BIGTREETECH EBB36 EBB42 CAN V1.2 Board Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The BIGTREETECH EBB (Extruder Breakout Board) series, including the EBB36 CAN and EBB42 CAN, are nozzle adapter boards designed for 3D printer extruder stepper motors. The EBB36 is specifically for 36mm extruder stepper motors, while the EBB42 is for 42mm extruder stepper motors. These boards facilitate communication via USB or CAN BUS, significantly simplifying wiring configurations in 3D printing setups.

The BIGTREETECH U2C is a USB to CAN bus module that converts a Raspberry Pi's USB port to a CAN bus. This allows for seamless connection of 3D printing motherboards, BIGTREETECH EBB boards (EBB35/36/42 CAN), and other compatible products via the CAN bus. The CAN bus offers several advantages in industrial control environments, such as long data transmission distances, strong anti-noise capabilities, robust real-time performance, and high reliability. This enables multiple components like the motherboard, EBB, and other expansion boards to operate on the same CAN bus simultaneously.

2. Features

EBB Boards (EBB36/EBB42 CAN V1.2)

• Firmware Update: Reserved BOOT and RESET buttons allow users to update firmware via DFU mode using USB.
• Thermistor Protection: An added protection circuit on the thermistor prevents damage to the main control chip from heating rod leakage current.
• Configurable Thermistor Pull-up: Jumper wire selection for thermistor pull-up resistor values supports PT1000 (2.2K pull-up resistors), simplifying DIY integration.
• USB Power Isolation: A jumper cap allows selection of USB power for the motherboard, effectively isolating the main control board's DC-DC from USB 5V.
• I2C Interface: Reserved I2C interface supports filament broken/clogged detection and other DIY functions.
• MOS Tube Protection: Anti-flyback diodes on heating rod and fan ports protect the MOS tube from reverse voltage damage.
• Power Interface Protection: Anti-reverse connection protection on the power interface prevents motherboard damage from incorrect power line connections.
• PT100/PT1000 Support: Onboard MAX31865 supports both 2-wire and 4-wire PT100/PT1000 configurations.
• CAN/USB Communication: Supports communication via CAN or USB. The 120R terminal resistor for CAN can be selected via a jumper cap, and CAN expansion interfaces are reserved.
• ESD Protection: An ESD protection chip on the USB port safeguards the main control board from static electricity.
• DIY Accessories: The adapter board includes necessary terminals, female reeds, double-way studs, and screws for DIY projects.
• Onboard Components: Includes an onboard TMC2209 driver for the extruder and an ADXL345 accelerometer.
• RGB Port: Reserved RGB port for illumination.

U2C Module

• CAN Bus Connection: Supports CAN bus for long data transmission, strong anti-noise ability, and high reliability.
• ENIG Process: PCB surface utilizes the Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG) process for enhanced durability.
• TYPE-C ESD Protection: The TYPE-C port is equipped with ESD protection to prevent static electricity damage.
• Firmware Update: Supports firmware updates for the motherboard through SWD or hardware DFU.
• Multiple CAN Interfaces: Provides more than one CAN interface for versatile connections.

3. Specifications

4. Setup

4.1. Physical Installation

The EBB boards are applicable for 35mm, 36mm, and 42mm motors. When installing, ensure that the pinhead of the motherboard does not come into contact with any metal surfaces to prevent short circuits.

Figure 4.1: EBB Board Installation Diagram. Applicable for 35/36/42mm motors. Ensure no contact between pinheads and metal to prevent short circuits.

Figure 4.2: EBB Board Size Diagram. Shows overall dimensions of the board.

4.2. Wiring Diagram

Refer to the detailed wiring diagram below for connecting your EBB board to your 3D printer system. This diagram illustrates connections for power, communication, sensors, and motor drivers.

Figure 4.3: EBB Board Wiring Diagram. This diagram details connections for GND, VIN, CAN-L, CAN-H, USB-Type-C, ADXL345-SPI 2, MAX31865-SPI 1a, TMC2209 Driver, CAN (TX, RX), USB (DP, DM), EndStop, I2C, Probe, RGB, PT100/PT1000. It also includes a table for PT-Choose jumper settings.

PT-Choose Jumper Settings:

• 1-2-3-4 ON-ON-ON-OFF: SensorModel 2lines PT100
• 1-2-3-4 ON-ON-OFF-ON: SensorModel 2lines PT1000
• 1-2-3-4 OFF-OFF-ON-ON: SensorModel 4lines PT100
• 1-2-3-4 OFF-OFF-OFF-ON: SensorModel 4lines PT1000

4.3. Jumper Configurations

• USB Power: A jumper cap allows you to choose whether the USB port provides power to the motherboard. This is useful for isolating the main control board's DC-DC from USB 5V.


Figure 4.4: USB Power Jumper. Use the jumper cap to select whether USB provides power to the motherboard.

• CAN 120R Terminal Resistor: The 120R terminal resistance for the CAN bus can be enabled or disabled using a jumper cap. This is crucial for proper CAN bus termination in a network.


Figure 4.5: CAN 120R Terminal Resistance Jumper. The 120R terminal resistance of CAN can be selected through the jumper cap.

• Thermistor Pull-up Resistors: Jumper wires allow you to select the thermistor's pull-up resistor values, enabling support for PT1000 (requiring 2.2K pull-up resistors).

4.4. U2C Module Connection

The U2C module connects your Raspberry Pi to the CAN bus network. It comes in different versions, such as V1.0 and V1.1, which may offer varying numbers of CAN outputs or additional features like a CAN_OUT* interface for connecting to interfaces without a dedicated CAN transceiver but with CAN functionality.

Figure 4.6: BIGTREETECH U2C V1.0 & V1.1 Comparison. V1.1 adds a CAN_OUT* interface for connecting to interfaces without a CAN transceiver but with CAN function, such as the USB port of the motherboard.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Firmware Update

Both EBB boards and the U2C module support firmware updates. For EBB boards, use the reserved BOOT and RESET buttons to enter DFU mode and update firmware via USB. For the U2C module, firmware can be updated through SWD or hardware DFU.

5.2. CAN Bus Communication

The primary function of the EBB boards is to connect Klipper expansion devices to your 3D printer's main control board via CAN bus. Ensure all CAN bus connections are secure and properly terminated (using the 120R jumper if needed) for stable data transmission.

Figure 5.1: Klipper Expansion Device Connection Diagram. Illustrates how the EBB board integrates into a 3D printer system with a Raspberry Pi, U2C module, and BTT Octopus PRO mainboard.

5.3. Onboard Components

• TMC2209 Driver: The onboard TMC2209 UART driver is used for controlling the extruder motor.

Figure 5.2: Onboard TMC2209 Driver. Used for extruder control.
• ADXL345 Accelerometer: The onboard ADXL345 accelerometer can be utilized for input shaping in Klipper, improving print quality by reducing vibrations.
• RGB Port: A reserved RGB port is available for connecting illumination components.


Figure 5.3: Reserved RGB Port and Onboard ADXL345 Accelerometer.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Safety Precautions

• Always ensure the power is disconnected before performing any installation, wiring, or maintenance on the board.
• Prevent short circuits by ensuring no metal objects or conductive materials come into contact with the board's components or pinheads.
• Avoid exposing the board to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.

6.2. Protection Features

The EBB boards and U2C module incorporate several protection features:

• ESD Protection: Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection is present on the USB ports of both the EBB boards and the U2C module to prevent damage from static electricity.
• Surge Protection: The boards are designed with surge protection to handle unexpected voltage spikes.
• Anti-flyback Diodes: These diodes on the heating rod and fan ports protect the MOS tubes from damage caused by reverse voltage.
• Anti-reverse Connection: The power interface includes protection against reverse polarity connections.

6.3. Cleaning

To clean the board, gently wipe it with a dry, soft brush or a lint-free cloth. Do not use liquids or solvents, as these can damage the electronic components.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your BIGTREETECH EBB or U2C board, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power/Board Not Responding:
  • Check all power connections for proper polarity and secure fit.
  • Verify the input voltage is within the specified DC12V-DC24V range.
  • Ensure the USB power jumper is correctly set if powering via USB.
• Communication Issues (CAN Bus/USB):
  • For CAN bus, check all wiring for continuity and correct connections (CAN-L, CAN-H).
  • Ensure the 120R CAN terminal resistor jumper is correctly configured for your network topology.
  • Verify that the U2C module is properly connected to the Raspberry Pi and recognized.
  • For USB, try a different USB cable or port.
• Firmware Update Failure:
  • Ensure the board is in DFU mode (using BOOT/RESET buttons for EBB).
  • Check that the correct firmware file is being used.
  • Verify USB connection stability during the update process.
• Sensor Reading Errors (Thermistor, ADXL345):
  • Check sensor wiring for correct pinouts and secure connections.
  • For PT100/PT1000, ensure the PT-Choose jumpers are set according to your sensor type (2-wire or 4-wire).
  • Verify the thermistor pull-up resistor jumper settings are correct for your thermistor type.
• Motor Not Moving/Extruder Issues:
  • Confirm the TMC2209 driver is correctly configured in your Klipper firmware.
  • Check motor wiring and ensure the motor is compatible with the board.

For more in-depth troubleshooting and community support, refer to the official BIGTREETECH GitHub repository.

8. User Tips

• Choose the Correct Board: The EBB36 is designed for 36mm extruder stepper motors, while the EBB42 is for 42mm motors. Ensure you select the appropriate board for your specific extruder to guarantee compatibility and optimal performance.
• Leverage CAN Bus: The CAN bus significantly simplifies wiring. Take advantage of its benefits for a cleaner and more reliable setup, especially in complex 3D printer builds.
• Proper Jumper Configuration: Always double-check all jumper settings, especially for USB power, CAN bus termination (120R), and thermistor pull-up resistors. Incorrect settings can lead to unexpected behavior or component damage.
• Utilize GitHub Resources: BIGTREETECH provides extensive documentation and resources on their GitHub page. This is an invaluable resource for detailed setup guides, firmware information, and community support.
• ESD Precautions: When handling the boards, always take electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions, such as using an anti-static wrist strap, to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components.

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed technical documentation, firmware, and community support, please visit the official BIGTREETECH GitHub repository:

https://github.com/bigtreetech/EBB

For warranty information and specific support inquiries, please refer to the seller's policies or contact BIGTREETECH directly through their official channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.