Software Install & Setup

USB Setup

So it looks like the print software uses a serial connection to talk to the printer, which means we have to install a driver to emulate a serial port over USB.

Serial USB Driver http://pjrc.com/ teensy/serial_install.exe

It seems I had to change the com port number to 4 in device manager to get it working.

Adafruit has an excellent guide: Device Manager Com Ports

Printer Settings

The recommended printer control software is Repetier Host http://www.repetier.com/

Add a printer, configure settings:

You must change the Reset on Connect to Disabled otherwise commands queue up and don't get sent.

Don't think I changed any default settings on this Tab.

Default settings here too.

Using the manual controls I determined that my printer couldn't get the full 100 x 100 mm print area because it hits the belt tensioner at the end of the X direction.

I'm not worried about 3mm, so I can just set the print area here to avoid an axis over-run.

Slicer Settings

I find that a 0.4mm resolution is a good option for prototypes and 0.2mm is usually the way to go for a nicer finished product.  0.1mm can be tried if you think you need it for special parts.

Print Settings

Adjust the layer height per print to suit.  

First layer height is bigger to help adhesion.

Avoid crossing perimeters hen help avoid oozing problems.

Random seam position doesn't seem to help on round objects.

Can lower the fill density or change the pattern for different applications. See the Infill Guide.

Adjust settings here for a solid object.

Adjust retraction crossing perimeters to help oozing or rubbing problems.

Slower speeds mean better quality generally.

These settings are working pretty well at the moment.

Higher loops on small prints. 

Use distance 0 on large prints, can help prevent warping.

Only generate support material if needed.  PLA can do extreme overhangs.

Pillars might be easiest to clean up afterwards.

Complete individual objects seems to be getting ignored?

First layer 200% can help adhesion on fine resolution prints.

 

Filament Settings

Every guide says to measure filament and adjust here.

I saw another guide that had increased temperature on first layer.

Currently have fan on auto.  I saw another guide on the reprap wiki that says crisper edges can be obtained with PLA with more cooling.

Would want more cooling with filament like NinjaFlex because it's softer.

 

Printer Settings

Set bed size and center correctly.

Setting Start G-Code of
  G28 X0 Y0
  G29
triggers the auto bed leveling.

Retraction length and Lift Z help everything.