Change the Main board on CTC Replicator Clone

I'm new to 3d but not to building "stuff" recently I picked up a old CTC Replicator clone, setting it up has been a learning experience and some.

Currently my biggest source of unending aggregation is software, RepG seriously sucks and changing parameters via button pushes reminds me of my first top loading VCR.

Other than less aggravation what if anything would I gain but swapping out the old main board and replacing it with a Ramps 1.4 controller?

Would it integrate better with some modern software?

Is the wiring likely to be plug compatible with the Ramps shield?

Finally is it actually going to be worth the time?


Many Thanks. Aamcle

I've found a guide it's achievable but would cost more than the printer is worth

I'll live with the frustration until it's time to buy or build a new machine.

aamcle

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/10/2018 08:22AM by aamcle.

Find the current controller and identify it

Most likely its already functionally identical to a ramps, you just need new firmware

Does it look like

In fact looks like someone has already done all the hard work

[github.com]

but might not be the same controller

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/10/2018 08:29AM by Dust.

I've attached a picture of the mail board, the power supply is 15A at 24V.

Can I reasonably substitute a modern board?

Thanks All

That is a mightyboard, just like I thought

Marlin firmware has a board definition for MIGHTYBOARD_REVE so in theory it is easy to to get this board running on current marlin firmware.

Documentation for this board can be found [www.thingiverse.com]

The LCD connector is non standard, no other boards are directly compatible with this board.
RAMPS is not 24v capable out of the box, its need modifications

I've also just found this [www.3dhubs.com]
Shows how you can use the normal slic3r program with its standard firmware.

I had a look at it, plain g code is enough to win me over and the other features are good.


Aamcle