Xplus Firmware Install: Qidi

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?

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 qidi xplus firmware install

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

  1. Don’t use the “Wrong” file. The QIDI X-Plus, X-Plus 2, and X-Plus 3 use completely different firmware. Using the wrong one will brick your screen or mainboard. Always double-check your model on the back label.
  2. This is the official path. This guide covers the stock Marlin-based firmware from QIDI. If you’re looking for Klipper or a community build, this isn’t that guide.

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)

  1. Format your microSD card to FAT32 (not exFAT or NTFS).
  2. Set the allocation unit size to 4096 bytes.
  3. Extract the .zip file. Inside, you’ll typically see two folders: Mainboard and UI (User Interface).
  4. For the mainboard update: Copy ONLY the QIDI_UPDATE folder (or the .bin file, depending on the version) to the root of the SD card.
  5. For the UI update: You’ll do this separately using the same SD card (or a second one), following the same root-directory rule.

Step 4: Update the Mainboard (The Brain)

  1. Power off the X-Plus completely. Unplug it for 10 seconds.
  2. Insert the SD card (with the mainboard update) into the printer’s internal SD slot (behind the touchscreen door, not the front panel slot).
  3. Power on the printer.
  4. What to expect: The screen will stay blue or show a progress bar. You’ll hear a series of beeps (3-5 beeps is normal). After about 30 seconds, the printer will either reboot or go silent.
  5. Success indicator: The printer boots to the home screen. Power off, remove the SD card, and delete the firmware file from the card (or the printer will reflash it next boot).

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

  1. Take that same SD card and delete the mainboard files.
  2. Copy the UI folder contents to the SD card root. Look for files named DWIN_SET.
  3. With the printer powered off, insert the SD card into the internal slot again.
  4. Power on.
  5. You’ll see a blue screen with orange text showing file counts (e.g., “Writing 0/128”). Do not touch anything. This takes 2–4 minutes.
  6. When it says “End” or reboots to a calibration screen, power off, remove the SD card, and power back on.

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

  1. Run Auto-Leveling (from the Tools or Settings menu).
  2. Re-set your Z-offset using a piece of paper.
  3. Run a PID autotune for the hotend and bed (usually hidden in the Settings > Advanced menu).

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.


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

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. The Qidi X-Plus series (specifically the X-Plus 3)

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

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)?

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)

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:


Part 2: Original Qidi X-Plus (Marlin-Based)

For the original X-Plus (often distinguished by the orange accents and the X-Maker style chassis), firmware updates are done via SD card.

Title:

Procedure for Manual Firmware Installation on QIDI X-Plus FDM Printer

Step 4: Updating the Touch Screen Interface

Sometimes the mainboard updates but the screen UI remains outdated, causing display glitches or wrong icons. To update the screen:

  1. On your computer, rename the QIDI_Update_screen.bin file to QIDI_UPDATE.txt .
  2. Copy this renamed file to the root of the microSD card.
  3. Insert the card into the printer (power off).
  4. Turn the printer on. You will see an orange progress bar on the screen. Do not touch anything.
  5. Once completed, the printer will boot normally. Power off and remove the SD card.

Where to Find Firmware Files

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.

Installing firmware on your QIDI X-Plus series printer is generally straightforward, but the process varies slightly depending on whether you have the original , the Go to product viewer dialog for this item. , or the newer . Quick Installation Guide

: Use the "Check for updates" option in the printer settings for an online update.

: Copy the QD_Update folder to the root of a FAT32 USB 2.0 drive, insert it, and go to About to see progress. Original

: Place three specific files on a USB root directory, insert it, and "print" the update.qd file. 🛠️ Step-by-Step Installation by Model QIDI X-Plus 4 (Latest Model) supports both online and offline methods. Online Method: Open Settings on your printer's touchscreen. Tap Check for updates.

Follow the on-screen prompts; the printer will restart automatically. Offline Method: Download and extract the firmware ZIP from the QIDI Wiki. Copy the QD_Update folder to the root of a USB drive. Insert the drive into the printer to trigger the update. QIDI X-Plus 3

often requires a specific manual sequence that users frequently find confusing. Prepare Drive: Use a USB 2.0 drive formatted to FAT32.

Transfer Files: Copy the QD_Update folder to the root (not inside another folder).

Trigger Update: Plug the drive into the printer and tap the About icon. You should see "Updating in Progress" in the lower left corner.

Post-Update: Always perform Auto Bed Leveling, Z-Offset calibration, and Input Shaping after a successful flash. QIDI X-Plus This model uses a "print-to-update" method.

Files: Ensure you have 3 files in the root directory: update.qd, ui.bin, and logo.bin (names may vary slightly by version).

Action: Select the update.qd file from the print menu and "print" it as if it were a 3D model. ⚠️ Critical Warnings & Troubleshooting Qidi X-Plus3 printer firmware update issue - Facebook Blog Title: QIDI X-Plus Firmware Update: A No-Nonsense

Installing Qidi X-Plus Firmware: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Qidi X-Plus is a high-performance 3D printer known for its exceptional print quality, reliability, and advanced features. However, to get the most out of your Qidi X-Plus, it's essential to keep its firmware up-to-date. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of installing Qidi X-Plus firmware, highlighting the benefits, and providing a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and successful installation.

Why Update Your Qidi X-Plus Firmware?

Updating your Qidi X-Plus firmware can bring numerous benefits, including:

  1. Improved Performance: New firmware versions often include performance enhancements, allowing for faster print speeds, improved print quality, and better overall printer responsiveness.
  2. New Features: Firmware updates can add exciting new features, such as support for new filament types, improved temperature control, or enhanced user interface functionality.
  3. Bug Fixes: Firmware updates often address known issues, fixing bugs and glitches that may be affecting your printer's performance or causing print failures.
  4. Security Patches: Regular firmware updates ensure that your printer is protected against potential security vulnerabilities, keeping your device and data safe.

Preparation is Key

Before starting the firmware installation process, make sure you:

  1. Check Your Current Firmware Version: Go to your Qidi X-Plus printer's settings menu and note down the current firmware version. This will help you determine if an update is available and what version you're upgrading to.
  2. Download the Latest Firmware: Visit the Qidi website or check the printer's documentation for the latest firmware version. Download the firmware file to your computer, ensuring you select the correct version for your printer model.
  3. Use a Compatible Computer: Ensure your computer is running a compatible operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and has a stable internet connection.
  4. Connect Your Printer: Connect your Qidi X-Plus printer to your computer using a USB cable or through a network connection (if supported).

Step-by-Step Firmware Installation Guide

To install the Qidi X-Plus firmware, follow these steps:

Method 1: Using the Qidi X-Plus Printer's Built-in Update Feature

  1. Access the Printer's Settings Menu: Navigate to your Qidi X-Plus printer's settings menu.
  2. Check for Updates: Look for the "Update" or "Firmware Update" option and select it.
  3. Connect to the Internet: Ensure your printer is connected to the internet.
  4. Check for Available Updates: The printer will check for available firmware updates. If an update is found, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.
  5. Wait for the Update to Complete: The update process may take several minutes. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the printer.

Method 2: Using a Computer and Qidi's Firmware Update Tool

  1. Download and Install the Qidi Firmware Update Tool: Visit the Qidi website and download the firmware update tool for your operating system.
  2. Launch the Firmware Update Tool: Run the tool and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Qidi X-Plus printer to your computer.
  3. Select the Firmware File: Browse to the location where you saved the downloaded firmware file and select it.
  4. Start the Update Process: Click "Update" or "Start" to begin the firmware installation process.
  5. Wait for the Update to Complete: The update process may take several minutes. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the printer.

Post-Installation Checks

After installing the firmware update:

  1. Verify the Firmware Version: Check the printer's settings menu to ensure the new firmware version is installed correctly.
  2. Test the Printer: Run a test print to ensure the printer is functioning as expected.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues during the firmware installation process:

  1. Check the Firmware File: Ensure you've downloaded the correct firmware file for your printer model.
  2. Restart the Printer and Computer: Try restarting both the printer and computer, then attempt the update process again.
  3. Contact Qidi Support: Reach out to Qidi's customer support team for assistance.

Conclusion

Updating your Qidi X-Plus firmware is a straightforward process that can bring significant benefits to your 3D printing experience. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to install the latest firmware version, ensuring your printer remains up-to-date and running at its best. Regular firmware updates will help you get the most out of your Qidi X-Plus, providing improved performance, new features, and enhanced reliability.

Important Notes


Upgrading your QIDI X-Plus firmware is a vital step in maintaining print quality, fixing software bugs, and unlocking new features like improved Wi-Fi stability or faster print speeds. Whether you have the original X-Plus, the X-Plus 2, or the Klipper-based X-Plus 3, the installation process is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. Step 1: Download the Correct Firmware

Before starting, identify your exact printer model, as firmware for an original X-Plus will not work on an X-Plus 3.

Official Sources: Always download from the QIDI Tech Software & Firmware page or their GitHub repository to ensure you have the latest stable release.

Version Check: On your printer’s touchscreen, go to Settings > About to see your current version. Step 2: Prepare Your USB Drive

The QIDI X-Plus can be picky about USB drives. For the best results:

Size Matters: Use a USB drive that is 8GB or smaller. Users have reported that drives larger than 16GB often fail to be recognized during the boot sequence. Format: Ensure the drive is formatted to FAT32.

File Placement: Extract the downloaded .zip or .rar file. You will typically see a folder named QD_Update. Copy this folder directly to the root directory (the main page) of your USB drive. Do not place it inside another folder. Step 3: Installation Methods Method A: The "About" Menu (Recommended for X-Plus 3)

Turn on your printer and insert the prepared USB drive into the front port.

Navigate to the "Suitcase" icon (Settings) and then tap the "About" icon.

Look for an "Update" button or a notification in the lower-left corner that says "Updating in progress".

Wait: The process can take 15–30 minutes. Do not turn off the machine until it prompts you to restart or restarts automatically. Method B: Boot-Time Update (Standard for X-Plus/X-Plus 2) Qidi x-plus 3 firmware upgrade guide - Facebook

This is a comprehensive guide to understanding, downloading, and installing firmware for the QIDI Tech X-Plus (covering both the original X-Plus and the X-Plus 2).

Crucial Warning Before You Begin: The QIDI X-Plus has multiple hardware versions. Installing the wrong firmware can brick your printer.


Have a safer Firefox with NoScript