Shop OBEX P1 Docs P2 Docs Learn Events
Just ordered a Printrbot Jr. Any tips ? — Parallax Forums

Just ordered a Printrbot Jr. Any tips ?

BeanBean Posts: 8,129
edited 2013-01-07 05:59 in General Discussion
After reading the latest issue of Make that reviewed 15 different 3D printers.
I decided to order the cheapest one, the printrbot Jr.
I've never used a 3D printer before so I'm in for quite a learning curve.

Does anyone have any tips ?

Bean

Comments

  • TubularTubular Posts: 4,706
    edited 2013-01-06 15:50
    Be patient : )

    You're right to anticipate a learning curve. But its all worth it
  • max72max72 Posts: 1,155
    edited 2013-01-07 01:41
    Start easy... you need to know each other. The slicer settings are very important and can make the difference between a mess and a nice print.
    Check Lonesock's Kisslicer http://kisslicer.com/ not sure if it works with yours, but worth a check.
    There is a dedicated forum in the kisslicer site. Check the forums dedicated to your printer.
    Choose a good filament ensuring a reliable outcome. In Europe there is orbi-tech offering a couple of very easy to print filaments, for instance, but not sure there is something similar in the US.
    The printing temperature is a very important parameter, so tune it with simple models.
    Moreover every PLA is different. For instance from the same manufacturer the different colors will print differently (both printer settings and final object mechanical behavior).
    In case ask around..
    Have fun,
    Massimo
  • Martin_HMartin_H Posts: 4,051
    edited 2013-01-07 03:08
    Let us know how it goes. I'm really curious about 3D printing, but assembly of a MakerBot looked pretty involved. I'm curious if the printbot jr is any easier.
  • RonPRonP Posts: 384
    edited 2013-01-07 03:40
    Have one hand on the power supply ready to turn it off, until you get everything going the right direction. When I first fired mine up I sent the X axis in the wrong direction. It moved to the side with no end stop before I could cut the power I broke one of the printed X ends. I had to melt it together just so I could get up and running to print a new one. :)

    I haven't used my printer in months getting ready fire it up again soon. I just picked up some Parallax XBEE's at Fry's today going wireless with it.

    Does your kit come with a controller?
  • BeanBean Posts: 8,129
    edited 2013-01-07 05:37
    Ron, I assume it comes with the controller.
    I'll keep everyone up-to-date when it comes.

    Bean
  • mindrobotsmindrobots Posts: 6,506
    edited 2013-01-07 05:59
    Please do, Bean.

    This looks like an affordable entry into 3D printing.

    I'm wondering if it's wrong for me to want to make things without building my 3D printer...of course, then I didn't make my table saw or lathe before I could cut wood or turn things!!
Sign In or Register to comment.