Makerbase MKS Robin Nano V3.1 32Bit F407 Control Board User Manual

1. Introduction

The Makerbase MKS Robin Nano V3.1 is an advanced 32-bit control board designed for 3D printers, offering enhanced performance and features. It serves as an upgraded version of the Robin Nano V3.0, featuring a powerful STM32F407VET6 microcontroller (MCU) operating at 168MHz with a Cortex-M4 core and FPU. This board is engineered for faster processing and improved resource management to support more powerful functions in your 3D printing setup.

Key improvements in the V3.1 include enhanced anti-interference performance through the addition of Schottky diodes in the temperature measurement and MOS circuits, as well as TVS protection for the power input, ensuring greater stability and reliability.

2. Specifications

2.1. Microcontroller Unit (MCU)

• MCU: STM32F407VET6 (Cortex-M4 with FPU)
• Clock Speed: 168MHz
• Flash Memory: 512KB
• RAM: 192KB

2.2. General Specifications (V3.1 vs. V3.0 vs. V2.0)

2.3. Physical Dimensions

• Length: 110mm
• Width: 84mm
• Height: Approximately 15mm (board only)
• Weight: Approximately 0.6 kg (packaged)

3. Setup

3.1. Package Contents

A typical package for the MKS Robin Nano V3.1 motherboard includes:

• 1x MKS Robin Nano V3.1 Motherboard
• 1x USB Cable
• 25x Jumper Caps

Depending on the purchased bundle, additional items such as MKS TS35 screen, MKS Robin WiFi module, TMC2225/TMC2209 motor drivers, and heatsinks may be included.

3.2. Wiring Diagram

Carefully follow the wiring diagram below to connect your MKS Robin Nano V3.1 to your 3D printer components. Ensure all connections are secure and correctly oriented before applying power.

Key Connections:

• Power Supply: Connect 12V/24V power to the designated terminals.
• Heated Bed: Connect your heated bed to the H-BED terminals.
• Extruders: E0 and E1 motor interfaces for extruders.
• Motors: X, Y, Z1, Z2, E0, E1 motor driver slots.
• Fans: FAN1 and FAN2 for cooling.
• Thermal Sensors: TH1, TH2 for hotend and heated bed temperature sensing.
• Endstops: Connect endstop switches to the appropriate pins.
• TFT/LCD Screen: Dedicated interface for compatible screens.
• USB Interface: For PC connection and USB disk printing.
• TF Card Slot: For TF card printing.
• MKS Robin WiFi Slot: For optional WiFi module.
• TTL PWM: For laser control signals.

3.3. Pinout Diagram

Refer to the pinout diagram for detailed pin assignments and functions. This is crucial for advanced configurations and custom connections.

3.4. Firmware Installation

The firmware for MKS Robin Nano V3.1 is based on Marlin 2.X. You can find the official firmware repository and hardware design files on GitHub:

• Hardware Design: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-Robin-Nano-V3.X
• Firmware Source: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/Mks-Robin-Nano-Marlin2.0-Firmware

To install or update the firmware:

1. Download the latest Marlin 2.X firmware for MKS Robin Nano V3.1 from the provided GitHub repository.
2. Modify the Configuration_adv.h file to specify your preferred printing method:
   • For TF card printing: Ensure // #define USB_FLASH_DRIVE_SUPPORT is commented out.
   • For USB disk printing: Uncomment #define USB_FLASH_DRIVE_SUPPORT.
3. Compile the firmware using a suitable development environment (e.g., PlatformIO in VS Code).
4. Copy the compiled firmware file (typically firmware.bin) to the root directory of a TF card or USB disk.
5. Insert the TF card/USB disk into the MKS Robin Nano V3.1 board and power it on. The board will automatically detect and flash the new firmware.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Printing Methods

The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 supports both TF card and USB disk printing, offering flexibility in how you transfer your G-code files to the printer.

4.2. Virtual USB Device Function

The board features a Virtual USB Device function, allowing you to connect the board to your computer via a USB cable. Your computer will recognize the board as a USB disk, enabling direct reading and writing of files (including G-code) without needing to remove the TF card or USB disk from the board.

4.3. Screen Compatibility

The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 is compatible with various LCD screens, including MKS TS35, MKS H43, LCD12864, and LCD2004. This allows for a wide range of user interface options for controlling your 3D printer.

4.4. Advanced Features

• Dual Z-axis Support: The board supports dual Z-axis motors, allowing for more stable and precise vertical movement, especially beneficial for larger printers or those with dual extrusion setups.



• PWM Controllable Fans: Two PWM controllable fan headers provide flexible control over cooling fans, optimizing cooling based on printing needs.



• TTL PWM Signal Output: For users interested in 3D printing and laser engraving two-in-one machines, the board provides TTL PWM control signals for laser heads with higher power.



• Independent Serial Port: A dedicated independent serial port (UART3) ensures that using other serial devices, such as the MKS H43 serial screen, will not conflict with other devices connected to the board.



• WiFi Module Support: The board supports an SPI connection with a WiFi module, offering a higher transmission rate than a serial port. While current firmware primarily supports serial port transmission, SPI transmission will be supported in future updates.

5. Maintenance

• Keep Dry and Clean: Always ensure the control board is kept in a dry, dust-free environment to prevent damage to electronic components.
• Avoid Static Discharge: When handling the board, take precautions against static electricity, such as using an anti-static wrist strap.
• Regular Firmware Updates: Periodically check the official Makerbase GitHub repository for firmware updates. Keeping your firmware up-to-date can provide new features, performance improvements, and bug fixes. Refer to the Firmware Installation section for instructions.
• Inspect Connections: Regularly inspect all wiring connections for looseness or signs of wear. Loose connections can lead to intermittent issues or component damage.
• Power Off Before Disconnecting: Always power off the 3D printer and disconnect the power supply before connecting or disconnecting any components from the control board.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1. Common Issues & Solutions

• Firmware Compilation Errors: If you encounter errors during firmware compilation, ensure you are using the correct development environment (e.g., PlatformIO with VS Code) and that all necessary libraries are installed. Double-check your configuration files for syntax errors or incorrect settings. Refer to the official GitHub repository for detailed compilation guides and community support.
• Axis Movement in Reverse: If an axis moves in the opposite direction to what is expected (e.g., Z-axis moves in reverse when controlled via software but correctly via display), check your firmware configuration. Marlin firmware typically has settings like INVERT_X_DIR, INVERT_Y_DIR, INVERT_Z_DIR that need to be adjusted.
• Screen Not Displaying/Connecting: Verify that your screen is compatible with the MKS Robin Nano V3.1 (MKS TS35, MKS H43, LCD12864, LCD2004 are supported). Ensure the screen's ribbon cable is correctly and securely connected to the designated TFT/LCD interface on the motherboard.
• Short Circuit Damage: If a component, such as a fan connection, was accidentally short-circuited, immediately disconnect power. Inspect the board for any visible damage (e.g., burnt traces, damaged components). Depending on the severity, the board may require repair or replacement. Always exercise caution during wiring.
• General Compatibility Issues: For specific printer models (e.g., Anet A8, Ender 3 Pro, Tronxy X5SA) or stepper motor drivers, consult the firmware documentation and community forums for specific configuration guides and known compatibility notes. The board's open-source nature means a large community can offer assistance.

7. User Tips

• UI Customization: The user interface (UI) of compatible screens can often be customized through firmware settings, allowing you to tailor the display to your preferences.
• Advanced Axis Configuration: For advanced users, the Marlin firmware allows for flexible configuration of multiple stepper motors for X, Y, or Z axes. For example, you can configure two Z-axis motors, even utilizing an unused E1 driver for this purpose.
• Anet A8 Plus Compatibility: Users have reported successful operation with the Anet A8 Plus printer, indicating good compatibility with this popular model.

8. Warranty and Support

The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 control board's hardware design is open-source, allowing for community contributions and detailed technical insights. For comprehensive support, including hardware schematics and the latest firmware, please refer to the official Makerbase GitHub repositories:

• Hardware Design: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-Robin-Nano-V3.X
• Firmware Source: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/Mks-Robin-Nano-Marlin2.0-Firmware

For specific product inquiries or issues not covered in this manual, please contact the Makerbase Official Store directly for assistance.