OctoPrint revolutionizes 3D printing by offering wireless control and an array of features. From uploading G-code files wirelessly to manually controlling your 3D printer, monitoring print temperature, and even setting up a webcam for remote viewing, OctoPrint takes your 3D printing experience to the next level. With additional plugins providing functionalities like custom time-lapse creation and smartphone integration, OctoPrint is a must-have tool for enthusiasts.

What Do You Need?

To embark on your OctoPrint journey, gather the following essentials:

1. Raspberry Pi (3B, 3B+, 4B, or Zero 2 W recommended)
2. Power adapter for the Pi
3. Micro or full-size SD card (8-GB should suffice, larger for regular time-lapses)
4. USB cable to connect the Pi to your 3D printer
5. A 3D printer compatible with OctoPrint

Flashing the OctoPi Image:

The Raspberry Pi Imager simplifies the process of installing OctoPrint. Follow these steps:

1. Download and install the Raspberry Pi Imager.
2. Insert your SD card and open the Imager.
3. Choose "Other specific-purpose OS > 3D printing > OctoPi" and select the latest version.
4. In "Advanced Options," set a system password and configure wireless LAN settings.
5. Click "Write" to install the OctoPrint image.

Alternatively, use Etcher by downloading the latest OctoPi version from the GitHub repository and flashing it onto the SD card.

Setting Up Wi-Fi:

Configure your Wi-Fi settings manually if not done during the Imager setup:

1. Open the "octopi-wpa-supplicant.txt" file on the SD card.
2. Edit Wi-Fi details (SSID and password) in the first network block.
3. Add country code and save the file.

Securing Communication:

Change the default password to enhance security:

1. Access the Pi via SSH using the default username "pi" and password "raspberry."
2. Change the password using the "sudo raspi-config" command.

Connecting the Pi to Your Printer:

Connect the Raspberry Pi to your 3D printer using a USB cable:

1. Insert the SD card into the Pi if set up via Imager; otherwise, disconnect and reconnect the Pi.
2. Power up the Pi and your 3D printer.

Setting Up the Interface:

Access OctoPrint through your local network:

1. Type "http://octopi.local" (or the Pi's IP address) in your browser.
2. Complete the setup wizard, including creating a unique username and password for OctoPrint.
3. Connect to your printer using the "AUTO" option in the Connection panel.

Congratulations! You've successfully set up OctoPrint on your Raspberry Pi. Explore its functionalities, upload G-code files wirelessly, and enjoy the seamless control it brings to your 3D printing endeavors.