Required Supplies:
Formlabs :
- Motherboard
- 2.5 mm hex driver (included in the Form 4 tool caddy)
Third-party:
- 2 mm hex driver
- Nitrile gloves
- Anti-static grounding strap
WHITE PAPER
Replacing the Form 4 motherboard (post 2024-11-15)
Replacing the Form 4 motherboard (post 2024-11-15)
The motherboard is the main electronics module on the Form 4 that controls various subsystems. The motherboard attaches to the printer and is located behind the right side panel. A malfunctioning motherboard may prevent the printer from printing properly.
Use this guide to replace the motherboard on a Form 4 generation printer.
Estimated time: 20–30 minutes
Notice:
This replacement guide exposes sensitive electronics within the Form 4. Static discharges can damage these electronics. Formlabs recommends using an anti-static grounding strap when performing this procedure.
Preparing the workspace
Overview: Prepare the printer and a dust-free workspace for replacing the motherboard.
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. Prepare additional space for storing the exterior panels, the LPU, the resin tank latches, the touchscreen, and the nest of the printer during maintenance.
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 back panel of the printer while the printer is plugged in. Never reconnect the printer to power while the back panel is uninstalled.
Removing the motherboard
Overview: Remove the right panel and disconnect the motherboard cables.
Step 1: Remove the right panel screws
Using a 2.5 mm hex driver, remove the four screws securing the right exterior panel to the printer. Set the right exterior panel and the screws aside.
Step 2: Disconnect the cables
Disconnect all cables from the motherboard.
Warning:
Take care when unplugging the cable to avoid damage. Once the plastic tab is pressed, the cable will easily slide from the connector. Do not pull on the wires.
Step 3: Remove the motherboard mounting screws
Using a 2.5 mm hex driver, remove the four hex screws on the left side and the two hex screws on the back of the printer that secure the motherboard to the printer.
Set the screws aside.
Step 4: Remove the motherboard
Carefully slide the motherboard out of the printer. Take care not to drop the two studs used to secure the motherboard. Set the studs aside. Set the motherboard aside for disposal with electronic waste.
Installing the replacement motherboard
Overview: After removing the motherboard, connect and install the replacement.
Step 1: Thread the studs
Align the stud holes of the motherboard with the slot holes in the printer. Thread the studs through the holes to secure the motherboard to the printer.
Step 2: Install the motherboard mounting screws
Position the motherboard on the right side of the printer so the screw holes are aligned. Using a 2.5 mm hex driver, install the four hex screws on the left side and the two hex screws on the back that secure the motherboard to the printer. Do not overtighten the screws.
Step 3: Connect the cables to the motherboard
Reconnect all cables to the motherboard. Use the numbered labels on the cables and the matching labels printed on the motherboard.
Step 4: Install the right panel screws
Using a 2.5 mm hex driver, install the four screws that secure the right exterior panel to the printer. Tighten the screws until snug.
Finalizing the repair
Overview: After installing the replacement motherboard, power on the printer and perform final checks.
Step 1: Power on the printer
Close the printer cover and connect the power cable to the printer and the power supply. Turn on the switch at the back of the printer. The printer initializes.
Step 2: Run the Align build platform calibration
From the printer touchscreen, select Settings > Tools > Align build platform and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 3: Re-activate biocompatible license (Form 4B customers only)
After the motherboard replacement, the biocompatible license will be temporarily disabled. Connect the printer to the internet to automatically refresh the license.
Step 4: Run a test print
Insert any missing consumables and upload and start a print. Check that the print starts normally and the parts print successfully. Contact Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller to share the results of the procedure.