PSU issue (I think !)
Hi there,
I have a Mk3, bought new, factory built, from 2018 (if I remember right) . . . . it's worked just fine for all these years.
Recently, in the last few weeks, there's a loud crackling sound (like arcing) when I switch the printer on, it appears to be coming from the PSU, I quickly switch it off, wait a little and then switch it back on, after which it seems ok, even more recently it's now doing this when I preheat the printer reading for a print . . . it's quite scary (!!!) like electricity crackling and buzzing around !
It's inconsistent, it happens perhaps 1 out of 5 times I switch the printer on.
With the most recent 'event' it left a sort of electrical burning smell coming from the PSU which I could smell from across the room.
Anyone know my best move ? Should I just replace the PSU ? Or maybe open it up and see what's what ?
I contact Prusa support but they were absolutely useless : ) Just some cut and paste auto reply I guess.
Any input from the giant brains of the Prusa forum greatly appreciated.
Lee.
RE: PSU issue (I think !)
If anyone can help I can do them a terrible biro drawing of a horse with bad legs ?
RE: PSU issue (I think !)
Sounds like you diagnosed correctly, my guess would also be the PSU (burning smell comming from the PSU is good hint something is wrong with it).
Replacing it seems the best thing to do, if I were you I would not switch it on one more time - you might damage your einsy with a faulty PSU.
Open it up? Sure why not, if you know what you are doing, otherwise better don't.
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.
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RE: PSU issue (I think !)
Thanks for the reply Robin.
Don't worry I've not switched it on since the last 'event' !! I guess if the PSU is going in the bin then, like you hint at, no harm opening it up in case there's something obvious going on that looks like it can be fixed.
The MK3 PSU in the 'Parts and Accessories' section is like £86 ! Yikes, I threw in a new print sheet, a cheap print fan, and with shipping (I'm in the UK) it's getting on for £149, I'm thinking the Bambu A1 mini is on sale for £169 maybe just go for that ? The Mk3 has been an amazing performer, but it's 7 or 8 years old now . . . . hmmmmm.
Anyhow, I'm going to open up the PSU, if you never hear from me again I went out in the blaze of glory : )
Lee.
Agreed, It sounds like something is breaking down in there, I would first check the capacitors but if you are not confident with power electronics ... printer power supplies are relatively cheap - just double check you are getting the correct voltage.
Cheerio,
RE: PSU issue (I think !)
Hi Diem, yes I was thinking I might be able to find something less than £86, I'll have a search, £86 seems like a lot for such a common part. As for checking capacitors, yes, I'll check for obvious burns, shots, swollen caps, cheers for your input !