Type A Machine
This is about a particular printer. There's a separate page about creating or acquiring 3D models.
Current Status
It's on the 3D printing desk and works perfectly!
Overview
SudoRoom had a Type A Machine. It was generously donated by Jae Kwon in fall 2012. Now it's with Yar. But an identical 3D printer was donated by Chris K. Palmer in 2021 and is on the same desk in the same place.
We no longer have a hack night dedicated to 3D Printing, but when we figure that out, stop by and learn, create, play!
See our gallery of creations!
Status
The printer is currently working! (June 11th 2022)
Notes about the bed:
- The acrylic bed has a plate of glass taped on top of it.
- The glass is flat, so you can print big things again.
- You still need to adjust the corner screws to keep things level. Make sure they are tight or they wiggle and fall off.
- The nozzle should be just a millimeter or so above the bed. Tip: wiggle a piece of paper under it - heavy friction means a little too close.
- We need more ScotchBlue #2093EL tape.
Extruder Hot End
Our extruder is has a 12v cartridge heater and .35mm nozzle. This is standard for extruding a 1.75mm PLA filament.
Attached Computer
The printer can attach to any computer by USB, but usually it's attached to a Linux machine called wasp.local. Some of the following software is installed locally:
- slic3r (turns STL files into gcode)
- Ultimaker Cura
- kisslicer (alternative to slic3r)
- pronterface (operates the printer, which accepts gcode)
If using Printrun/Pronerface/Pronsole the baudrate is 250000.
Musicality
One of the first things newcomers notice is the beautiful sound created by a 3D printer. I think it's especially nice when printing curved lines, when the X and Y axes sing in harmonic, contrapuntal motion. When printing perfect circles, it's as if the celestial spheres are whispering mathematical truths into your ears.
3D printers also play dubstep.
External Links
Documentation:
- Outdated comic strip instructions
- our own github documentation
- Noisebridge's 3D-printing documentation
- Manufacturer's website
- User Manual
- Type A Machines Support Page has lots of info on how to use and repair the printer.
- Replacing the blue tape build surface
- Cleaning out a filament jam
- Online Forum
- At least one Sudoer works for the manufacturer - his business card is tacked to the cork board above the printer.