Help with reprap melzi v2.0

I was given a RepRap Melzi 2.0 by my school without any instructions nor any information on any potential problems with the printer.
Once I turn it on, a red LED flashes and the fan whirs but i do not know what to do. Furthermore, when i connect it to the computer via USB,
it doesn't show up.
Could someone please send me any information on how to start the printer or how to set it up?
Thank you in advance

Your school gives away printers? all I ever got was homework!

It should show up as a serial port, if it comes up as unknown device you need a device driver (ch340 or ftdi, depends what your board has on it)

If it really doesn’t show up at all.. then you have a damaged controller

Thank you very much.
I shall try this but in the event of a damaged controller, what do you recommend to be the best course of action?

And regarding the homework comment, nice bit of bants right there
I was given it coz i helped the school a bit and the printer hand't been working for a while but they had all forgotten what the main problem with the printer was.

are you running windows or linux ?

If its a damaged controller unless your good at electronics (ie can replace surface mount chips) Your only option is to replace it.

Melzi 2.0 is a ok low end controller, and is still commonly available

eg [www.aliexpress.com]

Even then check the plugs, they sometimes change them..

Then you will need to put firmware on it.

If you are good at electronics. first thing is check voltages to the usb/serial converter. If it has power and is not being recognized by the pc, you need to replace it
they commonly use a FT232RL chip, but sometimes have a CH340

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/16/2017 12:28AM by Dust.

windows