New Member with Questions
Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 11:35 am
I’m oldrayj, a retired engineer that still likes to tinker with gadgets and new technology. I just purchased a mechanical kit from reprap discount and a Ramps 1.4 set-up from Gadgets3D. Assembly of the mechanical kit was relatively easy. For other newbies like me, I found this link to be useful:
http://www.robotronics.com.au/web/tutorials
Also this forum has been very informative. In particular, I have been following the “Help Appreciated” link:
viewtopic.php?f=33&t=2217
The following link lead to the right solution for mounting reprap end stops:
viewtopic.php?f=33&t=2078
From what I’ve read, it looks like the MakerGeeks.com Wade Extruder Reloaded full kit would be the best option for me. Also I will probably opt for the MK2B heated bed since it can be set up for either 12 or 24 volts. It looks like 14 gauge silicone wire would be a good option for connecting the heated bed.
Although I’ve found a lot of info, I’m still fuzzy on a few issues. The main one is using 24 volts vice 12 volts. I have been running my Shapeoko CNC machine, which is equipped with Pololu drivers and NEMA 17 motors, at 24 volts with no issues.
I understand that diode D1 must be removed or disconnected before 24 volts can be applied to the 5 amp bus. Is it correct that this in turn requires that you separately power the Ardunio either through USB or another source? Also, with D1 gone and separate power to the Ardunio, is still possible to use a smart LCD to control the machine?
I have read about some concerns about the adequacy of installed capacitors and fuses with 24 volts. Any worries here or additional mods needed?
How about using 12 volt fans? Can they be separately powered but still controlled by the shield and associated software and firmware?
Finally, I have a good supply of ordinary plate glass. Are there any serious concerns about using plate glass versus heat resistant glass?
Your thoughts and comments will be appreciated. Thanks.
http://www.robotronics.com.au/web/tutorials
Also this forum has been very informative. In particular, I have been following the “Help Appreciated” link:
viewtopic.php?f=33&t=2217
The following link lead to the right solution for mounting reprap end stops:
viewtopic.php?f=33&t=2078
From what I’ve read, it looks like the MakerGeeks.com Wade Extruder Reloaded full kit would be the best option for me. Also I will probably opt for the MK2B heated bed since it can be set up for either 12 or 24 volts. It looks like 14 gauge silicone wire would be a good option for connecting the heated bed.
Although I’ve found a lot of info, I’m still fuzzy on a few issues. The main one is using 24 volts vice 12 volts. I have been running my Shapeoko CNC machine, which is equipped with Pololu drivers and NEMA 17 motors, at 24 volts with no issues.
I understand that diode D1 must be removed or disconnected before 24 volts can be applied to the 5 amp bus. Is it correct that this in turn requires that you separately power the Ardunio either through USB or another source? Also, with D1 gone and separate power to the Ardunio, is still possible to use a smart LCD to control the machine?
I have read about some concerns about the adequacy of installed capacitors and fuses with 24 volts. Any worries here or additional mods needed?
How about using 12 volt fans? Can they be separately powered but still controlled by the shield and associated software and firmware?
Finally, I have a good supply of ordinary plate glass. Are there any serious concerns about using plate glass versus heat resistant glass?
Your thoughts and comments will be appreciated. Thanks.