I’ve been thinking about how to put lights on my A1. A lot of the folks are using spotlights from above, or LED strip lights. My first idea (and design) was mounted above (see picture), and I’ve included the 45 degree and 90-degree overhead mount for the bar across the stop of the printer though I’m not using them for the light any longer. I figure somebody might make “other stuff” that uses the adjustable mounting system.

My requirements were:

1. See under or nearly as close to the print head as possible.
2. Keep the completed assembly as light as possible.
3. Quick on and off so it’s not in the way if I need to work on something.

To meet those objectives, I created a light weight (meaning it’s not meant to hold your camera) mounting system for the top bar and then the top of the extruder, settling for the top of the extruder myself.

The mounting arms and screw-down caps are configurable because they can be printed in whatever configuration you want. They go together with M3 hex head barrel screws, but I expect others might work as well. You could theoretically build any combination of arm/swivel you want to though I caution you that a long spaghetti mount might not be a good idea.

I recommend connecting the pieces/caps/balls before you attach it to the extruder or top once you have an idea what you want. They tighten down easier when not attached.

If there is something else that would be useful to you on the end, let me know, might be able to design it for you, as long as it’s not an 8lb widget on the end of the arms.

I made this for myself, I’m happy to share the models. If you have a problem printing it and would like some assistance, I’m usually able to help quickly. If you aren’t willing to ask for help, and just want to dump a 1-star review on my freely provided models, don’t bother downloading them.

To keep it light, I’m using an LED plate/bar from AliExpress that costs less than $1 and is crazy bright (see pictures). New 5730 smd 5V 430mA~470mA White Mirco Usb 5730 LED lighting panel USB mobile light Emergency light night light - AliExpress

The lights are 5vdc, so very low power consumption.

Here’s a video of the mount on the extruder. It’s extremely stable, doesn’t bounce or vibrate, and while the mount fits around the control cable housing coming into the extruder, there is also a clip which adds additional hold and rigidity. You can also see from the pictures that it really lights up the part being printed.

Video

I added a couple loops for cable management. I ordered a cable from AliExpress that will plug into the extra AMS port on the back and feed 24vdc which I will put through a buck converter and step it down to 5vdc for the light. Atlternatly, just put it into a phone charging block.
It doesn’t get very warm, but I would consider printing the mount and shade in PETG, or at least the mount. I did mine in PLA, but your results may vary.

Original Idea, mounts included in the .3MF in case somebody wants to use them.