Panel Guide

A panel is the combination of a screen and some kind of input method (buttons, encoder, touchscreen) attached to the machine.

This allows you to control your machine without a computer connection.

What Can You Do With a Panel?

With a panel connected to your Smoothieboard, you can:

  • Move the machine: Jog axes to position your tool or workpiece
  • Start print jobs: Browse and execute files from the SD card
  • Monitor status: View temperatures, positions, and progress
  • Adjust settings: Change feed rates, temperatures, and other parameters
  • Emergency stop: Quickly halt the machine if needed
  • Control accessories: Turn fans, lights, and other devices on/off

Supported Panel Types

Smoothieboard supports several types of panels:

RepRapDiscount GLCD

The most common panel used with Smoothieboard.

Features a graphical LCD display with a rotary encoder for input.

Viki2

Advanced panel with a larger screen and SD card slot.

RepRapDiscount Full Graphic Smart Controller

Popular panel with full graphical display capabilities.

Universal Panel Adapter

Allows connection of various panel types using a standard interface.

Getting Started

To use a panel with your Smoothieboard:

  1. Choose your panel: Select from the supported panel types above
  2. Wire the panel: Connect it to your Smoothieboard (see wiring guide for your specific panel)
  3. Configure Smoothie: Modify your config file to enable panel support
  4. Test: Power on and verify the panel displays correctly

Next Steps

For detailed information on wiring and configuring your specific panel type, please read the Panel page.

That page contains:

  • Detailed wiring diagrams for each panel type
  • Complete configuration examples
  • Troubleshooting information
  • Custom menu configuration
  • Screen layout customization

Alternative: Touchscreen Control

If you prefer a touchscreen interface, consider Smoopi, which provides color touchscreen control using a Raspberry Pi.

Smoopi offers a modern, graphical interface with touch controls instead of traditional LCD panels.

  • Panel - Complete panel documentation with wiring and configuration
  • Smoothieboard - Main board documentation
  • Smoopi - Touchscreen control interface
  • SD Card - Managing files for printing