1. Product Overview
The BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 is a compact, high-performance control board designed primarily as an alternative to Raspberry Pi for 3D printer control, especially for Klipper firmware environments. It features a quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and integrated WiFi, providing robust capabilities for managing complex 3D printing operations. This board is compatible with various BIGTREETECH mainboards, enhancing the functionality of your 3D printer setup.
Image 1.1: Top-down view of the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 Control Board, showcasing its various components and ports.
Image 1.2: A comparison of the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 board alongside a Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, highlighting their similar form factors and potential for interchangeable use in certain applications.
2. Key Features
- Processor: 64-bit Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A53 processor for efficient performance.
- Memory: 1GB DDR3L RAM for smooth operation.
- Operating System: Debian Linux compatible, fully customizable.
- Connectivity: Integrated 2.4G WiFi and 100Mbps wired Ethernet (RJ45 port).
- USB Ports: Four USB 2.0 ports for connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, USB drives, and cameras.
- Display Output: HDMI output supporting 4K UHD displays at 60fps, and low-power OLED/TFT screens via SPI (DSI not supported).
- GPIO: 40-pin GPIO header for extensive expansion and control.
- Specialized Ports: Dedicated CAN bus port (requires U2C module, sold separately) and SPI port for ADXL345 accelerometer for Klipper input shaper calibration.
- Power Input: Flexible power options including DC 12V-24V via screw terminals and DC 5V±5%/2A via USB Type-C port.
- Fan Port: PWM fan port for connecting an external fan to improve heat dissipation.
- Klipper Compatibility: Designed for seamless integration with Klipper firmware, enhancing 3D printer performance.
Image 2.1: Diagram illustrating the core components and capabilities of the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2, including its 64-bit Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A53 processor and 1GB DDR3L RAM.
Image 2.2: Visual representation of the SPI port for ADXL345, dedicated CAN bus port, PWM fan port, and multiple display options available on the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2.
Image 2.3: Illustration detailing the flexible power input options (DC 12V-24V screw terminals, USB Type-C) and the four USB 2.0 ports for various device connections.
Image 2.4: Diagram showing the onboard RJ45 port for wired network and the built-in 2.4G WiFi module with an external antenna for wireless connectivity.
3. Setup Guide
3.1 Initial Board Preparation
- Install Heatsink: Apply the provided heatsink to the main processor for optimal thermal management.
- Operating System Installation: Flash the base Armbian OS image onto the eMMC storage. Refer to the official BIGTREETECH documentation for detailed flashing procedures.
- Klipper Installation: Utilize a tool like Kiauh to install Klipper firmware. This process typically involves configuring Klipper for your specific 3D printer mainboard.
3.2 Power Connection
The BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 offers two primary methods for power input:
- DC 12V-24V via Screw Terminals: Connect directly to your 3D printer's power supply. Ensure a stable, direct connection. Avoid placing toggle switches between the board and the power supply, as this can cause power regulation issues and damage the board.
- DC 5V±5%/2A via USB Type-C Port: Use a compatible USB Type-C power adapter. Note that if connecting a display screen, a more robust power supply may be required to prevent instability.
3.3 Network Configuration
- Wired Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable to the onboard RJ45 port for a 100Mbps wired network connection.
- Wireless Connection: Attach the included WiFi antenna to the board. Configure the 2.4G WiFi module through the operating system settings to connect to your wireless network.
3.4 Peripheral Connections
- USB Devices: Utilize the four USB 2.0 ports for connecting devices such as a USB camera, keyboard, mouse, or USB storage.
- Display: Connect an HDMI monitor to the HDMI output for 4K UHD display. For low-power OLED/TFT screens, use the dedicated SPI interface.
- Cooling Fan: Connect an external PWM fan to the designated fan port for active cooling.
- ADXL345 Accelerometer: Connect an ADXL345 to the dedicated SPI port for Klipper's input shaper calibration.
- CAN Bus: If using a CAN bus setup, connect a U2C module (sold separately) to the dedicated CAN bus port.
Image 3.1: A detailed diagram labeling the various ports and connectors on the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 board, including RJ45, USB, CAN, HDMI, Audio, UART, SPI Screen, ADXL345 SPI, Power In, CNC Fan, 40Pin-GPIO, and Infrared Receiver Tube.
Image 3.2: Close-up view of the dedicated SPI port for connecting an ADXL345 accelerometer, essential for Klipper's input shaper calibration.
Image 3.3: Detailed view of the CAN bus port on the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2, designed for connecting a U2C module (sold separately) to enable CAN bus communication.
Image 3.4: Illustration showing the various display options, including HDMI output for external monitors and SPI for connecting low-power OLED/TFT screens.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Klipper Control
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 acts as the host for your 3D printer's Klipper firmware. Access the Klipper interface (e.g., Mainsail, Fluidd) via a web browser on a connected computer or a dedicated Klipper Screen.
- Web Interface: Navigate to the IP address of your BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 in a web browser to access the Klipper control interface.
- Klipper Screen: If using a compatible touch screen, configure Klipper Screen for direct control and monitoring at the printer.
- G-code Upload: Upload G-code files to the Klipper host for printing.
- Printer Monitoring: Monitor print progress, temperatures, and other printer parameters through the Klipper interface.
4.2 Webcam Integration
For remote monitoring, connect a USB webcam to one of the USB 2.0 ports. Configure the webcam within your Klipper host software (e.g., using Crowsnest for Mainsail/Fluidd) to stream video of your print bed.
4.3 Compatibility with Mainboards
The BTT Pi V1.2 is designed to work in conjunction with a separate 3D printer mainboard. It supports various BIGTREETECH mainboards, including:
- SKR Mini E3 V3.0
- SKR 3 / SKR 3 EZ
- SKR Pico V1.0
- Octopus / Octopus Pro
- Octopus Max EZ
- SKR V1.4 Turbo
Image 4.1: The BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 shown connected to a BIGTREETECH Octopus Max EZ V1.0 mainboard, illustrating its role as a Klipper host for advanced 3D printer control.
5. Maintenance
- Cooling: While a heatsink is included, for long 3D print processes or demanding Klipper setups, active cooling (e.g., a small fan connected to the PWM fan port) is highly recommended to prevent overheating and ensure stable operation.
- Software Updates: Regularly update the Armbian OS and Klipper firmware to benefit from the latest features, bug fixes, and security improvements. Follow official BIGTREETECH and Klipper documentation for update procedures.
- Physical Inspection: Periodically inspect the board for dust accumulation. Use compressed air to gently clean components if necessary. Ensure all connections are secure.
6. Troubleshooting
- Board Not Powering On:
- Verify power supply voltage and current meet specifications (DC 12V-24V or 5V/2A).
- Ensure direct power connection to screw terminals; avoid intermediate switches that can cause voltage fluctuations.
- Check USB Type-C cable and adapter if using 5V input.
- Unstable Klipper Operation / Frequent Disconnects:
- Ensure adequate power supply, especially if a display screen is connected.
- Check network stability (wired or wireless). Consider a wired connection for maximum reliability.
- Verify Klipper configuration files for errors.
- Monitor board temperature; overheating can lead to instability. Implement active cooling if needed.
- Webcam Stream Issues:
- Confirm the webcam is properly connected to a USB 2.0 port.
- Check webcam configuration within Klipper host software (e.g., Crowsnest settings).
- Ensure sufficient bandwidth on your network.
- OS/Firmware Installation Problems:
- Double-check the flashing procedure against official documentation.
- Ensure the correct Armbian image for the BTT Pi V1.2 is used.
- If issues persist, try reflashing the OS.
- Defective Screw Terminals:
- If a screw terminal appears damaged or cannot secure a wire, contact BIGTREETECH support for assistance. Avoid forcing connections.
7. Specifications
| Processor | 64-bit Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A53 |
| RAM | 1GB DDR3L |
| Storage | eMMC (capacity not specified, typically integrated) |
| Wireless Connectivity | 2.4G WiFi |
| Wired Connectivity | 100Mbps Ethernet (RJ45) |
| USB Ports | 4 x USB 2.0 |
| Video Output | HDMI (supports 4K UHD @ 60fps) |
| GPIO | 40-pin header |
| Specialized Ports | CAN bus, ADXL345 SPI, SPI for OLED/TFT screens |
| Power Input | DC 12V-24V (screw terminals), DC 5V±5%/2A (USB Type-C) |
| Manufacturer | BIGTREETECH |
| Material | PCB |
| Package Dimensions | 4.53 x 3.11 x 1.54 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the BIGTREETECH Pi V1.2 Control Board are typically provided at the point of purchase or on the manufacturer's official website. Please refer to your purchase documentation or the BIGTREETECH website for the most accurate and up-to-date warranty policy.
8.2 Technical Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or further inquiries, please visit the official BIGTREETECH support channels. This may include their website, community forums, or direct customer service contact information.
You can find more information and support resources on the BIGTREETECH Amazon Store.
