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  • What is 3D printer firmware?

What is 3D printer firmware?

3D Printing Help Centre

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

In the 123-3D help centre, we answer all your questions about 3D software and printer settings, problems you may experience during or after 3D printing and other 3D-related topics.

What is 3D printer firmware?

Firmware forms the bridge between the software and the hardware of your 3D printer. When your slicer software sends a certain G code to your 3D printer, the firmware translates this code into electrical signals. These signals then ensure that the motors, heaters, fans and other 3D printer parts function correctly.

Index

Can I change my 3D printer firmware?

Changing your firmware is possible, but has many snags that make it difficult for even the most seasoned 3D expert. If your printer functions properly and quality issues can be solved by calibrating your 3D printer and fine-tuning certain settings, we do not recommend replacing your firmware.  

In which case is changing my 3D printer firmware an option?

As mentioned before, we do not recommend changing firmware. But in a few cases, it might be worth considering applying this drastic measure. Always research your options thoroughly and, if necessary, engage a professional to guide you in this.

My 3D printer crashes at high print speeds

This is a more common problem with Delta printers or CoreXY printers. If your Delta printer freezes when you try to print at high speed, it might be a good idea to upgrade your firmware. In addition, you may also need to upgrade your controller board.

My firmware does not support certain functions

You may want to upgrade your 3D printer by adding automatic bed levelling or even a second extruder. However, if these features are not supported by your firmware, or if adjusting these settings is very complex, switching to a simpler firmware may be a good idea.

My controller board is not compatible with my firmware

Do you want to upgrade the controller board of your 3D printer, but the replacement board is not supported by your firmware? Then you are forced to switch firmware.

How can I replace my 3D firmware?

Have you chosen to replace the firmware of your 3D printer? Then you have to go through a number of steps to successfully complete this process.

Identify what type of controller board you have

If you want to continue using the current controller board, you need to look up the name and version of your controller board. This information is usually printed on the PCB (the mainboard of the printer), but you can also consult the supplier's website.

Identify your current firmware

Try to find out what firmware you are currently using and if there is a downloadable copy available so you can easily switch back if needed. It is very difficult to retrieve the firmware from your controller board afterwards.

Check if your controller board is compatible with the new firmware

Go to the supplier's website and check if your controller board is supported by the new firmware you want to install. Is your controller board not listed? Then they are probably not compatible.
TIP: Are you not only going to switch firmware, but also the controller board and has it just been released? Then it is possible that this information is not yet available. In this case, always contact the makers or supplier of the product first.  

Write down the parameters you want to adopt

Find the current parameters that you want to adopt in your new firmware and pay close attention to the size in which they are displayed. Think about:
  • Steps (e-steps) for your x, y, z and extruder motors (mm)
  • Maximum travel distance of the x, y, z axis
  • Maximum speed, feed rates and acceleration for your x, y, z axis and extruder motors
  • The type of thermistor in your hot end PID settings for your heated bed and hot end
  • If you have a Delta printer: the arm length and radius
  • Other settings that you have adjusted yourself to improve the functioning of your 3D printer

Download the new firmware

Save one blank version of the new firmware and use another version to fill in the collected parameters.

Upload the new firmware to your controller board

Once you have personalised the new firmware for your specific 3D printer, you can upload the firmware to your controller board. This is also known as 'flashing'.
NOTE: First check the website of the controller board supplier to see which process is recommended for this. It should also be noted that some machines need to have the display flashed with matching firmware, please refer to the documentation for your machine first.

Connect your hardware to the controller board

Once the firmware has been successfully uploaded to your controller board, you can connect the motors, heaters, power supply and other components to the board.

Turn on your 3D printer

Once both the firmware and the various components of the 3D printer have been successfully connected to the controller board, you can turn on the printer to verify that everything is functioning properly.

Do you have another question?

Have you not been able to find the answer to your question in the overview above? At 123-3D.co.uk we are busy with 3D printing every day and we like to follow every development. We are happy to share the knowledge and experience that we have built up over the years with you in our 3D printing help centre!

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