1. Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for the Mtlavishness MKS Gen L V2.1 3D Printer Motherboard. This document provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your new control board. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
The MKS Gen L V2.1 is an integrated control board designed for 3D printers, combining the functionality of a Mega2560 and RAMPS 1.4 into a single unit. This design simplifies wiring, enhances stability, and offers broad compatibility with various stepper drivers and display units.
2. Product Overview
The MKS Gen L V2.1 motherboard is a versatile and robust solution for 3D printer control. It supports a wide range of stepper drivers and display options, making it suitable for various 3D printer configurations.
Figure 2.1: MKS Gen L V2.1 Motherboard, USB cable, and jumper caps.
This image displays the MKS Gen L V2.1 motherboard, a blue USB cable for connectivity, and a small bag of jumper caps used for configuration.
Key Features:
- Integrated Design: Combines 2560 and RAMPS 1.4 functionality on a single board, reducing complex wiring and potential failure points.
- Driver Compatibility: Supports various stepper drivers including TMC2130, TMC2130SPI, TMC2208, TMC2209, TMC2208UART, ST820, DRV8825, and A4988 for flexible configurations.
- Open Source Firmware: Utilizes Marlin open-source firmware, allowing for easy configuration and direct replacement of RAMPS 1.4 setups.
- 24V Input Support: Capable of handling 24V input, which helps reduce hot bed current and mitigate MOS tube overheating issues, ensuring stable power distribution.
- Display Connectivity: Easily connects to 2004LCD and 12864LCD displays, and supports touch screens such as TFT28, TFT35, and TFT70.
- Simplified Connections: Features color-coded terminals for X, Y, Z axes, streamlining motor and limit switch connections and minimizing setup errors.
Figure 2.2: MKS Gen L V2.1 Motherboard component layout.
This diagram illustrates the various ports and connectors on the MKS Gen L V2.1 motherboard, including motor connections (X, Y, Z, E0, E1), fan headers, heated bed power, USB port, TFT display interface, LCD display interface, servo connections, external driver ports, thermal sensor inputs, and endstop connections.
3. Setup Guide
3.1 Package Contents
Before proceeding with installation, please verify that all items are present in your package:
- 1 x MKS Gen L V2.1 Motherboard
- 1 x USB Cable
- 30 x Jumper Caps
3.2 Initial Connections
Refer to Figure 2.2 for the location of various ports and ensure all connections are made correctly to prevent damage.
- Power Supply: Connect your DC 12V-24V power supply to the designated power input terminals. Ensure correct polarity (positive and negative) before powering on.
- Stepper Drivers: Insert your chosen stepper drivers (e.g., TMC2209, DRV8825) into the corresponding slots. Pay close attention to the orientation of the drivers.
- Motors: Connect your X, Y, Z, E0, and E1 stepper motors to their respective color-coded terminals.
- Limit Switches: Connect your endstop switches to the X, Y, and Z endstop ports.
- Heated Bed & Extruder Heater: Connect the heated bed and extruder heater to their respective terminals.
- Fans: Connect cooling fans to the fan headers as needed.
- Display: Connect your LCD (2004LCD, 12864LCD) or TFT touch screen (TFT28, TFT35, TFT70) to the appropriate EXP1/EXP2 or TFT display ports.
- USB Connection: Use the provided USB cable to connect the motherboard to your computer for firmware flashing and control.
Figure 3.1: Motor Driver Setting for MKS Gen L V2.1.
This image illustrates how to configure motor drivers for the MKS Gen L V2.1, specifically showing jumper cap placement for microstep settings in normal mode. The blue area indicates where jumper caps should be inserted according to your specific needs.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Firmware Configuration
The MKS Gen L V2.1 utilizes Marlin open-source firmware. You will need to configure and upload the firmware to the board using an Arduino IDE or similar tool. Detailed instructions for Marlin configuration can be found on the official Marlin firmware website.
4.2 Stepper Driver Settings
Microstep settings for your stepper drivers are configured using the provided jumper caps. Refer to Figure 3.1 and your specific stepper driver's documentation for correct jumper placement. Incorrect settings can lead to erratic motor behavior or damage.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and reliable operation of your MKS Gen L V2.1 motherboard, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the board with a soft, dry brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris. Ensure the board is powered off and disconnected from all power sources before cleaning.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the motherboard in a clean, dry environment, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply firmware updates from the official Marlin project or MKS to benefit from new features and bug fixes.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MKS Gen L V2.1 motherboard, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power: Verify that the power supply is correctly connected and providing the specified voltage (12V-24V). Check the power indicator LED on the board.
- Motors Not Moving: Ensure stepper drivers are correctly inserted and configured (refer to Section 4.2). Check motor wiring for loose connections or incorrect polarity. Verify motor current settings.
- Display Not Working: Confirm that the display is correctly connected to the appropriate port (EXP1/EXP2 for LCD, TFT port for touch screens). Check firmware configuration for display type.
- Communication Issues (USB): Ensure the correct USB drivers are installed on your computer. Try a different USB cable or port.
- Overheating Drivers: Ensure proper cooling for stepper drivers (e.g., heatsinks, fan). Reduce motor current if necessary.
For more complex issues, consult online forums, the Marlin firmware documentation, or contact Mtlavishness customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Item Type | MKS Motherboard |
| Material | 4 Layer PCB |
| Application | 3D Printer |
| Input Voltage | DC12V-DC24V |
| Supported File Format | G Code |
| Supported Drivers | TMC2130, TMC2130SPI, TMC2208, TMC2209, TMC2208UART, ST820, DRV8825, A4988 |
| Applicable Displays | LCD2004, LCD12864, MKS TFT24, TFT28, TFT32, TFT35, TFT70 |
| Package Dimensions | 6.3 x 4.33 x 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 5.11 ounces |
Figure 7.1: MKS Gen L V2.1 Motherboard Dimensions.
This technical drawing provides the physical dimensions of the MKS Gen L V2.1 motherboard in both millimeters and inches, including mounting hole positions and connector spacing.
8. Safety Information
Adhere to the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the motherboard and ensure user safety:
- Power Connection: Always ensure the positive and negative terminals of the power supply are correctly connected before powering on the motherboard. Incorrect polarity can cause irreversible damage.
- Driver Handling: Do not plug or unplug stepper drivers while the motherboard is powered on. This can easily burn out the drivers due to electrical surges.
- Current Adjustment: Avoid adjusting the drive current of stepper drivers when the motor is running. Adjust current only when the motor is stationary and the board is powered off or in a safe state.
- Static Electricity: Handle the motherboard with care to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD). Use anti-static precautions when installing or handling the board.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please refer to the Mtlavishness official website or contact your retailer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.