RepRap Firmware FAQ

RepRap Firmware FAQ

Can I modify speed coefficient, extrusion coefficient and temperature during a print?

Yes

Can I reconfigure my printer ‘on the fly’?

Yes, there is an interactive console, you may even modify parameters during a print, at your own risks

Can I print from SD card

Yes, and this is what is done by most users, as Ethernet file transfer is very fast. Lost connection from the PC don’t stop the print, but you lost control if you don’t have a local panel or another controller (which may be a smartphone if you have WiFi on your network).

Can I run RepRapFirmware with an USB front-end like Pronterface or Repetier-host ?

Yes, but you shall configure your front-end program for USB hardwired handshaking

Can I create my own macros?

Yes

Can I control the printer through WiFi devices ?

Yes, with any web browser if you have a WiFi connection on your Network or set-up a low cost WiFi bridge on the printer

Do I need to recompile firmware for configuration ?

No, new issues of firmware are always delivered pre-compiled. Configuration by text files.

Can I use standard LCD panel ?

No, only PanelDue work with RRF firmware

Is there an automatic calibration for Cartesian printer ?

Yes, but it is different from the delta calibration and is limited to five probe points

Can I run Ethernet network on Duet if the board is only supplied by USB cable ?

Yes, but if you have accessories connected on the 5V like the PanelDue, the 5V consumption shall not exceed your USB port capability. This power supply method is recommended during commissioning as first power on.

Can I use external 5V power supply instead of the on-board supply ?

Yes, there are selectors on board

Can I install a filament presence sensor

Yes, based on simple switch (no filament movement detection yet)

Do I need an USB connection for firmware update ?

No, except for the first firmware update (first step of commissioning), as boards are delivered with old firmware

Can I run a Chamber heater from the Extruder heater output?

Yes, using a relay (SSR)

If I have a problem with a driver, can I install an external driver?

Yes, if you have no expansion board, as drivers can be remapped on the expansion connector. Note: Buy good stepper cables to avoid risks of disconnection while powered, which is the main way to burn a driver.

Can I use fans with other voltage than main board voltage?

Yes, See the schematic here : Duet_Wiring#5V_controlled_fan

===Can I run a mixing hotend like the diamond

Yes, look this thread http://forums.reprap.org/read.php?416,641508 and results http://forums.reprap.org/file.php?416,file=75442,filename=7_colour_thingy.JPG

Can I run a laser cutter with RepRap Firmware ?

Yes, see these threads

Can I use an RC servos for automation ?

No

Can I use absolute extruder coordinate?

Yes, but this is not recommended

Can I use inductive or capacitive calibration sensor?

Yes, but you shall add some components to protect your inputs from over-voltage. Never exceed 3.3V on input pins, at risk of board destruction.

Are the input pins capable to handle 5V ?

NO. 5V on input pins may kill the board. Caution shall be used.

Is there auto-calibration for heat loop PID?

Not yet, but it is planned

Shall I have forced cooling on the board ?

It depends mostly of the current of your steppers. Natural cooling is sufficient for steppers at 1A, but board shall be installed to allow easy air flow (best is vertical position)

Can I have a printer without end-stops sensors?

Yes, as digital potentiometers allow current reduction via G-code and you can stall steppers on mechanical stops. However, this is not very precise and for Z axis this need to be coupled with automatic calibration.

What kind of end-stops do I need ?

Dry switches or powered sensors, provided they work in 3.3V. Pin order is different from Ramps, with center pin in 3.3V

Can I add other extruders?

Yes For the Duet 0.6 and 0.8.5 there is 4 extruders board expansion from original designer (T3P3), simple 4 extruders extension from independent supplier and some stock of 2 extruders shields from RepRapPro.

Is there software movement limit?

Yes. You can define maximum travel where head will not be allowed to go. This volume will be a [|cylinder] for a delta printer and a cube for others.

Is it possible to install two separated end-stops on each axis?

No, and it is not needed, the printer knowing its own dimensions. Though dry switches can be installed in series.

Can RepRap Firmware run a SCARA printer?

No

Can RepRap Firmware run a rotary delta (Clavel type) like the Firepick?

No

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