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Beacon3D Probe

The Beacon3D Probe is a state-of-the-art bed leveling sensor that combines multiple sensing technologies to provide exceptional accuracy and reliability. It's particularly well-suited for Voron printers and other high-performance 3D printers.

Features

  • Dual-Mode Operation:
  • Non-contact mode for general bed leveling
  • Contact mode for precise Z-offset calibration
  • Auto Z-Offset:
  • Automatic calibration of nozzle-to-bed distance
  • Real-time adjustment during printing
  • High Precision:
  • Sub-micron accuracy
  • Temperature compensation
  • Multi-material support
  • Advanced Features:
  • USB connectivity
  • Onboard processing
  • LED status indicators
  • Configurable sensitivity

Benefits

  • Improved Print Quality:
  • Perfect first layer adhesion
  • Consistent layer heights
  • Reduced failed prints
  • Time Savings:
  • Automatic calibration
  • Quick setup process
  • Reduced manual adjustments
  • Versatility:
  • Works with various bed materials
  • Compatible with multiple printer types
  • Supports different mounting configurations

User Experiences

From Voron Discord User

"The Beacon3D has been rock solid for me. The dual-mode operation is fantastic - I use non-contact for quick leveling and contact mode when I need that extra precision. The auto Z-offset feature is a game-changer."

From Reddit User Review

"While the Beacon3D is accurate, I've had issues with the contact mode being too sensitive. Sometimes it triggers false readings, and the auto Z-offset feature can be inconsistent. The price is also quite steep for what you get."

Community Feedback

  • Users love the dual-mode operation for different use cases
  • Many report significant improvement in first layer consistency
  • The auto Z-offset feature is highly praised
  • Great for both beginners and advanced users
  • Excellent support from the development team

Common User Complaints

  • Initial setup is time-consuming and complex
  • USB connection issues are common, especially with long cables
  • Price point is significantly higher than traditional probes
  • Contact mode can be overly sensitive to vibrations
  • Auto Z-offset feature sometimes requires manual intervention
  • Firmware updates can be problematic
  • Some users report inconsistent readings in high-temperature environments
  • Documentation lacks troubleshooting guides for common issues
  • Support can be slow to respond to technical questions

Installation Guide

Hardware Setup

  1. Mounting:
  2. Mount the probe 2-3mm above the nozzle
  3. Ensure proper alignment with the bed

  4. Secure all connections firmly

  5. Wiring:

  6. Connect USB cable to the probe
  7. Route cables away from stepper motors
  8. Secure cables to prevent interference

Software Configuration

  1. Klipper Setup: 

    [probe]
pin: !gpio0
x_offset: 0
y_offset: 0
z_offset: 0
speed: 5.0
samples: 3
samples_result: median
sample_retract_dist: 2.0
samples_tolerance: 0.006
samples_tolerance_retries: 3

  2. Calibration:

  3. Run initial calibration
  4. Set Z-offset
  5. Configure mesh leveling

Usage Tips

Best Practices

  • Perform calibration at operating temperature
  • Clean the bed surface before leveling
  • Check probe alignment regularly
  • Update firmware when available

Common Issues

  • Incorrect mounting height
  • Loose connections
  • Interference from other electronics
  • Outdated firmware

Advanced Configuration

Temperature Compensation

[beacon]
temperature_compensation: true
compensation_factor: 1.0

Multi-Material Support

[beacon]
material_detection: true
detection_threshold: 0.1

Troubleshooting

Common Problems

  1. Inconsistent Readings:
  2. Check mounting height
  3. Verify connections

  4. Clean probe surface

  5. Calibration Issues:

  6. Ensure proper temperature
  7. Check bed surface

  8. Verify probe alignment

  9. Communication Errors:

  10. Check USB connection
  11. Verify firmware version
  12. Restart Klipper