MakerBot Replicator 3D printer beams in
MakerBot summons the MakerBot Replicator 3D printer, which allows for a two-color print of large 3D objects.
LAS VEGAS--It was only a matter of time before a 3D printer manufacturer latched on to "Star Trek's" famous make-anything device.
Expanding its product portfolio, MakerBot Industries today unveils the MakerBot Replicator, one of, if not the, first with the ability to print objects made from two different colors.
The Replicator starts at $1,799 for a model with a single extruder, and $1,999 for the dual-extruder attachment, which allows for two-color-printing (or Dualstrusion, according to MakerBot Industries).
This new model, a follow-up to MakerBot's Thing-O-Matic printer, is unique for MakerBot in that it comes pre-assembled. Previous MakerBot products required user-assembly. MakerBot also boasts an increase in the size of printed objects for the Replicator. The Thing-O-Matic topped out at 5x5x6-inch objects. The Replicator will print objects as large as 8.9 inches by 5.7 inches by 5.9 inches.
Along with the Replicator, MakerBot has also announced a revamp of its Thingiverse 3D design-sharing site. Thingiverse is host to over 15,000 project plans, all freely available for download. MakerBot says it updated the site to allow for easier plan uploading.
MakerBot is already taking preorders for the Replicator, and estimates a six-week lead time.