If you’re into 3D printers, you’ve probably experienced a lot of the complications of using those (usually) large machines. It would be super helpful if there was an easier way to control it and to manage your 3D printer files.
Any of you who remember AstroPrint from two years ago on Kickstarter are in for a throwback, as the company has just finished funding for its new product, AstroBox Touch. This device will enhance the original one by visually (and wirelessly) connecting your 3D Printer to AstroPrint Cloud.
The AstroBox Touch is a simple plug and play touchscreen that does not require any assembly or tinkering.
Specs-wise, it has a 3.5-inch 480×320 touchscreen and runs AstroBox Touch custom software. Included is the ability to wirelessly control your 3D printer without the need of an SD Card. The AstroPrint ecosystem features the AstroPrint Cloud, Developer API, desktop apps, and mobile apps, and is powered by a Raspberry Pi. Compatible 3D printers are those that run standard Marlin, Repetier, and Sailfish firmware.
In addition to the touchscreen software, smartphone apps for both iOS and Android will be released, as well as desktop software (Windows, Mac, and Linux) and a public API. The smartphone app will allow you to visually inspect the print bed, receive notifications about the status of prints, and start/stop prints from anywhere. The cloud slicer, which uses CURA engine, enables you to slice and print designs right from your phone.
AstroPrint Desktop provides an intuitive interface with plenty of workspace, and it will automatically synchronize all files, print plates, and settings with any AstroPrint Cloud account. Slicer settings will be optimized and will get smarter over time. This software lets you rotate, scale, position, multiply, and manipulate any design. Lastly, it can help you print wirelessly via your AstroBox or via USB.
The AstroBox Touch, along with AstroPrint software, is perfect for anyone looking to learn how to use 3D printers from the beginning. This way, there’s no hassle of wires, SD cards, or complicated engineering-grade software.
You can get a T-Shirt and stickers by pledging $25 on Kickstarter, which also gets you beta access to the desktop and mobile apps.
For an AstroBox Touch it’s $150 and it includes a fully assembled device, AstroPrint Cloud Pro plan for life, and beta access to desktop and mobile apps. For those interested, there’s also an option to get a DIY kit for $225. Expected delivery is this December.
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