Required Supplies:
Formlabs:
- 2.5 mm hex driver (included in the Form 4L tool caddy)
Third-party:
- 2-pin jumper (0.1 in / 2.54 mm pitch)
- Nitrile gloves
WHITE PAPER
Disabling Wi-Fi hardware (Form 4L generation)
Disabling Wi-Fi hardware (Form 4L generation)
Form 4L 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 4L generation printer.
Estimated time: 15 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 cartridges
Remove the resin cartridges 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 non-abrasive wipes. Dampen the wipes 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 lower left side panel
Overview: Uninstall the lower left side 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: Remove the lower left side panel screws
Use a 2.5 mm hex driver to remove the four screws securing the left panel to the printer. Set the screws aside.
Step 2: Remove the lower left side panel
Pull the side 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: Locate the WI-FI OFF header
The Form 4L motherboard is installed upside down in the printer. Locate the header labeled WI-FI OFF near the center of the board below the camera ribbon cable.
Step 2: Install the Wi-Fi jumper
Place a 2-pin jumper (0.1 in / 2.54 mm pitch) on the header to disable Wi-Fi on the machine.
Reinstalling the lower left side panel
Overview: Reinstall and secure the lower left side panel.
Step 1: Mount the lower left side panel
Place the lower left side 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 lower left side panel screws
Use a 2.5 mm hex driver to install the four screws that secure the lower left side 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.