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Onboard USB Port Precautions

Overview​

This document explains the USB interface functions, connection methods, and DIP switch configuration for the Fly-D8 mainboard.

Host Connection Instructions​

Core Connection Limitation

The Fly-D8 mainboard can only communicate with the host via the Type-C USB interface for Klipper.

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Connection Requirements:

  • Use a high-quality Type-C data cable to ensure stable data transmission.
  • It is recommended to avoid excessively long cables (not exceeding 1.5 meters).
  • Connect to a standard USB-A port on the host.

USB Interface Function Description​

Integrated Architecture Description​

Functionally Independent, Physically Integrated

The RS232 serial port and USB expansion function on the Fly-D8 mainboard are two completely independent functional modules, only physically integrated on the board.

The Fly-D8 mainboard is equipped with two USB interfaces with different functions:

1. Type-C USB (Host Interface)​

  • Function: Dedicated for connecting to the host.
  • Power Switch: The USB-5V>EN switch next to it controls the 5V power output of the Type-C interface.
    • Pressed Down: Turns ON the Type-C interface 5V output (can power the host).
    • Popped Up: Turns OFF the Type-C interface 5V output.
Host Connection Recommendation

For regular use, it is recommended to keep the USB-5V>EN switch popped up (5V output OFF) to avoid:

  1. Conflict with the host's own 5V power supply.
  2. Potential power backflow issues.
  3. Protecting the host's USB interface.

Only press the switch (turn 5V output ON) when the host requires additional power from the Type-C interface.

2. USB-A (Device Expansion Interface)​

  • Function: Used for expanding peripherals, supports connecting:
    • USB cameras
    • USB drives/storage devices
    • Other standard USB devices
  • Independent Module: The USB expansion function is a completely independent module, only physically integrated on the mainboard.

USB/RS232 Mode Switching​

Function Selection Description​

The Fly-D8 mainboard uses a DIP switch to select between USB expansion function or RS232 serial port function on the same physical interface.

DIP Switch Settings​

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DIP DirectionFunction ModeCorresponding InterfaceTypical Use
RightUSB Expansion ModeUSB-A Interface ❷Connect cameras, USB drives, etc.
LeftRS232 Serial ModeRS232 Interface ❸Connect toolboards supporting RS232

Mode Switching Precautions​

  1. Mutually Exclusive: USB expansion and RS232 serial port functions cannot be enabled simultaneously; only one can be selected.
  2. Firmware Compatibility: When using RS232 function, the toolboard must support RS232 communication and have the RS232 firmware flashed.
  3. Independent Modules: The RS232 serial port and USB expansion are two independent functional modules, only physically integrated on the mainboard.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting​

Issue 1: Host Cannot Recognize D8 Mainboard​

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Confirm connection is made via the Type-C interface.
  2. Check the state of the USB-5V>EN switch next to the Type-C interface (for regular use, recommended popped up/5V output OFF).
  3. Check data cable quality; try replacing the cable.
  4. Verify the host USB port is functioning normally.
  5. Check if the mainboard power supply is providing power normally.

Issue 2: USB Device Not Recognized​

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Confirm the DIP switch is set correctly (Right for USB Expansion Mode).
  2. Check USB device compatibility.
  3. Verify the USB device works normally on another host.
  4. Ensure the USB-5V>EN switch on the Type-C interface is popped up (5V output OFF).

Issue 3: RS232 Communication Abnormal​

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Confirm the DIP switch is set correctly (Left for RS232 Serial Mode).
  2. Check RS232 cable connection, confirm TX/RX are cross-connected.
  3. Check for common ground (ensure GND connection between mainboard and toolboard).
  4. Verify the toolboard supports RS232 communication and has the corresponding firmware flashed.

Usage Recommendations​

  1. Type-C Connection: When connecting to the host, it is recommended to keep the USB-5V>EN switch popped up (5V output OFF) to avoid power conflicts.
  2. Function Selection: Choose between USB expansion or RS232 serial port function based on needs; they are independent modules.
  3. RS232 Connection: Switch the DIP switch to the Left when connecting an RS232 toolboard.
  4. USB Expansion: Switch the DIP switch to the Right when connecting USB devices like cameras.
  5. Safe Operation: All mode switching operations must be performed with the power OFF.
  6. Firmware Compatibility: Before using RS232 function, confirm the toolboard has the RS232 firmware flashed.
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