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Onboard USB Port Precautions

Overview​

This document explains the functions, connection methods, and DIP switch configurations for the USB interfaces on the Fly-D8-Pro mainboard.

Host Computer Connection Instructions​

Core Connection Limitation

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

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Connection Requirements:

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

USB Interface Function Description​

Integrated Architecture Explanation​

Independent Functions, Physical Integration

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

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

1. Type-C USB (Host Interface)​

  • Function: Dedicated for connecting to the host computer.
  • Power Switch: There is a USB-5V>EN switch next to it, used to control the 5V power output of the Type-C interface.
    • Pressed Down: Turns ON the Type-C interface 5V output (can power the host computer).
    • 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 computer's own 5V power supply.
  2. Potential power backflow issues.
  3. Protecting the host computer's USB interface.

Only press the switch down (turn 5V output ON) when the host computer needs 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 Explanation​

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

DIP Switch Settings​

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

Mode Switching Precautions​

  1. Mutually Exclusive Functions: USB expansion and RS232 serial port functions cannot be enabled simultaneously; only one can be selected.
  2. Firmware Compatibility: When using the 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 Computer Cannot Recognize D8-Pro Mainboard​

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Confirm connection is made via the Type-C interface.
  2. Check the status 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 computer's 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 (flipped 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 (flipped left for RS232 serial port mode).
  2. Check RS232 cable connection, confirm TX/RX are cross-connected.
  3. Check for common ground (ensure GND is connected 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 computer, 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: When connecting an RS232 toolboard, switch the DIP switch to the left.
  4. USB Expansion: When connecting USB devices like cameras, switch the DIP switch to the right.
  5. Safe Operation: All mode switching operations must be performed with the power OFF.
  6. Firmware Compatibility: Before using the RS232 function, confirm the toolboard has the RS232 firmware flashed.
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