is a maze of conveyor belts, tool cabinets, and storage drawers-all of which can spawn FM Boxes.

Focus your search on the first and second floors of the workshops. Even small drawers and containers can yield FM Boxes, so loot every item you encounter. The workshops are a busy Exodus Zone, so take out enemies strategically to avoid losing your loot.

Many players recommend starting your raid at the Assembly Workshops, as this gives you the best chance of finding an FM Box early and extracting safely.

2. Medical Research: A Solid Secondary Option

If the Assembly Workshops are too contested or you're having bad luck, the Medical Research sector is an excellent backup. This area consists of multiple small treatment rooms, each filled with lootable shelves and cabinets that have a moderate chance of spawning FM Boxes.

The Medical Research sector is slightly safer than the Assembly Workshops, with fewer enemy patrols. However, it's still an Exodus Zone, so minimize your time in open hallways to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Look for white shelves and metal cabinets in the treatment rooms-these are the most likely containers to hold FM Boxes. Please take some time to search carefully, as they may be hidden in the most inconspicuous places.

3. Business Center & Lobby: High Risk, Moderate Reward

The Business Center and Lobby on Stella Montis are another viable location, but they come with higher risk. The small closets in the large stairwells on either side of the Business Center are the key spots to check for FM Boxes.

This area is one of the most dangerous on Stella Montis, with cheap ARCR Items  dense enemy spawns and frequent PvP encounters. Only attempt to farm here if you're well-equipped or if the Assembly Workshops and Medical Research are overrun.

The spawn rate here is lower than in the Assembly Workshops, but it's still worth checking if you're in the area-you might get lucky with a rare spawn.