Flashforge Finder-User Guide_V1.0_20150811
Contents
1. Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Step2 After the setting of slicing parameters click OK and a dialog for saving Gcode will pop up Step3 Choose a save path and click the Save button slicing will begin and a progress bar will appear If you want to stop click the Abort button to stop slicing 2 Slicing Parameters Preview Choose to enter preview interface or not Print when slice done Print or not when slice done Material type Choose according to the type of model Supports When print with model contains part hanging in the air or top heavy support is necessary Click supports to create support part for the printing Raft This function will help the model to stick well on the platform Wall During dual color printing this function will help to clear the leaking filament of another extruder Vase Mode No capping for the model You have three resolution solution with default setting to choose from high resolution is corresponding with slow printing speed opposite for the low resolution For PLA printing an extra solution Hyper is available Click More options to set for layer shell infill speed temperature Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Different resolution solution is corresponding to different defaults click Restore Defaults to back to default setting Layer a Lay2. FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 5 Remove the top foam sheet you will see the extruder and X axis guide rods Slide the extruder left and right to ensure the extruder and the guide rod intact Discard the tape holding the flat cable in place 6 Take the filament spool protective foam out of the Finder You will see a roll of blue PLA filament inside Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 7 Then you will see the build plate The build plate with a blue build tape is available for direct use Beside the build plate lies a power cable and a USB cable 8 Move the build plate up Remove the protective foam for build plate and take the power cable and USB cable out 9 You have unpacked your Finder Next let s go to the overview and accessories of Finder Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER B About Finder Views ei Pale mS Zz Ni Thal _ a ar ie 1 Touch screen panel 2 Power switch 3 Nozzle 4 Z axis guide rod 5 Build plate 6 Leveling thumb screw 7 Filament cartridge 9 Filament intake 10 X axis guide rod 11 Spring presser 12 USB cable input 13 USB flash disk input 14 Power input Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Accessory Box PLA Filament Power Cable USB Cable Plate Tape Quick Start Guide USB Flash Disk Allen Wrench M1 5 M2 0 Screwdriver Finder U
3. Maximum Switch Not Triggered Stepper Motor Controls Z Minimum Switch Not Triggered Enable When Extruder and Platform are both need to heat up Extruder will NOT heat up until Platform reach the given temperature Jog Controls a Jog Mode refers to the distance that extruder build platform move a single time that 1s to say the distance extruder build platform move upon your single click b Six blue arrow direction button Control the move along X Y Z axis X Y axis button control extruder move Z axis button control build platform move Click X extruder will move leftward a specified distance Click X extruder will move a specified distance rightward Click Y extruder will move forward a specified distance Click Y extruder will move backward a specified distance Click Z build platform will move upward a specified distance Click Z build platform will move downward a specified distance Specified distance refers to the move distance you set in Jog Mode c Stop button When the extruder build platform is moving this button will stop this movement immediately d XYZ coordinate frame on the right side Show the current position of extruder build platform e Make Current Position Zero button Set the current position of the extruder build platform as 0 0 0 NOTE X Y and Z boxes are for Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER display purposes Changi
4. 8 And now the printer has connected with FlashPrint The status bar in the lower right corner would show the temperatures of the nozzle 9 Click the Print icon on the main interface a printing selection dialog will show up You should ensure that you choose PLA in the material options Click More Options to implement advanced options And you should check on Print When Slice Done and click OK Finder User Guide www ff3dp com 10 Gcode files could be saved at any locations After being saved the model starts to be cut into slices and be uploaded to Finder Then the printer will turn into preheat mode and start to print when the preheat finishes The printer cannot read the target file from USB flash disk under the WIFI mode You can transfer the file to TF card for printing Finder User Guide www ff3dp com Chapter4 Supports and Service A Supports B Attachment FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A Supports Our team of knowledgeable staff is on standby and ready to help you overcome any challenges you may have with your Finder If your issue or question is not covered in the user manual you can seek for solutions on our office website or contact us via telephone There are solutions and instructions to common issues that can be found in our knowledge base Have a look first as most basic questions are answered there http www ft3dp com The FlashForge support team can be reached by e mail
5. By the following two methods you could select all models in the scene When models are too small to be seen or out of viewing scope please click Center and Scale buttons to adjust the model Method 1 Click Edit Select All Method 2 Press the shortcut Ctrl A 2 4 5 4 Duplicate There will be two ways to create copy of relevant model after pitching on it Method 1 Click Edit Duplicate Method 2 Press the shortcut Ctrl D 2 4 5 5 Delete There will be two ways to delete relevant model after pitching on it Method 1 Click Edit Delete Method 2 Press the shortcut Delete Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 2 4 5 6 Surface to Platform After selecting the model you can make the model surface to platform via the following operation Click Edit Surface to Platform into surface to platform mode As shown 1n the picture Select one surface of model double left click the surface then the model will be placed automatically with the selected surface to platform Spree eg te Ay hoo ee ee rene ee ce Double click surface to touch build platform 2 FlashForge Finder Surface to Platform 2 4 5 7 Auto Layout All Click Edit Auto Layout All after loading one or more than one models all models will be placed automatically as automatic placement Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER rule 2 5 Supports Edit After loading the mode
6. and go on to the next step Step 2 Choose corresponding printer type and firmware version and click OK in the firmware updating box After confirming the printer 1s in free state the software will automatically update the firmware le Update Firmware pS 2 9 4 On Board Preferences When the computer and printer are in connection state click Tools On Board Preferences you can check the printer name extruder quantity etc Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Machine 32 Byte My Finder 2 9 5 Machine information When the computer and printer are in connection state click Tools Machine information you can check the machine type machine name and firmware etc 2 9 6 Manual Installation of Driver The manual installation of driver method as below Step 1 Open the root directory of software For example Program Files flashforge FlashPrint Step 2 Open the driver folder in root directory find the driver software click installation There are two installation packages dpinst amd64 exe for 64 bit system dpinst x86 exe for 32 bit system users can choose which they need 2 10 Other 2 10 1 Preferences Click File Preferences you can choose language and if needs detecting update when start Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER q Preferences Language Engli sh ti Font Size Small Check for Updat
7. which happens instantaneously after it is extruded from the print head 3D objects are formed with the filament laying down multiple layers 3D Printing Process 3D printing involves three steps 1 3D model design 2 Slicing and exporting the 3D model and 3 Making the print 1 Designing the 3D Model Currently there are three ways of creating a 3D model Designing From Scratch You can use free CAD computer aided design software such as AutoCAD SolidWorks Pro E to design your very own 3D model 3D Scanners An alternative method to creating a 3D model is to scan an Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER object 3D scanners work by digitizing a physical object collecting its geometric data and saving it to a file on your PC There are also apps that can turn a mobile device into a 3D scanner From the Cloud The most popular way of obtaining a 3D model is to download it from websites that allow users to upload 3D models that they designed E g www ishare3d com 2 Slicing and Exporting the 3D Model A slicing software is required to process and interpret the 3D model into the language that 3D printers can understand The FlashPrint is the slicing software used for the FlashForge Finder FlashPrint will slice the 3D model into numerous layers and output it as a g file which is the format read by the Finder The file is then transferred to the Finder by USB cable USB Flash Disk or Wi F
8. screw under Platform when stop Platform when stop 3 When the extruder halts over the second screw repeat the above steps Lever Adjustment Finish and then go on with the third screw to complete leveling Finder User Guide www ff3dp com Chapter2 About FlashPrint A About the Software Finder User Guide www sz3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A About the Software 1 Software Installation 1 1 Download Method 1 Insert the USB flash disk from the toolkit into a computer we have already prepare the latest driver installation package in the USB flash disk Method 2 Open the link below to download the installation package http www ff3dp com 1 2 Installation amp Start 1 Decompress the downloaded RAR and complete installation according to the instruction 2 Start the software with the start menu shortcut or by clicking the software icon 2 Software Operating Instructions You can use Flashprint software to control Finder and perform printing tasks Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Load one or multiple files A Enter the support edit mode View FlashPrint home screen from one of six viewing angles Move model around on xy plane shift click to move along z axis Turn and rotate your model Scale the size of your object E N O Select right or left extruder you
9. 1 3 Making the Print Once the output file has been transferred to the Finder it will start to turn the 3D model into a physical object by laying down layers of filament Finder User Guide www ff3dp com CHAPTER 1 Set up Your Finder A Unpacking Your Finder B About Finder C Hardware Assembly D Loading and Unloading Filament E Leveling Build Plate FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A Unpacking Your Finder Congratulations on your purchase of the Flashforge Finder 3D printer In about 15 minutes you will be ready to start making your first 3D object This section lays out the procedure for correctly removing the Finder from its shipping box The Finder contains delicate components please remember to handle with extra care and attention Let s begin l Place the color packaging box on a clean work surface or the ground Open the box grasp the two handles and lift your Finder out of the box 2 The Finder is wrapped by packaging material Next we should remove the packaging material Finder User Guide www ff3dp com 3 Remove the side protective foam sheets you will see the Finder in a transparent bag Then remove the bag to unveil the Finder 4 On the top foam sheet we can see the accessories from the kit contents one plate tape one Quick Start Guide one 4GB USB two Allen wrenches M1 5 and M2 and one screwdriver Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER
10. 2 Click the Rotate button on the left of the software interface and then enter into rotating angel values in X Y Z axes positioning Click Reset to reset rotating angel values 2 4 3 Scale When the model is selected you could change the size of the model on the build platform by the following two ways Method 1 Click the Scale button on the left of the software interface then hold down the left mouse button and move the mouse to adjust the size of the model You will see corresponding values of different axes near the borders Method 2 Click the Scale button on the left of the software interface and then enter into scale values in X Y Z axes positioning Click the Maximum button to get largest size possible for building Click Reset to reset the size of model Note If the Uniform Scaling radio button is clicked it will scale the model in equal proportion when changing value in any positioning of the model Otherwise it will only change the value of the corresponding positioning 2 4 5 Others 2 4 5 1 Undo Undo the most recent edit you made to your model file by the following Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER two ways Method 1 Click Edit Undo Method 2 Press the shortcut Ctrl Z 2 4 5 2 Redo Redo the most recent edit you have undone to your model file by the following two ways Method 1 Click Edit Redo Method 2 Press the shortcut Ctrl Y 2 4 5 3 Select All
11. B Start Printing C Methods of Printing FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A Overview This chapter will provide a step by step guide on turning a 3D model into a physical reality Before proceeding it is recommended that you go over prior chapters on loading unloading filament leveling the build platform and the functions and capabilities of FlashPrint There are three connection methods in order to print using the Finder All methods which include USB USB flash disk and Wi Fi are covered in this chapter Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER B Start Printing Three kinds of connection methods including USB USB flash disk Wi fi Below we will introduce you one by one the print mode and connection method it will become a wonderful experience in your first print 1 Double click the icon to open the FlashPrint software 2 Click on the Load icon to select a 3d model file with STL suffix from the hard disk 3 The object selected will show on the screen 4 Adjust model print position and size according to your convenience requirement and preference Please refer to the Software part on Chapter 2 for adjustment 5 Now the 3d model is ready to be printed Part B will introduce how to choose connection methods Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER C Printing Method USB Connection Printing 1 Connect Finder to computer with an USB 2 0 cable 2 Open the
12. User Guide Finder Desktop 3D Printer FLASHFORGE V1 0 17 6 2015 FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Create a Joyful 3D Life with You FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Contents Welcome to Flashforge Finder A Overview B Acknowledgment and Commitments C About 3D Printing Chapter 1 Set up Your Finder A Unpacking Your Finder B About Finder C Hardware Assembly C1 Installing Filament C2 Connecting Power Cable and USB Cable D Loading and Unloading Filament D1 Loading Filament D2 Unloading Filament E Leveling Build Plate Chapter 2 About FlashPrint A About the Software Chapter 3 First Print A Start to Print B Methods of Printing B1 Printing from USB B2 Printing from USB Flash Disk B3 Printing from Wi Fi Chapter 4 Other Information A Supports and Service Finder User Guide www ff3dp com WELCOME TO FLASHFORGE FINDER A Introduction B Acknowledgment and Commitments C About 3D Printing Finder User Guide www sz3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A Introduction This User Guide is designed to start your journey with the Finder 3D Printer off in the right direction It presents the operation process on the basis of the window 7 operating system To get familiar with the machine it is essential for you to read through this guide This User Guide includes four chapters In the first chapter you will learn how to get set up the Finder for the first print In the sec
13. ash disk into the USB interface on the Finder Turn on the Finder Make sure the build plate is leveled and filament is loaded 5 Tap Print and then select SD Card icon in the middle A list of file s will show up press the file that you would like to print then press Yes 6 The printer will heating up automatically and will start printing after finishing heating Printing from Wi Fi 1 Turn on Finder Make sure the build plate is leveled and filament is loaded 2 Open the wifi tap Tools Setting WIFI WIFI ON 3 After open Wifi a connection called LPB can be founded on the list of available networks Connect to this network 4 Open the Internet browser type in 10 10 100 254 and hit Enter on your keyboard Enter the user name and password to login The default user name and password are both admin The control panel will appear after a successful login Finder User Guide www ff3dp com MID System Info Software Version Work Mode WiFi Work Mode AP mode STA Setting SSID AP Setting IP Address COM Socket T STA Mode Account Router SSID Firmware Signal Strength l IP Address NRR admin MAC Address FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A 3z English 8 Ai HF LPB V1 5 5 SPl AP HF LPB 10 10 100 254 D8B04CF31AD9 5 Click Work Mode select AP STA mode click Save Don t click Reboot Note If you choose STA mode only in the case of STA setting error it will occur the risk of failu
14. ays Method 1 Click the Move button on the left of the software interface Hold down the left mouse button and drag you could adjust the location of the model in XY direction Hold down the Shift key and long press hold down the left mouse button and drag you can adjust the location of the model in Z direction You can see the distance and direction of the movement which refers to the relative distance between present and former location Method 2 Click the Move button on the left of the software interface and then enter the distance value you want to move on X Y Z axes positioning Click Reset to reset distance values Note Generally we suggest you to click Center and On Platform after adjusting location of the model to make sure the model within the build area and sticking to the build platform Only click On Platform if you want to print the model in a specified position 2 4 2 Rotate When the model is selected you can change the orientation of your model on the build platform by the following two ways Method 1 Click the Rotate button on the left of the software interface and you can find three mutually perpendicular rings whose color is red green and blue Click one ring and rotate on the present axis you will see Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER the rotation angle and direction in the center of circle In this way you could make the model rotate on X Y Z axis Method
15. d network Type in password save it and then click Reboot to the printer Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Network Name lt SSID jape BWIFI250 Note case sensitive System Info Encryption Method Work Mode Encryption Algorithm STA Setting Password AP Setting th X English HF WPA2PSK _ AES x Show passwords Obtain an IP address automatically COM Socket IP Address Account Subnet Mask Enable 192 168 191 18 255 255 255 0 Firmware WRAAIR admin Gateway Address DNS Server Address 192 168 191 1 192 168 1 1 al 6 Five seconds after the reboot choose disconnect and try to connect WIFI again Open FlashPrint click the menu Print Connect to select WIFI connection and then enter the network IP address same as the IP showed on the touchscreen in the IP port option Finally click Connect to complete it After this you do not need to connect WIFI in the future if no WIFI setting is changed If you want to change WIFI setting please try the same way e Open STA setting click search choose an appropriate network type in password and save it Then reboot the printer Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER f After the reboot open wireless connection choose appropriate network and open FlashPrint Click Print Connect Machine Choose WIFI as connect mode and type in th
16. djust the temperature according to the condition in order to get a good print 2 8 3 2 Print Geode file Load Gcode file into FlashPrint software when it 1s generated Step 1 The generated Gcode file will be loaded into software automatically if you select the Preview check box when slicing or you need manually load into it and then go to preview interface Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Step 2 Click the Print button on up right corner the machine starts to print while click the Back button to exit Note In the preview interface there is a vertical scroll bar which shows each layer of the model and you can find Estimated Material Right and Estimated Print Time it costs on the top right corner 2 8 3 3 Pause or Terminate Printing Once printing starts click the machine icon on the bottom right corner of the software interface and it will show the process status in a frame Click Pause button to pause printing and then click Continue button to resume it Click Stop button to cancel this printing task and you need to restart this print task 1f you want to print it again Note Please DO NOT click the Pause button unless necessary for it will affect printing result 2 9 Printer Operations 2 9 1 Connect Disconnect 2 9 1 1 Connect You can connect the Finder to Flashprint software via USB cable or WIFI The machine icon on the bottom right corner of the software interface
17. e IP address showed on Touch Screen Panel and click connect Type 2 Set Finder as WIFI spot and connect PC with Finder a Switch on Finder go to WIFI Tools Settings WIFI WIFI ONJ b Open the wireless network connection and choose xxx LPB this is the default network without password if the settings haven t been changed c Click Print Connect Machine Choose WIFI as connect mode and type in the IP address 10 10 100 254 8899 and click Connect Note A printer can only have one connection If printer is operating by another process connections should be switched off first and try to connect again If AP mode is chosen WIFI cannot be used by PC 2 9 1 2 Disconnect Finder Choose Print Disconnect and the connection between PC and Finder is break 2 9 2 Control Panel After connect PC and Finder click Tools Control Panel Then you will see the Control Panel dialog pop up and operate the following tips Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Control Panel Homing Jog Controls Extruder Controls Jog Mode rd Motor Speed PH Continuous Jog Extrude Duration yt x 0 0 Center X oF ETIR Motor Controls Zz 0 0 Center Z Temperature Controls Make current position zero CO Extruder Target 0 E gt Extruder Current X Y Speed Z Speed Limit Switch Cooling Fan Controls X Maximum Switch Wot Triggered Turn on Turn off
18. e of Extruder Duration Generally we suggest the users choose option of continuous time 60 seconds The filament must be melted in extruder before motor starts to rotate Therefore please do not start rotation operation until the extruder temperature reach the printing temperature of filament For PLA filament the extruder temperature should reach 200 C after reaching the extruder temperature click the Forward Reverse rotation button to control filament load and filament unload Furthermore if you want to stop filament load and unload you can click Stop Temperature Control Input the temperature you want to get in the left frame click Apply the printer will automatically heat the corresponding part the right side shows the current actual temperature of corresponding part After start heating the below curve of temperature form will start to change different color correspond different parts temperatures Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 2 9 3 Update Firmware Every time when you start the software it will automatically detected the update and download new printer firmware If there 1s new available firmware it will remind user to update the installation method is as below Step 1 Click Tools Update firmware It needs to cut off connection before updating firmware If software and printer are already in connection it reminds you cutting off the connection choose Yes
19. en selected Left click on blank space to undo the selection of model 2 2 2 Left click and hold down the left mouse button When changing the viewing angles or editing models different effects appear by left clicking and holding down the left button Please refer to Section 2 3 1 2 3 2 amp 2 4 2 2 3 Right click and hold the right button Same results in any operations when right clicking and holding down the right button Please refer to the Sections 2 3 1 amp 2 3 2 2 2 4 Scroll the mouse wheel Same effects in any operations when scrolling the mouse wheel Please refer to the Section 2 3 3 2 3 Change Views Change your views of the model by moving rotating scaling the view and so on Finder User Guide www ff3dp com lt gt FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 2 3 1 Set Position You can move the view of build platform frame in the software interface by the following three ways Method 1 Hold down the left mouse button and drag Method 2 Hold down the middle mouse button and drag Method 3 Hold down the Shift key hold down the right mouse button and drag 2 3 2 Set Rotation You can rotate the view of build platform frame in the software interface by the following two ways Method 1 Hold down the right mouse button and drag Method 2 Hold down the Shift key hold down the left mouse button and drag 2 3 3 Set Dimensions You can scale the view of build platform frame in the software interface by scr
20. er Layer thickness of the printing model With a small number the surface of the model will be more smooth b First Layer Height This is the first layer of the model which will affect the sticking performance between the model and platform Maximize is 0 4mm usually the default is ok c Shell Contains of the outside shell number capping layer number under vase pattern top solid layer setting 1s invalid Primeter Shells Maximize is 10 Top Solid Layer Maximize is 10 minimum is 1 Bottom Solid Layer Maximize is 10 minimum is 1 Infill a Fill Density means fill rate b Fill Pattern is the pattern of filling shape which effects printing duration Speed a Print Speed is the moving speed of the extruder Generally the lower Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER speed is the better print you will get For PLA printing 80 1s recommended b Support Print Speed is needed to set when choosing Slic3r as the slice engine which can control the moving speed of the extruder when printing the supports c Travel Speed is to control the moving speed of the extruder under non printing Status during work for PLA printing 100 is recommended Note Modify parameters settings to get better prints as different models need different parameters Temperature Extruder Temperature Recommended extruder temperature is 220 C Note Different temperatures have subtle influences in prints Please a
21. es after start up Yes x Language The software supports six languages that is Chinese simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese English French Korean Japanese and Russian Detect Update It is used to set 1f needs to activate the online automatic update function if choose yes every time when you open software it can online detect if there is new version software once new version found it will reminds uses to download and install new version firmware 2 10 2 Check the Help Contents Click Help Help you can read the help contents 2 10 3 Version updating There are two ways to update the software Online Automatic Update Choose Detect update the software will be updated automatically Refer to 2 9 1 Manual Update Click Help Check for Update it can detect online if there are Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER updated version If there are available updated software version the user can download and update new version Note The process of software download and installation please refer to Section 1 1 2 2 10 5 Check Flashprint information Click Help About Flashprint the software information box will pop up The contents include the current software version and copyright information FlashPrint Yersion 3 3 alpha 2013 2015 FlashForge All rights reserved Finder User Guide www ff3dp com Chapter3 First Print A Overview
22. filament adhere the plate tape over the build plate as shown 1n the right picture Note The plate can be dawn out from the build platform FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER G CAUTION a cmon umn manm asenn lt Connecting power cable and USB cable 1 Insert the power supply into the power input on the back of the Finder and plug the power cord into an electrical outlet 2 Locate the USB cable and plug one end into the Finder and the other into your personal computer The Finder supports USB 2 0 Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER D Load and Unload Filament Loading the filament 1 Tap Tool 2 Tap Filament Load 3 Wait for the extruder to heat up to the operating temperature The extruder will alert you once it is at the operating temperature Load the filament by inserting it into the SMI 34 C 230C extruder at an upright angle Heating Cancel 4 Filament will start to extrude out of the nozzle Continue loading to ensure that the filament is extruding in a straight line Refer to the troubleshooting section if the filament is extruding at an angle Note The Finder will sound a warning when the filament is running out please change the filament in time Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Unloading the filament 1 Tap Tool 2 Tap Filament Unload 3 Wait for the extruder to heat up to the operating tempe
23. is new technology with the world We understand the importance of product and service support especially the challenges that a new technology may bring along With FLASHFORGE you can always expect a close personal service from our team of experts At FLASHFORGE we understand that 3D printing is a new technology to many individuals Our aim is to educate and guide you through the entire process of 3D printing With 3D printing there are no limits you can go as far as your imagination takes you With the Finder dreams are no longer simply just imaginations They can become physical realities that you can hold touch and feel It is amazing to see a 3D printer turn an idea into real life layer by layer and we are delighted to have you on board with us to experience this phenomenon Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER C About 3D Printing What is 3D Printing Simply put 3D printing is transforming three dimensional models into physical objects that you can hold and touch It is also called additive manufacturing because the 3D model is created by adding layers upon layers of material until the object is fully formed The Technique Fused Deposition Modeling FDM is the most common method of 3D printing It is also the method that the Finder uses It works by melting plastic material called filament onto a print surface using high temperature The filament solidifies after 1t cools down
24. l click Edit Supports or click the Supports icon H directly on the main interface then you will enter the support edit mode as shown in the picture below Click Back to exit when you finish editing Delete FlashForge Finder 2 5 1 Auto Supports Click the Auto Supports button the software will judge the position where supports are needed and generate corresponding treelike or linear supports If the model already had support the existing supports will be deleted and new supports will be generated Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 2 5 2 Clear Supports Click Clear Supports all supports will be deleted The operation can be repealed via clicking Undo or pressing the shortcut key Ctrl Z 2 5 3 Add Support Supports will be added once clicking the Add button Move the cursor to the position where needs supports left click to choose the starting point of supports hold down the left mouse button and drag the mouse the supports preview will show up if support surface doesn t need support or the support column angle is too large will highlight the support review Loosen the left mouse button 1f support column doesn t meet with model then support will be generated on origin and terminal point the highlighted preview support won t generate support structure 2 5 4 Delete Supports Supports will be deleted once clicking the Delete button Move the cursor to the sup
25. le Save Project in the menu bar can save the file as a project file which suffix is fpp in this type of file all models in the scene include support are independent after reloading the files extruder configuration information and model position will be as same as the configuration during saving Method 2 Click on File Save as to save the model as project file fpp or stl and obj For stl and boj models are integrated as one include support part If load it again only the position of the model was saved not included the printing parameters 2 8 Printing Procedure 2 8 1 Select Machine Type Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Before connecting the printer with PC Click Print Machine Type to select your machine type After connection the software will automatically recognize and choose your machine type manual operation is invalid now The selection of machine type will confirm the framework volume which will influence the slicing result 2 8 2 Connect Printer with PC Before this step we need to do setup for the printer refer to Section 2 9 1 1 2 8 3 Print 2 8 3 1 Generate Gcode File You need to slice the model before printing printable file is generated by slicing the model The following is operation process 1 Pattern Step 1 Click Print Print or click the Print icon on main interface dialog of slicing parameters will show up
26. machine Make sure that the plate has been leveled and filament has been loaded The two steps above could be referred to the Build Plate Leveling section and the Filament Loading section 3 Select the Print menu then choose Connect 4 Click on Rescan then click Connect 5 Now the printer is connected with FlashPrint The status bar on the bottom right corner displays nozzle temperature 6 Click the Print icon a printing options dialog will pop up Make sure that the Material Type is selected as PLA Advanced settings can be set under More Options icon Check the box Print When Slice Done and click OK 7 Save the file at any location and the object will start slicing After the object is done slicing it will automatically upload the gcode to Finder then the printer will go into a preheat phase The Finder will begin printing once it has finished preheating Printing from USB Flash Disk 1 Insert the USB flash disk into the computer 2 Tap Print and a printing options screen will show up Make sure that the Material Type is selected as PLA You can operate advanced settings after clicking the More Options button Notice that you need to click the Print preview radio button and click OK Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 3 Save the g code file in the USB flash disk FlashPrint will begin slicing the 3D model 4 After finishing slicing insert the USB fl
27. ng the value in the boxes will not affect anything f Center X Y Z button Extruder and build platform will back to the zero 0 0 0 you set last time g X Y Speed and Z Speed Set the move speed of extruder build platform Limit Switch To protect Finder it has 3 end stop switches to control the maximum position and the 3 limit switches corresponding to X Y Z axis limit switch It has 2 status a Not Triggered When extruder build platform do not move to the maximum position X Y Z axis limit switch 1s not triggered and shows Not Triggered b Triggered When extruder build platform move to the maximum position X Y Z axis limit switch is not triggered and shows Triggered Cooling Fan Controls This 1s aim to check cooling fan of extruder 1s work or not Click Turn On you will turn on the cooling fan and click Turn off you will turn off the cooling fan Stepper Motor Controls This 1s aim to check whether stepper motor is on or not Click Enable Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER and lock the motor so it does not allow any movement click Disable and unlock the motor to be controlled manually LED Color LED color of Finder can be changed via control this button Extruder Controls You can set the value of Motor Speed RPM which can control the rotation speed of filament feeding wheel The motor rotation time can be controlled via setting the valu
28. olling the mouse wheel in any condition 2 3 4 Set View You can set the view of build platform frame in the software interface from six angels by following two ways to observe the model Top Bottom Front Back Left Right View Method 1 Click the the View button and then select the view you need to observe the model Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Method 2 Click the the Look button on the left of the software interface and select the view you need 2 3 5 Reset View Method 1 Click the View menu and select Home View Method 2 Click the View button on the left side click it again and you will see the viewing options you can click Reset 2 3 6 Show Model Outline Click View Show Model Outline it will highlight the outer surfaces of your model file with gray and white color 2 3 7 Show Steep Overhang Click View Show Steep Overhang When the intersection angle between the model surface and horizontal line is within the overhang threshold value the surface has steep overhang and it becomes red in the software Overhang threshold value could be set as needed The default value is 45 degree 2 4 Edit models You can edit the models by moving rotating scaling the model and so On Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 2 4 1 Move When the model is selected you can change model location on the build platform by the following two w
29. ond chapter you will learn the ins and outs of FlashPrint software The third chapter will take you through printing operation and different printing methods The last chapter includes information regarding obtaining support Ensure that you have read the following section carefully prior to setting up and operating the Finder Ensure that the Finder is earthed lest electrostatic interference Before repairing or making any alterations to the Finder it is essential that the machine is turned off and the power cord is unplugged The Finder operates at a very high temperature allow the nozzle extruded plastic and heating plate to cool before touching Certain types of plastic filament may give off a slight odor when heated Because of this the Finder should always operate in a well ventilated area Do not leave the Finder unattended when in operation Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER B Acknowledgment and Commitments Acknowledgment Our sincere gratitude goes to you for your great support Even if you are familiar with earlier Flashforge machines or 3D printing technology we still recommend that you read through this guide as there is lots of important information about Finder for you to get a better 3D experience Following this guide will ensure your successful first print journey Commitments Our team is composed of geeks and makers who are passionate about 3D printing and want to share th
30. or phone between the hours of 8 00 a m to 5 00 p m PST Monday through Saturday In case you contact us during after hours your inquiry will be answered the following business day Tel 86 579 82273989 ADD No 518 Xianyuan Road Wucheng Jinhua Zhejiang When contacting support please have your serial number ready The serial number is a bar code on the back of your Finder Finder User Guide www ff3dp com B Attachment FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Parameters Extruder Number Technique Screen Build Size Layer Thickness Build Precision Located Precision Filament Diameter Nozzle Diameter Current Speed software Support Formats OS Printer Size Weight Input Voltage Data Transmission Single Fused Deposition Modeling FDM 3 5 color IPS Touch Screen 230 150x140mm 0 1 0 5mm 0 2mm Z axis 0 0025mm XY axis 0 01 1mm 1 75mm 0 4mm 24CC hr FlashPrint stl obj Windows Mac OS 420 420 420mm 10 75Kg 100 240V 50 60Hz 100W USB cable USB flash disk wifi Finder User Guide www ff3dp com
31. ports needed deleting current supports and its child node support will be highlighted click the left mouse button to delete these highlighted support Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 2 5 5 Supports Click the Supports icon on the main interface an option box will appear supports options include treelike and linear when choose treelike click OK then the support generated will be treelike structure when choose linear click OK then the support generated will be linear structure if the model already had support when you choose one of the supports options software will judge whether existing supports need to be deleted or not depend on the type of existing support and will pop up the corresponding prompt to let you make the choice FlashForge Finder 2 6 New Project Click File New Project can build a blank project If there is an unsaved modification on previous project then will inform you whether Finder User Guide www ff3dp com the modification needs to be saved or not Click Yes will save the modification click No will abandon it If click Cancel or close tool tip then will cancel the new project Information Save changes to this file before closing Yes No Cancel 2 7 Save Project After finishing the model edit and adjustment there are two ways below to save all models in the scene Method 1 Click Fi
32. rature The extruder will alert you once it is at eee the operating temperature Unload 14 the filament by gently guiding it out ae eee of the extruder Cancel Note Do not pull out the filament with force as it will damage the gears If the melted filament has cooled down in the extruder please repeat the steps above Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER E Leveling Build Plate Finder creatively adopts three point intelligent leveling system which will give clear and comprehensive feedback to users There are three spring loaded screws under the build platform The distance between the plate and the nozzle increases while tightening the nuts On the contrary the distance reduces 1 Tighten the three nuts under the build platform according to the hints and then tap Sure Please tighten all thumb screw under Platform 2 The plate and the extruder then start to move When the extruder halts over the rear screw begin to adjust this screw Loosen the screw slowly to make the plate elevate to a point where the plate meets the auxiliary probe for leveling The Finder will sound a warning Then rotate the screw in the opposite direction till the sound disappears After the sound disappears rotate another half circle and then tap Next r Please tighten the back thumb screw under Platform when stop Please tighten the right thumb screw under Please tighten the left thumb
33. re connect with the printer through wifi FLASHFORGE System Info Work Mode STA Setting AP Setting COM Socket Account Firmware NRAAIE admin Finder User Guide www ff3dp com th X English A A Select Mode AP mode module work as Wifi router allow laptop or mobile to connect it allow 2 device connect at same time then the settings in AP setting will work STA mode module work as wifi device like mobile or laptop then the settings in STA setting will work AP STA mode both of AP and STA work SEELE AP STA mode z FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 6 Click STA Setting click Scan Choose commonly used network enter the password Click Save then click Reboot System Info Work Mode STA Setting AP Setting COM Socket Account Firmware NREAIS admin Network Name SSID Note case sensitive Encryption Method Encryption Algorithm Password Obtain an IP address automatically IP Address Subnet Mask Gateway Address DNS Server Address HXI English A ae See EB WIFIZ50 WPA2PSK AES Show passwords Enable n Z 192 168 191 1 192 168 1 1 Save 7 Open wireless network selection to select common network Then start FlashPrint and click Menu Print Connect successively Choose WIFI as the link mode input the IP address of user internet The IP address shows on the screen of the 3D printer to the IP port below and then click Connect
34. ser Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Accessory Introduction PLA Filament Polylactic acid filament PLA is a renewable bilplastic Finder PLA is the source material from which you make objects on the Finder Power Cable A cable that allows the Finder to connect with power USB Cable A cable that allows the Finder to communicate with a computer using the USB interface on the computer Plate Tape A tape that sticks to the build plate for a better print quality Quick Start Guide Overview of the printer and the operation USB Flash Disk A data storage device for saving the files Allen Wrench Tools for the installation and maintenance of the Finder Screwdriver Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER C Hardware Assembly Your Finder has been installed before leaving factory you can start up the Finder for printing after mounting the filament spool Installing the Filament l Remove the filament cartridge in the rear of Finder where you will place the filament spool 2 Thread the filament through the filament guide tube pierce the filament through the filament outlet and then place the filament spool in the box Note You should ensure the right direction of the filament spool 3 Put the filament cartridge back to the Finder Next load the PLA filament to the extruder Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 4 After loading the PLA
35. shows a broken chain pattern means disconnected while shows a unbroken one means connected Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER A USB Cable Connection a Find USB ports on the right side of machine and computer plug in and connect b Open Flashprint software and turn on the printer c Click Print Connect Machine then select USB in the Connection Mode option and select machine you want to connect in Select Machine option If you can not find your machine click the Rescan button to scan your machine and select it Finally click Connect button to connect to the printer If you still can not find your machine after rescan which means you haven t installed the driver in the software You have to install the driver manually please refer to the Chapter 2 8 3 1 Normally driver shall be installed automatically along with software B WiFi Connection a Via wireless network 1 Switch on the printer and make the WIFI available by clicking the menu Tools Set up WIFI WIFI ON 2 Open the wireless network connection in your computer and choose LPB wireless network It is the default network of the printer and no password is needed if you haven t changed the settings Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Currently connected to 4 HF LPB No Internet access EMSs a HF LPB Connected afl SSS S EwWiFi250 l Open Network and Sharing Cen
36. ter 3 Open your browser and enter the IP address 10 10 100 254 in the Address Bar Then enter in admin as the account and password The above mentioned IP address Account Password are default when the setting haven t been changed th3z English 8 F MID HF LPB System Info Software Version V15 5 SPl Work Mode WiFi Work Mode AP i AP mode STA Setting 6p E AP Setting IP Address 10 10 100 254 MAC Address D8B04CF31AD9 COM Socket STA Mode Account Router SSID Firmware Signal Strength l IP Address WRH admin MAC Address Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER 4 Click Work Mode then choose AP STA mode and save it Please don t click the Reboot button yet A X English H Age Select Mode System Info Work Mode AP mode module work as Wifi router allow laptop or mobile to connect it allow 2 device connect at same time then the settings in STA Setting AP setting will work AP Setting STA mode module work as wifi device like mobile or laptop then the settings in STA setting will work COM Socket AP STA mode both of AP and STA work Account Firmware SLEE AP STA mode lr NRA admin Save Note If you choose the STA mode only the printer may be unable to connect WIFI with the wrong STA setting In this condition it has the risk of being unable to connect the WIFI forever 5 Click STA Setting and then click the Scan button and choose a commonly use
37. want to print with Print it directly with your Finder or export to your SD card 2 1 Load File You can load a model file or Gcode file into the software by the following six methods Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Method 1 Click the Load icon on the main interface Then select the object file Method 2 Select the file for loading and drag the file to the main interface of the software Method 3 Click File Load File Then select the object file for loading Method 4 Click the File Examples to load the example files Method 5 Click the File Recent Files to load the files opened recently Method 6 Select the file for loading and drag the file to the icon of the software You can load into stl obj or fpp model files which are editable in the software Please refer to Section 2 2 2 5 and you can find instructions of that modification such as operations of mouse changes of view from different angles and how to edit and save the file After modification please refer to Section 2 6 if you want to slice the model file generate Gcode file and print it 2 2 Mouse Operations 2 2 1 Left click Select a model by moving the cursor onto it and left click it Finder User Guide www ff3dp com FLASHFORGE 3D PRINTER Select multiple models by holding down the Ctrl key and left click the models Model looks brighter when selected Model can be edited wh
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