Slicers and user interfaces for 3D printers

Introduction

A so-called slicer takes a3D drawing (most often in .STL format) and translates this model into individual layers. It then generates the machine code that the printer will use for printing.

User interfaces allow a user to send a machine code file, change some parameters on run time, and move around axis manually etc.

Slicer software

A slicer program allows to calibrate printer settings like:

• extrusion speed (rotations / minute)
• head speed
• temperature
• Fan on/off

List of slicer software

• Skeinforge

• BFB Axon
  • Frontend for skeinforge, works with BFB machines only

• Kisslicer
  • Quote: is a fast, easy-to-use, cross-platform program that takes 3D files (STL) and generates path information (G-code) for a 3D Printer. The FREE version has all the features needed for the hobbyist who uses a single-head machine. The PRO version essentially adds multi-head and multi-model printing.
  • For RepRap printers

• Repsnapper

• Slic3r
  • For RepRap printers

Links

• 3D Printing with Linux (slides) by Kyle Rankin

Machine specific machine code

• RepRap g-codes
• G-code (Rapman)