XYZ calibration failure
My i3mk2S printer has been in service for about two months, seeing light use (22 hours according to the internal log, approximately 20 jobs). Running firmware v3.0.12. When initially built three months ago, the printer calibrated perfectly with no skew. The printer has not been moved since that initial calibration.
Yesterday, I successfully printed two small jobs. A third print job failed so I power-cycled the printer. The printer then reported that calibration is required.
First, I re-ran the self-test, which passed. I then attempted to run the XYZ calibratin. It fails in the third point of pass 3 (print head positioned mid-bed, near the X axis motor). So, I power cycled the printed and tried again. Same failure at the same point in the calibration cycle.
Some forum posts indicated that factory resetting the printer allowed successful XYZ calibration. So, I held the control button while powering up the printer, to initiate a factory reset. Then, I retried the XYZ calibration, but it failed in the exact same portion of the cal cycle.
I have inspected all cabling and it looks fine. All axes move smoothly and properly. I used a feeler gauge to insure that the Pinda probe is 1 mm above the bed when the nozzle touches the bed.
Please suggest tests or remedial actions.
Jim Henderson
Re: XYZ calibration failure
is there any chance that the y axis assembly may have been allowed to twist in any way?
can you make sure all four corners touch a flat work surface simultaneously, without any hint of rocking motion if you alternately press on diagonally opposite corners of the base. the main frame should be suspended a little above the work surface,
if there is any rock in a diagonal direction, press on both corners at the same time to remove the distortion and try XYZ calibration again
regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK
Re: XYZ calibration failure
I have a 48" assembly table in my shop, which is flat to .003". The Y axis of the i3 mk2S lies perfectly flat against that work surface. It is not twisted in any way. Moreover, the printer has been working fine for two months prior to yesterday's failure.
I have tightened the XY belts and loosened then tightened the bed screws. I cleared all data within the factory reset procedure and attempted to XYZ calibrate again - but it failed identically (as previously reported in this thread).
However, I have discovered a new detail: Attempts to automatic mesh level fail at point 2 of 9 reporting that the "sensor is inoperative or disconnected". However, I can clearly see that the Pinda probe is functional by positioning a metal feeler guage beneath the probe, which causes its internal LED to turn off. Likewise, if I manually adjust Z to move the hot end to approach the bed from the (failed) point 2 XY position, the Pinda prove LED turns off. Retracting the hot end causes the LED to illuminate again.
What do you recommend?
Re: XYZ calibration failure
Check the PINDA wiring. Cable might have a kink in it that has slowly created a short or open.
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Re: XYZ calibration failure
Indeed, the PINDA probe wiring was intermittent. I installed a replacement and the problems reported earlier in this thread have been eliminated. Thanks to all for your assistance.