Mainsail Update 08-2024

It's time for an update on the latest developments and our plans for the coming period. We've accomplished quite a bit over the past few weeks, and I'd like to give you an overview of our progress and the upcoming work.

Completed Work:

• Crowsnest: I've created an APT archive for Crowsnest, which will be used starting from version 5. Crowsnest V5 is a complete rewrite in Python designed to improve developer handling and user-friendliness significantly. We are currently in the testing phase to ensure that installation and updates run smoothly with the new APT archive.

• Mainsail: Several minor bugs were fixed, and a few new features were implemented in Mainsail. Nothing particularly noteworthy so far, but continuous improvements and optimizations are being made.

• MainsailOS: The upgrade to Bookworm is nearly complete. We are on the way to releasing it but are still waiting for the merge of some required pull requests in CustomPiOS (https://github.com/guysoft/CustomPiOS/pull/226, https://github.com/guysoft/CustomPiOS/pull/227). These PRs are related to the network settings. They are essential because they will allow us to build Armbian images and allow users to easily change the WiFi configuration again through a file in the /boot folder. This feature was present in previous versions, and I want to ensure that it works seamlessly in the new version of MainsailOS before releasing the update. Once these PRs are integrated, we can finalize the transition and prepare for the release.

• Completed Configuration of Weblate: I've finished configuring Weblate to improve the translation process for Mainsail significantly. With Weblate, users can now contribute translations more quickly and intuitively. The platform allows for straightforward editing of texts, making creating and managing translations for various languages more efficient. This will help make Mainsail accessible in even more languages, ensuring that users worldwide can benefit from localized language support. Link to Weblate: https://hosted.weblate.org/engage/mainsail/

• Updated Documentation: Over the past few weeks, I have revised and updated several parts of the documentation to bring them up to date. Unfortunately, we're still behind on the documentation, and I realize there's still much work to be done. In the coming period, I plan to dedicate more time and energy to further improving and expanding the documentation.
  

Upcoming Work:

• MainsailOS Release: We are preparing for the next release of MainsailOS as soon as the upgrade to Bookworm is fully compatible with CustomPiOS. We are also awaiting the final release of Armbian v24.08, which is expected to arrive in the next few days. Once this release is available and integrated, we can finalize the MainsailOS update and proceed with the release.

• New Debug Tool/Page for Klipper in Mainsail: I am currently working on integrating a new debug tool into Mainsail, specifically designed for developers of Klipper and macros. This tool will display the current status values of individual printer objects in real-time, allowing developers to understand better what is happening internally in Klipper. Additionally, the tool will be able to generate charts that provide a visual representation of these values. This feature will not only help identify issues more quickly but also aid in the development and fine-tuning of macros and other extensions. Since this tool is aimed more at advanced users and developers, it is less intended for the average user and will be a powerful tool for those looking to dive deep into Klipper's internals.
  

On the side, I'm working on the documentation for releasing a PCB set for Gcode Macro buttons for 3D printers. I use these to replace a display on my 3d printers since I can install them permanently and assign specific commands to the buttons. The integrated Neopixels are sufficient for me as a status indicator. A friend of mine developed these PCBs, which are intended to be released as open hardware. Unfortunately, I haven't had the time to release them yet, but I started the release process last weekend. You can find the repository here: https://github.com/meteyou/klipper-gcode-buttons, and the documentation page here: https://gcode-buttons.meteyou.wtf/.

Because yesterday was a holiday here, I went on a mountain hike (I have attached a photo of yesterday's hike, where you can see the most prominent summit cross I have ever seen) and ended up with a sunburn on my forearms and neck. As a result, I'll probably have to stay indoors this weekend and avoid the sun. Let's see how much progress I can make on the new debug tool feature during this time. If you have any questions or requests regarding this feature or the Gcode Buttons, please let me know in the comments.

Best regards,
Stefan Dej