Cura is the slicing software for Ultimaker 3D printers. It essentially 'slices' a 3D object into thin layers and a set of instructions which the 3D printer can then follow to print out your model.
Slicing software also allows you to adjust print parameters, such as printing temperature, speed, level of detail, size etc.
Step by Step Operation
1 - Open Cura (install and set up Cura for use with uCreate printers)
2 - Import your model (3D modelling, 3D scanning, Thingiverse)
3 - Select printer and nozzles (Select printers and nozzles, printer comparison)
4 - Check the model fits on build plate and reposition if necessary (manipulating models in Cura)
5 - Select materials (materials guide)
6 - Select parameters (infill, layer height, adhesion, support)
7 - Slice!
8 - Press preview and looks for any obvious issues
9 - Note requirements – time, amount of filament required (booking time on printers)
10 - Save onto a USB stick (UM3) or SD Card (UM2+) and eject
11 - Print on Ultimaker 3D printer (Ultimaker (2+ and 3) Printer Guide - Starting a print)
Checklist
1 - Have you taken note of how much material your print will use?
You will need this information for the printing stage.
2 - Have you taken note of how long your print will take?
You will need this information to book a printer. Always book more time than you need to print the print on so that you don’t run into someone else’s slot.
3 - If your model will need support, have you turned on supports?
4 - Do the nozzle settings match the printer you are able to book?
Which platforms are supported by Ultimaker Cura?
Ultimaker Cura supports the most common versions of Windows, Mac and Linux.
What are the system requirements to run Ultimaker Cura?
The minimum system requirements can be found here.
My Model is grey with diagonal striped lines.
It is not inside the printable area. Move it or reduce its size (Manipulating models in Cura)