Question for the 3D printing crowd

[lcw731]

Hello all you 3D printers out there. I’ve been thinking about trying it out and came across a DaVinchi XYZ Jr. w 3D printer on Facebook Marketplace for about $45. The guys says I has about 50 hours on it. Understanding that this is an entry level machine I’m I terstrd to see if anyone has any comments or thoughts about this one? My initial use case would be mainly to print sensor mounts, and maybe some miscellaneous doo dads for around the house. Thanks for your insights!

[marktheknife]

I’m also pretty new to 3D printing, but from what I can gather, pretty much any halfway decent printer could likely handle low volume printing of small PLA items.

I think the things to ask yourself include what kind of software do you want to get accustomed to using so that you can start by borrowing other people’s files and then, if you’re interested, editing/making your own print files.

[lcw731]

@marktheknife

think the things to ask yourself include what kind of software do you want to get accustomed to using

Good point. I am also starting to dabble in laser engraving. I know with that there are a couple “standard” programs (light burn and Laser GRBL). Hadn’t thought about it, does 3D printing have something similar?

[JoeJ]

I think you may find the smaller print size (150mm X 150mm X150mm) the biggest limitation. That like 5.9 inches max in width/height/depth. But for $45 you can use it to get your feet wet with 3D printing

[marktheknife]

@lcw731

I know what that there are a couple “standard” programs (light burn and Laser GRBL). Hadn’t thought about it, does 3D printing have something similar?

[CAZ]

There's a great thread on the subject. A lot of input in there.

Let's talk 3D printers!

I have been really wanting one for a long long time. I don't know much beyond how they work. Whatever I get must be enclosed. There are a few initial questions I have. Are they like welders? Get the biggest best you can afford off the bat. What are some best value brands? Is a "does it all" type fine (filament wise) or is purpose machine better? It's basically going to be a hobby thing. I am into RC so whatever filament is usually used for tougher parts. My wife would likely also love it sin…

[Ranchitat]

This is almost the first result from a quick Google.

So... No. Run (don't walk) away.

Unless... you have nothing else to do, your time is free, and you want to learn an entirely new profession from the ground up to be able to upgrade all the components and rebuild a substandard outdated device into a modern fully functional one.

Two words: Bambu Labs

[marktheknife]

@Ranchitat

Bambu Labs

I was gifted an A1 Mini last year and I’m pretty pleased with it so far.

[tray_e]

I have been using Anycubic for the past few years and I like them. First the Vyper and now the Kobra S1 (a knock off of the A1). There were things I had to learn and they have specific communities in Reddit and Facebook for most of the printers.

My suggestion: Go join several of the various communities and read the historical issues and what it took to solve them. Not so much to learn if they are "good" or "bad." Just to see what others have had to do to solve things. I do not think any of them are completely pain free. But some (like mine) have proprietary firmware/software that you will have to get used to (or learn to flash new firmware). Just realize that people with complaints will usually outnumber the others on most forums and it might look like they all are bad.

Also, learn the different materials you can print with and what the pros and cons of each are. I learned the hard way not to use PLA for anything I wanted for my car. (I figured a cup holder wouldn't matter too much until it shrank around my coffee cup in the heat of single day LOL)

[wiegout]

This is never not funny.