Printing
Printing process can be started and managed in three different ways:
•
connected to a PC (using Repetier Host)
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Pros
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real time monitoring of temperatures graphs
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almost real time visualization of the layer being printed
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Cons
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PC can't be turned off
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If PC has not enough power, some software packages may slow down or even stop the
printing process
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Very long prints may be stopped/lost due to unscheduled events (ie.: nightly antivirus update
requesting immediate reboot)
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Print is lost if someone unplugs USB connection
•
printing thru SD card
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Pros
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printing unharmed by communication issues
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maximum printing speed, being free from USB slowdowns
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No PC is tethered
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No networking issues
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Cons
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less visual managing tools (if there is no USB connection)
•
Using a print server (i.e.: Raspberry PI)
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Pros
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remote management (wifi or ethernet)
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one printer can be shared by several users
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printer can be controlled with any browser on any device
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integrated webcam control
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if the network goes down the printer will keep running
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very low cost
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Cons
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system setup not suited to the casual user
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