Thing-O-Matic Pro Tip: Extra USB Cable
Guess what?! I got a fever, and the only prescription is more USB cables!
One of the coolest features of the MakerBot Thing-O-Matic 3D printer is the enclosed electronics contained entirely within the base of the machine. Not only does it help keep the cables organized and electronic bits out of the way, but it makes for a more polished and clean looking machine when sitting on your desk. Once your bot is assembled, you’re going to be having too much fun making things to ever want to open it up again.
…which is the source of inspiration from today’s Thing-O-Matic pro tip courtesy of resident MakerBot software developer Matt Metts. Matt suggests running an extra USB cable, A to B, to the extruder board inside and leaving it there. That way you won’t have to keep opening your Thing-O-Matic each time you want to update your extruder’s firmware!
| Tagged with | cable, firmware, update, upgrade, usb | 7 comments |
7 Comments so far
Erwin Ried
But, to update the extruder firmware you have to disconnect the ethernet cable right?
MakerBlock
@Erwin Ried: I know I had to do that with my Cupcake – but I didn’t with my Thing-O-Matic and I updated the firmware just fine!
Luis
I’ve been meaning to hook up one of those USB extensions to the side of the but too.
ErikJDurwoodII
I had the same issue. I’m building in a small USB hub with cutoff switches ( http://usb.brando.com/imono-4-port-hub-with-on-off-switches-ii_p1434c39d15.html ) Then I can cover up the hole and leave the SSD slot and reset switch out. Unfortunately, the arduino’s USB port hangs out so I’d have a loop sticking out until I re-solder the interface in a different way. I’m also planning on adding a USB webcam to the mix!
Mike Frisina
Did this right after I got my new extruder head and had the machine apart. works fine.
Hugh Johnson
I did this, just be careful that the usb cord doesn’t come too close to the Arduino’s reset button as when my bot shook it would randomly press the reset button causing havoc.
Dustin Andrews
My solution was to refactor the Thing-o-matic bottom. Thing 13056. This lets me get to the electronics by just tipping the machine on it’s side.