Introduction
This page illustrates the protocol used to set up and print using a MakerBot Replicator.
Unboxing and Set up
The Replicator comes with an instruction manual that covers the proper unpacking and set up of the machine. It provides detailed, easy to follow steps. Once those steps are completed go to http://www.makerbot.com/docs/replicator/fre/.
First Run Experience
The "First Run Experience" webpage details the steps necessary to level the stage, load filament, and print the first piece. It instructs the user how to print from preloaded designs on the SD card. [1]
Software
In order to download prints from Thingiverse or create original designs, the user must download ReplicatorG software. Skeinforge is integrated in RelicatorG. The latest version of ReplicatorG can be found at http://replicat.org/download. If the computer being used does not already have Python it must be downloaded as well, the latest version can be found here http://www.python.org/getit/windows/.
Open SCAD is a 3D modeling software that can be used to model prints for the Replicator and is a popular choice in MOST. Open SCAD can be downloaded at http://www.openscad.org/. Open SCAD designs can easily be converted to .stl and opened in ReplicatorG.
Printing From SD Card
In the main menu of the Replicator screen select the option 'Print from SD Card'. Then the desired design can be selected from the list. Designs can be loaded onto the SD card by inserting the card into the computer and saving .stls to it.
Printing From Thingiverse
Dual extrusion prints can be found by searching 'dualstrusion' tags, though single extrusion prints can be done on the Replicator as well. Once the desired design is found on www.thingiverse.com, click the .stl files to save them and then open it in ReplicatorG. A single extrusion design will have one .stl file. To print dual designs select 'merge .stls for dual'. Then browse for the two .stls, one for each extruder. Once it is opened in ReplicatorG make sure the design is fully on the stage, this can be accomplished by centering the design. Then click 'Generate Gcode', once the generate windows appears the user can change fill percent and other settings as well as select to use a raft. Once the code is generated, find the line (about 15 down) that controls stage temperature and change S100 to S115. Then press the 'connect' button to connect the Replicator with the computer, they should be connected via USB. Once connected, click build and the Replicator will preheat and begin building. It should not be left unattended while running. Prints can be paused or canceled from the Replicator screen.
Troubleshooting
Common problems can be answered by reading the troubleshooting page http://www.makerbot.com/docs/replicator/troubleshooting/. Any additional questions can be answered by emailing support@makerbot.com