Type A Machine

3D printer

Made by http://typeamachines.com/ in San Francisco

Anyone can use it, just come by and get a quick tutorial. There are a few instruction notes on the printer's table.

Getting Started

3D Models

Any .stl file can be printed out by the printer. A good place to find .stl files is [1].

If you haven't done 3D modeling before then give something easy a try like [2] (in Google Chrome) or Google sketchup (installed on computer adjacent to printer). Sketchup can now directly import .stl files thanks to this plugin. Also consider Blender (installed on computer adjacent to printer) for modeling, although it is primarily a software for animation it apparently is good for regular modeling as well.

Using the printer

This is a transcription of the note in front of the printer:

1. Make sure the blue tape is flat and covers the glass base (formerly acrylic).
2. Prepare an .stl file (see O:5#3D Models above).
3. Open the program Repetier (on the Desktop).
4. Turn machine on (switch on back, right-hand-side).
5. Connect by clicking at the top left "connect" (power symbol) in Repetier.
6. Add objects to the field by selecting "Add Object" on the lower right-hand-side of Repetier.
7. Select the Slic3r tab on the right-hand tabbed menu, then select "Slice with Slic3r".
8. When slicing is done, hit "run" (play symbol).
9. When your object(s) is(are) done printing, turn off the printer and put the computer to sleep (or standby).