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Pre-Flight Check

The physical assembly is complete! This final chapter covers the last crucial physical adjustment needed before you power on the printer for the first time and move on to the software calibration.

Step 1: Setting the Initial Z-Probe Height

This procedure sets a rough, safe starting distance between your Z-probe and the nozzle tip. It is the most important step in this chapter.

Printer Must Be OFF

This entire procedure must be performed with the printer turned off and unplugged from the power outlet.

  • Action 1: Lower the Nozzle to the Bed

    • Manually turn both Z-axis lead screws slowly and simultaneously to lower the entire X-axis gantry.
    • Continue lowering until the tip of the nozzle just barely touches the surface of the heated bed. Do this gently and do not press down or bend the heatbed.
    • Important: Do not have the flexible steel print sheet on the bed for this process.

  • Action 2: Use a Zip Tie as a Gauge

    • Manually move the extruder to the side so you have clear access to the Z-probe.
    • Take a standard zip tie from your kit and place it flat on the bed, directly underneath the Z-probe sensor.
    • Loosen the screw that holds the Z-probe in place.
    • Let the probe rest gently on top of the zip tie.
    • While holding the probe in this position, re-tighten the screw to secure it.

Why do we do this?

This simple trick sets the probe to be slightly higher than the nozzle tip (by the thickness of a zip tie). This is a safe starting distance that prevents the nozzle from crashing into the bed during the first automated calibration sequence. The firmware will calculate the precise offset later.

Z-Probe Adjustment with Zip Tie   Z-Probe Adjustment with Zip Tie  

Illustration showing a zip tie placed under the Z-probe to set the initial height relative to the nozzle.

Step 2: Quick Guide for Your First Prints

Your physical assembly is now 100% complete. The next stage involves software calibration and your very first prints.

Warning

Please follow the calibration steps in the next guide exactly. Skipping steps can result in failed prints or, in the worst case, damage to your print surface.

Step 3: Where to Find Printable 3D Models

Your kit may have come with an SD card or a download link containing some pre-sliced test models that are ready for your first print, such as a calibration cube or a Benchy.

When you are ready to find more models, we recommend these popular community sites:

Step 4: Getting Help and Joining the Community

If you encounter any problems during calibration or printing, we are here to help.

Step 5: You've Finished the Build!

Congratulations on Building Your 3D Printer!

You have successfully completed the entire assembly process. You've built a complex machine from scratch, and you should be very proud of your work.

You are now ready to power on your printer