Our New PrintrBot Simple (Metal)

We just got a generous gift of a beta PrintrBot Simple Metal. This time, we actually went to the website as suggested in the instructions! (Our teacher made us read the instructions... pfft.)

The beta version comes with a depth sensor, so we never have to level the bed. Sadly, the depth sensor was initially calibrated wrong, so the extruder scratched the bed when we went to do a test print. 

Luckily we found a video on how to fix it and we did. If you get a PrintrBot Simple, make sure to watch this video and check that the depth sensor is properly calibrated before printing or your bed might get scratched. 

As you can see in the video below, you can calibrate it by putting the extruder on the bed and putting the black piece (included in the set - pictured to the left) on the plate under the depth sensor. If the sensor does not touch the black piece, use the two (included) wrenches to move the sensor down.

And in case you are wondering, we are using Repetier to control our printer.

Printrbot Auto Level Sensor Setup

Here's the unboxing video, too.

Printrbot Simple Unbox and Print

And finally... success!  

This is 3D printer #5 for us. (You can read about the other ones here.)  Here it is printing:

Thanks, Printrbot!  We'll see you at the Maker Faire!