This research paper introduces a novel, user-friendly installation qualification (IQ) method for the scanner subsystem of laser-based powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) metal additive manufacturing machines. The method uses a simple plate melt test to assess various scanner performance aspects, including laser and scanner delays, acceleration, dimensional accuracy, and slicer software interpretation, overcoming the limitations of current, costly, and time-consuming standards. Testing on four different PBF-LB/M machines revealed significant machine-to-machine variations in scanner performance, highlighting the need for improved standardization and user-accessible calibration tools. The proposed method aims to empower users to qualify their systems and identify potential issues requiring OEM intervention. Further research will focus on quantifying the test results and conducting a cost-benefit analysis.