Slic3r is a slicer program that does exactly what its name says, prepares 3D models.
Developed initially by the RepRap community (replicating rapid prototyper), almost all printers on the market are compatible with it.
It is open source and is continually updated, through community efforts, to further improve its capabilities and usability. The processing engine can analyze and process files in .STL, .obj and .amf.
Many other software use the slic3r engine to generate their .g-code files, just add their own interface to the program.
Since it’s latest version Slic3r has several unique features. Graphical line and command interfaces, printing with multiple extruders (which can also print with nozzles of different sizes), hem adhesion, intelligent cooling logic, printing of multiple objects simultaneously or in sequence, material generation support, and more.
Many of its functions are present in other famous slicer programs precisely because being open source many of them use the Slic3r processing engine, inheriting its functions accordingly.
However, Slic3r does not control the printer directly. Slic3r can generate the G-code and save the 3D file as STL. The direct command of the printer is left to other programs. One of these programs is another open source project called Pronterface that normally “pairs” with Slic3r.
Pronterface with Slic3r
Pronterface is a user interface that takes the G-code and sends it to the printer. It sends custom G-code commands for calibration, any faults and maintenance on your printer.
The Pronterface user interface is also one of the most commonly used interfaces by 3D printer software.
It has the ability to move on all 3 axes independently and to order the printer to move to the starting position (Homing). It has a temperature graph. A window showing the path of the 3D printer nozzle and a window to enter G-code. The user interface is simple to use even though many users complain about a lack of look and feel of the program, that is, a bare and unintuitive interface.
As a stand-alone program, Pronterface is not the best. It is better to use it as a diagnostic and reset tool in case of problems. Since it is able to quickly connect to the printer and give individual commands.
Download: from the official website
Price: Free
User level: From beginner to expert
System: PC, Mac and Linux
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