This kit will upgrade your WorkBee CNC Machine from the xPro controller to the Duet 2 Controller. We need a more powerful controller so we can really push the CNC Machining envelope. We feel the Duet is the answer to our calls.
Up until now the Duet has mostly been seen on 3D Printers, and in that community there is a gathering buzz around this controller. 3D Printing has advanced massively over the last few years, and switching to the Duet will allow us to bring these features over to the CNC arena.
See the below table for an outline of the differences between the xPro and Duet.
CNC xPro (V3 or V4) | Duet | |
Manufacturer | http://www.spark-concepts.com/ | https://www.duet3d.com |
Location Of Manufacture | United States | United Kingdom |
Firmware | GRBL | RepRapFirmware |
Control Software | Universal G-Code Sender | DuetWebControl |
Connectivity | USB/Bluetooth | Ethernet/Wifi |
Processor | 8bit ATMega328 16MHz | 32bit ARM Cortex 120MHz |
No of drivers | 4 x DRV8825. 2.5A. 32x Microstepping | 5 x TMC2660, 2.4A, 256x Microstepping (Expandable to 10 Drivers) |
Driver Settings | Pot/Jumpers | Software |
Tetherless machining | No, computer has to be connected at all times. | Yes, file is stored on internal SD Card. |
Spindle Control | Yes | Yes |
Laser Control | Yes | Yes |
The Duet In More Detail
The Duet is a more powerful controller, with a 32bit processor it allows more headroom for advanced features down the line. Further to this, the Duet has TMC2660 drivers, these drivers are packed full with amazing features like Stall Guard, StealthChop & SpreadCycle.
The Duet also has wireless connectivity, this means you can control your WorkBee from a computer or laptop anywhere that is connected to the same Wifi. The control software just runs inside a normal browser so you also can use your smartphone to control the machine.
The Duet has all CNC Functionality built in, including machine/work positioning, offsets, and spindle/laser control.
As the Duet is a more powerful controller and has advanced 3D Printing features already built in, over time we are going to be bring out exciting new features for the WorkBee CNC Machine as free updates. Getting the WorkBee with the Duet now will future proof your machine for the foreseeable future.
WHAT you will BE GETTING
This kit includes all the parts you will need to change from the xPro controller to the Duet. As the Duet doesn’t use screw terminals for its motors and limit switches, this kit also comes with all new motor wires and limit switches cut to the correct length and pre-terminated with connectors.
To make sure you get the correct length wires, please select your WorkBee and size from the drop down list.
The Duet is available in two versions Ethernet or Wifi. Please select the version most appropriate to you. Please note to change between the two versions will require a whole new board.
Michele (verified owner) –
The best purchase ever made to improve the workbee cnc.
Stuart (verified owner) –
Not a cheap upgrade but it solved all my issues, well so far so worth the investment.
Frederic Cruypenninck (verified owner) –
Good, not tried yet but it seems promising
Robert Landsman –
Works very well without suffering from any interference.
mark Mazza –
Beats having another cable run through shop!
oscar d. –
Fine for now
Scott Morton –
Not fully tested yet but everything seems to be there
John –
Great item fast connection