Printers

By June 15, 2023 Read More →

UltiMaker Method XL

UltiMaker Method XLUltimaker, the world’s leading 3D printer manufacturer, has just announced the release of the Method XL, a large-format 3D printer that is designed for industrial-scale production. The Method XL has a build volume of 305 x 305 x 320 mm, which is the largest of any Ultimaker printer. The Method XL also features an actively heated chamber that can be heated up to 100°C, which allows it to print with a wide variety of materials, including ABS, ABS-R, and ABS Carbon Fiber.

The Method XL is a high-performance 3D printer that is capable of producing high-quality parts with excellent dimensional accuracy. It is a good choice for businesses and organizations that need to produce large quantities of 3D printed parts.

Posted in: News, Printers
By May 17, 2023 Read More →

How Does a Resin 3D Printer Work?

How Does a Resin 3D Printer Work?A resin 3D printer works by curing a liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer using a UV laser or projector. The resin is contained in a vat, and the build platform (the surface that the object is printed on) is lowered into the resin one layer at a time. The UV laser or projector then cures the resin in the desired pattern, hardening it into a solid layer. The build platform then raises, and the process repeats until the object is complete.

Resin 3D printers can produce objects with very fine detail, and they are often used to create prototypes, jewelry, and other objects that require a high level of precision. However, resin 3D printers can be more expensive than filament 3D printers, and they require the use of hazardous materials (the resin and the UV light).

Here are the steps on how a resin 3D printer works:

  1. Prepare the resin. The resin needs to be mixed thoroughly before printing. This can be done by shaking the bottle or using a magnetic stirrer.
  2. Create the 3D model. The 3D model needs to be created in a 3D modeling software program. Once the model is created, it needs to be sliced into layers. This is done by using a 3D slicing software program.
  3. Load the resin into the printer. The resin is loaded into the vat of the printer. The vat is usually made of transparent plastic so that the UV laser or projector can shine through.
  4. Position the build platform. The build platform is lowered into the vat of resin. The build platform is usually made of metal or glass.
  5. Start the printing process. The UV laser or projector starts to cure the resin in the desired pattern. The build platform raises one layer at a time, and the process repeats until the object is complete.
  6. Remove the object from the printer. Once the object is complete, it needs to be removed from the printer. The object is usually removed by lifting it off of the build platform.

Resin 3D printers are a great way to create objects with very fine detail. However, they can be more expensive than filament 3D printers, and they require the use of hazardous materials.

Posted in: Editorial, Printers
By May 15, 2023 Read More →

Discover the Best 3D Printer: Our Recommendations for Home Users and Enthusiasts

3d-printingAre you looking for the best 3D printer for home users and enthusiasts? The market is constantly evolving, and it can be hard to keep up with the latest trends and features.

We’ve done the research so you don’t have to. In this article, we’ll compare and contrast some of the best 3D printers available right now. We’ll look at their features, ease of use, budget-friendliness, and customer feedback to help you make an informed decision when selecting your own 3D printer.

Whether you want a basic desktop model or one with more complex capabilities, we can help you find the perfect 3D printer for your needs. Read on to discover our top recommendations for home users and enthusiasts!

What Is 3D Printing and How Does It Work?

If you’re wondering what 3D printing is, the answer is simple: it’s a manufacturing process that prints three-dimensional objects. 3D printing works by layering materials, like resin, plastic, or even metal, to create a physical object from a digital model.

The printer itself builds an object in successive layers, with each layer made from the same material. Once each layer has been printed, the layers are then fused together to form the finished product. The entire process happens quickly and efficiently compared with traditional manufacturing processes.

3D printing is also incredibly versatile; almost any shape or design can be printed depending on the type of printer used. The printers themselves can come in various shapes and sizes – from desktop models that fit on a table to high-end industrial machines that are capable of producing complex objects.

The capabilities of 3D printers means they’re perfect for home users and enthusiasts alike – especially given the relatively low cost of today’s entry-level models. Plus, modern 3D printers are easier to set up and use than ever before.

Best Budget 3D Printer: XYZprinting Da Vinci MiniMaker

XYZprinting Da Vinci MiniMakerIf you’re on a tighter budget, the XYZprinting Da Vinci MiniMaker is an excellent choice for the home enthusiast. This lightweight and compact 3D printer offers a considerable amount of control and flexibility for its price range. It has a build area of 5.9” x 5.9” x 5.9”, so it can print larger objects with ease. Its simple interface makes it easy to use right out of the box, and there are plenty of education guides available to help you get started.

In addition to its convenience, this 3D printer also offers great value in terms of features. The Da Vinci MiniMaker features automatic bed-leveling, assisted bed calibration and filament detection that automatically pauses printing when running low on filament or when the filament runs out entirely. It is also compatible with multiple materials such as PLA and XYZware Pro filament so you can customize your prints according to your preferences.

Best Mid-Range 3D Printer: FlashForge Finder 3D Printer

FlashForge Finder 3D PrinterThe FlashForge Finder 3D Printer is our pick for the best mid-range 3D printer for home users and enthusiasts. It is perfect for those who are looking for a reliable 3D printing experience, but don’t want to break the bank.

This 3D printer offers a wide range of features that you’d expect from a higher end model, like Wi-Fi connectivity and an auto-calibration system. It also has a large build area, with generous dimensions of 5.9×5.9×5.9 inches (150x150x150 mm). This makes it ideal for more ambitious projects, such as creating figurines or larger models.

The FlashForge Finder also has some impressive print speed and resolution capabilities, with the potential to produce high-resolution prints at up to 100 microns. It’s easy to set up and use, making it great for beginners, but also offers advanced functions like a power outage recovery system that restarts your prints in case of an interruption.

Overall, the FlashForge Finder provides an excellent balance of functionality and affordability that make it the perfect choice for home users and enthusiasts looking for a reliable mid-range 3D printer.

Best High-End 3D Printer: Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer

If you’re looking for a top of the line 3D printer that can do it all, consider the Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer. This printer is designed to deliver exquisite prints with extreme accuracy and reliability. It features an updated extruder system and several advanced features that make it stand out from other high-end 3D printers.

Key Features

The Ultimaker 2+ includes a suite of features to help maximize your printing experience:

  • Precision: It utilizes a 20 micron layer resolution for exceptional accuracy and detail.
  • Speed: Its “Dual Extrusion” system enables two materials to be used in one print job, which increases speed by up to 30%.
  • Connectivity: You can easily connect your Ultimaker 2+ to any device with Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
  • Filament Compatibility: The printer supports a wide range of filaments, including PLA, ABS, Nylon, CPE and CPE+.
  • Safety Features: The printer comes with advanced safety features such as temperature control and dimensional accuracy checks to help ensure that your prints are successful every time.

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, the Ultimaker 2+ makes for an outstanding 3D printing experience at home.

Other Top 3D Printers for Home Use

In the market for a 3D Printer but not sure which one to choose? Here are some of our top-recommended models that provide excellent quality, reliability, and value.

Prusa i3 MK3

The Prusa i3 MK3 is a feature-packed machine that offers plenty of features and options for users who want to get serious about 3D printing. It has an upgradable frame and interchangeable nozzles for increased flexibility. It also includes many safety features such as filament runout detection and power panic recovery, so you can be sure your prints will be of the highest quality each time.

Ultimaker 3 Extended

This is an advanced model aimed at those looking for professional-level results. It comes with an improved nozzle system and a heated bed to ensure consistent high-quality prints. It also has an intuitive user interface that makes it easy to use – you can even access remote printing via WiFi!

Flashforge Finder

This entry-level model is perfect for beginner hobbyists who want a reliable printer without breaking the bank. It comes with a heated build plate, auto calibration, dual extruders, and an intuitive touchscreen interface for easy navigation. The enclosed slicing software also makes it easier to manage your projects from start to finish.

3D Printing Materials: PLA vs ABS Filaments

3D printing enthusiasts must decide between two popular materials: PLA or ABS filament. There are distinct differences between the two that must be taken into account when choosing the right 3D printer for your needs.

PLA Filaments

PLA (polylactic acid) is a type of biodegradable plastic produced from corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is popular because it is easy to print with and has low warping and shrinking characteristics. This makes it the perfect choice for intricate designs and objects with moving parts, as there is less risk of any distortions occurring during the printing process. It’s also available in a wide range of colors, so you can easily create bright and colorful objects. However, PLA doesn’t have the highest temperature tolerance, making it inappropriate for very hot applications such as electronics enclosures.

ABS Filaments

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is another type of plastic used for 3D printing that has higher heat and impact resistance than PLA filaments. It’s also more durable, so it’s better suited to create stronger parts with longer-lasting performance. However, ABS often requires a heated bed and enclosure to ensure proper bonding and prevent warping due to its higher melting temperature. It’s also more difficult to work with than PLA, so some users may find this material too challenging to use until they gain more experience as a 3D printer enthusiast.

Conclusion

There are many great 3D printers available for the home user and enthusiast. From basic models that are well-suited for beginners, to more sophisticated models for expert users, there is something for everyone. In this guide, we’ve outlined the best 3D printers for the home user, for both professionals and beginners alike.

Whether you’re a 3D printing newcomer or a seasoned veteran, we hope this guide has provided you with the insight and information you need to make an informed purchase. With a wide variety of options on the market, the perfect 3D printer to suit your needs is out there—so start exploring and discover what 3D printing has to offer today!

Posted in: Gadgets, Printers
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By May 22, 2015 Read More →

Canon Maxify iB4050 Unboxing

632511-662343-290Ebuyer has sent over a Canon Maxify iB4050 Wireless Inkjet Printer for Gareth to have a play with. The printer retails for around £88 on Ebuyer, a price so low that this easily becomes an interesting option for any small business, or ever personal user looking for a quality printer. 

With the price of ink being a major concern for anyone purchasing a printer, the ink tanks cost roughly £17 each or a pack of 4 for £52, depending on where you look. With an output of 1,500 colour pages this looks to be notably better value than many printers on the market currently.

Perfect for small offices this fast cloud ready printer offers 2-sided printing

High-speed printer for small office with built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet, mobile and cloud printing. Features 2-sided printing and high capacity ink tanks for efficient, high quality business documents.

Key Features

  • High volume printer for a busy small office with two 250-sheet paper cassettes

  • No waiting for documents with Quick First Print plus 15 colour pages/min and 23 mono pages/min

  • Wi-Fi plus Ethernet connection: print from PCs, smartphones, tablets and cloud services

  • Print up to 2,500 mono and 1,500 colour pages with individually replaceable XL ink tanks

  • Create quality documents with Dual Resistant HD ink optimised for  business printing

  • Recommended monthly page volume of 250-1,500 pages

  • Free 3 year Warranty

By January 5, 2015 Read More →

HTC Announces the HTC DESIRE 320

V01_3V_White2014Nov25HTC COMBINES AMAZING VALUE AND ALL-ROUND PERFORMANCE WITH THE HTC DESIRE 320

HTC packs all the smartphone essentials into one entry-level phone, with super-fast processing power, HTC BlinkFeed and Video Highlights

 

LONDON, 5th JANUARY – HTC Corporation (“HTC”), a global leader in mobile innovation and design, has today announced the HTC Desire 320. As the successor to the HTC Desire 310, it is packed with all your everyday essentials and delivers a smooth browsing experience, seamless multi-tasking and the ability to create quick, personalised videos. The latest addition to the HTC Desire family has been designed for the entry-level market and delivers a quality user experience in an affordable handset, offering real value for money. 

“Marrying super-fast processing with premium HTC features in a compact form, the HTC Desire 320 delivers a quality experience for the budget conscious well beyond its entry-level model status” said Peter Frølund, UK and Nordics General Manager, HTC. “Following on from the success of the HTC Desire 310, it boasts enhanced power and memory to enable more people to benefit from a quality smartphone experience that delivers the perfect balance between smart essentials and value.”

 

Seamless experience

Behind the slick operation of the HTC Desire 320, which runs on Android™ 4.4, is a fast Quad-core 1.3 GHz quad-core processor capable of handling an array of tasks, from watching videos, playing the latest games to juggling your favourite apps, delivering a smooth experience every time.

 

Packed with features

For an entry-level handset, the HTC Desire 320 is packed with features. Whatever your pace of life, the 5MP camera ensures you’re able to capture every key moment as it happens, in still or video format, brought to life on its stunning 4.5” screen. Furthermore, the HTC Desire 320 allows you to get creative with mini movies using HTC’s Video Highlights functionality. Simply take your favourite photos and videos, select a sequence and a favourite track, to create an impressive show reel in seconds, ready to share with friends and family. 

 

The HTC Desire 320 also brings you the renowned HTC BlinkFeed for up to the minute news, perfect for those who like to stay connected and keep up with the latest action as it happens. Combining content from your favourite news and social media sites into an easily digestible feed on your home screen, personalised updates are brought straight to you at a glance. Wherever you are, you can catch-up on the latest articles with Offline Reading mode. Simply download and add articles to your reading list when connected to Wi-Fi to access and enjoy at a later date, perfect for those who enjoy reading on the move.

 

Availability

The HTC Desire 320 comes in Vanilla White and Dark Gray. UK availability will be announced in the near future.

Posted in: Press Releases, Printers
By November 10, 2013 Read More →

Reprap 3D print at 30x speed

Reprap_Prusa_MendelI’ve had my Reprap for ages but haven’t really used it much lately, but today I thought I’d dust of off and have a play with it.

So, just for fun, here is a time-lapse video my Reprap Prusa Mendel printing a Christmas tree. This is playing back at proximately 30x real time, the actual print time was just under 2 hours.

Now I just need to paint and light the tree!

 

By October 31, 2013 Read More →

Lantronix xPrintServer review

Lantronix xPrintServer review - iOS printingIf you want to print from your iOS device you’ll typically need a printer that supports AirPrint. AirPrint was introduced some time ago as part of iOS 4.2. Despite it being around for a while, AirPrint has not found its way in to many printers.

So if you have an existing printer that doesn’t support AirPrint but you don’t want to replace it, your options are somewhat limited. That’s Lantronix xPrintServer comes in. This small box simply plugs in to your existing network and provides AirPrint capability to virtually any existing printer.

It really is plug and play but before we get in to any of the detail, have a look at the unboxing video below to see what you get.

By March 10, 2012 Read More →

How to Choose your Ideal Laser Printer

rtaImage Laser printers were once so costly that only businesses could afford to use them. With office supply stores like Ryman now selling home laser printers, even colour versions, from around the £100 mark, their popularity as a home printing option is on the increase. Quieter, faster, and cheaper to run than standard inkjets, laser printers have some serious advantages for the home user too, particularly when it comes to printing high quality text and large volumes.

If you’ve decided to make the switch to laser printing, here are some of the aspects to consider before you make that purchase.

By December 13, 2011 Read More →

Kodak Launches Document Cloud Printing App for ANDROID Devices

Kodak App

Continuing to make printing from smartphones and tablets easy and accessible, Kodak today launched its free Kodak Document Print App for ANDROID OS Devices. Consumers can now send documents from their ANDROID OS device directly to their KODAK All-in-One Printer using Google Cloud Print.

Supported files include web pages, MICROSOFT OFFICE documents including MICROSOFT WORD, POWERPOINT and EXCEL, PDF and text files, as well as image files. In addition to printing files that are located locally on an ANDROID OS device, files can be accessed on Google Docs, DROPBOX and EVERNOTE Sites. Web pages can be accessed using the KODAK Document Print App’s built-in browser.

“In today’s mobile society, it’s important that we provide solutions that enable people to print what they want, when they want to, from wherever they are in the world,” said ,” said Bob Ohlweiler, Director and Vice President of Consumer Inkjet EAMER
Region at Eastman Kodak Company. “The launch of the KODAK Document Print App is one more way we are making mobile custom label printing simple and accessible, while also offering high quality output at an affordable price.”

The KODAK Document Print App is available now in the ANDROID Market.

Posted by: James

Posted in: Press Releases, Printers
By October 3, 2011 Read More →

Samsung launches new ‘green’ printer for small businesses

Samsung Logo

Samsung Electronics today announced a new addition to its mono-laser printer range, the ML-2955DW printer, which provides an efficient and versatile printing solution for single and small business users.
With an impressive print speed of up to 28ppm (A4) and a fast first page out time of less than 8.5 seconds, the device also boasts strong eco-credentials – reducing energy consumption and saving time and money.

“Samsung recognises that many single and small business users require high functionality and performance but are facing increasing pressure to reduce operating costs.” Dion Smith, General Manager, Samsung UKI Print Division. “The ML-2955DW printer delivers high levels of performance and functionality, while its low printing noise and reduced power consumption levels means they can easily be incorporated into any working environment.”

The new ML-2955DW has been designed to be environmentally friendly as well as highly economical. With the activation of the One touch ECO button, the ML-2955DW can deliver double sided printing, multiple pages onto a single sheet and can also skip blank pages, to further reduce paper wastage.

Posted in: Press Releases, Printers
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