FAQ: Snapmaker : The All-Metal 3D Printer
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

GENERAL: How to watch the Kickstarter Live stream?

In case you missed it, check out our Kickstarter Live here: https://live.kickstarter.com/snapmaker/live-stream/snapmaker-in-action-and-design-talk We showed the Snapmaker 3D printing, laser engraving and CNC carving in action and revealed its design features live.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Do you have any stretch goal?

At the moment, we don’t have any stretch goal. We do want to encourage more people to join our campaign on Kickstarter, but we also prefer simple and clear reward tiers instead of unpredictable stretch goals, hoping to manage rewards production and shipping as early as possible.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Is it possible to pledge two or more Snapmakers?

Yes! Select a reward tier, and then add additional rewards and shipping cost amounts to your pledge. We will send surveys to backers to confirm their reward items and pledge amount after the campaign ends. For example, if you are in U.S. (shipping cost is $39 for U.S.) and want to pledge one $299 Snapmaker and two $369 Snapmaker with Laser Module, your pledge should be: 3 x $39 + $299 + 2 x $369 = $1154.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Are you able to scale production based on the large number of backers and get the rewards out in a timely manner?

Yes. We have been working hard on manufacturing since late last year and were well prepared before we launched this project. We have communicated with our suppliers and confirmed that we are able to handle the large order quantities and lead times based on the large number of backers.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: What power supply unit will be shipping with this printer? / Will it work in my country?

The provided power supply unit can run on 100-240V AC, and can be used universally throughout the world. It can accommodate different AC mains voltages with interchangeable connectors.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Will there be any upgrade available with longer linear modules to increase print volume?

Yes, we will provide longer linear modules so that you can replace the linear module in z-axis with a longer one to increase the print volume. This upgrade* option will be available in the near future after we finish all rewards shipment for this project.

*We expect that anyone with an interest in 3D printing can get a Snapmaker 3D Printer easily. Moreover, personal 3D printer expansion is made easy with interchangeable heads, linear modules with different size, and more.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Will there be a larger work area in x-axis and y-axis?

Yes. However for this model, it is not suggested that expanding the work area simply by using longer linear modules in x-axis and y-axis. The cantilever structure is great for small and compact machines while not suitable for large machines. In the future, we will provide a larger all-in-one machine and another laser engraver. Now, we would rather be honest and say we are going to do them but getting THIS SNAPMAKER 3D PRINTER COMES FIRST and then we can put more effort to develop other machines.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Do you consider adding plotting / 3D scanning modules?

Creative idea! Snapmaker is modular and allows for various personalized modification. We have a plan for making plotting accessories/fixture and related software so that users can do plotting/drawing with this machine. However, we will spend time on this expansion after this campaign. If you have experience in DIY a drawing/plotting machine, you can also dive deeper into the technical details and make it with Snapmaker by yourself. :) We’re willing to tinker at it with you. We don’t have a plan for adding 3D scanning module now.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Will you have the necessary approval to ship this product to the EU and the US?

Yes, of course. We will apply for FCC, CE, RoSH, FDA to ship this machine to the EU and the US.

Last updated: April 27, 2017 15:08

GENERAL: Is this project EU friendly?

No. Rewards will be sent from two places: USA and China. For EU backers, we will send rewards from China. Though some Kickstarter projects set up hubs in EU to reduce import fees and VAT, we’re not experienced in this and don’t plan to take a risk using this method.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Do we have to expect customs duties/taxes charges when we receive this machine?

Yes. You have to pay customs duties and taxes for this product. The rate differs according to the country.

Last updated: April 24, 2017 08:32

GENERAL: Will Snapmaker offer a warranty or support?

Yes. (We have worked with various machine tools, and we know how important warranty support is for this machine.)

Warranty Period: 180 Days From the Date That You Receive Product

1. We will guarantee all modules and the major parts. We will verify and release the details of warranty after we do thorough testings during the pre-production, that is, in July 2017.

2. For the consumables like nozzle and CNC bit, we will provide you with free extra nozzle/bit as replacement parts for you to replace the worn out part in time. The consumables are not covered in the warranty.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

GENERAL: What is the retail price of Snapmaker?

For Snapmaker 3D Printer only, it will be around $400. For each add-on laser module or CNC module, it will be around $100. The accurate pricing will be set after this campaign.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

GENERAL: Will there be any manuals or video tutorial?

Yes. We will provide Quick Start Guide and video tutorial of using Snapmaker 3D printing, laser engraving and CNC carving, including unboxing, assembly, use of software, use cases, etc.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

GENERAL: What are repeatable tolerances in X, Y and Z axis?

5 microns.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

3D PRINTING: What type of connection is required?

Connect via the USB cable or 8GB micro SD card. Both of them are provided.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

3D PRINTING: Can it be used with 3rd party or will it be proprietary? Will there be a profile released to work with the other slicers?

Sure. You’re not locked in, and you’re free to use other slicer software, including Cura, Simplify 3D and Slic3r. And we’ll provide the configuration file.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

3D PRINTING: What types of filaments can I use with Snapmaker?

Snapmaker uses non-proprietary filament. It also comes with a heated bed that enables you to print with 1.75mm PLA, ABS, PVA, etc. We will test more types of filaments in April, including the following: composite PLA filaments, flexible filament, water soluble filament, TPU, and more (you’re always welcome to tell us your concerns about it, and we’ll pay attention to them during the test).

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

3D PRINTING: What are the technical specifications for 3D printing?

They are shown on an infographic in the middle of the campaign page. Here are the details.

Build volume: 125 x 125 x 125 mm (4.9 x 4.9 x 4.9 in) Supported materials: Non-proprietary 1.75 mm PLA, ABS, PVA, etc.

Layer resolution: 50 - 300 microns Print head travel speed: 10 - 150 mm/s Nozzle temperature: 180 - 250 ℃ Heated bed: 20 - 100 ℃ Nozzle diameter: 0.5 mm (Currently, we use a custom 0.5mm nozzle, and are testing the performance of standardized 0.4mm and other sizes nozzle. We will share the test results with you later.)

Connectivity: Micro SD card, USB cable Software: Snap3D (It is compatible with macOS and Windows). You can also use 3rd party software: Cura, Simplify 3D, Slic3r. Frame material: Aluminum alloys Screen: 3.2” color touchscreen

Product dimensions: Depth: 332mm (13.1 in), width: 272mm (10.7 in), height: 289mm (11.4 in) Printer weight: 4.5kg (10 lbs) Power: 100 - 240 V AC, 120W

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

LASER ENGRAVING: Do you think about adding higher power laser modules?

Yes. We’re thinking about making higher power laser modules in the near future, which will be compatible with our current laser module. We’ll make them interchangeable, providing a convenient experience to you.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

LASER ENGRAVING: What are the technical specifications for laser engraving?

Supported materials: Wood, bamboo, leather, plastic, fabric, paper, non-transparent acrylic, and so on. Not supported: metal, glass, gem, transparent material, reflective materials, and so on. Work area: 125 x 125 mm. Laser power: 500mW. Wavelength: 405nm. Safety class: Class 3B. Supported file types: SVG, JPEG, PNG, PDF, Adobe Illustrator (.ai), CDR, etc. Software: First, download and install two files: Inkscape - This is a free and open source vector graphics editor. (www.inkscape.org) Laser engraver extension - This generates the G-code needed to control the laser (https://github.com/305engineering/Inkscape). Then use them to convert an image file to a .G-code file. Last, use the provided software* to send G-code to Snapmaker and control the laser engraving process.

*The provided software is a combination of G-code sender and control panel. Using this software, you can do laser engraving or CNC carving on Snapmaker.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

LASER ENGRAVING: Does it support laser engraving with a grayscale image?

Yes! Here’s an example: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/snapmaker/snapmaker-the-all-metal-3d-printer?ref=user_menu#prototype-slide-56471 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/snapmaker/snapmaker-the-all-metal-3d-printer?ref=user_menu#prototype-slide-56472

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

CNC CARVING: Do you have a solution in mind that will protect the linear actuator from dust while using the CNC module?

Yes, there’s a groove inside the linear module so that dust and chips are collected and can be cleaned conveniently. At the same time, we notice that there are some practical suggestions from our backers. We’ll think about more methods and do some tests later.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

CNC CARVING: What are the technical specifications for CNC carving?

Supported materials: Wood, acrylic, PCB, carbon fiber sheet. Work area: 90 x 90 x 50 mm. Spindle speed: Adjustable, between 2,000 and 13,000 RPM. Shank diameter: 3.175mm. Input voltage: 24VDC Supported file types: SVG, STEP, IGES, IGS, DWG, DXF, etc. Software: First, download and install CAM software. You can use free software Autodesk fusion 360 (www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360) or MakerCAM (www.makercam.com). Then use them to convert an image or a 3D CAD file to a .G-code file. Last, use the provided software* to send G-code to Snapmaker and control the CNC carving process.

*The provided software is a combination of G-code sender and control panel. Using this software, you can do laser engraving or CNC carving on Snapmaker.

Last updated: April 28, 2017 05:59

GENERAL: How to watch the Kickstarter Live stream?

In case you missed it, check out our Kickstarter Live here: https://live.kickstarter.com/snapmaker/live-stream/snapmaker-in-action-and-design-talk We showed the Snapmaker 3D printing, laser engraving and CNC carving in action and revealed its design features live. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Do you have any stretch goal?

At the moment, we don’t have any stretch goal. We do want to encourage more people to join our campaign on Kickstarter, but we also prefer simple and clear reward tiers instead of unpredictable stretch goals, hoping to manage rewards production and shipping as early as possible. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Is it possible to pledge two or more Snapmakers?

Yes! Select a reward tier, and then add additional rewards and shipping cost amounts to your pledge. We will send surveys to backers to confirm their reward items and pledge amount after the campaign ends. For example, if you are in U.S. (shipping cost is $39 for U.S.) and want to pledge one $299 Snapmaker and two $369 Snapmaker with Laser Module, your pledge should be: 3 x $39 + $299 + 2 x $369 = $1154. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Are you able to scale production based on the large number of backers and get the rewards out in a timely manner?

Yes. We have been working hard on manufacturing since late last year and were well prepared before we launched this project. We have communicated with our suppliers and confirmed that we are able to handle the large order quantities and lead times based on the large number of backers. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: What power supply unit will be shipping with this printer? / Will it work in my country?

The provided power supply unit can run on 100-240V AC, and can be used universally throughout the world. It can accommodate different AC mains voltages with interchangeable connectors. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Will there be any upgrade available with longer linear modules to increase print volume?

Yes, we will provide longer linear modules so that you can replace the linear module in z-axis with a longer one to increase the print volume. This upgrade* option will be available in the near future after we finish all rewards shipment for this project. *We expect that anyone with an interest in 3D printing can get a Snapmaker 3D Printer easily. Moreover, personal 3D printer expansion is made easy with interchangeable heads, linear modules with different size, and more. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Will there be a larger work area in x-axis and y-axis?

Yes. However for this model, it is not suggested that expanding the work area simply by using longer linear modules in x-axis and y-axis. The cantilever structure is great for small and compact machines while not suitable for large machines. In the future, we will provide a larger all-in-one machine and another laser engraver. Now, we would rather be honest and say we are going to do them but getting THIS SNAPMAKER 3D PRINTER COMES FIRST and then we can put more effort to develop other machines. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Do you consider adding plotting / 3D scanning modules?

Creative idea! Snapmaker is modular and allows for various personalized modification. We have a plan for making plotting accessories/fixture and related software so that users can do plotting/drawing with this machine. However, we will spend time on this expansion after this campaign. If you have experience in DIY a drawing/plotting machine, you can also dive deeper into the technical details and make it with Snapmaker by yourself. :) We’re willing to tinker at it with you. We don’t have a plan for adding 3D scanning module now. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Will you have the necessary approval to ship this product to the EU and the US?

Yes, of course. We will apply for FCC, CE, RoSH, FDA to ship this machine to the EU and the US. Last updated: Thu, Apr 27 2017 6:08 pm EDT

GENERAL: Is this project EU friendly?

No. Rewards will be sent from two places: USA and China. For EU backers, we will send rewards from China. Though some Kickstarter projects set up hubs in EU to reduce import fees and VAT, we’re not experienced in this and don’t plan to take a risk using this method. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Do we have to expect customs duties/taxes charges when we receive this machine?

Yes. You have to pay customs duties and taxes for this product. The rate differs according to the country. Last updated: Mon, Apr 24 2017 11:32 am EDT

GENERAL: Will Snapmaker offer a warranty or support?

Yes. (We have worked with various machine tools, and we know how important warranty support is for this machine.) Warranty Period: 180 Days From the Date That You Receive Product 1. We will guarantee all modules and the major parts. We will verify and release the details of warranty after we do thorough testings during the pre-production, that is, in July 2017. 2. For the consumables like nozzle and CNC bit, we will provide you with free extra nozzle/bit as replacement parts for you to replace the worn out part in time. The consumables are not covered in the warranty. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

GENERAL: What is the retail price of Snapmaker?

For Snapmaker 3D Printer only, it will be around $400. For each add-on laser module or CNC module, it will be around $100. The accurate pricing will be set after this campaign. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

GENERAL: Will there be any manuals or video tutorial?

Yes. We will provide Quick Start Guide and video tutorial of using Snapmaker 3D printing, laser engraving and CNC carving, including unboxing, assembly, use of software, use cases, etc. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

GENERAL: What are repeatable tolerances in X, Y and Z axis?

5 microns. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

3D PRINTING: What type of connection is required?

Connect via the USB cable or 8GB micro SD card. Both of them are provided. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

3D PRINTING: Can it be used with 3rd party or will it be proprietary? Will there be a profile released to work with the other slicers?

Sure. You’re not locked in, and you’re free to use other slicer software, including Cura, Simplify 3D and Slic3r. And we’ll provide the configuration file. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

3D PRINTING: What types of filaments can I use with Snapmaker?

Snapmaker uses non-proprietary filament. It also comes with a heated bed that enables you to print with 1.75mm PLA, ABS, PVA, etc. We will test more types of filaments in April, including the following: composite PLA filaments, flexible filament, water soluble filament, TPU, and more (you’re always welcome to tell us your concerns about it, and we’ll pay attention to them during the test). Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

3D PRINTING: What are the technical specifications for 3D printing?

They are shown on an infographic in the middle of the campaign page. Here are the details. Build volume: 125 x 125 x 125 mm (4.9 x 4.9 x 4.9 in) Supported materials: Non-proprietary 1.75 mm PLA, ABS, PVA, etc. Layer resolution: 50 - 300 microns Print head travel speed: 10 - 150 mm/s Nozzle temperature: 180 - 250 ℃ Heated bed: 20 - 100 ℃ Nozzle diameter: 0.5 mm (Currently, we use a custom 0.5mm nozzle, and are testing the performance of standardized 0.4mm and other sizes nozzle. We will share the test results with you later.) Connectivity: Micro SD card, USB cable Software: Snap3D (It is compatible with macOS and Windows). You can also use 3rd party software: Cura, Simplify 3D, Slic3r. Frame material: Aluminum alloys Screen: 3.2” color touchscreen Product dimensions: Depth: 332mm (13.1 in), width: 272mm (10.7 in), height: 289mm (11.4 in) Printer weight: 4.5kg (10 lbs) Power: 100 - 240 V AC, 120W Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

LASER ENGRAVING: Do you think about adding higher power laser modules?

Yes. We’re thinking about making higher power laser modules in the near future, which will be compatible with our current laser module. We’ll make them interchangeable, providing a convenient experience to you. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

LASER ENGRAVING: What are the technical specifications for laser engraving?

Supported materials: Wood, bamboo, leather, plastic, fabric, paper, non-transparent acrylic, and so on. Not supported: metal, glass, gem, transparent material, reflective materials, and so on. Work area: 125 x 125 mm. Laser power: 500mW. Wavelength: 405nm. Safety class: Class 3B. Supported file types: SVG, JPEG, PNG, PDF, Adobe Illustrator (.ai), CDR, etc. Software: First, download and install two files: Inkscape - This is a free and open source vector graphics editor. (www.inkscape.org) Laser engraver extension - This generates the G-code needed to control the laser (https://github.com/305engineering/Inkscape). Then use them to convert an image file to a .G-code file. Last, use the provided software* to send G-code to Snapmaker and control the laser engraving process. *The provided software is a combination of G-code sender and control panel. Using this software, you can do laser engraving or CNC carving on Snapmaker. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

LASER ENGRAVING: Does it support laser engraving with a grayscale image?

Yes! Here’s an example: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/snapmaker/snapmaker-the-all-metal-3d-printer?ref=user_menu#prototype-slide-56471 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/snapmaker/snapmaker-the-all-metal-3d-printer?ref=user_menu#prototype-slide-56472 Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

CNC CARVING: Do you have a solution in mind that will protect the linear actuator from dust while using the CNC module?

Yes, there’s a groove inside the linear module so that dust and chips are collected and can be cleaned conveniently. At the same time, we notice that there are some practical suggestions from our backers. We’ll think about more methods and do some tests later. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

CNC CARVING: What are the technical specifications for CNC carving?

Supported materials: Wood, acrylic, PCB, carbon fiber sheet. Work area: 90 x 90 x 50 mm. Spindle speed: Adjustable, between 2,000 and 13,000 RPM. Shank diameter: 3.175mm. Input voltage: 24VDC Supported file types: SVG, STEP, IGES, IGS, DWG, DXF, etc. Software: First, download and install CAM software. You can use free software Autodesk fusion 360 (www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360) or MakerCAM (www.makercam.com). Then use them to convert an image or a 3D CAD file to a .G-code file. Last, use the provided software* to send G-code to Snapmaker and control the CNC carving process. *The provided software is a combination of G-code sender and control panel. Using this software, you can do laser engraving or CNC carving on Snapmaker. Last updated: Fri, Apr 28 2017 8:59 am EDT

Shipping Updates
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!
Last Updated At: 05/30/18 | See Kickstarter Update
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