Building a 3D PRINTER - Part 3

摘要

In Part One, which appeared in the Summer 2015 issue, we constructed the basic frame with the movement stepper motors and the belt system with slides. In Part Two, we completed the mechanical parts of the printer, installing the electronics, wiring, LCD panel, extruder, effector, and the print surface (Photo 1). In this article we will complete the printer by accomplishing the following: 1) compile and install the G-code interpreter that runs in the Arduino of the printer, 2) install and configure the printer host software so it can be used to control the printer during setup and calibration, 3) calibrate the printer to get it ready to print, and 4) print an object! The final article, Part Four, will provide operational advice for not only this printer, but guidance for trouble-shooting and getting good prints from any 3D printer.