1. Product Overview
The Makerbase MKS DLC32 MAX is a high-performance, expandable, and smart control solution designed for desktop engraving machines. It is equipped with an ESP32-S3 series chip, supporting both CNC and laser engraving functionalities. This board accommodates CNC A-axis control and supports laser heads with up to 60W engraving power, achieving speeds of up to 30,000mm/min for efficient creation.
It is compatible with various plug-in drivers, including the ultra-silent TMC2209 and high-current TB67S109 driver modules. External drivers can also be connected for increased load output. The MKS DLC32 MAX integrates intelligent safety features such as lid protection and flame detection to ensure secure operation. It offers flexible control options, including mobile app and web LAN remote control, eliminating the need for a constant computer connection.
2. Specifications
| Attribute | MKS DLC32 MAX | MKS DLC32 (for comparison) |
|---|---|---|
| Board Model | MKS DLC32 MAX | MKS DLC32 |
| Power Input | 12V-24V 10A | 12V-24V 10A |
| Processor Model | ESP32 S3 | ESP32 S1 |
| Main Frequency | 240MHz | 240MHz |
| Driver Type | Plug-in type/External | Plug-in type/External |
| A-axis | Supported | Not Supported |
| WiFi PC Interface | Supported | Supported |
| WiFi APP Interface | Supported | Supported |
| Offline Engraving | Supported | Supported |
| CNC/Laser Mode Switching | One-button switching | Requires separate module |
| Laser Engraver Screen | 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen | 3.5-inch direct drive screen |
| CNC Controller | Supported | Not Supported |
| Air Assist | Supported | Not Supported |
| Emergency Stop | Supported | Supported |
| Maximum Engraving Speed | 30000mm/min | 6000mm/min |
Physical Dimensions
3. Setup and Installation
3.1 Connecting the Motherboard Interface
Before powering on, ensure all connections are secure. The MKS DLC32 MAX motherboard requires a 12-24V power supply with a maximum current of 10A. The connector model is DC-007B-2.1mm.
Power Supply
- Input Voltage: 12V-24V DC
- Maximum Current: 10A
- Connector Type: DC-007B-2.1mm
External Switch
This port is used for external switches to control power on/off. If connecting a switch, ensure to unplug the power fuse of the motherboard beforehand. This interface is NOT a power supply; do not connect it to a 12-24V power supply directly.
USB-PC Port
Connects to a PC for firmware updates and host computer control. The mainboard's serial port chip is CH340. Before connecting, install the corresponding USB driver file on your PC for proper recognition. The USB interface does not provide 5V power; a 12-24V power supply must be connected to the mainboard for PC recognition.
TF Card Slot
Used for storing engraving files. Recommended card types are Class4 or Class10 speed, 4-16GB memory, formatted as FAT32. Supported file formats: .NC, .GC, .GCODE.
Display Interface
Connects to the MKS exclusive touch screen (RJ11 connector) for control and engraving operations.
Reset
Used to reset the MCU or connect an external emergency stop button.
Safety Features (Flame Detection, Tilt Detection, Door Detection)
Connect respective sensors to enable these features in the firmware. If the safety door is opened during operation, work will be suspended.
X/Y/Z Endstops
For connecting endstop switches. Pay attention to the corresponding signal. If your switch has only two wires, connect to "s" and "g" pins.
Motor Sockets (X/Y/Z/A Motor Interface)
Connect motor drives (e.g., A4988, TMC2209) to these sockets. Ensure correct driver direction when plugging in/out to prevent damage. The motor interfaces for XYZ are 1A-1B-2A-2B, where 1A-1B is one phase and 2A-2B is the other. If the motor connection phase sequence is incorrect, the motor may not rotate normally. Always plug/unplug drivers or motors when power is OFF.
Laser Output
Connect the laser module, paying attention to the signal connections (S-TTL, G-GND, V-VIN). For lasers under 20W, connect to interface 1 (XH2.54-3P). For lasers 20-90W, connect to interface 2 (MR30PB-M). For lasers over 50W, an external power supply is recommended, with the motherboard connecting only "S" and "G" for control signals.
Spindle Interface
Connect a DC motor spindle. This is an output port. The output voltage (0-12V or 0-24V) depends on the input power voltage. If the input is 24V, the maximum output is 24V. Currently supports up to 10W at 12V and 20W at 24V.
Air Assist & Beeper
Connect air-assisted equipment to the Air Assist port and a buzzer to the Beeper port if desired.
3.2 Firmware Update and Software Installation
The mainboard comes with pre-installed firmware. Updates are generally not required unless there are specific needs.
For detailed instructions on firmware updates and software installation, please refer to the official MKS DLC32 MAX Manual PDF: MKS DLC32 MAX Manual (PDF). This PDF contains visual guides for installing MKS LASERTOOL and USB driver files (CH340), as well as the firmware update operation.
Key steps include:
- **Install CH340 Driver:** Before connecting the board to your PC, install the CH340 USB driver. This ensures your PC recognizes the mainboard.
- **Install MKS LASERTOOL:** Download and install the MKS LASERTOOL software (V3.0 or above is recommended).
- **Connect Board to PC:** Connect the mainboard to your PC via the USB-PC port. Ensure a 12-24V power supply is connected to the mainboard for PC recognition.
- **Firmware Update:** Use the MKS ESP32 Download Tool within MKS LASERTOOL to flash new firmware if necessary. Select the correct .bin file, BAUD rate (115200 recommended), FLASH SIZE (8MB), and ESP32 model (ESP32 S3).
4. Operation
The MKS DLC32 MAX offers multiple control methods:
- PC HOST-software control (e.g., LaserGRBL, LightBurn)
- Wireless connection control (Web UI)
- Mobile APP control (MKSLaser APP)
- MKS Touch Screen control (optional)
4.1 PC HOST-Software Control
Software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn can be used to control the MKS DLC32 MAX. After installing the CH340 driver and connecting the board, select the correct COM port and baud rate (115200) in your chosen software. You can then load engraving files and control the machine.
4.2 Wireless Connection Control (Web UI)
The motherboard supports WiFi connectivity for remote control via a web browser. First, configure the WiFi mode using parameter $50:
$50=0: Disable WiFi and Bluetooth.$50=1: WiFi AP mode.$50=2: WiFi STA mode (recommended for connecting to an existing network).
If using STA mode ($50=2), set your network's SSID and password using $53 and $54 respectively. After configuration, send $50=2 again. Once connected, send [ESP111] to query the board's IP address. Enter this IP address into your PC or mobile browser (ensure both devices are on the same network) to access the web control page.
4.3 Mobile APP Control (MKSLaser)
Download the MKSLaser app from your app store (Google Play). Open the app, click the connect button, enter the board's IP address, and click Connect. Ensure your mobile phone is connected to the same network as the motherboard. Once connected, you can control the machine and engrave files directly from the app.
4.4 MKS Touch Screen Control (Optional)
If you have the MKS exclusive touch screen, connect it to the display interface (RJ11). The screen is not enabled by default; send the command $47=1 via host software (like LaserGRBL) to enable it. Once enabled and connected, an icon will appear on the screen, indicating successful connection. The touchscreen allows for direct control, adjustment, and sculpture operations.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your MKS DLC32 MAX board.
- **Keep Clean:** Regularly clean the board and its surroundings to prevent dust and debris accumulation, which can affect performance and cause short circuits. Use compressed air or a soft brush.
- **Power Off Before Adjustments:** Always disconnect power before making any physical connections, disconnections, or adjustments to drivers, motors, or other components.
- **Secure Connections:** Periodically check all wiring and connectors to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion or damage.
- **Firmware Updates:** While not always necessary, keeping the firmware updated can provide new features, bug fixes, and improved stability. Refer to Section 3.2 for update instructions.
- **Environmental Conditions:** Operate the board in a dry, well-ventilated environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. The dual-fan enclosure design (if applicable) helps with heat dissipation.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| PC does not recognize the mainboard (COM port not visible). | CH340 driver not installed or incorrectly installed. Mainboard not powered (12-24V). USB cable not connected properly. | Install/reinstall the CH340 driver. Ensure 12-24V power is supplied to the mainboard. Check USB cable connection and try a different cable/port. |
| Motors do not rotate or move incorrectly. | Incorrect motor phase sequence connection. Driver direction incorrect. Loose wiring. | Verify motor wiring (1A-1B-2A-2B). Check driver orientation and microstep settings (refer to Figure 3.2). Ensure all motor connections are secure. |
| WiFi connection fails or cannot find network. | Incorrect WiFi mode ($50 parameter). Incorrect SSID/password ($53, $54 parameters). Devices not on the same network. | Set $50=2 for STA mode. Verify $53 (SSID) and $54 (password) are correct. Ensure PC/mobile and mainboard are connected to the same WiFi network. |
| Touch screen display is empty or not responding. | Screen not enabled in firmware. Incorrect connection. | Send $47=1 command via host software to enable the screen. Check RJ11 cable connection. |
| Laser module not firing or weak output. | Incorrect wiring (S, G, V). Insufficient power supply for laser. Firmware settings for laser power. | Verify laser wiring according to Figure 3.3. Ensure external power supply is used for high-power lasers. Check laser power settings in software. |
7. User Tips
- **Z-Axis Control for CNC:** For CNC milling applications, ensure your setup supports Z-axis control. The MKS DLC32 MAX supports Z-axis, and the remote control can be used in CNC router mode with Z-axis functionality.
- **G-Code Sender Compatibility:** The board is compatible with G-code senders. Users have successfully used it with various G-code sending software.
- **Laser Module Compatibility:** The MKS DLC32 MAX is compatible with various laser modules, including those from SCULPFUN. Ensure the laser module's power requirements and wiring match the board's specifications (refer to Section 3.1, Laser Output).
- **Offline Engraving:** Utilize the offline engraving feature by saving G-code files to a TF card. This allows for operation without a constant PC connection, improving stability.
- **Experiment with Drivers:** The plug-in driver design allows for flexibility. Experiment with different drivers like TMC2209 for quieter operation or TB67S109 for higher current applications, depending on your motor requirements.
8. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Makerbase documentation or contact your vendor. Always ensure you are using the product as intended and following all safety guidelines.
Additional resources, including the full user manual in PDF format, can be found here: MKS DLC32 MAX Manual (PDF).