Thanks for the detailed answers. I really appreciate it. As for my question about the 5v load, I found this on the reprap wiki... not sure how I missed it before.
I guess I'll wait and see if my PSU works without this or not.
The end goal is to run the printer using OctoPrint. It's a web interface (hosted by the RPi, in this case) that you upload your g-code to which in-turn sends it to the printer via Repetier. This way I can use my laptop or even tablet to upload g-code from the local network, or I could port-forward the RPi IP and run the printer via a web browser from anywhere. It also provides an optional webcam interface for timelapse and a lot of other features. Really nice UI and super easy to install, for me at least. Check it out.
Thanks again. I'll try to report back after I've wired everything and let people know if anything blew up.
Quote
Many PC PSUs (not all) require a base load on the 5V rail to work properly. Connecting an old CD drive or a 12V light bulb (into the 5V rail, see picture) are well proven methods to get this load.
Wether you need a base load or not has to be tried. If even tiny loads on the 12V rail cause the PSU to turn off, a base load is required. Also, a base load never hurts.
I guess I'll wait and see if my PSU works without this or not.
The end goal is to run the printer using OctoPrint. It's a web interface (hosted by the RPi, in this case) that you upload your g-code to which in-turn sends it to the printer via Repetier. This way I can use my laptop or even tablet to upload g-code from the local network, or I could port-forward the RPi IP and run the printer via a web browser from anywhere. It also provides an optional webcam interface for timelapse and a lot of other features. Really nice UI and super easy to install, for me at least. Check it out.
Thanks again. I'll try to report back after I've wired everything and let people know if anything blew up.