1. Introduction
The Makerbase MKS Robin Nano V3.1 is an advanced 32-bit control board designed for FDM 3D printers. Featuring an upgraded STM32F407VET6 MCU (M4 core), it offers faster processing speed and enhanced resources to support more powerful functions. This board is ideal for both manufacturers producing 3D printers in bulk and individual users looking to upgrade their existing 3D printers. It includes support for USB drives, improved anti-interference performance, and broad compatibility with various display types.
2. Specifications
The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 boasts significant improvements over previous versions. Key specifications are detailed below:
- MCU: STM32F407VET6 (Cortex-M4 with FPU, 32-bit, 168MHz)
- Flash Memory: 512KB
- RAM: 192KB
- Item Type: Motherboard
- SPI Flash: 8M W25Q64JVSIQ
- Storage Support: TF Card (SPI3), USB Disk
- WiFi Connectivity: USART1 + SPI2
- Virtual USB Device: Supported
- Motor Interface: 6-axis (Two Z-axes can share a single driver)
- PWM Fan Channels: 2 controllable channels
- PWM TTL: Supported
- Independent Serial Port: Supported (UART3)
- Power Protection: Power TVS Protect
- MOS Drive Circuit: Resistance + Schottky protection
- Temperature Circuit Protection: Resistance protection for TH1, TH2, TB
- Display Compatibility: MKS TS35, MKS H43, LCD MINI12864, LCD2004
2.1. Dimensions
3. Setup
3.1. Component Overview
The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 control board typically comes with or requires the following components for a complete setup:
- MKS Robin Nano V3.1 Motherboard
- TS35 TFT Touch Screen (or other compatible LCD)
- WIFI Module
- Stepper Motor Drivers (e.g., TMC2209, A4988) and Heatsinks
- Endstops
- Connecting Cables (USB, power, motor, sensor, display)
3.2. Wiring Diagram
Refer to the detailed wiring diagram below for connecting all components to the MKS Robin Nano V3.1 board. Ensure all connections are secure and correctly oriented before applying power.
- Power Supply: Connect 12/24V power to the designated input terminals.
- Motor Drivers: Insert stepper motor drivers (e.g., TMC2209) into the motor driver slots (X, Y, Z1, Z2, E0, E1). Pay close attention to the orientation.
- Motors: Connect X, Y, Z1, Z2, E0, E1 motors to their respective driver outputs.
- Heated Bed: Connect the heated bed to the 'Heated bed' terminals.
- Extruder/Heater Interfaces: Connect E1 and E0 interfaces as required.
- Fans: Connect fans to FAN1 and FAN2 ports.
- TFT/LCD Screen: Connect your chosen display (e.g., TS35) to the TFT/LCD screen port.
- Endstops: Connect endstops to the 'Endstop' pins.
- Thermal Sensors: Connect extruder and heated bed thermal sensors to 'Extruder1 thermal', 'Extruder2 thermal', and 'Heated bed thermal' ports.
- WIFI Module: Install the WIFI module into the MKS Robin WiFi slot.
- TF Card: Insert the TF card into the TF Card slot.
- USB Disk: Connect a USB disk to the USB interface for printing or file transfer.
3.3. Firmware Installation
The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 board is compatible with Marlin 2.X firmware. You will need to compile the firmware after modifying the motherboard type to match your board.
- MKS Robin Nano v3.0 Operation Instructions: https://blog.csdn.net/gjy_skyblue/article/details/118754258?spm=1001.2014.3001.5501
- MKS Robin Nano V3 Github Repository: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-Robin-Nano-V3.X
- Firmware Source (Marlin 2.0): https://github.com/makerbase-mks/Mks-Robin-Nano-Marlin2.0-Firmware
Follow the instructions in the provided links to download, configure, and flash the firmware to your board.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Display Usage
The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 supports various displays, including the TS35 TFT Touch Screen, MKS H43, LCD MINI12864, and LCD2004. The TS35 touch screen provides an intuitive interface for controlling your 3D printer, allowing you to navigate menus, adjust settings, and monitor print progress.
4.2. Printing Methods
The board supports printing directly from a TF card or a USB disk. This flexibility allows you to choose the most convenient method for your workflow.
4.3. Virtual USB Device Function
The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 features a Virtual USB Device function, allowing you to connect the motherboard to your computer via a USB cable and access it as if it were a standard USB disk. This simplifies the process of copying gcode files without needing to remove the TF card or USB disk from the board.
4.4. PWM Control and Serial Port
The board leads TTL PWM signals, which are essential for laser heads with higher power, making it suitable for 3D printing and laser engraving two-in-one machines. It also reserves an independent serial port (UART3), ensuring that other serial devices like MKS H43 serial screens do not conflict with other devices.
4.5. Dual Z-axis and Fan Control
The MKS Robin Nano V3.1 supports a dual Z-axis configuration where both Z-axes can share the same driver. Additionally, it provides two PWM controllable fan channels, offering flexible control over cooling.
4.6. Stepper Driver Configuration (Microstep)
The board supports various stepper motor drivers. The microstep settings are configured using jumpers on the board. Refer to the table below for common microstep configurations for different drivers.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your MKS Robin Nano V3.1 control board, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Power Off Before Changes: Always power off the motherboard before plugging in or removing any drivers, motors, or other components. Failure to do so can cause damage to the board or components.
- Keep Clean: Regularly clean the board to prevent dust and debris accumulation, which can lead to overheating or short circuits. Use compressed air or a soft brush.
- Avoid Static Discharge: Handle the board with care, especially in dry environments, to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) which can damage sensitive electronic components.
- Check Connections: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion or damage.
- Firmware Updates: Keep your firmware updated to the latest stable version to benefit from bug fixes and new features. Refer to the official GitHub repository for updates.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MKS Robin Nano V3.1 board, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Power: Check the power supply connection and ensure it provides the correct voltage (12V or 24V). Verify the power cable is not damaged.
- Display Not Working: Ensure the display cable is correctly connected to the TFT/LCD port. Verify that the display type is correctly configured in the firmware.
- Motors Not Moving: Check motor wiring and ensure stepper drivers are correctly inserted and configured (e.g., microstep settings). Confirm that the motors are enabled in the firmware.
- Printing Issues: Verify that the gcode file is valid and compatible with your printer's configuration. Check filament path and extruder settings.
- Firmware Errors: If firmware flashing fails or the board behaves erratically after an update, re-check your firmware configuration (especially motherboard type) and try flashing again.
- Anti-interference: The V3.1 board includes improved anti-interference features (Schottky diodes, TVS protection). If you experience unexpected behavior, ensure your power supply is stable and connections are properly shielded.
For more detailed troubleshooting and community support, refer to the official MKS Robin Nano V3 Github repository and related forums.
7. User Tips
- Always Power Off: Make it a habit to always power off the motherboard before making any physical changes to wiring or components, especially when handling stepper drivers.
- Verify Stepper Driver Orientation: Incorrect insertion of stepper drivers is a common mistake that can lead to damage. Double-check their orientation before powering on.
- Regular Firmware Updates: Keep an eye on the official GitHub repository for firmware updates. These often include performance improvements, new features, and bug fixes that can enhance your printing experience.
- Utilize Virtual USB: Take advantage of the Virtual USB Device function for convenient file transfer, avoiding the need to constantly remove and reinsert TF cards.
- Community Resources: The 3D printing community is a great resource. If you encounter unique issues, searching online forums or the GitHub issues section for the MKS Robin Nano V3.X can often provide solutions or insights.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and specific support inquiries, please refer to the manufacturer's official website or contact your point of purchase. Technical resources, including firmware and detailed guides, are available on the Makerbase GitHub repositories:
- MKS Robin Nano V3 Github: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-Robin-Nano-V3.X
- Firmware Source: https://github.com/makerbase-mks/Mks-Robin-Nano-Marlin2.0-Firmware
These resources provide valuable information for advanced users and developers.
9. Product Video
Watch this video for a visual overview of the MKS Robin Nano V3.1 control board and its features.
