Getting Started with PrusaSlicer

As part of any 3D printing project, you will need to get acquainted with using PrusaSlicer in order to convert your 3D model from fiction to reality! In this post, I will walk you through how to get started!

Materials Needed:

- Window/Mac Computer (doesn't work for tablets)

- Appropriate version for your machine here

- SD card -> USB converter (there are a few in the teacher's podium)

- A little bit of common sense!

Step 1: PrusaSlicer Software Setup

After downloading the specific version of PrusaSlicer for your machine, you'll need to make sure you run through the initial setup. Our machine in Makerspace is an MK3S model with 0.4mm nozzle and we mostly use PLA and ABS materials, so you will need to select these parameters accordingly when going through the install wizard (see images below):

Step 2: Convert Your Model to G-Code

Next, you will need to convert the file to machine-readable code (G-Code). Follow the instructions in this link to do exactly that!

Step 3: Load G-Code and Print!

SD card

An SD card is used to communicate with the printer. You will need to remove the SD card from the printer (IF IT’S NOT PRINTING RIGHT NOW) and use the connector to plug into your computer:

Load G-Code

Load your G-code onto the card.

Print!

Connect the SD card into the printer now. Make sure you have the right filament loaded that corresponds to the filament you chose in the G-code settings AND make sure you have cleaned the print bed thoroughly with alcohol + a tissue (your greasy McDonald's hands will make the print fail). You can navigate to the g-code from the main screen like in the images below:

If you need help using the printer's functions, review this article.