dws MKS V1.0 3D Printer Control Board User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the dws MKS V1.0 3D Printer Control Board. Designed for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals, this 32-bit control board offers advanced features and broad compatibility to enhance your 3D printing experience. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper functionality and safety.

2. Key Features

• High-Performance Processor: Equipped with a 32-bit ARM-class Cortex-M3 series LPC1768 master chip, operating at 100MHz for efficient processing.
• Robust Design: Features a four-layer circuit board with gold deposition technology, ensuring durability and reliability. CE certified for quality assurance.
• Firmware Flexibility: Supports highly modular and open-source firmware such as Marlin2.0 and Smoothieware, facilitating user customization and secondary development.
• Advanced Driver Support: Compatible with various stepper motor drivers, including SPI working mode for TMC2130. This enables features like self-contained material detection and limit switch functionality through firmware modification without additional physical switches.
• Expanded Connectivity: Includes a reserved extended port for PWM signal SERVOS, supporting accessories like BLTouch auto-leveling sensors.
• Display Compatibility: Supports a wide range of displays, including 2.8-inch and 3.5-inch color touch screens, as well as traditional 2004 LCD and 12864 LCD modules.
• Smart Printing Functions: Integrates features such as Resume Printing While Power Off, Filament Break Detection, and Automatic Shutdown After Printing for enhanced convenience and print reliability.
• Hot Bed Power Management: Supports hot bed power up to 144W (thermal bed resistance greater than 1Ω). For higher power hot beds, an external hot-bed power expansion board is required.

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Board Overview

Familiarize yourself with the layout and connection points of the MKS V1.0 control board.

Figure 1: Rear view of the dws MKS V1.0 3D Printer Control Board. This image displays the rear side of the MKS V1.0 control board. Key features visible include stepper motor driver sockets (labeled 1A, 2A, 2B), fan connectors (+FAN-), heated bed connectors (+BED-), heated extruder connectors (+HE0-, +HE1-), USB port (+5V INT), and various pin headers for communication and control. A 'QC PASS 05' sticker is also present, indicating quality control.

3.2 Power Connection

• Connect the main power supply to the designated power input terminals on the board.
• For the hot bed, ensure its power consumption does not exceed 144W (thermal bed resistance must be greater than 1Ω). If your hot bed requires more power, an external hot-bed power expansion board must be used to prevent damage to the MKS V1.0 board.

3.3 Stepper Driver Installation

The MKS V1.0 board supports various stepper motor drivers, including A4988, DRV8825, TMC2208, and TMC2130. Carefully insert the stepper drivers into their respective sockets, ensuring correct orientation to avoid damage. For TMC2130 drivers, the board supports SPI working mode, which may require specific jumper settings and firmware configuration.

3.4 Firmware Configuration

The board is compatible with Marlin2.0 and Smoothieware firmware. Download the latest stable version of your preferred firmware. Configure the firmware according to your printer's specific setup, including stepper driver types, endstop configurations, and display settings. For TMC2130 in SPI mode, enable the corresponding options in the firmware to utilize features like sensorless homing or material detection.

3.5 Peripheral Connections

• Displays: Connect your chosen display (2.8-inch/3.5-inch touch screen, 2004 LCD, or 12864 LCD) to the appropriate display ports.
• BLTouch: If using a BLTouch sensor, connect it to the reserved SERVOS port (PWM signal) and configure it in your firmware.
• Fans & Heaters: Connect cooling fans and heating elements (hot end, hot bed) to their labeled connectors.
• Endstops: Connect endstop switches to the designated endstop pins.

4. Operating Instructions

Once the MKS V1.0 board is correctly installed and configured with firmware, you can begin operating your 3D printer. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on the device.

• Power On: Apply power to the control board. The display should illuminate, and the printer should initialize.
• Pre-Print Checks: Before starting a print, perform routine checks such as bed leveling, nozzle cleaning, and filament loading.
• Initiating a Print: Load your G-code file via SD card or USB connection (if supported by your firmware and setup). Select the file from the display interface to begin printing.
• Resume Printing: In case of a power outage, the "Resume Printing While Power Off" feature allows the print to continue from where it left off once power is restored. Ensure this feature is enabled in your firmware.
• Filament Detection: If "Filament Break Detection" is enabled, the printer will pause automatically when filament runs out or breaks, allowing you to load new filament and resume the print.
• Automatic Shutdown: The "Automatic Shutdown After Printing" function can be configured to power off the printer once a print job is complete, saving energy.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your MKS V1.0 control board and 3D printer.

• Keep Clean: Periodically clean the board and its surroundings to prevent dust and debris accumulation, which can lead to overheating or short circuits. Use compressed air or a soft brush.
• Check Connections: Regularly inspect all wiring and connectors to ensure they are secure and free from damage. Loose connections can cause intermittent issues or component failure.
• Firmware Updates: Stay informed about new firmware releases for Marlin2.0 or Smoothieware. Updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. Follow official guidelines for updating your firmware.
• Environmental Control: Operate the board in a stable environment, avoiding extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct exposure to liquids.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the documentation of your specific firmware (Marlin2.0 or Smoothieware).

• No Power/Display Not Lighting Up:
  • Verify the power supply is correctly connected and providing the correct voltage.
  • Check all power cables for damage or loose connections.
  • Ensure the power switch (if any) is in the ON position.
• Stepper Motors Not Moving:
  • Confirm stepper drivers are correctly installed and oriented.
  • Check motor wiring for correct connection and continuity.
  • Verify firmware configuration for stepper motor settings (steps/mm, direction, current).
  • Ensure endstops are not triggered (unless homing).
• Hot End/Hot Bed Not Heating:
  • Check wiring to the heating elements and thermistors.
  • Verify firmware settings for heater types and thermistor values.
  • Ensure the hot bed power does not exceed 144W; if it does, an external expansion board is mandatory.
• Communication Errors (USB/SD Card):
  • Ensure correct USB drivers are installed on your computer.
  • Try a different USB cable or port.
  • Format SD cards to FAT32 and ensure they are properly inserted.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty Information

Specific warranty details for the dws MKS V1.0 3D Printer Control Board are not provided in the product information. Please refer to the retailer or manufacturer's official website for current warranty terms and conditions.

9. Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or inquiries regarding your dws MKS V1.0 3D Printer Control Board, please contact the manufacturer or your product retailer. Ensure you have your purchase details and model information ready when seeking support.