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MatterControl
Available at MatterHackers.com/MatterControl:
MatterControl is another printer host that currently runs on GNU/Linux, Windows, and OS X. It
features 2D and 3D model viewing, a print queue, and print file organization and searching.
Slicers & Slicing Engines
Slicers determine the ideal 3D printer tool path based on the options selected and desired finish
to turn a 3D model (typically STL/OBJ/etc) into your desired object.
The slicing engine uses the nozzle diameter, movement speeds, layer height, and other
variables to determine the coordinates needed to move the tool head, and the rates at which
it will do so. This information is exported out of the program as a G-code file. This G-code file
is a plain-text file with a series of letter-based codes and a list of the complete X,Y, and Z-axis
coordinates used for printing the 3D model.
We recommend using Cura LulzBot Edition as it includes a slicing engine and pre-set filament
slicing profiles.
Cad and 3D Modeling Software
A Free/Libre slicer like Cura LulzBot Edition will support many of the 3D model file types
generated by Free/Libre Software design applications. Other Common non-free CAD and 3D
modeling software options may be capable of exporting the required 3D model file types.
Recommended 3D Model Parameters
• Design Units: Millimeters
• Output File: STL
Some design applications do not use millimeters by default and stead use imperial or
application specific units of measure. If you are unable to change the program’s units of
measure, scale the model by 25.40 to compensate for inch-based design units. The
recommended design software options listed below use millimeters by default.
FreeCAD
From FreeCAD.org:
“FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects of any size.
Parametric modeling allows you to easily modify your design by going back into your model
history and changing its parameters. FreeCAD is open-source and highly customizable,
scriptable and extensible.”
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