Topic: So You unpackaged your new 3D-Printer... Now What?
I wanted to start this thread to help make your first attempt to print something easier, at least easier than it was for me.
If your reading this than you already know how vast the sea of information on this forum is and are wondering where to begin.
I have found that for every area of concern about your printer whether it be Software, firmware, hardware, nozzle, heated bed or what ever, there seems to be someone here that will be able and willing to help.
The first thing I realized when I unpacked my SD3 was that I would need to make some changes (Hacks and Mods).
But wait! I just want to print something now! What Should I do first? I have given this question a lot of thought since I got my printer.
I fully expect and encourage others to toss in their two cents worth (just think back to those first few days with your printer and what things you wish you had a quick solution or answer for).
All of this is assuming your printer...
1. showed up in one piece and is basically ready to print. (mine did not)
2. that you have all the software downloaded and functioning correctly.
3. Set your Z-endstop I would be willing to bet it is not correct out of the box.
So for me the first thing I needed a quick solution for was some form of enclosure.
Turns out your average kitchen plastic wrap quickly wrapped around and taped to the three sides works very well and you can see through it. Better yet, it is most likely in the drawer next to the stove.
The second thing I wanted to address was getting my prints (ABS) to stick better and there are a lot of different ideas but hairspray will get you started and adding more heat to the bed doesn't hurt either. (more is better here... I now use 108 deg)
Adding a cheap piece of glass cut to size will make your life so much easier but here is a TIP.
instead of clips or some other contraption to hold your glass just spray both sides of your glass with hairspray and leave the Kapton tape on your bed. The glass will stick nicely and is still removable. (Don't forget to adjust your Z-stop for the extra height) I have hundreds of prints this way and never has my glass moved or shifted and it is easy to switch out and start the next print with another piece of glass.
The third thing and one of the most important things is to start printing spare parts. I strongly recommend Lawsy's MK5
at some point you're going to need it and it is a fairly simple print job.
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:111213
The fourth was some form of spool holder and for that you can just take your pick from many designs on thingiverse. Just make sure it allows for tangle free operation.
I hope others will chime in with some quick fix solutions that you have come up with from your first few days with your printer.
I will update this post as other thoughts come to mind.
Happy Printing.
3-SD3's & a Workbench all fully enclosed, RH-Slic3r Win7pro, E3D V6, Volcano & Cyclops Hot End
SSR/500W AC Heated Glass Bed, Linear bearings on SS rods. Direct Drive Y-axis, BulldogXL
Thanks to all for your contributions
