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Disabling Wi-Fi hardware (Form 4 generation)

Form 4 generation printers have Wi-Fi functionality for receiving print jobs and firmware updates as well as uploading log files. Wi-Fi can be turned off via the machine’s touchscreen, but depending on your organization's security requirements, you may need to physically disable the Wi-Fi hardware before using the machine.

Use this guide to disable Wi-Fi hardware on a Form 4 generation printer.

Required Supplies:

Formlabs:

2.5 mm hex driver (included in the Form 4 tool caddy)

Third-party:

2-pin jumper (0.1 in / 2.54 mm pitch)

Estimated time: 5–10 minutes

Danger:

Read and follow all safety instructions and warnings in the operator manual. Replacement with incorrect parts can lead to burns, shock, fire, or explosion. Dispose of all parts in accordance with local regulations.

Preparing the workspace

Overview: Prepare the printer and a clean workspace for disabling the Wi-Fi hardware.

Step 1: Remove the build platform

Remove the build platform first to avoid dripping resin onto the Light Processing Unit (LPU).

Step 2: Remove the resin cartridge

Remove the resin cartridge and close the vent cap to prevent resin from dripping off of the bite valve and into the printer.

Step 3: Remove and store the resin tank and mixer

Unlatch the mixer and resin tank. Remove the resin tank and cover it with its lid. Set the tank aside on a clean, flat surface.

Notice:

Wear gloves and hold the resin tank by the tank grips on either side to avoid contamination or damage to the underside of the tank.

Step 4: Prepare the workspace

Clear a workspace around your printer. Ensure that the workspace is well-ventilated and free of dust.

Step 5: Clean the printer

Warning:

Resin may cause skin irritation or an allergic skin reaction. Wear gloves when handling liquid resin or resin-coated surfaces. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water.

Open the printer cover and clean any resin pooled on and around the LPU with paper towels. Dampen the paper towels with isopropyl alcohol if necessary to fully remove the resin.

Danger:

Fire hazard. IPA is flammable. Keep containers closed, and keep out of the reach of children.

Step 6: Unplug the printer

Disconnect the power cable before continuing with maintenance. Do not perform maintenance on the printer while it is connected to power. Wait five minutes after disconnecting the printer from power before proceeding.

Danger:

Performing maintenance on the printer while it is plugged in increases the risk of electric shock. Never remove the printer panels while the printer is plugged in. Never reconnect the printer to power while the panels are uninstalled.

Removing the right panel

Overview: Uninstall the right panel to access the motherboard.

Notice:

Formlabs printers contain sensitive electronic components. Ground yourself before touching any electronics in the machine by using an antistatic wrist band or touching a grounded piece of metal.

Step 1: Open the printer cover

Two of the four screws that secure the right panel to the printer are located behind the printer cover frame. Open the printer cover to access these screws.

Step 2: Remove the right panel screws

Use a 2.5 mm hex driver to remove the four screws securing the right panel to the printer. Set the screws aside.

Step 3: Remove the right panel

Pull the right panel directly away from the printer. Set the panel aside.

Disabling the Wi-Fi hardware

Overview: Access the motherboard and disable the Wi-Fi hardware.

Step 1: Install the Wi-Fi jumper

The Form 4 motherboard has a header labeled Wi-Fi OFF located near the center of the board. Place a 2-pin jumper (0.1 in / 2.54 mm pitch) on the header to disable Wi-Fi on the machine.

Reinstalling the right panel

Overview: Reinstall and secure the right panel.

Step 1: Mount the right panel

Place the right panel on the printer. Ensure that the screw holes in the panel align with those in the printer frame and that it sits flush with the touchscreen assembly and the back of the machine.

Step 2: Install the right panel screws

Use a 2.5 mm hex driver to install the four screws that secure the right panel to the printer. Tighten the screws until snug.

Finalizing the procedure

Overview: After disabling the Wi-Fi hardware, power on the printer and perform final checks.

Step 1: Power on the printer

Connect the power cable to the printer and the power supply. Flip the power switch on the back of the machine to the ON position. The printer initializes. Test the printer to ensure that it operates normally with the exception of Wi-Fi connectivity.