[newbie] Does one need special drivers for running 3D printers? (lemmy.blahaj.zone)

submitted 3 months ago by Smorty@lemmy.blahaj.zone to c/3dprinting@lemmy.world

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Hi there!

I'm looking into getting myself a good printer and I am wondering if I need to install some platform-specific drivers for them to run. I am running Debian 12 (GNU/Linux) and I am afraid that I must run some proprietary blob to connect to the printer.

Could someone share their experience please? Even if you don't use Linux, your feedback would be very appreciated!

(Also, while you are at it, please share some recommendations for printers, I don't really know where to go (>v<) Have about +-500€ )

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[-] listless@lemmy.cringecollective.io 8 points 3 months ago

Most 3D printers are nothing like traditional paper printers and don't need drivers, but require a program called a slicer to create the GCode that your 3D printer understands. Then the GCode file is transferred to the printer either via an SDcard or WiFi for printing.

There are several slicers (OrcaSlicer, PrusaSlicer ) that work reliably on linux. Please binge TeachingTech's YouTube channel to get a better understanding of what 3D printing entails.

https://teachingtechyt.github.io/

this post was submitted on 25 Sep 2024

23 points (89.7% liked)

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