CR Touch is a popular add-on for 3D printers that allows for automatic bed leveling. However, installing and wiring CR Touch can be quite tricky for beginners. In this article, we will guide you through the process of wiring CR Touch and provide you with detailed information on how to troubleshoot common issues.
Introduction to CR Touch
CR Touch is a bed leveling sensor that uses capacitive sensing technology to detect the distance between the nozzle and the print bed. By using CR Touch, you can ensure that the first layer of your print is perfectly level, which is crucial for achieving high-quality prints.
The process of installing and wiring CR Touch can seem daunting, especially if you are new to 3D printing. However, with the right guidance, it can be simple and straightforward. In the following sections, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to installing and wiring CR Touch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing CR Touch
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you start installing CR Touch, you will need to gather a few tools:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Soldering iron | Used for soldering wires |
| Wire stripper/cutter | Used for stripping and cutting wires |
| Heat shrink tubing | Used for protecting soldered wires |
| CR Touch kit | Includes CR Touch sensor, wiring harness, and mounting hardware |
Step 2: Mount CR Touch Sensor
The first step in installing CR Touch is to mount the sensor onto your 3D printer. The sensor should be mounted close to the nozzle, but not so close that it interferes with the print. The mounting hardware included in the CR Touch kit makes this step simple and straightforward.
Step 3: Disconnect Z Endstop
Next, you will need to disconnect the Z endstop. This is because CR Touch will be used to detect the height of the print bed, so the Z endstop is no longer needed. You can simply unplug the Z endstop from the motherboard of your 3D printer.
Step 4: Wire CR Touch Sensor
The most challenging part of installing CR Touch is wiring the sensor to your 3D printer. The wiring harness included in the CR Touch kit has six wires: red, black, yellow, white, blue, and green. These wires will need to be connected to your 3D printer’s motherboard in the correct order.
It is essential to follow the wiring diagram provided by the CR Touch manufacturer carefully. A single mistake in wiring can cause issues such as the printer not being able to communicate with the sensor, or the sensor not working correctly.
Step 5: Calibrate CR Touch Sensor
Once you have wired CR Touch, you will need to calibrate it. Calibration involves adjusting the firmware of your 3D printer to recognize the CR Touch sensor and use it for bed leveling.
Calibration can be done using either firmware editing software or printer control software such as Pronterface. The process of calibration varies depending on the type of firmware and software you are using. The CR Touch manufacturer provides comprehensive guidance on calibration.
FAQs
1. What is CR Touch?
CR Touch is a bed leveling sensor that uses capacitive sensing technology to detect the distance between the nozzle and the print bed.
2. Why do I need CR Touch?
Installing CR Touch can help you achieve perfectly leveled prints, which is crucial for achieving high-quality prints.
3. How do I wire CR Touch?
To wire CR Touch, you will need to follow the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer carefully. A single mistake in wiring can cause issues, so it is essential to follow the diagram precisely.
4. How do I calibrate CR Touch?
Calibration involves adjusting the firmware of your 3D printer to recognize the CR Touch sensor and use it for bed leveling. The process of calibration varies depending on the type of firmware and software you are using. The CR Touch manufacturer provides comprehensive guidance on calibration.
5. What issues can I encounter when wiring CR Touch?
Issues that you may encounter when wiring CR Touch include the printer not being able to communicate with the sensor, or the sensor not working correctly. These issues can usually be resolved by checking the wiring and following the wiring diagram precisely.
Conclusion
Installing and wiring CR Touch can seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it can be straightforward. By following the steps we have provided in this article and carefully following the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer, you can install and wire CR Touch with ease.
