Mastering Auto Bed Leveling in Marlin Firmware

Auto Bed Leveling (ABL) in Marlin firmware ensures the print bed is level, enhancing print quality. It uses sensors to measure and adjust the bed's surface, compensating for any tilt or irregularities during printing.

Select a sensor compatible with your 3D printer. Popular choices include the BLTouch, inductive, and capacitive sensors. Surprisingly, some sensors can detect even transparent surfaces, providing flexibility in material choice.

Edit the Configuration.h file in Marlin. Enable ABL by uncommenting lines such as #define AUTO_BED_LEVELING_BILINEAR. Set the sensor type and position offsets. Surprisingly, some ABL methods like UBL can store multiple mesh profiles for different beds.

Perform a 'G28' command to home axes, followed by 'G29' to probe the bed. Save the mesh data with 'M500'. Unexpectedly, fine-tuning the Z-offset after initial probing can significantly improve first-layer adhesion.

Regularly check and clean the sensor and bed surface to maintain accuracy. Surprisingly, environmental factors like temperature changes can affect sensor readings, so it's advisable to re-calibrate periodically for consistent results.

Did you know? Some ABL sensors can detect bed surfaces underwater, allowing for unique 3D printing applications in aquatic environments.