Prusa Research has updated the firmware for i3 MK3-series 3D printers with a new thermal model protection. The firmware is an improvement on current firmware which detects heating issues that might result in print failures. With this latest firmware heating will be topped in just 10-12 seconds.

The thermal protection can detect any large blobs that might have formed on the extruder and completely ruin a print. It’s also designed to detect external drafts.

Prusa has explained how the thermal protection works in a lengthy blog post where they write:

“This is all based on an internal simulation of the hotend, meaning that the firmware constantly checks whether the thermistor readings are following a specific pattern in the thermal model. In case anything seems off, the printer reacts within seconds and displays a THERMAL ANOMALY warning which goes away in case the readings go back to expected numbers within 5 seconds. In case the anomaly stays, the printer turns off the heating and activates a warning sound to notify the user.”

By detecting anomalies in the cooling, blobs can be avoided which usually mess up a final print. The company recommends that users continue to check prints diligently even with this new thermal protection.

The 3.12-BETA version of the new firmware is currently available to users via GitHub. Prusa has encouraged users to try the Beta version and share their experiences with the company.