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RepRapBCN
User Manual
8. FIRMWARE
What is a firmware and when to update it?
The firmware is a software needed to control a hardware. Namely, it is the internal program that controls your
BCN3D +, and allows it to perform its functions normally. The BCN3D + is delivered and installed with the latest
firmware version published on the web.
Its basic functions are:
On the one hand, converting .gcode files to useful instructions for printing, managing the motor drivers and target
temperatures.
On the other hand, it is also responsible for managing machine peripherals such as the screen, allowing you to inte-
ract with it without connecting the printer to a computer, or the endstops necessary for proper functioning of your
printer.
Usually the firmware of a device is integrated in it and you can not change or replace it unless aproved and provided
by the manufacturer.
The advantage of our RepRap printer is that it follows the Open Source philosophy so we can change or modify the
firmware to adapt our machine to new features and accessories or improve its behavior.
The ability to modify the firmware is the responsibility of each user. RepRapBCN will always develope firmwares
oriented to printing with their products and will freely disseminated them.
When it is necessary to update the firmware?
It will be always necessary when adding new functionalities that imply a change in its control system such as new
extruder head, Dual extruder heads or a Paste extruder. Changing other parameters such as pulleys or axes lenght,
printing speed and endstops will also need a firmware update.
When RepRapBCN publishes a new update, it will be announced through its web site and social networks,
highlighting improvements and new features.
Downloading Arduino’s IDE
This section describes the steps to update / modify the controller firmware. The first step is to install the Arduino IDE
on a computer. This is a program that enables us to interact with BCN3D + Arduino card.
1. Download Arduino’s software package from http://www.reprapbcn.com o execute from the provided USB
dongle.