i3v 12" build log

[printbus]

... I plan on running my printer with Repetier-Host/Slic3r since these have worked so well with my first printer. I've done some looking on the web and haven't found any definite instructions on getting this software running on a Rambo board. Specifically I'd like to see a procedure for loading whatever drivers, other support programs, etc. in a step-by-step, easy to follow sequence that will help someone who isn't familiar with the process to get up and running from scratch (for example - me, once I get the previously mentioned "box'o'stuff"). Has anyone any information or a process/procedure for doing this? I'm not sure but it looks like Repetier-Host has or needs it's own firmware?

Not necessarily the exact answer you are looking for, but... Repetier-Host doesn't require use of special firmware. Repetier does have a firmware build of their own, but you don't have to use it and no one has posted here about loading their i3v with it. Once you have the USB interface set up, you should be able to run Pronterface, Repetier-Host, or other host application without issue. The download for Repetier-Host installs everything you need (except maybe the USB driver - I don't recall on that), including both Cura Engine and Slic3r slicers. FWIW, the RAMBO board is just an integrated, single board approach to what is often a separate MEGA2560 processor board, RAMPS expander board, and four stepper motor driver boards. So, RAMBO firmware is basically a variation of RAMPS firmware. There may be other differences, but one difference is that RAMBO uses a digital/firmware adjustment (probably using gcodes) for stepper motor current limit (these are trimpot adjustments on RAMPS). The MakerFarm i3v-12 goes a step farther, configuring Marlin for the graphic LCD panel. There is support for countless variations built into the Marlin source code - these are just a couple. By manipulating the contents of the Marlin configuration.h and configuration_adv.h files, you can build firmware for just about any kind of printer running any kind of electronics.

As far as configuring Repetier-Host, I've focused on Cura Engine as my slicer but a recent post in my build thread (see link in my signature) walks through pretty much every RH-Cura setting as I currently have them. Use or ignore as you see fit. I should be adding a similar listing for the RH-Slic3r settings to that post in the next couple of days.