Z-Probe

Introduction

This guide outlines the procedure for troubleshooting the Z-probe on the Vision Miner 22 IDEX V2. Ensuring the Z-probe functions correctly is critical for accurate bed leveling, first-layer adhesion, and overall print quality.

This process involves verifying the signal path, checking the relay operation, and testing the continuity of the wiring harness. It requires access to the electronics bay and the use of a multimeter.

Info: Reference: Electromechanical Relay Wiring Diagram

Tools & Materials

• Flexible Insulated Wire (approx. 1 meter, stripped at both ends)
• Multimeter
• Ferrules or Soldering Iron (optional, for tinning multi-strand wire ends)
• Replacement Relay/Diode/Probe Sensor (if necessary)

Safety & Pre-checks

Warning: Warning: This procedure involves working with the printer's electronics. Ensure you take appropriate safety precautions to avoid short circuits or electrical shock. Info: The diagnostic steps rely on visual feedback from LEDs on the Duex board and inside the chamber. Ensure you have a clear view of these indicators.

Preparation: Install Probe Testing Macro

Before starting the troubleshooting process, you must install the diagnostic macro on your printer.

1. Download the Macro: Click the link below to download the testing macro file.
   • Download Test Probe V2
2. Access Web Interface: Open your browser and navigate to the printer's web interface (Duet Web Control).
3. Navigate to Macros: Click on the Macros tab in the sidebar.
4. Upload File:
   • Click the Upload Macro File button (usually located at the top or bottom of the file list).

• Select the Test Probe V2.g file you just downloaded.
• Confirm the upload. The file should now appear in your Macros list.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Run the Probe Testing Macro

1. Navigate to the Macros menu on the web interface or the printer's touchscreen.
2. Locate and run the Test Probe V2 macro you just uploaded.
3. Step 1: Relay Click Test
   • The macro will display: "Step 1: Relay Click Test".
   • Click OK to start the test.
   • Listen for a clicking sound at the back of the printer (top of the main boards). The relay will toggle every second for up to 2 minutes.
   • Note: You can stop the test early by pressing the X or U endstop.
4. Confirm Result
   • A dialog will appear: "Did you hear the relay clicking?"
   • Yes: Select Yes to proceed to the next step.
   • No: If you select No, the macro will abort with an error. The relay may need to be replaced.

2. Verify Signal Line Continuity (Ground to Relay)

1. Step 2 & 3: Continuity Test
   • The macro will display: "Step 2 & 3: Continuity Test".
   • Click OK to activate the test mode.
2. Prepare a flexible insulated wire approximately 1 meter long, stripped at both ends.

Note:

Note: If using multi-strand wire, it is recommended to use ferrules or tin the ends with solder.

3. Touch one end of the wire to the GND terminal on the Duex power connector.
4. Touch the other end to the right terminal with the nut on the probe relay.

Feedback:

• 🟢 Success: A green light will illuminate inside the chamber, and the LED next to the E6 STOP connector on the Duex board will turn on.
• 🔴 Failure: If there is no reaction, check the wiring to the relay. If cables are intact, replace the relay.

3. Verify Signal Line Continuity (Wire to Sensor)

Ensure the macro is still running in test mode.

1. Touch the end of the wire to the probe sensor.

Feedback:

• 🟢 Success: A green light will illuminate inside the chamber, and the LED next to the E6 STOP connector on the Duex board will turn on.
• 🔴 Failure: If there is no reaction:
  • Check the wiring from the relay’s nut terminal to the probe sensor.
  • Verify that the connector is properly seated.
  • Replace the probe sensor if necessary.

4. Exit Macro & Prepare for Multimeter Tests

1. Press the X or U endstop on the printer to exit the testing macro.
2. Proceed to the multimeter tests below.

Note: If no issue was identified during the previous tests and you wish to continue testing, do not stop the macro execution. It is essential that the macro remains running and the relay stays energized in order to perform the subsequent tests..

5. Diode Test (Red Wire)

Perform this step if previous tests did not produce results.

1. Disconnect the E6 STOP connector.
2. Set your multimeter to diode-test mode.
3. Connect the multimeter’s red probe to the red wire on the connector.
4. Connect the black probe to the left terminal with the nut on the probe relay.

Outcome:

• The multimeter should indicate that the diode is functioning.
• Failure: If the multimeter shows no reading, the diode must be replaced.
  • Tip: If possible, test the diode separately after removing it from the relay. If the diode is confirmed operational, replace the relay.

6. Diode Test (Reverse Polarity)

1. Reverse the polarity of the multimeter probes (Red to terminal, Black to wire).
2. Check the readings.

Outcome:

• In this direction, the diode should not conduct current.

7. Continuity Test (Black Wire)

1. Set the multimeter to continuity mode.
2. Connect one probe to the black wire of the connector.
3. Connect the other probe to the right terminal with the nut on the probe relay.

Outcome:

• The multimeter should emit a beep and show continuity.
• Failure: If no reading is detected, the relay must be replaced.