MakerBot has announced that shipments of its latest 3D printer- the Replicator Mini, have now started. The new printer is a smaller, cheaper device design for especially for home users.
First unveiled at CES back in January, this mini 3D printer quickly won the coveted 'CES 2014 Editors' Choice Award' from Popular Mechanics, and was also named the 'CES 2014 Best in Show' by Digital Trends and ZDNet. The Replicator Mini focuses on ease of use. For anyone with no experience in design, MakerBot also provides 3D models in its Digital Store and users can find designs on the company's Thingiverse.com page.
"We see the MakerBot Replicator Mini as a turning point in the 3D printing industry. Much like the transition of the computer moving into the home 30 years ago, the MakerBot Replicator Mini is one of the first 3D printers to shift from the office to the home," said Bre Pettis, CEO of MakerBot.
Pettis thinks that having a 3D printing platform at home will impact most on children. "We believe that exposing children to 3D printing with a MakerBot Replicator Mini will change the way they think about the world and help prepare them for the jobs of the future."
Here are the key specs of the Replicator Mini:
- Printing Technology: FDM
- Build Volume: 10 L x 10 W x 12.5 H cm (3.9 L x 3.9 W x 4.9 H in)
- Layer Resolution: 200 Microns
- Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Camera Resolution: 320x240 pixels
- File Types Supported: STL, OBJ, Thing, MakerBot
- Retailing at $1,375
The MakerBot PrintShop which allows users to design their own 3D prints is also available whilst an upcoming MakerBot Mobile app, which features the MakerBot Replicator Smart Extruder, will give users the ability to monitor and control the printer and stream videos of their prints to their mobile device via the onboard camera.
Extra large projects? The upcoming MakerBot Replicator Z18 3D Printer may appeal.
MakerBot also expects to ship the new Replicator Z18 3D Printer, in June, priced at $6,499. This machine boasts "a massive build volume and the best price/performance in its category". It's got a build volume of 30.5 x 30.5 x 45.7cm. You can read more about the upcoming MakerBot Replicator Z18 3D Printer here.
