The UltiMaker S5 was first released in 2018. In March 2020, UltiMaker introduced several hardware changes to the UltiMaker S5. This means that there are two different versions of the UltiMaker S5. Both versions are functionally the same, but for service requests or updating the firmware, it may be important to know which version of the UltiMaker S5 you have.
Note: The UltiMaker S5 versions are sometimes referred to as UltiMaker S5R1 (2018-2020) and UltiMaker S5R2 (2020 onwards).
How do I know which version of the UltiMaker S5 I have?
There are several ways to tell the two versions of the UltiMaker S5 apart. The simplest is by looking at the UltiMaker branding on the printer. In 2019, UltiMaker changed its branding, including a different logo. These changes are reflected in the newer version of the UltiMaker S5. The side panels of the UltiMaker S5R2 show the 'U' icon instead of the old UltiMaker mascot, the Ultibot.
The image on the left shows the 'U' icon on the side panels and the image on the right shows the Ultibot.
At the top of the front panel, the UltiMaker logo is displayed. The logo was also changed in the rebranding; you can see the difference in the images below.
The image on the left shows the 2019 update of the UltiMaker logo and the image on the right is the old logo.
Furthermore, the versions have different product codes. Your reseller or service partner may ask you for this code to ensure they are providing the correct advice. The product code is found on the serial number sticker at the back of your UltiMaker S5. The 'R1' or 2018 version of the UltiMaker S5 has product codes 202253 - 202258, while the updated UltiMaker S5 (R2) has product codes 218251 - 218256.
Why should I know which version of the UltiMaker S5 I have?
The two versions of the UltiMaker S5 offer the same functionalities. For normal operation, it does not matter which version you have. However, besides the branding changes, there are some hardware differences between the two versions.
The printers do not use the same electronics, which means the firmware that runs on the printers are different files. If the UltiMaker S5 is connected to the network, the printer will automatically download the correct file if the firmware is updated through the maintenance menu. When updating the firmware via USB, it is important that the correct file is downloaded. Find the firmware files here: Update the UltiMaker S5 firmware.
Note: The firmware file for the wrong version of the UltiMaker S5 will be recognized by the printer, but cannot be installed.
Furthermore, due to the hardware changes, not all spare parts are compatible with both printers. To select the right part for your UltiMaker S5, the version must first be determined.
Note: Always first consult your reseller or contact support about repairs or replacement of non-consumable items.
Why did UltiMaker release a different version of the UltiMaker S5?
Firstly, the updated version of the UltiMaker S5 includes branding changes to align this printer with the other products in the S series, such as the UltiMaker S3 and the Material Station.
Next, the changes made under the cover of the UltiMaker S5 improve the electromagnetic compatibility of the printer and help ensure that the updated version of the UltiMaker S5 is Class B compliant.
Lastly, the 2018 version, or the UltiMaker S5R1, conforms to safety standard IEC 60950-1, and the 2020 version, or UltiMaker S5R2, to IEC 62368-1. The standard IEC 62368-1 has been mandatory since December 2020.
Are both versions still supported?
The UltiMaker S5R2 is an active product, meaning it is still manufactured, sold, and supported by UltiMaker. The UltiMaker S5R1 has not been in production since 2020 and it is no longer sold or supported.
Due to supply chain and compatibility reasons, UltiMaker had to fully discontinue the UltiMaker S5R1. The end of service was October 1, 2023. This is mainly due to the differences in the printers' electronics. Learn more here: Product Discontinuance Notice - Ultimaker S5R1.
Some service parts unique to the UltiMaker S5R1 may still be available, but this cannot be guaranteed. Any service parts that are still used in supported products can still be purchased.
Note: It is not possible to 'upgrade' the UltiMaker S5R1 to an R2 version, as this would require swapping out all of the electronics and power supply. This is not mechanically supported due to differences in the frame.
