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Guide to Using USB Drive Printing Function

This document details how to use the USB drive for printing operations in the FlyOS-Fast system and provides solutions for common issues.

Function Overview​

The USB drive printing function allows users to store G-code files on a USB drive, enabling the device to directly read and execute printing tasks. This feature is particularly suitable for the following scenarios:

  • Unstable or unavailable network connections
  • Rapid deployment of printing tasks
  • Offline printing environments
  • File transfer between multiple devices

Detailed Usage Steps​

1. USB Drive Preparation and Formatting​

  • Capacity Requirement: It is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 8GB or more.
  • File System: Must be formatted to FAT32 format.
  • Formatting Methods:
    • Windows: Right-click the USB drive → Format → Select FAT32
    • macOS: Disk Utility → Erase → MS-DOS (FAT)

2. File Preparation and Storage​

  • Supported Format: Standard G-code file (.gcode extension).
  • File Placement: Directly copy the G-code file to the root directory or any folder on the USB drive.
  • File Naming: It is recommended to use English names and avoid special characters.

3. Connection and Recognition​

  1. Insert the prepared USB drive into the USB port of the device.
  2. The system will automatically recognize and mount the USB drive.
  3. In the Web interface, the USB drive files will be displayed in the file manager.

4. Selection and Printing​

  1. Browse the files on the USB drive through the device's Web interface.
  2. Click on the target G-code file to preview it.
  3. After confirming the printing parameters, click "Start Printing".
  4. The system will automatically load the file and begin the printing task.

Precautions​

Important Note
  • You can safely remove the USB drive during the printing process; the system will copy the file locally when printing starts.
  • It is recommended to confirm file integrity before printing to avoid interruptions.
  • For large G-code files, the loading time may be slightly longer; please be patient.

Frequently Asked Questions​

USB Drive Not Recognized​

Problem Manifestation: The system does not respond after inserting the USB drive, and the USB drive content is not displayed in the file manager.

Solutions:

  1. Check if the USB drive format is FAT32.
  2. Try using a different USB port.
  3. Test the USB drive's compatibility with other devices.
  4. Restart the device and reinsert the USB drive.

File Read Failure​

Problem Manifestation: The USB drive is recognized, but the G-code file on it cannot be read.

Solutions:

  1. Confirm the file extension is .gcode.
  2. Check if the file is corrupted and try re-slicing.
  3. Ensure the file has normal permissions and no read/write restrictions.
  4. Avoid using Chinese characters or special characters in file names.

USB Drive Removed During Printing​

Problem Manifestation: Worry that accidentally removing the USB drive will affect the print.

Solutions:

  • No Need to Worry: The system has already copied the file completely to the local storage when printing starts.
  • The printing task will continue normally, unaffected by the USB drive's connection status.
  • After printing is complete, you can reinsert the USB drive for the next task.

Slow Transfer Speed​

Problem Manifestation: File loading times are too long, affecting printing efficiency.

Optimization Suggestions:

  • Use a USB 2.0 interface USB drive (best compatibility).
  • Avoid using USB 3.0 devices (blue interface), as there may be compatibility issues.
  • Regularly clean up the USB drive to maintain sufficient available space.
  • Consider file size; for very large G-code files, consider optimizing slice settings.

File Format Compatibility​

Supported Formats:

  • Supports standard G-code files (.gcode).

Unsupported Formats:

  • Does not support 3D model files (.stl, .obj, etc.).
  • Does not support slicing project files.
  • Does not support other binary files.

Best Practice Recommendations​

File Management​

  • Create categorized folders on the USB drive for easier management of multiple print files.
  • Regularly back up important G-code files.
  • Clean up completed files promptly after printing.

Device Maintenance​

  • Safely eject the USB drive before physically removing it.
  • Regularly check if the USB port is loose or dusty.
  • Keep the system firmware updated to the latest version.

Printing Preparation​

  • Preview the first layer before each print to ensure the file is correct.
  • Confirm that consumables are sufficient and the platform is leveled.
  • For important print jobs, it is recommended to test a small section locally first.

Technical Support​

If you encounter issues not covered in this document, please seek help through the following channels:

  1. Check the system logs for detailed error information.
  2. Contact technical support and provide a specific description of the problem.
  3. Visit the official forum to view related discussions and solutions.
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