| Control Method | Description | Pros | Cons | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | A 3.5‑inch color screen connects directly to the board. | Full offline control; no computer needed. | Additional cost; requires compatible screen. | | Web Interface | Access the board's IP address in a web browser. | Wireless and cross‑platform; no software to install. | Requires WiFi setup; browser limitations. | | Mobile App | Makerbase's custom mobile application for iOS/Android. | Convenience of a mobile interface. | App features may be less complete than other methods. | | USB (PC Control) | Connect directly to a computer via USB. | Reliable, low‑latency connection; works with all host software. | Tethered operation. |
Compatible with standard laser and CNC power supplies.
The Makerbase MKS DLC V2.1 is a highly popular, open-source control board designed specifically for CNC engraving, laser cutting, and writing machines. Operating on the GRBL firmware, this versatile board provides an affordable yet powerful solution for DIY makers and professional workshops alike.
If you are looking for specific wiring guides for a particular laser module, please provide the laser manufacturer's details. I can also help with troubleshooting specific errors in LightBurn or LaserGRBL. MKS DLC V2.1_001 SCH.pdf - GitHub
| Resource | Direct Link / Location | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | MKS-DLC GitHub Wiki | The primary manual for the original MKS DLC board, providing foundational information. | | DLC32 Wiring Manual | PDF Download | The most essential document for proper hardware setup; details all connections and pinouts for the MKS DLC32 V2.1. | | Firmware Programming Instructions | PDF Download | A step-by-step guide to updating the board's firmware using the official MKS tools. | | MKS-DLC32 GitHub Repository | github.com/makerbase-mks/MKS-DLC32 | The central hub for source code, firmware releases, and the official wiki for the board. | | Makerbase Manuals (Multi-Language) | manuals.plus/category/mks | A handy portal for browsing manuals for various MKS products in Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, and Chinese. | makerbase mks dlc v21 manual link
The MKS DLC V2.1 comes in two primary configurations: an 8-bit ATmega328P variant running standard GRBL and a 32-bit ESP32 version (DLC32 V2.1). Both share a similar layout but offer different processing performance levels. makerbase-mks - GitHub
The MKS DLC V2.1 works seamlessly with popular open-source software control suites:
Download LaserGRBL (Free) or LightBurn (Paid, with a free trial).
Use the serial interface to set GRBL parameters, such as steps per millimeter and max speed. | Control Method | Description | Pros |
What you will find: Hardware schematics, board dimensions, pinout diagrams, and PDF manuals.
The official resources for this controller board are hosted directly on the Makerbase MKS-DLC GitHub Repository and the Makerbase MKS-DLC32 GitHub Repository for the 32-bit variation. You can access the specific schematic through the MKS DLC V2.1 Schematic PDF and view the board layouts using the MKS DLC V2.1 Pinout PDF .
This typically means the laser signal wire is plugged into a constant power port instead of the PWM/TTL control port, or your firmware configuration has laser mode ( $32 ) turned off.
(like TMC2208) for quieter operation.
Happy printing – and always read the documentation first.
3-Axis (X, Y1, Y2, or Z configuration via dual Y-motor ports)
If you need help configuring specific settings for your build, please let me know you are building (e.g., laser engraver, 3-axis CNC router), the model of stepper drivers you are using, or which software you plan to control it with. Share public link
Excellent options if you are configuring the board for a mini CNC router instead of a laser. Essential GRBL Settings | | Web Interface | Access the board's
Features PWM signal modulation for laser intensity and spindle speed control.
: MKS DLC v2.1 Schematic (PDF) and Pinout Diagram (PDF) .