Z-Probe Guide

Smoothie allows you to use a probe to do a variety of tasks that improve precision and automation in your CNC operations.

What is a Z-Probe?

A Z-probe is a sensor that detects when the tool (or nozzle) makes contact with a surface.

This allows the machine to automatically determine positions and heights without manual measurement.

Common Uses

Machine Calibration

Calibrate machine geometry, particularly important for delta machines where precise geometry is critical for accurate printing.

Bed Leveling

Automatically level un-even or non-level surfaces using either:

  • Grid method - Probes multiple points across the surface to create a height map
  • Three-point method - Probes three points to determine the plane of the surface

Tool Height Detection

Automatically find the distance between the tool and either the workpiece or the build surface.

This is essential for:

  • Setting Z-zero accurately
  • Compensating for different tool lengths
  • Ensuring proper first layer height in 3D printing

Tool Length Detection

Automatically detect tool lengths when using multiple tools or when tools are changed.

Types of Probes

Common probe types include:

  • Touch probes - Physical contact sensors
  • Inductive probes - Detect metal surfaces without contact
  • Capacitive probes - Can detect various materials
  • BLTouch/servo probes - Deployable mechanical probes

Getting Started

Full Documentation: For complete information about configuring and using probes with Smoothie, read the ZProbe module documentation.

The ZProbe documentation covers:

  • Hardware connection and wiring
  • Configuration options
  • Calibration procedures
  • G-code commands for probing
  • Troubleshooting tips
  • ZProbe Module - Complete probe configuration guide
  • Endstops - Related to homing operations
  • Delta - Delta printer calibration using probes
  • Gamma Max - Setting Z-height with and without probes