- The software and firmware is awful.
- The print quality is just okay.
- Proprietary filament. (limited options and 2x the cost)
These problems kept me from using the printer all too often. Amazingly however, all these problems can be solved with software and voiding warranties!
Software / Workflow
I began by flashing the printer to Repetier. Coupled with repetier host on my machine, I was now able to use Slic3r (or any slicing software I wanted) and any settings I wanted. I have complete control over the G-Code. Because the printer is no longer using stock firmware, it doesn't check the cartridges for authenticity- effectively allowing me to use any filament I like (within the extruder's capabilities).The new software has completely changed my opinion about affordable 3D printing, quality is excellent when compared to more expensive machines like the makerbot, and overall I'm much more happy with the device. Using strangely colored/textured/translucent filaments is exciting as well.
There was still one issue however, and that was my computer had to remain on to slice and send instructions to the printer. With yet another mod, and some additional software I was able to fix this. I purchased a Raspberry Pi (B+) and loaded OctoPrint on it. After some initial configuration I'm now able to load print jobs onto the pi, and let it do all the rest. It even sends live video feedback and status of the printer, via web browser. Adding a WiFi chip to the Raspberry Pi effectively made the printer wireless, so I could remove it from my office (it was sort of loud). I opened this up to the web and now I can access and 3D print from anywhere in the world. Pretty amazing if you ask me.
 |
| Bonsai Planter |
Mod Hardware / Software
Printer: http://amzn.to/1JH90lh ($500)Raspberry Pi: http://amzn.to/1Q3Xdia ($30)
Repetier Firmware: http://bit.ly/1HHGonM ($0)
Repetier Host: http://bit.ly/1KXqPJq ($0)
OctoPrint: https://github.com/foosel/OctoPrint ($0)
Useful Instructional Videos:
Repetier Install Guide: http://bit.ly/1PH2R94Settings to get you started: http://bit.ly/1KXr1Z6
Belt Tensioning: http://bit.ly/1JHamrT
Adjust Print Bed: http://bit.ly/1JsbMqZ
Offset Fix: http://bit.ly/1Ew2U7c
0 comments:
Post a Comment