After assembling the RAMPS 1.4 controller, Arduino MEGA board, an LED screen, as well as the motor drivers and wiring, we uploaded Marlin Firmware to the Arduino MEGA 2560 board using Arduino software.
Marlin firmware is a highly popular, open-source firmware used on a wide range of 3D printers, including Creality Ender-3 3D printers. Marlin acts as the “brain” of the printer, providing the essential control software that interprets the G-code (the language used by slicer software) into precise instructions for each part of the printer. It manages all the real-time activities of the machine by coordinating the heaters, steppers, sensors, lights, LCD display, buttons, and everything else involved in the 3D printing process.
Motion Control
Marlin interprets the G-code and controls the movement of the printer’s motors (stepper motors) along the X, Y, Z, and E0 axes. It ensures the print head follows precise paths. It also handles acceleration, deceleration, and other fine-tuning of movement to reduce vibrations.
Endstops and Homing
Marlin controls endstop switches (physical or optical sensors at the limits of each axis) to ensure the printer can reliably locate its home position before printing. Homing ensures that the printer always starts from a known reference point.
For more information regarding the Marlin firmware, please go to https://marlinfw.org/ .