Simplify3D is a software package that completes with freeware versions of Cura and SLIC3R. It is nto cheap, but it doe shave certain advantages not seen in the other 2.
3D Printing 3D printer plunge
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matthewdlaudato
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One nice feature of Simplify is advanced ability to add support structures to models. If Slic3r has this, I haven’t found it yet.
SILC3R is definitely not the best. Simplify3D has the best quality of the ones I have tested. Second best would be IdeaMaker. Cura is a close third.
Simplify3d is probably not worth $100.
Simplify3d is probably not worth $100.
A package just arrived.
matthewdlaudato
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A package just arrived.
Enjoy the build!
I will, I enjoy working on projects like this.
gorillamotors
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Is that a Raspberry Pi on top of it? Zero W or 3B+?
matthewdlaudato
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Mine was great fun, and I really ‘know’ my printer as a result of building it myself. I do recommend scanning the comments in the online docs before each step. I found some good tips from others that made certain steps go more smoothly.
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Thx for the tips guys. That does help narrow down the choices.
As to it's value, I would tend to think along the lines of; if the unique features can keep me from fubaring a project, then over time those features will save me time, effort and material, thereby paying for themselves.
So its built and dialed in, and I have to say working really well so far. I am sure that I can improve on it but for now the difference in quality from the first print to now is night an day. My biggest issue was adhesion to the bed. Ultimately this was resolved by trial and error. My first issue was related to the hardware setup, specifically the getting the PINDA probe set to the correct height. Once this was done dialing in the "First layer cal" made a big difference.
My slice settings so far, which I am sure it will change, is to set a 2mm brim, lay down the first PLA layer at 225, then drop to 215. I have also been using the glue stick depending on the part.
I downloaded and played with some alternative slicing apps but ultimately came back to Slic3r. This was mainly due to not fully understanding the setup profile options for my specific printer. I will have to revisit this at a later date when I have more knowledge and experience under my belt, but it was a good exercise looking at some options.
Next up is to order some of the original Prusament orange PETG and print some OEM replacement parts, plus some modified ones that I saw on Thingiverse. I also need to select and get my head around a decent 3D CAD package so feel free to provide any recommendations.
My slice settings so far, which I am sure it will change, is to set a 2mm brim, lay down the first PLA layer at 225, then drop to 215. I have also been using the glue stick depending on the part.
I downloaded and played with some alternative slicing apps but ultimately came back to Slic3r. This was mainly due to not fully understanding the setup profile options for my specific printer. I will have to revisit this at a later date when I have more knowledge and experience under my belt, but it was a good exercise looking at some options.
Next up is to order some of the original Prusament orange PETG and print some OEM replacement parts, plus some modified ones that I saw on Thingiverse. I also need to select and get my head around a decent 3D CAD package so feel free to provide any recommendations.
I still pretty much use Tinkercad the most.
I signed up and am going through the tutorials. So far it seems intuitive, but I can see that it is relatively basic. Still it is likely good for 90+% of what I will do.
What about slicing apps?
I have Blender, Cura and of course Slic3r, and as I stated in my previous post I went back to Slic3r for now. With Blender and Cura I had issues with creating a usable profile for the MK3, as they did not have that printer listed. The results were all failed prints and not even good starts, such as starting to print right at the corner, then heat timing results that I wasn't expecting, although from what I have read they could be a benefit. There were other issues but I would like to hear what other MK3 users have tried and pick their brains on the settings?
If printing PETG, avoid SLIC3R. I use primarily Cura and IdeaMaker unless I want supports. For supports, I usually use Simplify3D.
What printer profile did you select in Cura and if you created a custom profile what settings did you use?
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Have you tried Fusion 360? I use it and for the most part it works well. My only gripe with it is it is cloud based, although you can store projects locally.
My son set up Cura. I will get him to post it this weekend.
I can't wait until my kids are smart enough to figure this stuff out.
I'm still waiting on my printer from Prusa. In the meantime I've been doing a lot of research and it's crazy how many moving parts there are to figure out. First, trying to select a good printer based on anticipated needs. Then choosing and learning a modeler. Next learning about slicing and printer settings, which are dependent on the material you are using (requiring more research), and finally, the mechanics and electronics of your printer once you get it up and printing. For now I'm learning OpenSCAD, which I really like, but I can see that I'll want a traditional modeler at some point. I don't mind paying for software but some of the standard 3D modeling programs are much more expensive than would make sense for a hobby. A friend uses FreeCad which I'll likely start with before I spend any cash.
I'm really looking forward to improvements in the OpenSCAD customizer. After getting familiar with Gary's (VCP) projects I think that will offer a huge amount of utility to our hobby. The ability to quickly customize parts like fin cans, nose cones, mounting sleds, etc., will add a lot of utility to a 3D printer owner.
Tony
I'm really looking forward to improvements in the OpenSCAD customizer. After getting familiar with Gary's (VCP) projects I think that will offer a huge amount of utility to our hobby. The ability to quickly customize parts like fin cans, nose cones, mounting sleds, etc., will add a lot of utility to a 3D printer owner.
Tony
I had a slight problem with my printer. I am going to have to replace past of the hotend. Good news, I bought a back up.
Not yet.
know the more feature product (Autodesk AutoCAD whatever flavour) from some of my Engineering clients and to be honest it's a bit intimidating, so I was looking for the simple fix. Having said that obviously my prejudice is limiting my view so maybe I will have a look at it. I also picked up a CNC router so the 3D software tools that I look at should be portable and maximize each hardware tool.
matthewdlaudato
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Fusion 360 is full featured and yes a bit daunting - but I’ve been investing in learning it. Complex shapes, precision threaded parts, a vast palette of tools. As always, YouTube videos are your best friend. I also use Tinkercad for simpler models, very easy to use.
gorillamotors
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My Raspberry Pi 3B+ just went offline and I cannot access octoprint to send my prusa print files. Any solutions?? I can still use the sd card to print.
Try reloading your browser page.
gorillamotors
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I've tried that,and a different browser, and re-reloading the sd card with octoprint, and reloading a brand new sd card with octoprint. Nothing. The red light comes on and the green light blinks sporadically. Since they are quite cheap I just ordered another one to check if it is the card or maybe something else.
If you suspect it is just a wireless issue then you could hard-wire the Pi using USB to Ethernet adapter, something like this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0094D4X5C/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20 I have one and will use it as a backup if wireless is an issue or to troubleshoot issues such as this.
matthewdlaudato
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Can you ssh into the Pi?
gorillamotors
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Odd. I would check mine, but I am replacing my power supply after it failed.
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