Makerbase MKS Gen_L V2.1 / V1.0 3D Printer Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, configuration, and operation of the Makerbase MKS Gen_L V2.1 and V1.0 3D Printer Motherboards. These boards are designed to offer a stable and versatile control solution for various 3D printer setups, supporting a wide range of stepper drivers and display options.

2. Key Features

Integrates 2560 and Ramps1.4 functionalities onto a single PCB for simplified wiring and enhanced stability.
Constructed with a high-quality 4-layer PCB for improved performance and durability.
Compatible with Marlin firmware, allowing direct replacement of Ramps1.4 with similar configuration methods.
Features a specialized power chip supporting a wide input voltage range of 12V-24V.
Supports a variety of stepper drivers including 4988, 8825, TMC2208, TMC2209, and TMC2100.
Compatible with various LCD displays such as LCD2004, LCD12864, and MKS TFT series (TFT24/28/32/35/70).
24V input capability efficiently reduces heated bed current to 1/4, mitigating Mosfet heat issues.
Provides interfaces for connecting external large stepper drivers.
Retains Servos, AUX-1, and AUX-2 interfaces from Ramps1.4, offering three 5V and three 12V output interfaces.

3. Safety Precautions

Power Connection: Always ensure correct positive and negative polarity before applying power to the motherboard. Incorrect connection can cause severe damage.
Driver Handling: Do not plug in or remove stepper drivers while the motherboard is powered on. This can easily burn out the drivers or the board.
Current Adjustment: Avoid adjusting the stepper driver current while the motors are actively running. Adjustments should only be made when the system is powered off or motors are stationary.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1. Board Overview and Dimensions

The MKS Gen_L series offers a compact design suitable for various 3D printer enclosures. Below are the physical dimensions and a visual comparison of the V1.0 and V2.1 boards.

MKS Gen_L V1.0 and V2.1 Motherboards side-by-side — Figure 1: MKS Gen_L V1.0 and V2.1 Motherboards

MKS Gen_L V2.1 dimensional drawing with measurements in millimeters — Figure 2: MKS Gen_L V2.1 Dimensional Drawing (Dimensions in mm)

4.2. Differences Between V1.0 and V2.1

The primary distinction between the MKS Gen_L V1.0 and V2.1 lies in their stepper driver configuration. The V2.1 board directly supports MKS TMC2130 SPI, MKS TMC2208, and MKS TMC2209 UART modes. Jumper caps are used for configuration without the need for flying wires, simplifying setup for advanced drivers.

Comparison of MKS Gen_L V1.0 and V2.1 boards highlighting driver mode differences — Figure 3: MKS Gen_L V1.0 vs V2.1 Driver Mode Comparison

4.3. Wiring and Connections

Refer to the diagrams below for proper connection of motors, endstops, power supply, heated bed, fans, and displays.

MKS Gen_L V2.1 Motherboard with all ports and components clearly labeled, including X, Y, Z, E0, E1 motors, fan, heated bed, power supply, USB, TFT display, LCD display, servos, external port, and thermal inputs. — Figure 4: MKS Gen_L V2.1 Labeled Ports and Components

MKS Gen_L V1.0 Motherboard with all ports and components clearly labeled, including X, Y, Z, E0, E1 motors, fan, heated bed, power supply, USB, TFT display, LCD display, servos, external port, and thermal inputs. — Figure 5: MKS Gen_L V1.0 Labeled Ports and Components

A standard USB cable is used for connecting the motherboard to a computer for firmware flashing and control.

Blue USB Type-A to Type-B cable for printer connection — Figure 6: USB Cable for Connection

4.4. Stepper Driver Jumper Settings (MKS Gen_L V2.1)

For MKS Gen_L V2.1, stepper driver modes are configured using jumper caps. Ensure correct placement for your chosen driver type (e.g., TMC2209 in UART mode, TMC2130 in SPI mode, or standard step/dir mode).

Close-up of MKS Gen_L V2.1 showing jumper settings for motor drive in SPI mode. Instructions indicate to insert the jumper cap into the blue area. — Figure 7: SPI Mode Jumper Setting

Close-up of MKS Gen_L V2.1 showing jumper settings for motor drive in UART mode. Instructions indicate to insert the jumper cap into the blue area. — Figure 8: UART Mode Jumper Setting

Close-up of MKS Gen_L V2.1 showing jumper settings for normal mode. Instructions indicate to insert the jumper cap into the blue area. — Figure 9: Normal Mode Jumper Setting

Additionally, ensure the correct voltage selection (3.3V or 5V) for certain peripherals if applicable.

Close-up of MKS Gen_L V2.1 showing a jumper for 3.3V/5V power selection. — Figure 10: 3.3V/5V Power Jumper

4.5. Firmware Installation

The MKS Gen_L boards typically use Marlin firmware. You will need to download the appropriate firmware version and configure it for your specific printer setup (e.g., stepper drivers, endstops, thermistors, display). The firmware is then uploaded to the board via a USB connection using an IDE like Arduino IDE or VSCode with PlatformIO.

For detailed instructions and setup files, please refer to the official GitHub repositories:

MKS Gen_L Wiki: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-GEN_L/wiki
MKS ESP32 FOC V1 Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ESP32FOC/tree/MKS-ESP32-FOC-V1.0
MKS ESP32 FOC V2 Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ESP32FOC/tree/MKS-ESP32-FOC-V2.0
Test Code in Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ESP32FOC/tree/master/Test%20Code
MKS CANable Github: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/CANable-MKS
MKS VESC Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/bldc
MKS SERVO42C Github: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-SERVO42C
XRIVE board github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ODrive, https://github.com/odriverobotics/ODrive

5. Operating Instructions

Once the MKS Gen_L motherboard is correctly installed and firmware is uploaded, you can operate your 3D printer using a connected LCD display, a computer via USB (using software like Pronterface or OctoPrint), or a connected TFT touchscreen.

Power On: Connect the 12V-24V power supply to the designated power input terminals.
Display Interface: Navigate menus and control printer functions using your chosen display (LCD or TFT).
Computer Control: Connect the board to your computer via USB. Use 3D printer control software to send G-code, monitor prints, and adjust settings.
Printing: Load your G-code file (via SD card or computer), preheat the printer, and start the print job.

6. Maintenance

Keep Clean: Regularly clean the motherboard and surrounding area to prevent dust accumulation, which can lead to overheating or short circuits. Use compressed air or a soft brush.
Check Connections: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion or damage. Loose connections can cause intermittent issues or component failure.
Firmware Updates: Keep your firmware updated to the latest stable version to benefit from bug fixes, new features, and improved performance.
Environmental Control: Operate the motherboard in a dry, stable environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.

7. Troubleshooting

No Power: Double-check the power supply connection and ensure the power supply is functional. Verify correct polarity.
Motors Not Moving: Check stepper driver installation and jumper settings. Ensure motor wiring is correct. Verify motor current settings in firmware or on drivers.
Display Not Working: Confirm display cable connections are correct and secure. Ensure the display type is correctly configured in the firmware.
Heated Bed Not Heating: Check heated bed wiring and thermistor connection. Verify power supply capacity and Mosfet functionality. Ensure heated bed is enabled in firmware.
Communication Errors: Ensure correct USB drivers are installed on your computer. Verify baud rate settings in your control software match the firmware.

8. Specifications

Attribute	Value
Model Number	MKS Gen_L V1.0 V2.1 Motherboard
Item Type	Motherboard
Brand Name	Reorcxe (Makerbase)
Origin	Mainland China
Input Voltage	12V-24V
Supported Stepper Drivers	4988, 8825, TMC2208, TMC2209, TMC2100
Supported Displays	LCD2004, LCD12864, MKS TFT24/28/32/35/70
PCB Layers	4-layer
Package Length	8 cm
Package Width	5 cm
Package Height	8 cm
Package Weight	0.16 kg

9. User Tips

Start Simple: If you are new to 3D printer motherboards, begin with basic configurations and gradually add more complex features.
Community Support: Leverage online communities and forums for Marlin firmware and MKS boards. Many common issues have already been solved and documented by other users.
Backup Firmware: Always back up your working firmware configuration before making significant changes or updates.
Test Components: Before final assembly, test individual components like motors, endstops, and thermistors to ensure they are functioning correctly.

10. Support and Resources

For further technical support, detailed schematics, and the latest firmware, please refer to the official Makerbase resources:

MKS Gen_L Wiki: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-GEN_L/wiki
MKS ESP32 FOC V1 Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ESP32FOC/tree/MKS-ESP32-FOC-V1.0
MKS ESP32 FOC V2 Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ESP32FOC/tree/MKS-ESP32-FOC-V2.0
Test Code in Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ESP32FOC/tree/master/Test%20Code
MKS CANable Github: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/CANable-MKS
MKS VESC Github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/bldc
MKS SERVO42C Github: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-SERVO42C
XRIVE board github: https://github.com/makerbase-motor/MKS-ODrive, https://github.com/odriverobotics/ODrive

A user manual in PDF format is also available for download: User manual (PDF)

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