There are endless ways to upgrade a 3D printer. Many upgrades focus on the mechanical parts, while others involve simple prints or small add-ons. One impressive example comes from a 17-year-old hacker named Kai, who designed his own 3D printer control motherboard called the Cheetah MX4 Mini.
Kai started by choosing a powerful microcontroller—the STM32H743. This chip is fast and supports multiple protocols, which allows for great flexibility in features. For controlling motors, he selected four TMC stepstick slots, ensuring quiet operation. The board includes options for sensorless homing, endstops, and both USB-C and microSD card slots for G-code.
Despite its compact size, about the size of a drink coaster, the Cheetah MX4 Mini packs in capabilities. It supports both Marlin and Klipper firmware, drawing on the extensive work already established in those communities. This is a smart move, making it easier for users to adapt and expand upon existing knowledge.
What truly sets this project apart is how thoroughly Kai documented his process. He compiled a day-by-day breakdown of the 86 hours spent building the motherboard. This transparency is valuable for anyone looking to learn about 3D printing technology.
Recent data show that more people are getting into 3D printing, with the market projected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to a report from Statista, the global 3D printing market is expected to reach $35.4 billion by 2024. This surge reflects not just an increase in hobbyists like Kai but also broader adoption in industries like healthcare and automotive.
As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, projects like Kai’s will inspire future innovations. It’s exciting to see young creators pushing the boundaries and sharing their knowledge along the way.
