http://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=FxtripMidsouthMakers - Memphis Area Hackerpace - User contributions [en]2026-05-31T18:33:33ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.44.0http://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=User:Fxtrip&diff=11513User:Fxtrip2025-05-13T18:59:07Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>You asked for this. You got it. <br />
<br />
Be careful what you wish for.<br />
<br />
^ Words of warning from the guy who made my account lol XoXo</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11512PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T07:23:28Z<p>Fxtrip: /* But Wait this Ollama is command line Only Lets get it to the Web */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Spinning Up Unbuntu Server ==<br />
===First I started by downloading some AI onto it===<br />
<br />
<br />
🧠 Steps & Commands to Set Up Ollama on Ubuntu Server<br><br />
✅ 1. Update & Upgrade System <br><br />
<br />
<code>sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y<br><br />
<br />
✅ 2. Install Curl (if not already installed)<br><br />
<code>sudo apt install curl -y <br><br />
✅ 3. Download and Install Ollama<br><br />
<br />
<code>curl -fsSL https://ollama.com/install.sh | sh<br><br />
This script does the following:<br><br />
<br />
Downloads the Ollama binary<br><br />
Places it in /usr/local/bin/ollama<br><br />
Sets up the systemd service<br><br />
<br />
✅ 4. Start and Enable Ollama Service<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl start ollama<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl enable ollama<br><br />
✅ 5. Verify Ollama is Running<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl status ollama<br><br />
Or:<br />
<code>ollama --version<br><br />
✅ 6. Pull a Model (e.g., LLaMA3)<br><br />
<code>ollama run llama3<br><br />
Or to pull it without running:<br><br />
<code>ollama pull llama3<br><br />
This downloads the model to your local disk (typically in ~/.ollama).<br />
<br />
Here is a list of various AI that ollama can install. llama is highly recommended, but there are various models for download on their site.<br />
[https://ollama.com/library click here for the full list]<br />
<br />
=== But Wait this Ollama is command line Only Lets get it to the Web ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|800px|thumb|center|.]]<br />
Open Web UI.<br />
<br />
From here out several of my tools will be run in docker containers.<br />
<br />
🧱 1. Create a Volume for Persistent Data <br><br />
<code>docker volume create openwebui-data<br><br />
🐳 2. Run Open WebUI Container<br><br />
This command:<br><br />
*Mounts the persistent volume<br><br />
*Restarts automatically on reboot<br><br />
*Uses default port 3000 (can be changed)<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<code>docker run -d \<br />
<code>--name openwebui \<br />
<code> -p 3000:8080 \<br><br />
<code> -v openwebui-data:/app/backend/data \<br />
<code> --restart=unless-stopped \<br />
<code> ghcr.io/open-webui/open-webui:main<br />
<code><br />
<br />
🧠 Connect to Ollama<br><br />
If Ollama is running on the same host, Open WebUI will auto-detect it via localhost (http://localhost:11434).<br><br />
<code>-e OLLAMA_API_BASE_URL=http://host.docker.internal:11434<br><br />
<br />
🧪 3. Test it<br><br />
http://localhost:3000<br><br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11511PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T07:03:50Z<p>Fxtrip: Undo revision 11510 by Fxtrip (talk)</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Spinning Up Unbuntu Server ==<br />
===First I started by downloading some AI onto it===<br />
<br />
<br />
🧠 Steps & Commands to Set Up Ollama on Ubuntu Server<br><br />
✅ 1. Update & Upgrade System <br><br />
<br />
<code>sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y<br><br />
<br />
✅ 2. Install Curl (if not already installed)<br><br />
<code>sudo apt install curl -y <br><br />
✅ 3. Download and Install Ollama<br><br />
<br />
<code>curl -fsSL https://ollama.com/install.sh | sh<br><br />
This script does the following:<br><br />
<br />
Downloads the Ollama binary<br><br />
Places it in /usr/local/bin/ollama<br><br />
Sets up the systemd service<br><br />
<br />
✅ 4. Start and Enable Ollama Service<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl start ollama<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl enable ollama<br><br />
✅ 5. Verify Ollama is Running<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl status ollama<br><br />
Or:<br />
<code>ollama --version<br><br />
✅ 6. Pull a Model (e.g., LLaMA3)<br><br />
<code>ollama run llama3<br><br />
Or to pull it without running:<br><br />
<code>ollama pull llama3<br><br />
This downloads the model to your local disk (typically in ~/.ollama).<br />
<br />
Here is a list of various AI that ollama can install. llama is highly recommended, but there are various models for download on their site.<br />
[https://ollama.com/library click here for the full list]<br />
<br />
=== But Wait this Ollama is command line Only Lets get it to the Web ===<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11510PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T07:00:29Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11509PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T06:59:36Z<p>Fxtrip: /* First I started by downloading some AI onto it */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Spinning Up Unbuntu Server ==<br />
===First I started by downloading some AI onto it===<br />
<br />
<br />
🧠 Steps & Commands to Set Up Ollama on Ubuntu Server<br><br />
✅ 1. Update & Upgrade System <br><br />
<br />
<code>sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y<br><br />
<br />
✅ 2. Install Curl (if not already installed)<br><br />
<code>sudo apt install curl -y <br><br />
✅ 3. Download and Install Ollama<br><br />
<br />
<code>curl -fsSL https://ollama.com/install.sh | sh<br><br />
This script does the following:<br><br />
<br />
Downloads the Ollama binary<br><br />
Places it in /usr/local/bin/ollama<br><br />
Sets up the systemd service<br><br />
<br />
✅ 4. Start and Enable Ollama Service<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl start ollama<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl enable ollama<br><br />
✅ 5. Verify Ollama is Running<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl status ollama<br><br />
Or:<br />
<code>ollama --version<br><br />
✅ 6. Pull a Model (e.g., LLaMA3)<br><br />
<code>ollama run llama3<br><br />
Or to pull it without running:<br><br />
<code>ollama pull llama3<br><br />
This downloads the model to your local disk (typically in ~/.ollama).<br />
<br />
Here is a list of various AI that ollama can install. llama is highly recommended, but there are various models for download on their site.<br />
[https://ollama.com/library click here for the full list]<br />
<br />
=== But Wait this Ollama is command line Only Lets get it to the Web ===<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11508PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T06:58:14Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Spinning Up Unbuntu Server ==<br />
===First I started by downloading some AI onto it===<br />
<br />
<br />
🧠 Steps & Commands to Set Up Ollama on Ubuntu Server<br><br />
✅ 1. Update & Upgrade System <br><br />
<br />
<code>sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y<br><br />
<br />
✅ 2. Install Curl (if not already installed)<br><br />
<code>sudo apt install curl -y <br><br />
✅ 3. Download and Install Ollama<br><br />
<br />
<code>curl -fsSL https://ollama.com/install.sh | sh<br><br />
This script does the following:<br><br />
<br />
Downloads the Ollama binary<br><br />
Places it in /usr/local/bin/ollama<br><br />
Sets up the systemd service<br><br />
<br />
✅ 4. Start and Enable Ollama Service<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl start ollama<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl enable ollama<br><br />
✅ 5. Verify Ollama is Running<br><br />
<code>sudo systemctl status ollama<br><br />
Or:<br />
<code>ollama --version<br><br />
✅ 6. Pull a Model (e.g., LLaMA3)<br><br />
<code>ollama run llama3<br><br />
Or to pull it without running:<br><br />
<code>ollama pull llama3<br><br />
This downloads the model to your local disk (typically in ~/.ollama).<br />
<br />
Here is a list of various AI that ollama can install. llama is highly recommended, but there are various models for download on their site.<br />
[https://ollama.com/library click here for the full list]<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11507PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T06:26:32Z<p>Fxtrip: /* Spinning Up Unbuntu Serer */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Spinning Up Unbuntu Serer ==<br />
Unbuntu Server is headless. I ran various command lines<br />
<br />
<br />
🧠 Steps & Commands to Set Up Ollama on Ubuntu Server<br />
✅ 1. Update & Upgrade System<br />
<code>sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y<br />
✅ 2. Install Curl (if not already installed)<br />
<code>sudo apt install curl -y<br />
✅ 3. Download and Install Ollama<br />
<br />
<code>curl -fsSL https://ollama.com/install.sh | sh<br />
This script does the following:<br />
<br />
Downloads the Ollama binary<br />
Places it in /usr/local/bin/ollama<br />
Sets up the systemd service<br />
<br />
✅ 4. Start and Enable Ollama Service<br />
<code>sudo systemctl start ollama<br />
<code>sudo systemctl enable ollama<br />
✅ 5. Verify Ollama is Running<br />
<code>sudo systemctl status ollama<br />
Or:<br />
<code>ollama --version<br />
✅ 6. Pull a Model (e.g., LLaMA3)<br />
<code>ollama run llama3<br />
Or to pull it without running:<br />
<code>ollama pull llama3<br />
This downloads the model to your local disk (typically in ~/.ollama).<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11506PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T06:18:10Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Spinning Up Unbuntu Serer ==<br />
Unbuntu Server is headless. I ran various command lines <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11505PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T05:56:36Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11504PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T05:52:21Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11503PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T05:48:48Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|]]<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|]]<br />
<br><br><br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
<br />
====The first thing I did was load up several VMs====<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|800px|thumb|center|]]<br />
There are a bunch of Linux distros I’ve never had the chance to mess with — but hey, it’s never too late to learn, right? I ended up disabling the hardware RAID controller and switching over to ZFS for storage, based on a lot of community recommendations.<br />
<br />
ZFS is smart. It can use extra RAM for caching when the system isn’t under load, and it offers powerful snapshot features that are especially useful in Linux environments. It’s not perfect though — Windows VMs can get a little glitchy on ZFS, but overall it’s been solid.<br />
<br />
Now that everything’s set up, I can spin up or shut down VMs for Windows, macOS, Linux, even some Android builds. All you need is the ISO downloaded to Proxmox, walk through the setup, and you’re ready to go<br />
<br />
Here is a list of useful stuff that you can do now. <br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
*Test new operating systems without affecting your main system<br />
<br />
*Run multiple servers (web, file, DNS, VPN, etc.) on one physical machine<br />
<br />
*Host self-contained services like wikis, game servers, APIs, and dashboards<br />
<br />
*Develop and test code in isolated environments<br />
<br />
*Run malware or risky software safely in a sandbox<br />
<br />
*Learn networking by simulating LANs, firewalls, DNS, and routing<br />
<br />
*Practice system administration and automate setup scripts<br />
<br />
*Simulate full environments (like client-server setups) for learning or prototyping<br />
<br />
*Snapshot and rollback to a known-good state instantly<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
*Build a home lab with multiple VMs for Linux, Windows, and experimental tools<br />
<br />
*Run legacy or unsupported software on older OS versions<br />
<br />
*Separate workloads to reduce interference and increase reliability<br />
<br />
*Train lightweight AI models or run automation workflows locally<br />
<br />
*Experiment with containers inside VMs to isolate stacks<br />
<br />
*Practice virtualization and deployment skills for career or personal projects<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11502PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T05:23:56Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
=== Initial Server Startup ===<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got your image ready, the next step is to get the server on the network and confirm that a reboot reliably loads the web UI.<br />
<br />
To install an operating system directly onto bare metal, I recommend using Ventoy — a free and flexible tool that makes it easy to boot from multiple ISO files on a single USB drive. Just drag and drop the ISOs onto the drive. No reflashing required.<br />
<br />
[https://www.ventoy.net/en/download.html Get Ventoy here]<br />
<br />
For the hypervisor, I’m starting with Proxmox, but I plan to test the free version of ESXi as well. Both are capable of running Linux and Windows virtual machines, but in general, Proxmox leans more Linux-focused, while ESXi is a bit more tuned for Windows infrastructure.<br />
<br />
Since my main workstation is already Windows-based and I have several Windows VMs, I may eventually reformat and switch over to ESXi to streamline compatibility.<br />
<br />
You can grab both of these hypervisors from their respective sites:<br />
<br />
[https://www.proxmox.com/en/downloads/proxmox-virtual-environment/iso Get Proxmox Here]<br />
[https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads Get ESXi from VMware (account required)]<br />
<br />
After some backlash from the community, VMware (under Broadcom) brought back the free version of ESXi in April 2025. The latest release — ESXi 8.0U3e — is available for non-commercial use. You’ll need to register for a free VMware account to download it.<br />
<br />
Walk yourself through the installer — it's pretty straightforward. And if you get stuck, just ask ChatGPT.<br />
<br />
=== Check your Raid Config, Drives, and iDRAC ===<br />
Make sure you have all your drives installed before setting up the RAID. You can’t just add drives to the existing array later — any new drives will have to be added as a separate storage pool. These servers come with built-in hardware RAID controllers, so plan your setup up front.<br />
<br />
Also, be aware of iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller). It’s Dell’s built-in remote management system that runs independently of the main OS. Through a web browser, you can power the server on or off, access the BIOS, and install operating systems — all without needing a monitor or keyboard connected. I use it to mount ISOs and install server OSes like Proxmox or ESXi directly over the network.<br />
<br />
If you bought your server used, you might get lucky — some still have old OS licenses or install images linked to that hardware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|]]<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $2k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11501PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T04:33:36Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Cool!]]<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
==Proxmox A Computer Inside a computer==<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|]]<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|600px|thumb|center|]]<br />
Proxmox VE (Virtual Environment) is a free and open-source hypervisor that lets you run virtual machines and containers on a single physical server. You install it directly onto your hardware, and from there you can manage everything through a clean web interface. It turns your server into a local cloud — you get to spin up, snapshot, back up, and manage multiple operating systems all at once, without needing separate physical machines.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve got Proxmox running, you can start doing a lot of cool server-side stuff. For example, you can create isolated testing environments to try out new Linux distros or break things without damaging your main system. You can also host your own web servers, APIs, and self-hosted apps like a wiki, a password manager, or a personal cloud storage service — all inside different VMs that don’t interfere with each other.<br />
<br />
You can use it to practice networking and sysadmin skills by setting up multiple virtual machines, giving them separate virtual networks, and experimenting with firewalls, DNS, and routing. It’s a great way to simulate real-world environments without needing racks of hardware.<br />
<br />
If you’re into automation, Proxmox is a great way to build a dev lab. You can run tools like Flask or Node-RED, or even local AI inference engines like Ollama. It’s also perfect for hosting internal dashboards using tools like Grafana or Netdata to monitor what’s going on across your services.<br />
<br />
One of the best things about Proxmox is how easy it makes rollbacks. If you’re about to update or try something risky, just take a snapshot. If it all goes sideways, roll it back like nothing ever happened.<br />
<br />
And if you're feeling creative, you can even spin up lightweight game servers, development sandboxes, or mini-production environments all on the same box.<br />
<br />
Overall, Proxmox makes your server into a flexible, high-power platform for experimenting, learning, and building — all without relying on cloud services. It’s local, fast, and gives you full control over how your infrastructure runs<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $10k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg&diff=11500File:PoweredgeSeverLab2A.jpg2025-05-13T04:26:42Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11499PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T04:26:28Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50.00<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| Redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Cisco Business CBS350-24T-4G Managed Switch<br />
| 495.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1237.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSX77VB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Various PLCs ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC-504, Automation Direct Click, Siemens S-1200, Remote IO blocks. <br />
| Aprox $10k<br />
| 1<br />
| Not Counted<br />
| Ebay<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11498PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T04:15:33Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
== What Is Ventoy (and Why It’s a Game-Changer for USB Boot Drives)==<br />
<br />
[[File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Cool!]]<br />
<br />
If you’ve ever flashed a USB stick the old-school way, you know the pain. Traditionally, making a bootable USB meant using tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or dd to overwrite the entire drive with an ISO image. Once that happened, the USB was basically locked into being a single-purpose boot device — no extra storage, no flexibility, and you'd have to re-flash it every time you wanted a different OS.<br />
<br />
Ventoy flips that whole process on its head.<br />
<br />
Instead of writing a single ISO image directly to the drive, Ventoy installs a small bootloader partition on the USB stick — kind of like giving it a smart brain. After that, all you do is drag and drop your .iso files (or .img, .vhd, etc.) directly onto the drive like normal file storage. That’s it. No flashing, no overwriting.<br />
<br />
When you boot from the Ventoy USB, you get a menu that shows every ISO sitting on the drive. Pick the one you want, hit enter, and it boots straight into it. Want to add another OS? Just copy the ISO over. Done. Want to remove one? Delete the file. It’s literally plug-and-play for ISOs.<br />
<br />
Even better — Ventoy lets you use the remaining space on the USB drive for normal file storage too. You can toss in ISOs and still use the stick like a portable flash drive. Need to carry a Windows installer and some drivers or config files? No problem.<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11497PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T04:04:23Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11496PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T04:03:58Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, 56 Cores and 125GB of Ram <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| 1 TB Drives<br />
| 50<br />
| 6<br />
| 300.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Drive Caddy 4 Packs<br />
| 24<br />
| 2<br />
| 348.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKKSPM9R?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_7&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Front Bezel<br />
| 34<br />
| 1<br />
| 382.00<br />
| redacted<br />
|-<br />
| Server<br />
| 360<br />
| 1<br />
| 742.00<br />
| {https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097S84PPM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 Amazon]<br />
|-</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11495PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T03:53:38Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).<br />
<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg|Starting with a $360 server. 2TB HD, <br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg|Found a Cool utility called Ventoy. Run multiple boot ISOs and have usb storage on a boot disk<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg|Set up Proxmox<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg|Got the server up and running and the web interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg|Figured out I needed to set up raid and get my drives. Redid everything<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg|The server was delayed a month and lost in Nashville. When I powered it on the replacement had been upgraded 72 cores!<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg|Spun up an Unbuntu Server VM headless<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg|Installed Ollama, Several LLMs and got the web interface working for my locally run AI<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg|Installed a Tool to allow me to connect to chatGPT and other AIs through my local interface<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg|Installed Node JS, Heard about it for a while with Microcontrollers. Will be fun for the lab.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg|Set up an API that allows programs to ping my AI and get a response.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg|Got overwhelmed with tabs and port numbers. Made a web page with Homer.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg|Tested my API with excel lol Just a goal for the end of the day type thing.<br />
File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg|Attached a Wiki to my Server's Landing Page.<br />
<br />
</gallery></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11494PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T03:39:19Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab<br />
|image = PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg&diff=11493File:PoweredgeSeverLab14.jpg2025-05-13T03:35:05Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg&diff=11492File:PoweredgeSeverLab13.jpg2025-05-13T03:34:53Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg&diff=11491File:PoweredgeSeverLab12.jpg2025-05-13T03:34:45Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg&diff=11490File:PoweredgeSeverLab11.jpg2025-05-13T03:34:34Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg&diff=11489File:PoweredgeSeverLab10.jpg2025-05-13T03:34:22Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg&diff=11488File:PoweredgeSeverLab9.jpg2025-05-13T03:34:09Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg&diff=11487File:PoweredgeSeverLab8.jpg2025-05-13T03:34:01Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg&diff=11486File:PoweredgeSeverLab7.jpg2025-05-13T03:33:49Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg&diff=11485File:PoweredgeSeverLab6.jpg2025-05-13T03:33:33Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg&diff=11484File:PoweredgeSeverLab5.jpg2025-05-13T03:33:22Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg&diff=11483File:PoweredgeSeverLab4.jpg2025-05-13T03:33:11Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg&diff=11482File:PoweredgeSeverLab3.jpg2025-05-13T03:32:54Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg&diff=11481File:PoweredgeSeverLab2.jpg2025-05-13T03:32:44Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg&diff=11480File:PoweredgeSeverLab1.jpg2025-05-13T03:32:34Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11479PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T03:32:13Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
===Dell PowerEdge R630 Projects (a.k.a. The Homelab Core)===<br />
The R630 is the heart of the lab right now — a surprisingly capable little rack beast that's pulling way more weight than you'd expect from an old enterprise box. It's running Proxmox VE, which has basically become the sandbox for everything I'm messing with. From there, I've spun up a bunch of VMs to explore how far I can go with local-first infrastructure.<br />
<br />
So far, I've got:<br />
<br />
A Flask-based API running in its own VM — nothing wild yet, but it’s a clean interface I can use to pass data between tools or services. It’s meant to be a glue layer for automation later on.<br />
<br />
A self-hosted wiki for documentation, project logs, and general knowledge dumping. This has already become the home for all the build notes, configs, and ideas that were previously scattered across too many devices and napkins.<br />
<br />
Ollama, running locally — yeah, LLMs without the cloud. It's been super interesting trying out lightweight models, passing prompts via API, and just seeing how viable local AI is when it’s not backed by a datacenter. It’s not fast (yet), but it works — and I control everything.<br />
<br />
A few networking-focused VMs to experiment with traffic routing, virtual LANs, and just understanding how stuff talks to each other behind the scenes. Eventually, I want to scale this into something that mimics small production environments — or at least doesn’t fall apart the second you throw multiple services at it.<br />
<br />
All of this is still pretty early-stage, but it’s functional. Every VM I spin up is another tool I can play with, tweak, or break on purpose. The goal is to build a self-reliant environment that doesn’t depend on third-party services — something I can iterate on and use as a base for bigger ideas (including automation, CNC control, AI inference, and more).</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=PowerEdge_R630_Server/Lab&diff=11478PowerEdge R630 Server/Lab2025-05-13T02:49:43Z<p>Fxtrip: Created page with "Category:User projects Category:Fxtrip's projects {{Infobox project |project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM |image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg |caption = |owner..."</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:User projects]]<br />
[[Category:Fxtrip's projects]]<br />
<br />
{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg&diff=11477File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg2025-05-13T02:22:49Z<p>Fxtrip: Fxtrip uploaded a new version of File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11476FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-13T02:18:09Z<p>Fxtrip: /* Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Precision, Accuracy, Speed]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Better Flow, Less Heat Creep, and faster rate of heat for faster speeds]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.<br />
<br />
==Add a CR Touch and stop leveling the bed manually?==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Auto Bed Leveling?]]<br />
The CR Touch is an automatic bed leveling sensor made by Creality. It works similarly to the BLTouch by using a retractable probe to physically touch the bed at multiple points. When integrated with Klipper firmware, the CR Touch enables mesh bed leveling, allowing the printer to compensate for an uneven build surface during printing.<br />
<br />
With Klipper, the CR Touch measures the distance between the nozzle and the bed across a configurable grid. These measurements are used to create a bed mesh, which Klipper references during a print to dynamically adjust the nozzle height. This results in a more consistent first layer, even if the bed is slightly warped or tilted.<br />
<br />
The probing area, number of points, and spacing can be defined in the printer’s configuration file. The mesh data can be saved and automatically reloaded at the start of each print using Klipper’s built-in commands. Users can also fine-tune the nozzle height using a Z-offset, either manually or through macros.<br />
<br />
Using a CR Touch with Klipper eliminates the need for manual leveling with paper and springs. It improves print reliability, especially on larger beds or those with less-than-perfect flatness. It also works well with most common build surfaces like glass, PEI sheets, and flex plates.<br />
<br />
== Sharks with Laser beams attached to their heads==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Dr. EEEEeeeevil!]]<br />
<br />
The laser engraver system is based on the Creality Falcon laser module, which will operate independently of the main 3D printer controller. Instead of running through Klipper, the Falcon will be mounted on the Ender 3 frame but connected to its own control board configured to run GRBL. This separates the laser functionality from the printer’s Klipper environment, allowing the laser to be controlled using software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn.<br />
<br />
=== Laser requires manual changing of wires to a different board===<br />
Swapping between the 3D printer and laser systems will require a manual changeover process. This includes physically switching the stepper motor and limit switch wiring between the SKR Mini E3 (used for 3D printing) and the GRBL board (used for laser control). Quick-connect plugs or terminal blocks may be used to simplify this process, but a fully streamlined switching system is still under development.<br />
<br />
Dedicated development is ongoing to create a clean, reliable wiring solution that avoids conflicts between the two control boards. The goal is to enable rapid, tool-free changeovers without risking hardware damage or introducing electrical noise between systems.<br />
<br />
===Safety===<br />
<br />
Safety is a critical consideration when integrating a laser toolhead into a shared platform. The laser will only be powered and controlled when the GRBL board is connected and active. Care will be taken to physically isolate the laser’s power from the 3D printer’s electronics to avoid accidental activation. Safety glasses will be required during operation, and the workspace will include shielding to block reflections and protect bystanders. Limit switches and emergency stops will be tested independently for both toolheads to ensure system integrity.<br />
<br />
*** 10 % of a laser reflection will blind you or pets in the room**<br />
<br />
==EDM Machine Inspiration==<br />
===Overview===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MygL8R9kM&t=15s click here for what got me interested]<br />
===Setup Quick Start===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUhpkBXa6Q click here for the setup of powercore v1]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| Creality Ender 3<br />
| 179.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 179.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BR3F9N6?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Double Z-Axis Rail kit<br />
| 64.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 243.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08TTTMNK5?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon] <br />
|-<br />
| CR Touch<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 276.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0995H2X92?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Bed Leveling Mounts<br />
| 12.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 288.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP5FBDQX?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| X Axis Rail Kit<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 321.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BML83L4K?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Pi 4 kit<br />
| 119.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 440.00 <br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V5JTMV9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| LCD Screen<br />
| 52.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 492.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FDGRXGF?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Laser Kit w Board<br />
| 145.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 637.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSBTK3X9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Sprite Extruder Pro<br />
| 109.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 746.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7MRKHH1?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Accelerometers 5 pack<br />
| 9.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 755.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HLP1MPY?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Diagonal Supports<br />
| 36.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 791.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KW53CS9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Big Tree Tech E3 V3 mini<br />
| 44.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 835.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LC34SCK?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Fire Proof Enclosure<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 868.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C89ZHH8N?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Buck Converter<br />
| 10.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 878.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X1ZT5Z6?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Dual Z Axis Kit<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 902.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VJG4ZCG?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| tnut kit<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 922.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z4YH6NP?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| m3 m4 m5 bolt kit<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 942.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQJZCC9T?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Y axis Kit<br />
| 42.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 984.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCNW48Z1?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Tslot Dust Cover<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1004.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBMNPM6M?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Enclosure<br />
| 59.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1063.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DBL45V5K?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Exhaust Kit<br />
| 26.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1089.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLYB1ZVZ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Laser Bed<br />
| 27.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1116.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQKBXL4D?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Heater Block Kit<br />
| 27.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1143.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMVKGX86?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| CHT Nozzle<br />
| 21.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1165.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJPHZC1Z?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| PEI magnetic bed and plate<br />
| 14.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1179.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2HNZWTG?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-}</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11475FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-13T02:17:32Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Precision, Accuracy, Speed]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Better Flow, Less Heat Creep, and faster rate of heat for faster speeds]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.<br />
<br />
==Add a CR Touch and stop leveling the bed manually?==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Auto Bed Leveling?]]<br />
The CR Touch is an automatic bed leveling sensor made by Creality. It works similarly to the BLTouch by using a retractable probe to physically touch the bed at multiple points. When integrated with Klipper firmware, the CR Touch enables mesh bed leveling, allowing the printer to compensate for an uneven build surface during printing.<br />
<br />
With Klipper, the CR Touch measures the distance between the nozzle and the bed across a configurable grid. These measurements are used to create a bed mesh, which Klipper references during a print to dynamically adjust the nozzle height. This results in a more consistent first layer, even if the bed is slightly warped or tilted.<br />
<br />
The probing area, number of points, and spacing can be defined in the printer’s configuration file. The mesh data can be saved and automatically reloaded at the start of each print using Klipper’s built-in commands. Users can also fine-tune the nozzle height using a Z-offset, either manually or through macros.<br />
<br />
Using a CR Touch with Klipper eliminates the need for manual leveling with paper and springs. It improves print reliability, especially on larger beds or those with less-than-perfect flatness. It also works well with most common build surfaces like glass, PEI sheets, and flex plates.<br />
<br />
== Sharks with Laser beams attached to their heads==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Dr. EEEEeeeevil!]]<br />
<br />
The laser engraver system is based on the Creality Falcon laser module, which will operate independently of the main 3D printer controller. Instead of running through Klipper, the Falcon will be mounted on the Ender 3 frame but connected to its own control board configured to run GRBL. This separates the laser functionality from the printer’s Klipper environment, allowing the laser to be controlled using software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn.<br />
<br />
=== Laser requires manual changing of wires to a different board===<br />
Swapping between the 3D printer and laser systems will require a manual changeover process. This includes physically switching the stepper motor and limit switch wiring between the SKR Mini E3 (used for 3D printing) and the GRBL board (used for laser control). Quick-connect plugs or terminal blocks may be used to simplify this process, but a fully streamlined switching system is still under development.<br />
<br />
Dedicated development is ongoing to create a clean, reliable wiring solution that avoids conflicts between the two control boards. The goal is to enable rapid, tool-free changeovers without risking hardware damage or introducing electrical noise between systems.<br />
<br />
===Safety===<br />
<br />
Safety is a critical consideration when integrating a laser toolhead into a shared platform. The laser will only be powered and controlled when the GRBL board is connected and active. Care will be taken to physically isolate the laser’s power from the 3D printer’s electronics to avoid accidental activation. Safety glasses will be required during operation, and the workspace will include shielding to block reflections and protect bystanders. Limit switches and emergency stops will be tested independently for both toolheads to ensure system integrity.<br />
<br />
*** 10 % of a laser reflection will blind you or pets in the room**<br />
<br />
==EDM Machine Inspiration==<br />
===Overview===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MygL8R9kM&t=15s click here for what got me interested]<br />
===Setup Quick Start===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUhpkBXa6Q click here for the setup of powercore v1]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| Creality Ender 3<br />
| 179.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 179.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BR3F9N6?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Double Z-Axis Rail kit<br />
| 64.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 243.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08TTTMNK5?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon] <br />
|-<br />
| CR Touch<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 276.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0995H2X92?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Bed Leveling Mounts<br />
| 12.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 288.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP5FBDQX?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| X Axis Rail Kit<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 321.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BML83L4K?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Pi 4 kit<br />
| 119.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 440.00 <br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V5JTMV9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| LCD Screen<br />
| 52.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 492.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FDGRXGF?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Laser Kit w Board<br />
| 145.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 637.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSBTK3X9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Sprite Extruder Pro<br />
| 109.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 746.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7MRKHH1?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Accelerometers 5 pack<br />
| 9.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 755.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HLP1MPY?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Diagonal Supports<br />
| 36.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 791.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KW53CS9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Big Tree Tech E3 V3 mini<br />
| 44.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 835.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LC34SCK?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Fire Proof Enclosure<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 868.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C89ZHH8N?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Buck Converter<br />
| 10.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 878.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X1ZT5Z6?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Dual Z Axis Kit<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 902.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VJG4ZCG?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| tnut kit<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 922.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z4YH6NP?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| m3 m4 m5 bolt kit<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 942.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQJZCC9T?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Y axis Kit<br />
| 42.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 984.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCNW48Z1?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Tslot Dust Cover<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1004.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBMNPM6M?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Enclosure<br />
| 59.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1063.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DBL45V5K?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Exhaust Kit<br />
| 26.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1089.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLYB1ZVZ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Laser Bed<br />
| 27.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1116.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQKBXL4D?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Heater Block Kit<br />
| 27.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1143.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMVKGX86?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| CHT Nozzle<br />
| 21.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1165.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJPHZC1Z?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| PEI magnetic bed and plate<br />
| 14.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1179.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2HNZWTG?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-}</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11474FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-13T01:57:03Z<p>Fxtrip: working on table</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Precision, Accuracy, Speed]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Better Flow, Less Heat Creep, and faster rate of heat for faster speeds]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.<br />
<br />
==Add a CR Touch and stop leveling the bed manually?==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Auto Bed Leveling?]]<br />
The CR Touch is an automatic bed leveling sensor made by Creality. It works similarly to the BLTouch by using a retractable probe to physically touch the bed at multiple points. When integrated with Klipper firmware, the CR Touch enables mesh bed leveling, allowing the printer to compensate for an uneven build surface during printing.<br />
<br />
With Klipper, the CR Touch measures the distance between the nozzle and the bed across a configurable grid. These measurements are used to create a bed mesh, which Klipper references during a print to dynamically adjust the nozzle height. This results in a more consistent first layer, even if the bed is slightly warped or tilted.<br />
<br />
The probing area, number of points, and spacing can be defined in the printer’s configuration file. The mesh data can be saved and automatically reloaded at the start of each print using Klipper’s built-in commands. Users can also fine-tune the nozzle height using a Z-offset, either manually or through macros.<br />
<br />
Using a CR Touch with Klipper eliminates the need for manual leveling with paper and springs. It improves print reliability, especially on larger beds or those with less-than-perfect flatness. It also works well with most common build surfaces like glass, PEI sheets, and flex plates.<br />
<br />
== Sharks with Laser beams attached to their heads==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Dr. EEEEeeeevil!]]<br />
<br />
The laser engraver system is based on the Creality Falcon laser module, which will operate independently of the main 3D printer controller. Instead of running through Klipper, the Falcon will be mounted on the Ender 3 frame but connected to its own control board configured to run GRBL. This separates the laser functionality from the printer’s Klipper environment, allowing the laser to be controlled using software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn.<br />
<br />
=== Laser requires manual changing of wires to a different board===<br />
Swapping between the 3D printer and laser systems will require a manual changeover process. This includes physically switching the stepper motor and limit switch wiring between the SKR Mini E3 (used for 3D printing) and the GRBL board (used for laser control). Quick-connect plugs or terminal blocks may be used to simplify this process, but a fully streamlined switching system is still under development.<br />
<br />
Dedicated development is ongoing to create a clean, reliable wiring solution that avoids conflicts between the two control boards. The goal is to enable rapid, tool-free changeovers without risking hardware damage or introducing electrical noise between systems.<br />
<br />
===Safety===<br />
<br />
Safety is a critical consideration when integrating a laser toolhead into a shared platform. The laser will only be powered and controlled when the GRBL board is connected and active. Care will be taken to physically isolate the laser’s power from the 3D printer’s electronics to avoid accidental activation. Safety glasses will be required during operation, and the workspace will include shielding to block reflections and protect bystanders. Limit switches and emergency stops will be tested independently for both toolheads to ensure system integrity.<br />
<br />
*** 10 % of a laser reflection will blind you or pets in the room**<br />
<br />
==EDM Machine Inspiration==<br />
===Overview===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MygL8R9kM&t=15s click here for what got me interested]<br />
===Setup Quick Start===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUhpkBXa6Q click here for the setup of powercore v1]<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Item<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Cost<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Quantity<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Sub Total<br />
! style="text-align:center;" | Distributor<br />
|-<br />
| Creality Ender 3<br />
| 179.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 179.00<br />
| [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2HNZWTG?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1 Amazon]<br />
|-<br />
| Double Z-Axis Rail kit<br />
| 64.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 243.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| CR Touch<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 276.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Bed Leveling Mounts<br />
| 12.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 288.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| X Axis Rail Kit<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 321.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Pi 4 kit<br />
| 119.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 440.00 <br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| LCD Screen<br />
| 52.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 492.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Laser Kit w Board<br />
| 145.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 637.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Sprite Extruder Pro<br />
| 109.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 746.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Accelerometers 4 pack<br />
| 9.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 755.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Diagonal Supports<br />
| 36.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 791.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Big Tree Tech E3 V3 mini<br />
| 44.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 835.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Fire Proof Enclosure<br />
| 33.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 868.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Buck Converter<br />
| 10.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 878.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Dual Z Axis Kit<br />
| 24.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 902.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| tnut kit<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 922.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| m3 m4 m5 bolt kit<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 942.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Y axis Kit<br />
| 42.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 984.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Tslot Dust Cover<br />
| 20.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1004.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Enclosure<br />
| 59.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1063.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Exhaust Kit<br />
| 26.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1089.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Laser Bed<br />
| 27.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1116.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| Heater Block Kit<br />
| 27.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1143.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| CHT Nozzle<br />
| 21.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1165.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-<br />
| PEI magnetic bed and plate<br />
| 14.00<br />
| 1<br />
| 1179.00<br />
| Amazon<br />
|-}</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11473FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-13T01:24:43Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Precision, Accuracy, Speed]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Better Flow, Less Heat Creep, and faster rate of heat for faster speeds]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.<br />
<br />
==Add a CR Touch and stop leveling the bed manually?==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Auto Bed Leveling?]]<br />
The CR Touch is an automatic bed leveling sensor made by Creality. It works similarly to the BLTouch by using a retractable probe to physically touch the bed at multiple points. When integrated with Klipper firmware, the CR Touch enables mesh bed leveling, allowing the printer to compensate for an uneven build surface during printing.<br />
<br />
With Klipper, the CR Touch measures the distance between the nozzle and the bed across a configurable grid. These measurements are used to create a bed mesh, which Klipper references during a print to dynamically adjust the nozzle height. This results in a more consistent first layer, even if the bed is slightly warped or tilted.<br />
<br />
The probing area, number of points, and spacing can be defined in the printer’s configuration file. The mesh data can be saved and automatically reloaded at the start of each print using Klipper’s built-in commands. Users can also fine-tune the nozzle height using a Z-offset, either manually or through macros.<br />
<br />
Using a CR Touch with Klipper eliminates the need for manual leveling with paper and springs. It improves print reliability, especially on larger beds or those with less-than-perfect flatness. It also works well with most common build surfaces like glass, PEI sheets, and flex plates.<br />
<br />
== Sharks with Laser beams attached to their heads==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Dr. EEEEeeeevil!]]<br />
<br />
The laser engraver system is based on the Creality Falcon laser module, which will operate independently of the main 3D printer controller. Instead of running through Klipper, the Falcon will be mounted on the Ender 3 frame but connected to its own control board configured to run GRBL. This separates the laser functionality from the printer’s Klipper environment, allowing the laser to be controlled using software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn.<br />
<br />
=== Laser requires manual changing of wires to a different board===<br />
Swapping between the 3D printer and laser systems will require a manual changeover process. This includes physically switching the stepper motor and limit switch wiring between the SKR Mini E3 (used for 3D printing) and the GRBL board (used for laser control). Quick-connect plugs or terminal blocks may be used to simplify this process, but a fully streamlined switching system is still under development.<br />
<br />
Dedicated development is ongoing to create a clean, reliable wiring solution that avoids conflicts between the two control boards. The goal is to enable rapid, tool-free changeovers without risking hardware damage or introducing electrical noise between systems.<br />
<br />
===Safety===<br />
<br />
Safety is a critical consideration when integrating a laser toolhead into a shared platform. The laser will only be powered and controlled when the GRBL board is connected and active. Care will be taken to physically isolate the laser’s power from the 3D printer’s electronics to avoid accidental activation. Safety glasses will be required during operation, and the workspace will include shielding to block reflections and protect bystanders. Limit switches and emergency stops will be tested independently for both toolheads to ensure system integrity.<br />
<br />
*** 10 % of a laser reflection will blind you or pets in the room**<br />
<br />
==EDM Machine Inspiration==<br />
===Overview===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MygL8R9kM&t=15s click here for what got me interested]<br />
===Setup Quick Start===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUhpkBXa6Q click here for the setup of powercore v1]<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{{bom-start}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Creality Ender 3<br />
| cost = 179.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 179.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Double Z-Axis Rail kit<br />
| cost = 64.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 243.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = CR Touch<br />
| cost = 33.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 276.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Bed Leveling Mounts<br />
| cost = 12.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 288.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = X Axis Rail Kit<br />
| cost = 33.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 321.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Pi 4 kit<br />
| cost = 119.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 440.00 <br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = LCD Screen<br />
| cost = 52.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 492.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Laser Kit w Board<br />
| cost = 145.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 637.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Sprite Extruder Pro<br />
| cost = 109.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 746.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Accelerometers 4 pack<br />
| cost = 9.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 755.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Diagonal Supports<br />
| cost = 36.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 791.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Big Tree Tech E3 V3 mini<br />
| cost = 44.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 835.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Fire Proof Enclosure<br />
| cost = 33.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 868.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Buck Converter<br />
| cost = 10.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 878.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Dual Z Axis Kit<br />
| cost = 24.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 902.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = tnut kit<br />
| cost = 20.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 922.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = m3 m4 m5 bolt kit<br />
| cost = 20.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 942.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Y axis Kit<br />
| cost = 42.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 984.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Tslot Dust Cover<br />
| cost = 20.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1004.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Enclosure<br />
| cost = 59.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1063.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Exhaust Kit<br />
| cost = 26.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1089.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Laser Bed<br />
| cost = 27.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1116.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Heater Block Kit<br />
| cost = 27.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1143.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = CHT Nozzle<br />
| cost = 21.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1165.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = PEI magnetic bed and plate<br />
| cost = 14.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| Sub Total = 1165.00<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-end}}</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11472FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-13T00:56:51Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Precision, Accuracy, Speed]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Better Flow, Less Heat Creep, and faster rate of heat for faster speeds]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.<br />
<br />
==Add a CR Touch and stop leveling the bed manually?==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Auto Bed Leveling?]]<br />
The CR Touch is an automatic bed leveling sensor made by Creality. It works similarly to the BLTouch by using a retractable probe to physically touch the bed at multiple points. When integrated with Klipper firmware, the CR Touch enables mesh bed leveling, allowing the printer to compensate for an uneven build surface during printing.<br />
<br />
With Klipper, the CR Touch measures the distance between the nozzle and the bed across a configurable grid. These measurements are used to create a bed mesh, which Klipper references during a print to dynamically adjust the nozzle height. This results in a more consistent first layer, even if the bed is slightly warped or tilted.<br />
<br />
The probing area, number of points, and spacing can be defined in the printer’s configuration file. The mesh data can be saved and automatically reloaded at the start of each print using Klipper’s built-in commands. Users can also fine-tune the nozzle height using a Z-offset, either manually or through macros.<br />
<br />
Using a CR Touch with Klipper eliminates the need for manual leveling with paper and springs. It improves print reliability, especially on larger beds or those with less-than-perfect flatness. It also works well with most common build surfaces like glass, PEI sheets, and flex plates.<br />
<br />
== Sharks with Laser beams attached to their heads==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Dr. EEEEeeeevil!]]<br />
<br />
The laser engraver system is based on the Creality Falcon laser module, which will operate independently of the main 3D printer controller. Instead of running through Klipper, the Falcon will be mounted on the Ender 3 frame but connected to its own control board configured to run GRBL. This separates the laser functionality from the printer’s Klipper environment, allowing the laser to be controlled using software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn.<br />
<br />
=== Laser requires manual changing of wires to a different board===<br />
Swapping between the 3D printer and laser systems will require a manual changeover process. This includes physically switching the stepper motor and limit switch wiring between the SKR Mini E3 (used for 3D printing) and the GRBL board (used for laser control). Quick-connect plugs or terminal blocks may be used to simplify this process, but a fully streamlined switching system is still under development.<br />
<br />
Dedicated development is ongoing to create a clean, reliable wiring solution that avoids conflicts between the two control boards. The goal is to enable rapid, tool-free changeovers without risking hardware damage or introducing electrical noise between systems.<br />
<br />
===Safety===<br />
<br />
Safety is a critical consideration when integrating a laser toolhead into a shared platform. The laser will only be powered and controlled when the GRBL board is connected and active. Care will be taken to physically isolate the laser’s power from the 3D printer’s electronics to avoid accidental activation. Safety glasses will be required during operation, and the workspace will include shielding to block reflections and protect bystanders. Limit switches and emergency stops will be tested independently for both toolheads to ensure system integrity.<br />
<br />
*** 10 % of a laser reflection will blind you or pets in the room**<br />
<br />
==EDM Machine Inspiration==<br />
===Overview===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MygL8R9kM&t=15s click here for what got me interested]<br />
===Setup Quick Start===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUhpkBXa6Q click here for the setup of powercore v1]<br />
<br />
== Bill of Materials ==<br />
<br />
{{bom-start}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Creality Ender 3<br />
| cost = 179.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Double Z-Axis Rail kit<br />
| cost = 64.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = CR Touch<br />
| cost = 33.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Bed Leveling Mounts<br />
| cost = 12.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = X Axis Rail Kit<br />
| cost = 33.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Pi 4 kit<br />
| cost = 119.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = LCD Screen<br />
| cost = 52.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Laser Kit w Board<br />
| cost = 145.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Sprite Extruder Pro<br />
| cost = 109.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Accelerometers 4 pack<br />
| cost = 9.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Diagonal Supports<br />
| cost = 36.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Big Tree Tech E3 V3 mini<br />
| cost = 44.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Fire Proof Enclosure<br />
| cost = 33.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Buck Converter<br />
| cost = 10.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Dual Z Axis Kit<br />
| cost = 24.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = tnut kit<br />
| cost = 20.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = m3 m4 m5 bolt kit<br />
| cost = 20.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Y axis Kit<br />
| cost = 42.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Tslot Dust Cover<br />
| cost = 20.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Enclosure<br />
| cost = 59.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Exhaust Kit<br />
| cost = 26.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Laser Bed<br />
| cost = 27.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = Heater Block Kit<br />
| cost = 27.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = CHT Nozzle<br />
| cost = 21.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-row<br />
| item = PEI magnetic bed and plate<br />
| cost = 14.00<br />
| quantity = 1<br />
| distributor = Amazon<br />
}}<br />
{{bom-end}}</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11471FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-13T00:25:43Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why change to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Precision, Accuracy, Speed]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Better Flow, Less Heat Creep, and faster rate of heat for faster speeds]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.<br />
<br />
==Add a CR Touch and stop leveling the bed manually?==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Auto Bed Leveling?]]<br />
The CR Touch is an automatic bed leveling sensor made by Creality. It works similarly to the BLTouch by using a retractable probe to physically touch the bed at multiple points. When integrated with Klipper firmware, the CR Touch enables mesh bed leveling, allowing the printer to compensate for an uneven build surface during printing.<br />
<br />
With Klipper, the CR Touch measures the distance between the nozzle and the bed across a configurable grid. These measurements are used to create a bed mesh, which Klipper references during a print to dynamically adjust the nozzle height. This results in a more consistent first layer, even if the bed is slightly warped or tilted.<br />
<br />
The probing area, number of points, and spacing can be defined in the printer’s configuration file. The mesh data can be saved and automatically reloaded at the start of each print using Klipper’s built-in commands. Users can also fine-tune the nozzle height using a Z-offset, either manually or through macros.<br />
<br />
Using a CR Touch with Klipper eliminates the need for manual leveling with paper and springs. It improves print reliability, especially on larger beds or those with less-than-perfect flatness. It also works well with most common build surfaces like glass, PEI sheets, and flex plates.<br />
<br />
== Sharks with Laser beams attached to their heads==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Dr. EEEEeeeevil!]]<br />
<br />
The laser engraver system is based on the Creality Falcon laser module, which will operate independently of the main 3D printer controller. Instead of running through Klipper, the Falcon will be mounted on the Ender 3 frame but connected to its own control board configured to run GRBL. This separates the laser functionality from the printer’s Klipper environment, allowing the laser to be controlled using software like LaserGRBL or LightBurn.<br />
<br />
=== Laser requires manual changing of wires to a different board===<br />
Swapping between the 3D printer and laser systems will require a manual changeover process. This includes physically switching the stepper motor and limit switch wiring between the SKR Mini E3 (used for 3D printing) and the GRBL board (used for laser control). Quick-connect plugs or terminal blocks may be used to simplify this process, but a fully streamlined switching system is still under development.<br />
<br />
Dedicated development is ongoing to create a clean, reliable wiring solution that avoids conflicts between the two control boards. The goal is to enable rapid, tool-free changeovers without risking hardware damage or introducing electrical noise between systems.<br />
<br />
===Safety===<br />
<br />
Safety is a critical consideration when integrating a laser toolhead into a shared platform. The laser will only be powered and controlled when the GRBL board is connected and active. Care will be taken to physically isolate the laser’s power from the 3D printer’s electronics to avoid accidental activation. Safety glasses will be required during operation, and the workspace will include shielding to block reflections and protect bystanders. Limit switches and emergency stops will be tested independently for both toolheads to ensure system integrity.<br />
<br />
*** 10 % of a laser reflection will blind you or pets in the room**<br />
<br />
==EDM Machine Inspiration==<br />
===Overview===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MygL8R9kM&t=15s click here for what got me interested]<br />
===Setup Quick Start===<br />
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUhpkBXa6Q click here for the setup of powercore v1]</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg&diff=11470File:FxTripEnderPic18.jpg2025-05-13T00:03:21Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg&diff=11469File:FxTripEnderPic17.jpg2025-05-12T23:57:36Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11468FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-12T23:54:03Z<p>Fxtrip: /* Features */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br><br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11467FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-12T23:53:33Z<p>Fxtrip: /* Features */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
✅ Added BL touch for Mesh Bed Leveling Through Clipper <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br />
🔜 Plan to add mesh bed leveling <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11466FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-12T23:51:59Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
{| style="width:100%;"<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
| style="width:55%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement <br><br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing <br><br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping <br><br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy <br><br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
* 32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers <br />
* Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing <br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing <br><br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.) <br><br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing <br><br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control <br><br />
✅ Added an electrical enclosure <br><br />
<br />
| style="width:45%; vertical-align:top;" |<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds <br><br />
✅ Installed and configured: <br />
* Moonraker (API + printer status layer) <br />
* Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access) <br />
* KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen) <br />
✅ Manual tuning of: <br />
* Filament flow rate <br />
* Pressure advance <br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation <br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between: <br />
* 3D print head (Sprite Pro) <br />
* Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work) <br />
* Rack Robotics EDM head <br />
* Laser engraver <br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions <br><br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system <br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11465FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-12T23:44:04Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement<br />
<br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing<br />
<br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping<br />
<br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy<br />
<br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0<br />
<br />
*32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers<br />
<br />
*Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing<br />
<br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing<br />
<br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.)<br />
<br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing<br />
<br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control<br />
<br />
✅ Added An Electrical Enclosure.<br />
<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds<br />
<br />
✅ Installed and configured:<br />
<br />
*Moonraker (API + printer status layer)<br />
<br />
*Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access)<br />
<br />
*KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen)<br />
<br />
✅ Manual tuning of:<br />
<br />
*Filament flow rate<br />
<br />
*Pressure advance<br />
<br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation<br />
<br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between:<br />
<br />
*3D print head (Sprite Pro)<br />
<br />
*Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work)<br />
<br />
*Rack Robotics EDM head<br />
<br />
*Laser engraver<br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions<br />
<br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system<br />
<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
<br />
Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
<br />
The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
<br />
This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
<br />
Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
<br />
This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
<br />
===Replacing the Stock Screen with a Web Interface Using Klipper===<br />
When upgrading an Ender 3 to run Klipper firmware, the stock rotary dial and LCD interface are no longer used. Instead, Klipper offloads the printer's control logic to a more powerful processor—typically a Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computer—connected to the printer via USB. This setup enables remote control and monitoring over your local network using a web interface like Mainsail, Fluidd, or OctoPrint (with Klipper plugin).<br />
<br />
Once Klipper is installed and configured, the printer is no longer dependent on the limited interface of the built-in screen. Instead, you can access a full-featured web dashboard from any device on your network—phone, tablet, or PC—by entering the Pi’s IP address or hostname (e.g., http://mainsail.local).<br />
<br />
These web interfaces provide real-time control over movement, temperatures, fan speeds, macros, and print progress. They also support live terminal access, file uploads, G-code previewing, and temperature graphs—far beyond what the stock screen offers.<br />
<br />
For users who still want local touchscreen control, KlipperScreen can be installed to display a custom interface on an attached screen (like the BIGTREETECH PITFT50), effectively replacing the dial-and-click LCD with a modern touchscreen.<br />
<br />
This shift not only improves usability, but also paves the way for advanced features like macro scripting, pressure advance tuning, input shaping, and multiple toolhead control—all managed through a responsive and intuitive web interface.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
<br />
===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
<br />
For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
<br />
While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
<br />
==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
<br />
The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
<br />
Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
<br />
The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
<br />
===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
<br />
By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
<br />
===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
<br />
Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
<br />
Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
<br />
Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
<br />
While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.</div>Fxtriphttp://wiki.midsouthmakers.org/index.php?title=FxTrip%27s_Ender_3&diff=11464FxTrip's Ender 32025-05-12T23:29:42Z<p>Fxtrip: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox project<br />
|project_name = FxTrip's Ender 3 Print/Laser/EDM<br />
|image = FxTripEnderPic16.jpg<br />
|caption = <br />
|owner = Fxtrip<br />
|version = 1.0<br />
|status = inprogress<br />
|start_date = Feb 2025<br />
|cost = TBD<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
My Ender 3 is a heavily modified original V1 model, upgraded for high-speed, high-quality printing with modular capabilities in mind. It’s equipped with a BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 mainboard, which offers quiet TMC2209 stepper drivers and Klipper compatibility thanks to its 32-bit architecture. I’ve replaced the stock extruder with a Sprite Pro direct-drive system, enabling better control over flexible filaments and high-temperature materials. The printer is controlled via a Raspberry Pi 4 running Klipper, Moonraker, Mainsail (for the web interface), and KlipperScreen, which outputs to a BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 5" touchscreen for local access.<br />
<br />
My setup is optimized for manual tuning first—focusing on filament flow rate and pressure advance—before implementing accelerometer-based input shaping. The long-term goal is to rival the speed and quality of printers like the Bambu A1 Mini while maintaining full control over the system. I’m also developing a modular quick-change toolhead system that allows me to swap between the 3D print head, a small CNC spindle for aluminum machining, a Rack Robotics EDM head, and a laser engraver. Each toolhead will have dedicated connectors for clean, tool-specific wiring. The frame is stabilized with a foam base and weighted platform to reduce vibration during fast movements, further improving print consistency.<br />
<br />
=== Features ===<br />
<br />
🔧 '''Mechanical & Frame Upgrades'''<br />
<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced all motion axes (X, Y, Z) with linear rails for smoother, more precise movement<br />
<br />
✅ Added frame supports/bracing to reduce wobble and improve stability during high-speed printing<br />
<br />
✅ Mounted printer on foam base with heavy paver for vibration damping<br />
<br />
✅ Reinforced gantry and frame alignment for better long-term dimensional accuracy<br />
<br />
<br />
🛠️ '''Electronics & Wiring'''<br />
<br />
<br />
✅ Replaced stock mainboard with BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0<br />
<br />
*32-bit board with TMC2209 silent stepper drivers<br />
<br />
*Supports UART mode for advanced motor control and sensorless homing<br />
<br />
✅ Completely rewired the board to support modular toolheads with clean routing<br />
<br />
✅ Added labeled connectors for tool swapping (extruder, CNC, EDM, laser, etc.)<br />
<br />
✅ Integrated Raspberry Pi 4 for headless control and local processing<br />
<br />
✅ Installed BIGTREETECH PITFT50 V2.1 (5") display running KlipperScreen for local touchscreen control<br />
<br />
✅ Added An Electrical Enclosure.<br />
<br />
<br />
📦 '''Firmware & Software Stack'''<br />
<br />
<br />
✅ Flashed firmware to Klipper for higher precision and faster print speeds<br />
<br />
✅ Installed and configured:<br />
<br />
*Moonraker (API + printer status layer)<br />
<br />
*Mainsail (web-based UI for remote access)<br />
<br />
*KlipperScreen (for the PITFT50 touchscreen)<br />
<br />
✅ Manual tuning of:<br />
<br />
*Filament flow rate<br />
<br />
*Pressure advance<br />
<br />
🔜 Plan to add an accelerometer for input shaping and resonance compensation<br />
<br />
<br />
🧰 '''Toolhead & Multi-Mod Functionality (Planned)'''<br />
<br />
<br />
🔁 Developing a manual quick-change system to swap between:<br />
<br />
*3D print head (Sprite Pro)<br />
<br />
*Small CNC spindle (for light aluminum work)<br />
<br />
*Rack Robotics EDM head<br />
<br />
*Laser engraver<br />
<br />
✅ Designed system with separate cable connectors per toolhead for clean transitions<br />
<br />
🔧 Planning firmware macros and config swapping per tool using Klipper’s flexible config system<br />
<br />
<br />
== Journal Pictures ==<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:FxTripEnderPic1.jpg|Starting with a $170 Ender3v1 printer. (I've seen as low as $50 on craigslist). I chose this printer due to its extruded aluminum profile.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic2.jpg|A friend let us borrow their 3D scanner, so I had a slight detour.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic3.jpg|You could read the text on the bottom of it too!<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|Replacing the Bowden Extruder with a Direct Drive Sprite Pro. Direct drive allows me to print flexible filament, and the extruder gets to 300C for higher temp filaments.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 <br />
File:FxTripEnderPic6.jpg|Here we are adding linear rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|Upgrading Linear Rails<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic8.jpg|Added supports for wobble<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic9.jpg|Printed a failed case. I didn't check the usb clearance and trusted google.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic10.jpg|Are those sharks with laser beams attached to their heads?<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic11.jpg|At this point it was a wise move to get a m3,m4,m5 t-nut, kit and screw kit. Enders use these 3 types and nothing more typically. I will say there were a few times i needed a longer bolt that wasn't included in the kit. Buy 8 spares at an extended length and break them to length with your wire strippers.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic12.jpg|Its always good to have a pinout. There were some spares here that had me worried.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|The fans were odd. It came for a direct wire on the fan which I recrimped and moved to the board.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic14.jpg|Added some covers to keep the junk out of the t slots.... and it looks cool.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic15.jpg|Got a large enclosure. Its nice now but it will be packed in the future.<br />
File:FxTripEnderPic16.jpg|Adding Y axis rail. It was pretty annoying to find the right kit here.<br />
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==Upgrading to the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic5.jpg|600px|thumb|left|Stock Board]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic13.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
===Replacement Vs Stock===<br />
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Replacing the stock Ender 3 board with the BIGTREETECH SKR Mini E3 V3.0 was one of the most impactful improvements to the printer. The stock Creality board is limited by its 8-bit processor, loud stepper drivers, and minimal firmware flexibility. The SKR Mini upgrade addressed all of these issues while maintaining compatibility with the Ender 3’s wiring and form factor.<br />
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The V3.0 board uses a 32-bit processor, allowing for smoother motion planning and the ability to run advanced firmware like Klipper. It also includes TMC2209 stepper drivers, which significantly reduce motor noise and allow for features like sensorless homing and dynamic current control.<br />
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This board was a drop-in replacement that required no major rewiring. It provided immediate support for upgrades like KlipperScreen, pressure advance tuning, and future modular toolhead swaps. The multiple fan headers, dedicated BLTouch port, and cleaner power delivery made it an ideal foundation for expanding the printer’s capabilities.<br />
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Beyond the technical improvements, the SKR Mini brought better thermal safety features, improved voltage regulation, and community-supported firmware options that made the printer far more reliable and customizable.<br />
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This upgrade effectively transformed the Ender 3 from a basic budget printer into a flexible, quiet, high-performance machine ready for advanced use cases like CNC, laser, and EDM integration.<br />
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==Why Upgrade to Linear Rails on the Ender 3==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Left|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic7.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
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Upgrading to linear rails is a major mechanical improvement that replaces the stock V-wheels and aluminum extrusion rollers with precision-machined steel guides and carriage blocks. These rails offer a significant boost in rigidity, accuracy, and long-term reliability—especially important for high-speed printing and modular toolhead setups like CNC, laser, or EDM.<br />
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===Stock Roller Bearings===<br />
The stock Ender 3 rollers are affordable and easy to maintain, but they introduce mechanical play over time, can wear unevenly, and rely on proper tension to perform well. Linear rails eliminate these issues by providing smoother, lower-friction motion with minimal backlash. This translates to more accurate layer placement, better dimensional consistency, and reduced artifacts like ringing or ghosting.<br />
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For applications that demand higher acceleration, tighter tolerances, or heavier toolheads, linear rails offer the mechanical stability needed to maintain print quality at speed. They also handle more weight without flex, which is essential when mounting alternative heads like a laser module, EDM head, or compact CNC spindle.<br />
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While the installation requires some alignment effort and possible frame shimming, the result is a more professional-grade motion system. Combined with Klipper firmware and input shaping, linear rails unlock the full speed and precision potential of the Ender 3 platform.<br />
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==Why Upgrade to the Sprite Pro, CHT Nozzle, and Bi-Metal Block with a 60W Heater==<br />
[[File:FxTripEnderPic4.jpg|600px|thumb|Center|Why Upgrade?]]<br />
Upgrading the stock Ender 3 hotend setup to a Sprite Pro direct drive extruder, paired with a CHT-style high-flow nozzle, bi-metal heat block, and a 60W heater cartridge, is a practical and performance-focused enhancement. While not the absolute highest-flow setup available, this combination offers a strong balance of reliability, speed, and versatility for everyday printing—including flexible materials, high-temp filaments, and moderate-speed high-flow prints.<br />
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The Sprite Pro is a compact all-metal direct drive system designed to handle higher-temp filaments and flexible materials with greater precision than a Bowden setup. Direct drive allows more accurate extrusion and retraction control, which is essential when dialing in pressure advance or minimizing stringing in faster prints.<br />
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Paired with a CHT nozzle (short for "core heating technology"), this setup enhances melt capacity by splitting the filament path into multiple channels inside the nozzle. This increases the surface area in contact with heat, resulting in a faster and more complete melt—crucial for sustaining higher flow rates.<br />
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The addition of a bi-metal heat block improves thermal efficiency by isolating the heater zone from the heat break. Combined with a 60-watt heater cartridge, this enables more consistent thermal performance under load, meaning fewer temperature drops during long or fast extrusion moves.<br />
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===Flow Rate Comparison and Realistic Expectations===<br />
In terms of raw flow, this setup is capable of sustaining 20–25 mm³/s, depending on your filament and temperature. That’s a significant jump from the stock Ender 3 configuration, which maxes out around 10–12 mm³/s with a standard brass 0.4mm nozzle and 40W heater.<br />
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By comparison, the Bambu Lab A1 (and A1 Mini) with its proprietary high-flow hotend achieves around 24–30 mm³/s, thanks to its optimized melt zone, drive system, and tight integration. So while the Sprite Pro + CHT setup doesn’t exceed Bambu flow rates, it approaches them—especially with tuning.<br />
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===Why It’s a Solid Choice===<br />
Budget-conscious: This upgrade path is far more affordable than a Revo HF, Rapido HF, or Volcano setup with a completely new toolhead<br />
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Modular: Each upgrade (extruder, nozzle, heater) improves a different aspect of the hotend system, allowing incremental improvements<br />
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Versatile: Supports flexible filaments, ABS, ASA, PETG, and high-temp materials<br />
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Field-tested: Widely supported by the Klipper community and fully compatible with pressure advance, input shaping, and high-speed slicer profiles<br />
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While it’s not the highest-flow setup possible (for that you’d need a longer melt zone like a Rapido HF or custom Volcano clone), it’s a smart, balanced upgrade path for users looking to push their Ender 3 into modern performance territory without full hotend replacement or expensive proprietary systems.</div>Fxtrip