MakerBot FAQ’s

Yes, the MakerBot 3D printers are fully assembled and ready for immediate use. They just need to be set up. The devices can be put into operation via mobile app or USB cable. All MakerBot from the 5th generation onwards can be controlled via W-LAN or Ethernet. The MakerBot Replicator, Replicator+, Replicator Z18 & MakerBot Method can also be controlled via a USB stick.

Yes, you need the MakerBot Print software, which you can download here free of charge. This converts your STL or OBJ files or your CAD files into printable files.

Requirements: You need an STL or OBJ file or a compatible CAD file. You create a 3D model in a common CAD program. You create a 3D model by scanning the desired object. You download a 3D model from Thingiverse.

STL (stereolithographic file format from CAD programs). Most 3D CAD programs generate STL data, so the MakerBot 3D printers can already be used with many programs.

OBJ is a file format for saving geometric shapes. The format invented by Wavefront Technologies is accepted by almost all animation programs and is therefore very suitable for the cross-program transfer of models.

Windows users can use the following native CAD files: MakerBot (.makerbot), STL (.stl), SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm), InventorOBJ (.ipt, .iam), IGES (.iges, .igs), STEP AP203/214 (.step, .stp), CATIA (.CATPart, .CATProduct), Wavefront Object (.obj), Unigraphics/NX (.prt), Solid Edge (.par, .asm), ProE/Creo (.prt, .prt., .asm, .asm.), VRML (.wrl), Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b)

By adjusting technological parameters in the MakerBot Print program, such as temperature, layer height or infill, every user can influence their print and further optimize the results.

Yes, you can glue several individual parts together to form a complete model, but make absolutely sure that you use a solvent-free adhesive.

The plastics PLA, Tough PLA and ABS are not elastic. Please note: We accept no liability for malfunctions or defects in the device when printing with plastics that have not been approved by the manufacturer.

PLA (polylactic acid) can be processed indoors without any problems. No toxic gases are produced when the plastic is melted. PLA is a raw bioplastic.

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is not a hazardous substance. ABS poses no known danger to humans when used as intended. There are no restrictions on processing in enclosed spaces. The replicator heats ABS to 220°C. Only when the plastic burns (ignition temperature 390°C) would CO (carbon monoxide), CO2 (carbon dioxide), HCN (hydrogen cyanide) and soot be produced.

No. The thread thickness is controlled by the software that generates the G-code. With a nozzle of 0.4 mm diameter, thread thicknesses of min. 0.1 mm to max. 0.5 mm are possible. I can therefore produce different thread thicknesses and therefore different surface qualities with one and the same nozzle.

The surface can be smoothed afterwards using fine sandpaper. Good results can also be achieved with ABS using acetone – however, the wall thickness becomes thinner with both methods, so you have to proceed with caution.

The MakerBot 3D printers have a CE marking. For technical questions, please contact us.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact our technical support team. They will be happy to provide you with detailed information and answers to your questions.