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Building your MINI

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Building your MINI

Building your MINI
Relevant for:
MINI
Last updated 3 years ago
Building your MINI
 Difficulty
Moderate
 Steps
40
 Available languages
CSPLESDEITFRJA

Step 1 Different hardware revisions

Different hardware revisions
Different hardware revisions
Different hardware revisions
⬢There are more hardware revisions of the XZ-axis, please check the following photos to select the appropriate assembly procedure:
⬢The XZ-axis has the opening on the left, continue using this assembly guide.
⬢The XZ-axis has the opening on the right, jump to the following guide Building your MINI+

Step 3 All the required tools are included

All the required tools are included
All the required tools are included
All the required tools are included
⬢For this manual, please prepare:
⬢2.5mm Allen key (1x)
⬢Mini bag of Haribo bears (1x)
Only the Allen key is required for the assembly. Other tools will be used for maintenance of the printer, see the enclosed handbook part for more information.
No soldering or wire crimping is required.
Keep the bag with the Haribo bears closed for now and hide it! Unattended bags tend to mysteriously disappear.

Step 4 Use labels for reference

Use labels for reference
Use labels for reference
Use labels for reference
Most of the labels are scaled 1:1 and can be used to identify the part :-)
⬢For identification of the most common screws, nuts and PTFE tubes, you can also use the enclosed letter, which contains the Prusa Cheatsheet on the other side.
You can download the Prusa Cheatsheet from our site prusa3d.com/cheatsheet. Print it at 100 %, don't rescale it, otherwise, it won't work.

Step 5 We are here for you!

We are here for you!
We are here for you!
We are here for you!
⬢Lost in the instructions, missing a screw or dealing with a damaged printed part? Let us know!
⬢You can contact us using the following channels:
⬢In the online version, use comments under each step.
⬢Use our 24/7 live chat at shop.prusa3d.com
⬢Write an email to [email protected]

Step 6 XYZ-axes parts preparation

XYZ-axes parts preparation
XYZ-axes parts preparation
XYZ-axes parts preparation
⬢For the following steps, please prepare:
⬢XZ-axis assembly
⬢M3x40 screw (1x)
⬢M3x20 screw (1x)
⬢M3x12 screw (1x)
Note the second M3x12 screw in the package, will be used later on.
Some early units might arrive with the Z-axis in the lower position. In some steps, it will be necessary to manually move the Z-axis up.
The list continues in the next step...

Step 7 XYZ-axes parts preparation

XYZ-axes parts preparation
XYZ-axes parts preparation
XYZ-axes parts preparation
XYZ-axes parts preparation
⬢For the following steps, please prepare:
⬢Y-axis assembly
⬢Foam block or foam pads set (1x)
Note that some early units might arrive with the circular foam pads. Newer units are shipped with a perforated foam block, from which the pads have to be pushed out. The assembly procedure is similar for both.
In case your Y-axis assembly includes PEI sheet, please remove it now to avoid scratches to it during the assembly.

Step 8 Foam pads - preparation

Foam pads - preparation
Foam pads - preparation
Foam pads - preparation
As mentioned in the previous step, your package might include four circular foam pads instead of one foam block. In such a case, skip this step.
⬢Gently push all the pads out of the block.
⬢You will need five foam pads for the following steps.
⬢Keep the remaining sixth pad as a spare.

Step 9 Foam pads installation

Foam pads installation
Foam pads installation
Foam pads installation
Foam pads installation
If your package includes only the circular foam pads, please focus only on the Y-axis.
⬢Peel the protective film from all pads.
⬢Lay the XZ-axis carefully on its side and the glue the first foam pad into the groove on the bottom side of the electronics box.
⬢Rotate the Y-axis so that the heatbed is facing down. Put a soft pad or cloth underneath it to prevent scratches.
⬢Glue four foam pads on the frame like in the picture. Mind the correct orientation.

Step 10 Opening the box with the electronics

Opening the box with the electronics
Opening the box with the electronics
Opening the box with the electronics
Opening the box with the electronics
⬢Make sure that the Z-axis is in the upper position. If not, using your fingers turn the leadscrew and move the Z-axis up.
⬢Release and remove the M3 screw on the box with the electronics.
⬢Remove the printed cable cover.
⬢Lift the electronics cover slightly. Before you remove it completely, pull it first towards the vertical aluminium extrusion to release both pins from the slots (holes on older design).
Keep the box opened, we need to connect multiple cables throughout this manual.

Step 11 Connecting the LCD cable

Connecting the LCD cable
Connecting the LCD cable
Connecting the LCD cable
Connecting the LCD cable
⬢For this step please prepare the LCD cable (flat grey).
⬢Take the LCD cable and push it through the hole in the box with the electronics.
⬢Make sure the "tooth" on the connector is facing up.
⬢Make sure the cable fold in the connector is facing up.
⬢Connect the LCD connector to the board. Mind the orientation of the connector, there is a notch on one side (see the arrow).

Step 12 Protecting the LCD cable

Protecting the LCD cable
Protecting the LCD cable
Protecting the LCD cable
WARNING: From now on proceed carefully while moving the XZ-axis. The LCD cable is facing down and might get damaged.
⬢In order to protect the cable, please follow the instructions below. Also, don't try any other orientation, because it will complicate the assembly.
⬢Carefully lay the XZ-axis on its side (see the picture) and start wrapping the LCD cable around the box. Don't stretch the cable.
⬢Now, tilt the axis back to get better access inside the electronics box and gently insert the cable in. Note, that this is only a temporary solution.

Step 13 Connecting the Y and XZ-axis assembly

Connecting the Y and XZ-axis assembly
Connecting the Y and XZ-axis assembly
Connecting the Y and XZ-axis assembly
IMPORTANT: Read the following lines carefully. You need to align all three silver M3nE nuts in the Y-axis assembly with the correct counterpart holes in the XZ-axis assembly!
⬢There are a total of three M3nE nuts in the extrusion:
⬢The first (the longest) on the right will be used to connect both parts together using the M3x40 screw.
⬢The second (the second longest) will be also used to join parts, but using the M3x20 screw.
⬢The third is located in the top part of the extrusion (not visible in the picture). The instructions on this one will be provided later on.
⬢The second photo shows the inner side of the XZ assembly, which will be in the direct contact with aluminium extrusion and the silver M3nE nuts. Make sure the first nut fits inside the "clamp".

Step 14 Joining the parts together - phase 1

Joining the parts together - phase 1
Joining the parts together - phase 1
Joining the parts together - phase 1
Joining the parts together - phase 1
⬢First, let's prepare the Y-axis assembly.
⬢Move the heatbed all the way to the right.
⬢Place the right M3nE nut approximately in the middle of the extrusion length, but make sure it is not under the heatbed structure.
⬢Push both parts together and try fitting the "clamp" (XZ assembly) directly on the M3nE nut, which you have moved to the centre of the extrusion.
⬢Use the M3x40 screw to connect both parts. In case you can't reach the thread of the nut, wiggle with the screw a bit inside the plastic base of the printer. DON'T tighten the screw fully yet!

Step 15 Joining the parts together - phase 2

Joining the parts together - phase 2
Joining the parts together - phase 2
Joining the parts together - phase 2
⬢Take the second M3nE nut from the left and move it all the way to the right, use the Allen key and gently push it in. There is a notch inside, which will align it properly for the second screw.
⬢Use the M3x20 screw and again tighten it just slightly, but ensure you have reached the nut. DON'T tighten the screw fully yet!

Step 16 Joining the parts together - phase 3

Joining the parts together - phase 3
Joining the parts together - phase 3
Joining the parts together - phase 3
⬢Now, take the M3nE nut in the upper part of the extrusion and slide it under the steel plate.
⬢Make sure the hole in the nut matches the hole in the plate. Use the Allen key to align it.
⬢Fix both parts together using the M3x12 screw, tighten it slightly. DON'T tighten the screw fully yet!

Step 17 Aligning the XZ-axis assembly

Aligning the XZ-axis assembly
Aligning the XZ-axis assembly
Aligning the XZ-axis assembly
In this step you will move the entire XZ axis, avoid pushing (grinding) it against the aluminium extrusion, or you might scratch it. Leave a small gap while moving the parts.
⬢Rotate the back of the printer towards you and push the heatbed all the way to the "front".
⬢Hold the Y-axis assembly.
⬢Move the XZ-axis assembly to the back.
⬢There is a notch, which indicates the correct mutual position of both parts.

Step 18 Final tightening

Final tightening
Final tightening
Final tightening
⬢Once the parts are aligned, tighten all screws in this particular order:
⬢First, the M3x12 screw at the top.
⬢Second, the M3x40 screw on the side.
⬢Third, the M3x20 screw on the side.

Step 19 Haribo time!

Haribo time!
Haribo time!
⬢Arrange the bears in a similar pattern as in the picture.
Your package might contain fewer bears. In such a case, run immediately to the nearest candy store! The exact dosage is absolutely critical!!!
⬢Eat the upper row, leave the others for the next stages.
⬢I said, leave the others!

Step 20 LCD parts preparation

LCD parts preparation
LCD parts preparation
LCD parts preparation
LCD parts preparation
⬢For the following steps, please prepare:
⬢LCD assembly
⬢There are two versions of the LCD cover and each requires a different length of the screw:
⬢New version: The LCD cover has a hexagonal protrusion on the side. Please, prepare and use the M3x20 screw.
⬢Old version: The LCD cover has a circular protrusion on the side. Please, prepare and use the M3x12 screw.
If you are missing the M3x20 screw in the bag, please use one from the SPARE bag.
Note there is a protective film on the screen, keep it on until the end of the assembly to prevent scratches.

Step 21 Mounting the LCD

Mounting the LCD
Mounting the LCD
Mounting the LCD
Mounting the LCD
⬢First, carefully tilt the printer on its side. See the picture.
⬢Place the LCD into the LCD holder. There is a notch, which fits inside the printed part on the printer.
⬢The design allows you to tilt the LCD into multiple positions. You can do it now or later.
⬢Use the M3x20 screw (M3x12 for the old version) to connect both parts together.

Step 22 Connecting the LCD

Connecting the LCD
Connecting the LCD
Connecting the LCD
Connecting the LCD
⬢Carefully remove the free end of the LCD cable from the box with the electronics and connect it to the board on the LCD. Mind the correct orientation of the connector. Use the notch as a guide.
⬢Insert the connector in the socket on the board. Make sure it is all the way in.
⬢Gently insert the cable inside the extrusion. Leave some slack outside near the LCD, so you can tilt it later on.
Pro tip: to insert the cable in the extrusion carefully bend it into two halves along its length.

Step 23 Connecting the Y-axis cables

Connecting the Y-axis cables
Connecting the Y-axis cables
Connecting the Y-axis cables
Connecting the Y-axis cables
⬢Turn the printer back on its "feet".
⬢Push the heatbed all the way to the "front".
⬢Locate the Y-motor cable placed in the extrusion and remove it
⬢Take off the rubber from the cable and guide the cable below the y-plate-rear out.
⬢Rotate the back of the printer towards you.

Step 24 Connecting the Y-axis motor

Connecting the Y-axis motor
Connecting the Y-axis motor
Connecting the Y-axis motor
Connecting the Y-axis motor
⬢Take the motor cable (labelled Y) and push it through the hole.
⬢Connect the connector to the appropriate socket. See the picture for more detail.
⬢Arrange most of the cable's length on the right side of the electronics box.

Step 25 Connecting the Y-axis thermistor and heater

Connecting the Y-axis thermistor and heater
Connecting the Y-axis thermistor and heater
Connecting the Y-axis thermistor and heater
Connecting the Y-axis thermistor and heater
⬢Take the cable bundle from the heatbed and guide it into the box from the top, there is no dedicated hole. Connect the individual cables to the board:
⬢Thermistor (H)
⬢Heatbed heater
⬢Gently push the cables inside the box and position the wrap near the top left corner, where most of the cables enter the box.

Step 27 Filament sensor installation (optional)

Filament sensor installation (optional)
Filament sensor installation (optional)
Filament sensor installation (optional)
Filament sensor installation (optional)
⬢Slide the filament sensor onto the PTFE tube. See the picture for the correct orientation of the sensor.
⬢Check the position of the PTFE tube through the groove:
⬢Wrong installation. The filament sensor is not fully pushed onto the PTFE tube. The filament sensor will not work properly.
⬢Correct installation. The filament sensor is fully pushed onto the PTFE tube.
⬢Now, tighten the screw gently to ensure the sensor won't slide from the PTFE tube.
⬢Use a piece of filament and slide it through the filament sensor to ensure there is no deformation of the tube. In case of any resistance, release the screw slightly.

Step 29 Covering the electronics

Covering the electronics
Covering the electronics
Covering the electronics
Covering the electronics
⬢Before covering the electronics, make sure the square nut is correctly positioned in the printed part. The nut must not fall out! This can cause fatal damage to the electronics.
⬢Insert the cover back in, make sure it is properly seated in the slot. Note: on an older design, there were holes instead of slots, the assembly procedure is the same.
⬢Place the second cover on the top and arrange the cables:
⬢Extruder bundle, ensure the textile sleeve is partially in. Also, it must be tilted away from the printer.
⬢Heatbed bundle, ensure the textile sleeve is partially inside the box.
⬢Filament sensor cable (optional), ensure that the textile sleeve wrapped around the cables is partially inside the box.
⬢Now, tighten the second cover. Check that no cable is pinched.

Step 30 Haribo time!

Haribo time!
Haribo time!
⬢Phew! This concludes the connection and arrangement of all the cables.
⬢Take a quick break and eat another row of the bears.

Step 31 Spool holder parts preparation

Spool holder parts preparation
Spool holder parts preparation
Spool holder parts preparation
Spool holder parts preparation
⬢For the next steps, please prepare:
⬢MINI base spool holder (4x)
⬢MINI rail spool holder (2x)
⬢M3x12 screw (4x)
⬢M3x8 screw (4x)
⬢M3n nut (4x)
⬢Bearing 608Z (4x)
The list continues in the next step...

Step 33 Assembling the spool holder base(s)

Assembling the spool holder base(s)
Assembling the spool holder base(s)
Assembling the spool holder base(s)
Assembling the spool holder base(s)
⬢Take the two BASE parts and insert the M3n nuts into the holes in both of them - see the picture. If you can't push them in, insert a screw from the opposite side to pull them in.
⬢Flip one of the BASE parts and insert two bearings in it.
⬢Put the second BASE part on top of the bearings.
⬢Insert the M3x12 screw from the top and tighten it. Flip the base assembly over and do the same.
⬢Make sure both bearings can rotate freely. If not, release the screw(s) slightly.
⬢Repeat this step for the second base assembly.

Step 34 Adding the spool holder rails

Adding the spool holder rails
Adding the spool holder rails
Adding the spool holder rails
Adding the spool holder rails
⬢Slide both rails in the first base assembly, use the grooves. Align the rail with the edge of the base.
⬢Secure the first base with two M3x8 screws. Use a reasonable force during the tightening.
⬢Slide the second base onto the rails. The exact position is not important at this point - we will adjust it in the next step.

Step 35 Adjusting the spool holder width

Adjusting the spool holder width
Adjusting the spool holder width
Adjusting the spool holder width
⬢Place a spool of the filament you wish to you use in the spool holder. Align the second base to match the size of the spool. We are using a spool of Prusament as an example.
⬢Once the holder is aligned, remove the spool, insert two M3x8 screws and tighten them to prevent the parts from moving.

Step 36 Attaching anti-slip pads

Attaching anti-slip pads
Attaching anti-slip pads
Attaching anti-slip pads
Attaching anti-slip pads
⬢Grab the bundled anti-slip board and break out four pads.
⬢Peel off the protective film and attach the pads from the bottom side of the spool holder.
Tip: avoid attaching the pads near or on the rails, it might make future width adjustments harder.

Step 37 Haribo time!

Haribo time!
Haribo time!
⬢Treat yourself for assembling the spool holder and finishing the entire assembly!
⬢Eat the remaining Haribo, leave no bear behind :)
⬢As soon as you replenish your energy, dive into the last few steps of this manual.

Step 38 Finalising the assembly

Finalising the assembly
Finalising the assembly
Finalising the assembly
⬢For the following step, please prepare:
⬢PEI MINI sheet (1x)
⬢MINI power supply (1x)
Older units may have a slightly different look of the PSU. However, the functionality is the same.

Step 39 Connecting the PSU

Connecting the PSU
Connecting the PSU
Connecting the PSU
Connecting the PSU
⬢Remove the protective film from the display.
⬢Connect the MINI power supply to the printer. Keep in mind the connector isn't symmetrical.
⬢Place the PEI MINI sheet on the heatbed. Double-check it is oriented correctly.
⬢...and you're done! Good job!
Prusa veterans: MINDA sensor height is set from the factory, no need to adjust it now. Optimal height is 0.8-1.0 mm between the nozzle's tip and the sensor.
In case you have any hardware issues, after the assembly, please visit our online guide Troubleshooting the MINI/MINI+ assembly at help.prusa3d.com.

Step 40 What is next?

What is next?
What is next?
What is next?
What is next?
⬢Now, please read the 3D Printing Handbook, which is tailor-made for your printer. The latest version is always available at prusa3d.com/3dhandbookMINI
WARNING: Always check for the latest firmware. You can do it online at prusa3d.com/drivers or insert the bundled USB drive in the printer. Detailed instructions are in the Handbook. (If the USB drive includes a newer firmware than already installed, you will be prompted during the boot of the printer.)
⬢Calibrate the printer according to the Handbook and use the bundled test prints to ensure your printer works correctly.
⬢If you encounter any problems at all, don't forget you can always check out our knowledge base at help.prusa3d.com
⬢Don't forget to join the biggest Prusa community! Download the latest models in STL or G-code tailored for your printer. Register at PrusaPrinters.org
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