Ramps 1.4 board setup and Z homing with probe

So this weekend I hope to get my mpcnc put together, using ramps and I was going to use the Dual Endstop firmware without endstops. But I also wanted to use a z probe, I see the Milling Basics probe configuration, and it looks like I need the Endstops for the code that is placed there. Is that correct?

If so, I guess I need to purchase the endstops and get them installed.

I was hoping Z would set my x,y,z for me. I like on youtube where it Touches Z, then touches y and then touches X 2 times and sets up the part, even if it is crooked.

I am sorry if I am missing something in my research.

I have the same setup as you are describing on one of my machines (Ramps, dual firmware without physical endstops and a Z probe). You can manually square up the XY, lock the motors on and then perform a Z probe.

As for the edge finding, are you referring to this video? If so, that is controlling the board via Estlcam versus say Marlin (what I use).

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Yes that is exactly what I saw. So you used estlcam to program the arduino instead of using the v1 fw, correct?

Correct

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You don’t need endstops to use a Z probe. You can modify the G28 in the code at the link you provide to just home Z, or here is an alternate, very simple probe example:

G28 Z      ; Home/probe Z
G92 Z0.5   ; Correct for the thickness of the touch plate
G0 Z5 F480 ; Lift the bit to remove the touch plate

Personally I don’t change bits within a g-code file. Each bit gets it own g-code file.

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this forum is top notch, thanks for everyones input. I think I am going to stay simple and go with the marlin firmware, and now use the series wiring. I tend to research and research and then what if alot of things. I just want it simple.

Thanks again.

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