I was struck by CraftWare's simple user interface. The main functions of the CraftBot, however, are contained in CraftUnique's CraftWare software, which is still in beta. And you can use the menu to select objects to print from an inserted USB thumb drive. You can also turn lights and cooling fans on and off. You can load and unload filament, and manually raise or lower the print bed, level it and pre-heat it. With the LCD menu, you can perform critical functions. I found the CraftBot's touchscreen menu's usability and functionality just right. Anything too difficult to decipher will ultimately keep users from discovering the full potential of the machine. When it comes to beginner-level to intermediate 3D printers, simple is the name of the game. It uses both images and descriptions of functions to help you navigate the system. While it's a resistive touchscreen rather than a capacitive one (which enables a far lighter touch, similar to a smartphone or tablet), the screen is fast and responsive. The CraftBot's 2.8-in LCD color touchscreen is impressive. Slicer software is used universally by 3D printers it takes your digital 3D object and turns it into a G-Code language format understood by most 3D printers. Lastly, you're required to download CraftWare slicer software. The next step for setup was to mount the filament guide tube and filament spool holder, both of which require a single screw to attach to the side of the printer. The only things that required removal were some rubber bands wrapped around the print bed to hold it in place. I found the CraftBot simple to set up it didn't even come with oodles of Styrofoam packing or plastic braces for its print platform, which other 3D printers require you to remove before you can print. This is a no-frills printer - just the way I like them. The all-metal body and stainless steel screws that line the edges of its frame give it an industrial feel, but its simplistic design makes it user friendly. Straight out of the box, the CraftBot felt and looked sturdy and well constructed. CraftUnique sells its filaments in a myriad of colors: $29 for a 2.2-lb. It uses the popular PLA and ABS thermoplastics as well as high impact polystyrene (HIPS) filament it will use any standard 1.75mm diameter filament from any manufacturer. The printer comes in six colors and retails for $1,099 ( vendor price). It can be used with any Windows, OS X or Linux-based system. It has a print area of 10 x 8 x 8 in., a large build volume in relationship to its small desktop size. and weighs just 30 lbs., which means it's not only easily transportable but also won't devour a lot of desktop space. The CraftBot Plus is 16.1 x 14.1 x 14.9 in.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |