hello 3d printing community.
i recently inherited a ctc 3D printer from a relative and I’m trying to get started using it. It didn’t have the sd card that had the software to put on my computer so I can print projects. Can anyone help point me in the right direction on finding out what model it is? What programs should I get to start printing? Any suggestions on programs that would work so I can download projects from thinkiverse to print? any good sites that would lay out the foundation for good 3D printing? I appreciate any help I can get.
The knowledge base here is a good start.
You should get flashprint for free, but ultimately Simplify3d will get you the best prints.
What about makerware, sailfish, slic3r, or replicator g? These seem to be programs that have popped up a lot in my search for answers…
Makerware is constantly updated, with new tricks designed to make it work less well with other brands of printers besides makerbots. If you can find an older version, you can use it, but it still lacks features that are in flashprint. Flashprint is made for flashforge printers, that use the same board as your printer.
Sailfish is firmware, which your printer has. It is not a slicer.
Slic3r is nice for repraps, and many folks use it and like it. Customization, tuning, etc., is a little more difficult.
ReplictorG is abandonware, and has not been updated for years. It has no real customization. It has a good toolset for reflashing/upgrading firmware, but it is way behind the times as far as slicing goes.
My recommendations stay the same.
Perry_1 thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions. Most discussion boards go over my head pretty fast. I will download flashprint and see what I can do. thanks again.