¶ BMCU
Please note that BMCU is an unofficial third-party DIY component. Its stability and reliability cannot match those of the original official products. BMCU is still undergoing continuous iterations, which means that even if you purchase a BMCU, you may encounter issues in the near future that require self-repair. Additionally, new versions of firmware or enclosures may be released, and you may need to upgrade them on your own. We also cannot guarantee whether Bambu Lab will implement measures in the future that may block or restrict the use of BMCU.
The original author's project page：
https://oshwhub.com/bamboo-shoot-xmcu-pcb-team/bmcu
https://gitee.com/at_4061N/BMCU
This section is a repost of the original content by the author, and I have translated it into English. The red-marked parts are my own annotations.
This page, including all BMCU-related content, follows the original author's open-source license and is freely available to everyone.
With due credit to the original author 4061N.
向原作者4061N大佬及其团队致敬。
¶ Introduction
The BMCU is designed based on open source materials, according to the protocol introduction of bambubus on Github, and the reference data provided by users, so we designed a system to simulate the operation of AMS for A series printers.
Note: Currently most BMCU is only compatible with A1 and A1 mini.
Some people did manage to get it to work in p series though.
The P-series printers would have to require additional drying boxes and diy support for rewinding supplies. This will further increase the cost. But technically, it's possible.
Check this link for more detail : https://makerworld.com/zh/models/973610?from=search#profileId-971437
BMCU operates on a four-channel unit and is currently designed with the CH32 microcontroller as the main control unit.
The design is based on publicly available online resources and independent testing. The program is developed using Platform IO with Arduino support for CH32, utilizing the robtiltaart CRC library.
⚠️ Note: This project follows the GPL2.0 open-source license. However, any commercial use beyond personal learning is strictly prohibited.
BMCU is intended only for DIY learning and can be integrated with A1, A1mini printers for operation.
Its functions are similar to AMS lite, primarily enabling multi-material printing and automated feeding. However, it does not support RFID material recognition.
We always recommend that you choose the official Bambulab AMS Lite product when possible for a better experience.
¶ Features of BMCU
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Unloading does not need to be backed up to the break detection like AMCU, but just exit the five passes, switching consumables faster
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Side-by-side structure, does not include shelves, which means that you can put the consumables in a sealed box, which feeds your printer.
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Has a buffer, before the printer triggered winding material can be actively feeding, to prevent excessive resistance to consumables lead to problems
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Device standardisation, when we designed the machine, we defined many parts as a uniform parameter, which enabled the one-time DIY success rate to be increased, preventing the cost from increasing.
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The BMCU explores a photoelectric detection design that allows the photoelectric switch to detect transparent consumables, eliminating the resistance of consumables and their instability caused by the micro-detection method. The photoelectric design will be used separately with other open source protocols that allow borrowing.
¶ DIY Cost
Note: The platforms mentioned by the author are open to China only.
JLC's international site
PCB support JLC free proofing standard, motherboard and component boards will consume two coupons combined, the cost of components on it in about RMB 80
Mechanical parts cost around RMB 130
Counting other hidden costs that may exist, the replica cost is estimated at RMB 220, not counting printing supplies
¶ Downloads
Check Download center in section BMCU Tutorials
BMCU_Tutorial
¶ Known issues
As a user of BMCUs, here are the issues I've noticed or mentioned by the authors.
Known issue:
- BMCU does not support NFC recognition of bambulab original supplies.
- Transparent filaments may not be detected.
- Some gear noise may occur. -> in my case, channel 4 makes more noise than others.
- Filament still shows up when not plugged in. Especially for channel 1.
- Occasionally stuck at 99% after completing a print - BMCU can't draw back material
- It is possible that Bambulab may block this component after a firmware update. The BMCU went through two bambulab firmware updates. However, given the current attitude of bambulab towards third-party slicing software, it is impossible to be completely optimistic about the future.
¶ Photo Gallery
¶ my BMCU in use
My A1 mini
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My A1
I posted video or picture of the support installed in wrong way in some places. (gray part in this photo)
When mounting the BMCU on the A1 you should have the support side with the BMCU logo facing you
¶ Video Gallery
BMCU with two color multi-color printing.
The support in this video is mounted the wrong way, do not mount it like in the video,
You should have the logo facing you !!
https://youtube.com/shorts/GthoyZ_HDdk?feature=share
¶ Installation instruction
Check section BMCU Tutorials.
BMCU_Download_Guide_Center