Difficulty connecting to Makerbot Z18

[3DAli]

I have stopped the makerware services in the background and still no luck connecting to my Z18 via machine control panel or printing over usb. besides, I was expecting to see load filament,... instead of Macro1 Macro 2, ... buttons! is there anything I should do to fix this? I have no problem connecting to my replicator 2x , this only happens on Z18

Thanks

[CompoundCarl]

I would try going back to Help > Configuration Assistant, and then selecting the Z18. That will configure everything for that printer (just in case you happened to forget or change something accidentally). Then seen if it connects.

[wirlybird]

Can you connect with Makerbot Desktop? If so then see what port it is using to make sure you have the right one. If not then you may need to re-install to get the driver loaded.
Also, do you have the latest version of Makerbot Desktop?

[3DAli]

I do have the latest version of Makerbot Desktop, and yes it can connect to the machine with no problem. I have selected Z18 in configuration assistant for sure. could you please let me know how to check which port is used by Makerbot desktop to connect. do I need to re install the simplify3D or Makerbot Desktop (the version is 3.10.1364 Beta)

Thank you for your help

Sincerely
Ali

[wirlybird]

I don't have your printer so I am flying blind a bit!! I will have to look at makerbot when I get home because I don't actually use it.

It seems in the pic you put up that the port showing is similar to what I saw on line researching. I did see the load - unload buttons as you were expecting. Two things to try:
1 in S3D go to help and check for updates, you never know if they added or changed something.
2 you could also go to help and select the reset option, not in front of it so I don't remember exactly what it says. This kind of sets things back to how it was when installed. then add the printer again and see if it helped at all.

I wonder if there is an issue with the driver in the beta version that S3D doesn't like?

[3DAli]

Sure, I will try as you mentioned and let you know of the outcomes.

cheers

[dorsai3d]

Also, FWIW the Z18 is a Makerbot 5th gen printer, which can't be controlled over USB for anything other than just uploading & starting a print. You won't be able to set temperatures, use jog controls, or anything else because they don't support real USB control on their newer printers.

[wirlybird]

I read something about that. That ethernet was the way to connect. Then it seemed something said with the latest makerbot desktop USB would work due to being compatible with the fifth generation firmware. Don't really know much on these so was just readying up to try and offer some assistance!

[3DAli]

I guess I am out of luck, I was hoping to use the usb control to be able to jog, use leveling build tray etc. 5th gen wont connect.

Thanks for all the responses anyways

[CompoundCarl]

What firmware version are you running on the printer?