Get to know the MakerBot METHOD.

This isn't your typical MakerBot METHOD review and it's important for us to distinguish that the MakerBot METHOD is different from the MakerBot METHOD X. It's more affordable though not as capable as the METHOD X. They're also both equipped with high-temperature build chambers to provide makers with greater power. A key difference between the two printers, however, has to do with the recently released RapidRinse and ABS-R filaments. They're compatible with only the MakerBot METHOD X and not the MakerBot METHOD but, if you're considering a 3D printer upgrade, they're definitely worth exploring.

Like most 3D printers, the METHOD melts materials and extrudes them onto the build plate in very thin lines. It goes layer by layer to create the object. Though it is a fairly cheap 3D printer, the METHOD has a heated build chamber that allows for the printed material to cool slowly—a process known as fused deposition modeling. This process is common in 3D printing and can also help minimize both warping and curling of the printed filaments. The METHOD can also facilitate single or dual extrusion. This allows students to design prints with a build volume of 19 x 19 x 19.6 cm (L x W x H) in single extrusion and 15.2 x 19 x 19.6 (L x W x H) in dual extrusion.

You might be excited to start using your MakerBot METHOD and understandably so. The MakerBot team has included specific unboxing instructions, however, to ensure the printer does not get damaged. Teachers may need help to get the printer out of the box and placed where they want it. Start by removing the foam pieces from the sides of the printer and lift the lid to make moving it easier. It may take two people to lift the printer from the box while grasping the handles on its side. The starter kit, which is in the drawer of the printer, contains the power cord. Find the power input on the back of the printer and connect the cord to the machine and power. The power button is on the front of the printer and, once it powers on, additional instructions appear on the touchscreen.

The MakerBot METHOD hardware.

If you notice conflicting information between what you’re reading and what’s on the touchscreen, it’s best to follow the touchscreen since it's updated frequently. The setup process includes connecting the printer to the Internet, authorizing the printer, attaching the performance extruders, calibrating the printer, loading the print materials, and running a test print. 

Running print jobs on the MakerBot METHOD.

To start a new print, select the Print option if the print is being stored on a flash drive. It will then display a list of available files and you can select the one you want. Next, you’ll need to choose a .makerbot file that has been exported from MakerBot Print and click Start Print to begin. You can then monitor the process and a notification will appear on the touchscreen when it’s complete!