Update: Introducing V1.2 of the Upgrade Board!

What's New:

• Added Protections: Building upon the foundation of the previous XYZE version, V1.2 incorporates additional safety measures for peace of mind during operation.

• Fused Power Inputs: Both the 5V and 12-24V power inputs are now equipped with fuses, bolstering safety measures against potential overloads or faults.

• Reverse Polarity Protection: A safeguard has been implemented on the 5V supply line to ensure it will only supply and not receive high voltage.

• Signal Protection Diodes: Comprehensive signal protection diodes are now integrated across all signals originating from the Rambo board.

• Enhanced Fan Supply Options: Users now have the flexibility to select between 12-24V or 5V supply for the external fan, catering to diverse setup requirements.

Key Benefits:

These added protections serve to fortify your system against unforeseen events. In the event of a failure in an external driver that might push 12-24V to the Rambo signal pins (typically operating at 5V), the signal diodes act as a barrier, and should safeguard the Rambo board. Additionally, the quick-acting fuses on the power lines play a crucial role in containing any potential damage, ensuring minimal disruption to your setup.

It's important to note that while these protections should significantly enhance the safety and reliability of your system, no protection is 100% and damage might still occur but the risks are greatly reduced.

Compatibility:

Owners of version V1 and V1.1 can seamlessly integrate the Rambo protection part by utilizing a small protection addon board, now available for purchase in my store at an affordable price Tindie. This addon ensures that all users can benefit from the same level of signal protection, regardless of their current board version.

Version's

Manuals

High resolution manuals for all versions of the board can be found on github

What is it?

Introducing the External Prusa Driver Board, the perfect upgrade for your old printer! This incredible device will transform your noisy, outdated machine into a whisper-quiet "mk3".Don't let a loud, outdated printer hold you back any longer - upgrade to the External Prusa Driver Board today and start enjoying the benefits of a silent, high-performance printing experience!

The board is relatively easy to mount but it requires soldering skills, as you will need to solder a few cables to the back of the Rambo board. For more information about the installation check the Installation manual which can be found towards the bottom of this listing under the Specs and Docs -> Datasheet.

Why did you make it?

I have 3 old MK2.5S that make it impossible to work around due to the high amount of noise generated while printing but the printing quality is on par with a MK3s. So instead of replacing these printers I created this upgrade board.

What makes it special?

That you can add it to the original board and still get a much quieter printer without any software modifications.

What's included?

• Upgrade board V1.2 (pre soldered)
• 14 Pin cable
• 2 Pin power cable
• 3x M3 14mm
• 4x self tapping screw
• (optional bundle) flicker free LED light 7-24V -> Tindie

What's needed?

Please note that the upgrade board does not come with stepper drivers, and you will need to purchase your own to complete the installation. The board is only intended to work with TMC2208 or TMC2209 standalone! However, I would strongly suggest TMC2209’s! You also need to print the PCB holder so that you can mount the upgrade board, the files for the holder can be found on Printables.

Versions V1.1 and above has a LED port that allows for seamless connectivity to the flicker free LED light that I have personally developed. If you're interested in learning more about the LED light, please visit the detailed listing here at Tindie. It's a very nice accessory to the printer.

24V upgrade

There has been a considerable amount of interest to use a 24V boost converter in combination with my upgrade in order to print faster and cooler and notably with less noise. The installation manual now has a small section about how to install the boost converter.

Comparison with MK3s

Advantages upgrade board

• Cheaper than upgrading to a new driver board or a new MK3
• Gives same quiet experience as MK3

Disadvantages upgrade board

• Doesn't have the 24V systems as the MK3, which frankly the only advantage is faster heating times
• Doesn't have the new stiffer frame as MK3

Comparison with third party driver board

Advantages upgrade board

• Allows you to still use Prusa's pre-tuned profiles
• Easier to install and use
• Cheaper

Disadvantages upgrade board

• Less flexibility