Getting closer to Star Trek: how to print your own toys and clothes

The most popular TV show of all time, Star Trek, has influenced a lot of people, that is a given fact (you just have to take a look at the conventions that take place annually at Las Vegas). It also forced scientists to start bringing into the real world some of the technologies  that existed only in the imagination of the play writers. 

by Oana Coșman

Ten years ago, a 3D printer used to cost roughly half a million dollars. Five years ago, prices went down ten times. Nowadays, having a 3D printer is not so much a question of luxury, as it is of need. MakerBot has launched at the end of 2012 a gadget that is just right for your home or office.

With a resolution capability of 100 microns and a massive 410 cubic inch build volume, the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer is the easiest, fastest, and most affordable tool for making professional quality models. When buying this device you also get a 1 lb spool of Natural PLA filament.

It’s price? Only $2340 USD.

PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS

Without Spool:19.1 x 12.8 x 14.7 in  [49 x 32 x 38 cm]

With Spool:19.1 x 16.5 x 14.7 in  [49 x 42 x 38 cm]

Weight:25.4 lbs  [11.5 kg]

Print Technology:Fused Filament Fabrication

Build Volume:11.2 L x 6.0 W x 6.1 H in [28.5 x 15.3 x 15.5 cm]

Layer Resolution Settings:

High100 microns [0.0039 in]

Medium270 microns [0.0106 in]

Low340 microns [0.0133 in]

Positioning Precision:XY: 11 microns [0.0004 in];

Z: 2.5 microns [0.0001 in]

Filament Diameter:1.75 mm [0.069 in]

Nozzle Diameter:0.4 mm [0.015 in]

SOFTWARE

Software Bundle: MakerWare™ Bundle 1.0.2

File Types: .stl, .obj, .thing

Supported OSs:Windows (XP/7),

Ubuntu Linux (10.04+),

Mac OS X (10.6+)

ELECTRICAL

AC Input:100—240V, ~2 amps,50—60 Hz

Power Requirements:24V DC @ 6.25 amps

Connectivity:USB, SDcard [included]