Xplus Firmware Install - Qidi

There is a well-known custom firmware often used by the QIDI community (sometimes referred to as the "Profession" or "Professional" firmware).

The Qidi X-Plus is a versatile consumer 3D printer known for its enclosed build chamber, dual-extruder capability (on some models via upgrade), and ease of use. Like many hobbyist printers, it occasionally benefits from firmware updates to fix bugs, improve print quality, add features, or support new hardware. This essay explains the reasons for installing custom or official firmware on the Qidi X-Plus, outlines preparations and required materials, presents a clear step-by-step installation procedure (covering both official updates and common custom-firmware approaches), discusses post-installation checks and troubleshooting, and assesses risks and best practices. The goal is to give an informed, practical guide so an owner can decide whether to update firmware and, if so, perform the installation safely and effectively.

Why update firmware

Preparations and required materials

  • Backup current settings: Record or photograph current firmware settings (e.g., current PID values, steps/mm, acceleration, Z-offset, flow multipliers) and copy any custom macros or start/stop G-code. Some printers allow exporting settings to an SD card; otherwise, note them manually.
  • Tools and supplies:
  • Safety precautions: Work with the printer powered off when opening the enclosure. Avoid shorting connectors. If flashing requires powering the printer on, keep hands clear of heated components and moving parts.

    • Installation methods overview There are two common approaches to updating Qidi X-Plus firmware:

    Step-by-step: Official firmware via SD card (typical procedure)

    Step-by-step: Custom firmware (Marlin) via SD card / binary flash Note: Exact details depend on your mainboard MCU (e.g., STM32, ATmega) and bootloader presence. Many Qidi boards use an STM32 MCU and require either a specially built .bin placed on SD card or flashing via USB/DFU or ST-Link.

  • Flashing method:
  • Validate: After flashing, reboot and verify the firmware version and core functions (display, movement, temperature sensors).
  • Restore/adjust settings: Custom firmware may start with default steps/mm and thermals; re-enter calibrated values. Run PID autotune for hotend and bed if needed, and set EEPROM save.

    • Post-installation checks and calibration

    Troubleshooting common issues

    Risks and warranty considerations

    Best practices and recommendations

    Conclusion Flashing firmware on the Qidi X-Plus can bring important fixes, new features, and support for hardware upgrades, but it also carries risks including warranty loss and potential bricking. For most users, applying official firmware updates via SD card provides a safe, straightforward improvement path. Advanced users can gain significant benefits from custom firmware (such as Marlin) if they carefully match configuration to their board and peripherals and follow tested flashing procedures. Whether performing an official update or installing custom firmware, careful preparation, backing up existing settings, validating post-flash behavior, and following safety precautions will minimize problems and produce better printing results.

    To install firmware on a QIDI X-Plus series printer, you can generally choose between an online update via the printer's touchscreen or an offline update using a USB drive. Option 1: Online Update

    This is the simplest method if your printer is connected to the internet. Open the Settings menu on your printer’s touchscreen. Tap Check for Updates.

    Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest version. The printer will restart automatically once finished. Option 2: Offline Update (USB)

    Use this method if your printer is not online or if you need to install a specific version found on the QIDI Firmware Download page. Prepare the USB Drive:

    Download the correct firmware package for your specific model (e.g., Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Extract the ZIP or RAR file on your computer.

    Copy the folder named QD_Update directly to the root directory of a FAT32-formatted USB flash drive. Install the Firmware: Insert the USB drive into the printer's USB port.

    Navigate to the About page (often represented by a suitcase icon). Select Offline Update.

    A prompt should appear; click Update and wait for the process to complete. Do not turn off the printer during this time. Post-Installation:

    After the update, it is highly recommended to perform Auto Bed Leveling and Input Shaping to ensure print quality. Advanced Recovery (SOC/UI Update)

    If your printer is "bricked" or showing errors, you may need to update the SOC (System on Chip) or Screen UI separately.

    SOC Update: Rename the recovery file to mksclient.recovery, place it on an empty USB drive, and turn on the printer with the drive inserted.

    UI Update: Save the UI recovery file (mksscreen.recovery) to the root of the USB drive and power on the printer. Qidi x-plus 3 firmware upgrade guide

    Installing firmware on a QIDI X-Plus varies slightly depending on whether you have the original X-Plus, the X-Plus 3, or the newer X-Plus 4. Most updates are performed offline using a USB drive formatted to FAT32. Preparation: Hardware & Files

    USB Drive: Use a drive smaller than 16GB (ideally 8GB or less). Ensure it is formatted to FAT32.

    Download: Get the correct firmware package from the QIDI Tech Firmware Download page or the official QIDI Wiki.

    Extraction: If the download is a .zip or .rar file, extract it on your computer first. Installation Process by Model QIDI X-Plus 3 & X-Plus 4 The modern X-series utilizes a QD_Update folder structure.

    Transfer Files: Copy the entire QD_Update folder to the root directory of your USB drive. Insert & Update: Plug the USB drive into the printer while it is off. Turn the printer on. Navigate to the Settings (suitcase icon) > About.

    An "Offline Update" or "Update" prompt should appear in the lower-left corner. Click it to begin.

    Completion: The process can take 20–30 minutes. Do not power off the printer until it restarts automatically. Original QIDI X-Plus qidi xplus firmware install

    Older models often require "printing" the firmware files like G-code.

    Transfer Files: Save the three extracted files (typically update.qd, a .bin UI file, and a .gcode parameter file) to the root of the USB drive. Execute in Order: Insert the USB and go to the Print menu.

    "Print" update.qd first. The printer will beep and restart the screen. "Print" the .bin UI file. "Print" the .gcode parameter file to finalize settings. Critical Post-Update Steps

    Firmware updates often reset calibration values. Once the update is finished, you must perform the following to avoid print failures: Auto Bed Leveling: Recalibrate the mesh.

    Z-Offset Calibration: Ensure the nozzle height is correctly set.

    Input Shaping: Run the resonance compensation test if supported by your model. Troubleshooting

    Update Not Detected: Ensure the QD_Update folder is the only item on the drive. Some users find unplugging the power cord for 30 seconds before booting with the USB inserted helps.

    White Screen/UI Error: If the UI fails to load, you may need a recovery file (like mksclient.recovery or mksscreen.recovery) placed on the USB root to force an automatic reset. To help you find the exact files you need:

    Which specific version of the X-Plus do you have (e.g., original, 3, or 4)?

    The Qidi X-Plus series (specifically the X-Plus 3) is known for its high-speed performance and Klipper integration. However, the firmware installation process is a critical maintenance task that requires precision to avoid "bricking" the mainboard. ⚡ Executive Summary

    The firmware update process for the Qidi X-Plus 3 is functional but manual. Unlike machines with one-click OTA (Over-The-Air) updates, Qidi often requires a USB-based flash. While the stability of the latest Klipper builds is excellent, the documentation can be slightly fragmented for beginners. 🛠️ The Installation Process

    Installing firmware on this machine generally follows these steps:

    Download: You must source the correct .bin or .img file from the official Qidi GitHub or website.

    Preparation: Use a high-quality USB drive (FAT32 formatted, 8GB–32GB is best). Execution: Turn off the printer. Insert the drive into the front USB port. Power on and wait for the update bar.

    EMMC Flash: For major version jumps, you may need to flash the EMMC module directly using a USB adapter and BalenaEtcher. ✅ Pros: Why It’s Worth It

    Improved Input Shaping: Newer firmware versions significantly reduce ghosting at high speeds.

    Fluidd/Mainsail Updates: Keeps the web interface snappy and compatible with the latest browser features.

    Bug Fixes: Resolves known "Z-offset" drift issues found in early factory versions.

    Open Source Roots: Because it's Klipper-based, experienced users can customize the printer.cfg after the install. ⚠️ Cons & Risks

    Fragile Process: If power is cut during the update, the printer may become unresponsive.

    Manual Calibration: Updates often reset your Bed Mesh and Z-Offset. You must re-calibrate everything immediately after.

    USB Sensitivity: The X-Plus can be "picky" about which USB drives it recognizes for boot-loading. 💡 Pro Tips for Success

    Backup First: Always copy your printer.cfg and variables.stb files to your computer before starting.

    Check Your Version: Qidi has different mainboards (V1 vs V2). Flashing the wrong firmware will cause a black screen.

    Stay Wired: If possible, perform the post-update configuration via an Ethernet connection for better stability.

    Which exact model do you have? (Original X-Plus, X-Plus 2, or X-Plus 3?)

    Are you doing a standard update or are you trying to recover a bricked machine?

    Do you have the USB-to-EMMC adapter that came in the toolkit?

    Installing firmware on a QIDI X-Plus Go to product viewer dialog for this item. X-Plus 3/4

    ) is a critical maintenance task that stabilizes temperature control, improves remote connectivity via apps like QIDI Link , and ensures the UI remains responsive. While the process is straightforward, it requires strict adherence to folder structures and post-installation calibrations to avoid "bricking" the machine. Core Installation Process There is a well-known custom firmware often used

    The update is typically performed using a USB drive formatted to FAT32. How to download firmware for Xplus3 3D printer? - Facebook

    To install or update the firmware on your QIDI X-Plus (including X-Plus 3 and Plus4) 3D printer, follow the steps below based on your specific model. Keeping your firmware current is essential for system stability, security, and accessing new features like input shaping Offline Update (USB Method)

    This is the standard method for most X-series printers, including the X-Plus 3 and older Plus4 versions (prior to V1.4.0). Download Firmware : Visit the QIDI Tech Software & Firmware page QIDI GitHub to find the latest version for your specific model. Prepare USB Drive Extract the downloaded Locate the folder named

    folder to the root directory (the top level) of a FAT32-formatted USB stick. Initiate Update Insert the USB stick into the printer. Navigate to (often a suitcase icon). The printer should detect the update. Click Offline Update Completion : Wait for the printer to finish and restart automatically. Do not turn off the printer during this process. Online Update (Direct Method) Available for newer models like the QIDI Plus4 (V1.4.0 and later) and Ensure your printer is connected to Wi-Fi. Navigate to on the touchscreen. Check for updates

    If a new version is available, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install. Post-Installation Steps

    After any firmware update, it is critical to recalibrate your printer to ensure optimal performance: Auto Bed Leveling : Reset the print bed height. Input Shaping : Recalibrate to reduce vibrations at high speeds. Troubleshooting & Advanced Options How to download firmware for Xplus3 3D printer? - Facebook

    Here’s a concise, useful paper-style guide for installing firmware on the QIDI X-Plus (original model, not X-Plus 3 unless specified).

    | Problem | Likely Fix | |---------|-------------| | USB not recognized | Reformat FAT32, 4096 bytes cluster | | Screen stuck at logo | Reflash TFT with smaller USB drive | | No update prompt | Remove power cord for 30 sec, retry step 4 |

    References

    Here’s a solid, step-by-step blog post tailored for QIDI X-Plus owners. It focuses on safety, common pitfalls, and the official upgrade path.

    Blog Title: QIDI X-Plus Firmware Update: A No-Nonsense Guide (And Why You Should Do It)

    Intro: The Love/Hate Relationship with 3D Printer Firmware Let’s be honest—updating firmware on a 3D printer feels a lot like updating your router’s firmware. You know you probably should do it, but the fear of bricking the device usually wins.

    The QIDI X-Plus is a workhorse. It’s reliable, enclosed, and handles engineering materials better than most printers in its price range. But that reliability hinges on one thing: keeping its firmware up to date.

    Whether you’re chasing a new feature (hello, better ABL probing) or fixing a bug that caused that last catastrophic layer shift, this guide will walk you through the official QIDI X-Plus firmware install process—without the panic.

    Before You Touch Anything: Two Critical Warnings

    What You’ll Need

    Step 1: Identify Your Exact Current Version On your X-Plus touchscreen:

    Step 2: Download the Correct Package Navigate to [QIDI’s official download page] (usually qiditech.com/pages/download).

    Step 3: Prepare the SD Card (The Critical Step)

    Step 4: Update the Mainboard (The Brain)

    Step 5: Update the Touchscreen UI (The Face) This step is where most people get stuck.

    Step 6: Re-Calibrate (Non-negotiable) A new firmware means new default values. You must:

    Troubleshooting: When Things Go Wrong

    | Problem | Most Likely Fix | | :--- | :--- | | Screen stays blue after mainboard update | Bad SD card format. Re-format FAT32, 4096 bytes. Use a 4GB or 8GB card. | | UI update hangs at “0/128” | The DWIN_SET folder is corrupted. Re-download the zip and replace the folder. | | Printer boots but touchscreen doesn’t work | You updated the mainboard but not the UI. Go back to Step 5. | | “No printer attached” error | The ribbon cable between screen and mainboard is loose. Happens during vibration. Re-seat it. |

    The Verdict: Is It Worth It? Yes—with a caveat.

    The official QIDI firmware isn’t exciting. It won’t give you a fancy web interface or input shaping (that’s what the X-Plus 3 is for). But it will fix silent bugs: thermal runaway false triggers, SD card read errors, and first-layer inconsistencies.

    If your X-Plus is printing perfectly right now? You can skip the update. But if you’ve seen any weird behavior—save this guide for a rainy afternoon.

    Final Tip: Join the r/QIDI community on Reddit before updating. Search for your exact firmware version number. Sometimes the community finds bugs before QIDI posts a retraction.

    Happy printing—and may your first layer be flawless.

    Upgrading the firmware on your QIDI X-Plus (including the X-Plus 3 and Plus 4) ensures you have the latest features, such as improved bed leveling and new material drying functions. Preparation: What You Need drive formatted to Firmware Files : Download the latest package from the official QIDI Tech Software & Firmware page Unzipping Tool : You will need to extract the file before moving it to your drive. Method 1: Offline USB Update (Recommended) The Qidi X-Plus is a versatile consumer 3D

    This is the most reliable method for all versions, especially if your WiFi is unstable. Download & Extract : Extract the firmware folder (often named ) to your computer. Transfer to USB : Move the entire folder directly to the root directory of your USB drive. Note for original X-Plus : Ensure the specific files (e.g., ) are on the root, not inside a folder. Insert & Initiate For X-Plus 3 : Turn the printer on and plug in the USB. Navigate to the "Suitcase" icon "About" icon . You should see "Updating" in the lower-left corner. For Plus 4 : Plug in the USB, go to Offline update , and confirm. : The process can take 15–30 minutes. Do not turn off the printer while it is writing the update. Method 2: Online Update (X-Plus 3 & Plus 4) Connect to WiFi : Ensure your printer has a stable internet connection. Check for Updates : On the touchscreen, go to (or the "Set" menu) and tap Check for updates Download & Install Online update

    and confirm. The printer will download and restart automatically once finished. Critical Post-Update Steps After any firmware installation, you recalibrate your printer to ensure accuracy:

    To install or update the firmware on your QIDI X-Plus (including the X-Plus 3 and Plus 4 models), you can follow this structured guide for both offline and online methods. 1. Offline Firmware Update (USB Drive)

    This is the most common method, especially if your printer is not connected to Wi-Fi or if you are performing a major system recovery.

    Prepare the USB Drive: Use a thumb drive formatted to FAT32.

    Download the Firmware: Visit the official QIDI Tech Firmware Download page and select the version for your specific model (e.g., X-Plus 3). File Structure: Unzip the downloaded file.

    Drag the "QD_Update" folder directly into the root directory of your USB stick. Installation Process: Ensure the printer is OFF. Insert the USB drive into the printer's USB port. Turn the printer ON. Navigate to the "Suitcase" icon (Settings) > "About" icon.

    A notice in the lower-left corner should say "Updating" or an update prompt will appear. Click Update to begin.

    Wait: The process can take 15–30 minutes. Do not power off the printer during this time. 2. Online Firmware Update

    Newer models like the QIDI Plus 4 and some X-Plus 3 versions support over-the-air (OTA) updates. Connect your printer to a stable Wi-Fi network. Open Settings on the touchscreen. Tap Check for Updates.

    If a new version is available, follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the printer to restart automatically. 3. Post-Installation Steps

    After any firmware installation, it is critical to recalibrate your machine to ensure print quality and safety:

    Auto Bed Leveling: Recalibrate the mesh to account for any changes in the firmware's leveling logic. Z-Offset Calibration: Re-set your nozzle height.

    Input Shaping: Run the vibration compensation routine to maintain high-speed print accuracy. Troubleshooting Tips

    Automatic Start: For some versions, simply inserting the USB and turning on the printer will trigger the update automatically.

    Downgrading: Avoid updating from a higher version to a lower version, as this often leads to system errors or operational issues.

    Unzipping: If you are on Windows, ensure you fully extract the .rar or .zip file before moving folders to the USB; Windows Defender may sometimes flag these files, so you may need to briefly disable it. Qidi x-plus 3 firmware upgrade guide

    Complete Guide to QIDI X-Plus Series Firmware Installation Updating your QIDI X-Plus series firmware is essential for maintaining printer stability, improving temperature control, and unlocking new features like improved material handling. Whether you are using the classic X-Plus, the X-Plus 3, or the newer X-Plus 4, this guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for a successful installation. Before You Begin: Critical Warnings

    Official Sources Only: Never update Klipper or other components through the Fluidd or Mainsail web interfaces. QIDI uses a customized "dirty" fork of Klipper; updating via standard repositories can brick your machine.

    Backup Your Config: Before starting, it is highly recommended to back up your printer.cfg and moonraker.conf files through the web interface.

    Power Stability: Ensure your printer is connected to a stable power source. A power failure during a firmware write can result in a corrupted EMMC. Step 1: Downloading the Correct Firmware

    Identify your specific model to download the matching firmware package from official repositories:

    QIDI X-Plus 3: Download the latest .rar or .zip package from the QIDI X-Plus 3 GitHub or the QIDI Tech US Store.

    QIDI X-Plus 4: Newer versions (V1.4.0+) support online updates, but offline files are available on the QIDI X-Plus 4 GitHub.

    Legacy X-Plus: Visit the QIDI Support Page for older model files. Step 2: Preparing the USB Drive 3DPrinter Software & Firmware - QIDI Tech

    Some X-Plus models allow firmware updates directly via USB from QIDI Slicer (based on Cura):

    Qidi Tech is active in the 3D printing community. You can find the most recent official files here:

    Disclaimer: Modifying firmware carries a small risk. Always ensure the printer is plugged into a stable power source during the update process to prevent bricking the mainboard.

    After a successful qidi xplus firmware install, the printer resets to factory defaults. Your old EEPROM settings are gone. You must reconfigure: