Buy a controller board for your 3D printer in PL

About 3D printer controller boards

A controller board or a motherboard is the heart of a machine. This special unit manages and links the machine’s components to one another. The motherboard oversees the processes, ensuring that your 3D printer or laser engraver is operating to its full capacity. Check that the motherboard is compatible with your 3D printer or CNC machine as some items are manufactured for certain brands. Easily find a high-quality motherboard for your machine in our collection. 

Select a controller board for your 3D printer

So, how do you go about selecting a controller board?

Choosing a mainboard depends on the kind of device you are working with and also what the tasks that you intend on having the device perform. The most important feature to consider is the firmware that supports the mainboard. There are many different types available like Marlin, MK4duo, and RepRapFirmware. Do take into account that certain mainboards will come with the manufacturer’s firmware installed, for example, Creality and Klipper.

Another consideration is the amount of axis that you would like to be supported by the mainboard and the number of extruders you will be able to hook up to your 3D printer. The speed of the main processor is also determined by your choice. The higher the MHz the faster your machine can run. Furthermore, ensure that the peripherals you would like to incorporate into your machine are supported by the controller board. This concerns the fan outputs, external stepper drivers, thermistors, thermocouples, SD cards, and LCD/touch screens. It can also be that you want to set up another circuit for the heated bed, allowing you to provide more power to your machine. Decide which voltage is required to run your machine as higher voltages will give more power for the heaters and stepper motors. The most commonly supported voltages are 12-24V. The expandability of the motherboard will also be different. Some will accept certain add-ons, like Duet 3D known for electronic devices with various innovative expandability options.

3D printer motherboard firmware

Firmware is an essential part of the motherboard and acts as the connection between all components. A firmware will function based on the scripts and programs designed by developers. This can vary depending on a device and its intended function. Without firmware, devices would not know what to do and in fact, would not function at all. Firmware can be found in all devices like TVs, washing machines, and security cameras. Firmware processes the inputs and controls the outputs in 3D printers and CNC machines. An example of an input is the file provided by the slicer software with G-code instructions which is then executed by the firmware.

Updating a 3D printer’s firmware

Updating firmware is possible however there are many factors to take into consideration. Compatibility is very important since not all motherboards support the same types of firmware. There are many reasons to update your firmware, however, it is advised to do this if really required. For example, if you need to fix some bugs and your machine keeps crashing. If you feel like you are missing out on the necessary features that your project or activity requires, this is also a good reason to look into updating your firmware. In case you would like to fully replace your motherboard, it is very possible that you will also have to change the firmware as well, especially if the previous firmware does not match.  

Do you have questions about controller boards? Please let us know through our customer service team, we are happy to help!

Frequently asked questions