The Caltech Library Techlab provides members of the Caltech community hands-on access to innovative rapid prototyping technologies to support the Institute's research and educational mission.
Students, faculty, postdocs, and staff can now register for open access to our 3D printing equipment. We provide new user training and materials needed to create prototypes of 3D models. Previous experience with the equipment is not required.
The general 3D printing workflow starts with a 3D model, exported as an .STL file, which is then put into software (Cura) that slices it into layers and outputs a GCODE file. GCODE is basically a set of instructions/toolpaths for the machines to follow.
Cura is one of many applications (Simplify3D, Slic3r, MatterControl, etc) that slices your STL into layers and converts it to printer-specific GCODE. Cura is a free, open-source software which can be installed and downloaded here: https://ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura
For a more thorough overview, please refer to the in-depth guides located at the Ultimaker Cura website: https://support.ultimaker.com/hc/en-us/articles/360011838219-Interface-overview-of-Ultimaker-Cura