®

USER MANUAL | DUAL EXTRUSION

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

A WELCOME, LET’S GET STARTED. 04

Specifications 06
How It Works 07

BSetting up Your MakerBot Replicator 2X EXPERIMENTAL 3D Printer 08

What’s in The Box 10
MakerBot Replicator 2X Diagrams 11
Unpacking Your MakerBot Replicator 2X 13
Installing Enclosure Door Handle 15
Installing Filament Guide Tubes and Spool Holders 16
Mounting Filament Spools and Attaching USB Cable 17
Installing Enclosure Lid 18
Attaching Power Supply and Powering On 19

C STARTUP PROCESS: Leveling, loading, testing 20

Leveling the Build Plate 22
Loading MakerBot Filament 25
Unloading MakerBot Filament 31
Making a Test Object from the SD Card 32

D Making an Object with MakerBot MakerWare 36

E Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, and Maintenance 46

Troubleshooting 48
Extruder Disassembly 50
Diagnostics 51
LCD Panel | Top-Level Menu 51
LCD Panel | Utilities Menu 52
LCD Panel | Info and Settings Menu 53
Maintenance 54
Updating Firmware 54
Applying Kapton Tape 54
Lubricating Threaded Rod and X-Axis Idler Pulley 55
Glossary of Terms 57
Contact Us 59

F TERMS OF SERVICE 60

V2 TABLE OF CONTENTS 03

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 A

Welcome,
Let’s get started.

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 This User Manual is designed to start your journey
with the MakerBot® Replicator® 2X Experimental 3D
Printer in the right direction. Your MakerBot Replicator 2X
is optimized for ABS, a traditional thermoplastic
that can be tricky and unpredictable. In order to
achieve great results, you will need to experiment and
tinker. That’s why it’s so crucial to take the time to
learn about your new machine.

In this User Manual, you will learn the basics of

the MakerBot Replicator 2X, as well as how to unbox
it safely and get it set up. Chapters C through E will
take you through calibration, printing, maintenance,
and troubleshooting.

We are so excited to welcome you to the MakerBot

community. Let’s get started!

WARNING: The MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer generates high temperatures and
includes moving parts that can cause injury. Never reach inside the MakerBot Replicator 2X while
it is in operation. Always allow the MakerBot Replicator 2X to cool down before reaching inside.

WARNING: Do not leave the MakerBot Replicator 2X unattended during operation.

CAUTION: If opening the MakerBot Replicator 2X for service, ensure that the power supply is turned
off and the cord is disconnected.

A Welcome, let’s get started. 05

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 SPECIFICATIONS

Printing Physical Dimensions

Print Technology: Fused Filament Fabrication Without Spools: 19.1 x 12.8 x 14.7 in [49 x 32 x 38 cm]

Build Volume: 9.7”W x 6.4”L x 6.1”H With Spools: 19.1 x 16.5 x 14.7 in [49 x 42 x 38 cm]
[24.6 cm x 16.3 cm x 15.5 cm]
Shipping Box: 22.75 x 22.75 x 16.75 in
Layer
 Resolution High 100 microns [0.0039 in] [57.8 x 57.8 x 42.5 cm]
Settings:
Medium 270 microns [0.0106 in]
Weight: 27.8 lbs [12.6 kg]
Low 340 microns [0.0133 in]
Shipping Weight: 40.0 lbs [18.1 kg]
Positioning Precision: X
 Y: 11 microns [0.0004 in];
[All packages]
Z: 2.5 microns [0.0001 in]

Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm [0.069 in]

TEMPERATURE
Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm [0.015 in]
Ambient Operation 15°–32° C [60°–90° F]
Temperature:
Software
Storage Temperature: 0°–32° C [32°–90° F]
Software Bundle: MakerBot MakerWare™

File Types: .stl, .obj, .thing

Electrical
Supports: Windows [XP/7],
Ubuntu [11.10+], AC Input: 100–240V, ~4 amps, 50–60 Hz
Mac OS X [10.6+]
Power Requirements: 24V DC @ 9.2 amps

Connectivity: USB, SD card [FAT16, max 2 GB]

Mechanical

Chassis: Powder-coated steel

Body: PVC Panels

Build Platform: 356 aluminum

XYZ Bearings: Wear-resistant,

oil-infused bronze

Stepper Motors: 1.8° step angle with

1/16 micro-stepping

06 A Welcome, let’s get started.

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 HOW IT WORKS

The MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer makes solid, three-dimensional objects

out of melted MakerBot Filament. Your 3D design files are translated into instructions for
the MakerBot Replicator 2X and sent to the machine via USB cable or SD card. Then the
MakerBot Replicator 2X heats the MakerBot Filament and squeezes it out through a nozzle
onto a heated surface to build a solid object, layer by layer. This method is called Fused
Filament Fabrication [FFF].

A Welcome, let’s get started. 07

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 B

Setting Up Your
MakerBot Replicator 2X ® ®

Experimental 3D Printer

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 When you set up your MakerBot® Replicator®2X
Experimental 3D Printer, remember that it was built
and packaged very carefully at the MakerBot
factory. We hope you’ll take your time and be just
as careful unpacking it and getting set up.

NOTE: Do not force or tear anything during unpacking and setup.

This may damage the MakerBot Replicator 2X.

B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer 09

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 WHAT’S IN THE BOX

2 2 2 1
MakerBot ABS Filament guide Spool holders Handle and bolts
Filament [1lb Spools] tubes

1 1 1 3
Power supply USB-A to MakerBot tape Kapton tape sheets
and cable USB-B cable applicator

1 4 1 1
SD card Hex wrenches PTFE-based grease Support card

* More options available at makerbot.com/store

10 B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer

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 MAKERBOT REPLICATOR 2X DIAGRAMs

[1] Gantry System

[2] LCD Panel

[3] HEATED BUILD PLATE 1

[4] Build Platform

[5] Threaded z-axis Rod

[6] ENCLOSURE DOOR HANDLE

[7] Filament Guide Tubes

3
[8] Extruder Cable

[9] Extruders 5

[10] Filament Spools 2

6
[11] Spool Holders

8
7

10

11

B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer 11

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 MAKERBOT REPLICATOR 2X DIAGRAMs continued

[1] FAN GUARDS

[2] EXTRUDER fans

4
[3] EXTRUDER NOZZLES

[4] EXTRUDER LEVER ARMS

1
[5] FAN BOLTS

[6] CARTRIDGE HEATERS

2
[7] THERMAL CORES 5

[8] DRIVE BLOCKS

[9] EXTRUDER CABLE MOUNT 6

7
[10] MOTOR CABLE 3
CONNECTORS

[11] Extruder MOTORS

[12] HEAT SINKS 8

9
[13] BAR MOUNT

[14] SPACERS 10

[15] EXTRUDER 11
CARRIAGE

12

13

15

14

12 B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer

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 Unpacking Your MakerBot Replicator 2X

1 Opening the Box 1

1a. Place the MakerBot Replicator 2X box on

the ground. Open the box and remove the top
cardboard sheet.

1b. Remove the MakerBot Replicator 2X User

Manual. We recommend that you review
the manual to guide you through the setup
process and keep it handy as you unpack the
contents of the box. If you find that anything
described in the manual is missing, email us
at [email protected].

1c. Remove the layer of foam and the sheet of

cardboard underneath.

1d. Remove the two protective foam pieces

from the sides of the MakerBot Replicator 2X.

2 Removing the MakerBot Replicator 2X from the Box

2a. Open the plastic covering and firmly grasp

the frame of the MakerBot Replicator 2X.
Be careful not to grip the rods and belts of the
gantry system. Lift it out of the box and place
it on a stable surface.

B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer 13

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 Unpacking Your MakerBot Replicator 2X continued

3 Removing the Accessory Box 1

3a. Remove the two remaining protective

foam pieces from the bottom of the
MakerBot Replicator 2X’s box.

3b. Lift out the accessory box. This box

contains the remaining items from the
“What’s in the Box” section.

4 Freeing the Extruders

4a. Use strong scissors or a wire cutter to

cut the zip ties holding the gantry system
in place. Discard the zip ties and the plastic
pieces holding them in place.

NOTE: Operate scissors with care.

4b. A small plastic piece attached to the

X-axis belt and gantry rods prevents the
extruder from moving. Carefully snap the
piece off of the rods and tilt it to slide it off
of the belt.

14 B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer

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 INSTALLING THE ENCLOSURE DOOR HANDLE

5 Installing the Enclosure Door Handle

5a. Locate the handle kit in the Accessory

box. The kit includes your enclosure door
handle and two buttonhead bolts.

5b. Open the enclosure door. To do this,

reach through the top of the MakerBot
Replicator 2X, push the door outward,
and raise it to a 90° angle.

5c. Place the handle on top of the enclosure

door. Align the holes in the ends of the handle
with the pre-drilled holes in the enclosure door.

5d. Use your fingers to thread each bolt

through the holes in the enclosure door and
the handle. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to
tighten the bolts. Close the enclosure door.

B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer 15

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 INSTALLING GUIDE TUBES & SPOOL HOLDERS

6 Installing the Filament Guide Tubes and Spool Holders

6a. Locate the two filament guide tubes.

Insert one end of a filament guide tube into
the hole in the top of one of the extruders.
Push the filament guide tube in as far as it
will go. Insert the end of the other filament
guide tube into the hole on the top of the
second extruder. Push the filament guide
tube in as far as it will go.

6b. Insert the other end of one filament guide

tube into the corresponding guide tube holder
on the back of the MakerBot Replicator 2X.
Make sure that the end of each filament
guide tube is flush with the bottom of its
guide tube holder. The filament guide tube
should not hang down past the bottom of the
guide tube holder. Repeat this process for the
second filament guide tube.

6c. Locate the spool holders. Install the spool

holders in the two rectangular openings on
the back of the MakerBot Replicator 2X.
To install a spool holder, tilt it and insert
the square end into one of the openings.

16 B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer

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 MOUNTING FILAMENT SPOOLs & ATTACHING USB CABLE

7 Mounting the Filament Spools

7a. Open the boxes containing the

MakerBot ABS Filament. Remove the spools
from their bags.

7b. Fit each spool onto a spool holder. Ensure

that the spool on the right [when viewed from
the back] will unwind clockwise and that the
spool on the left will unwind counterclockwise.
To install a filament spool, squeeze the spool
holder and push the spool on until it locks. Do
not let the filament uncoil or tangle as you
load the spools onto the back of the MakerBot
Replicator 2X. Both spools should spin so that Spool
the MakerBot ABS Filament will unwind from Holder

the bottom of the spool.

8 Attaching the USB Cable

8a. Locate the USB-A to USB-B cable.

Insert the USB cable into the USB-B port on
the back of the MakerBot Replicator 2X. Do
not attach the other end of the USB cable to
anything yet.

8b. Do not plug the AC power cord into an

electrical outlet until step 11 of this section.

USB cable

B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer 17

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 INSTALLING ENCLOSURE LID

9 Installing the Enclosure Lid

9a. Locate the box containing the acrylic

enclosure lid. The enclosure lid is shipped
in a separate box and is not included in the
same box as your MakerBot Replicator 2X.
The box containing the enclosure lid should
have arrived with the box containing your
MakerBot Replicator 2X.

9b. Unpack the enclosure lid and place it

over your MakerBot Replicator 2X so that it
covers the top of the MakerBot Replicator 2X,
the extruder cable, and the filament guide
tubes. The small indentations at the corners
of the lid should line up with the bolt heads on
the top of the MakerBot Replicator 2X’s frame.

18 B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer

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 ATTACHING POWER SUPPLY and POWERING ON

10 Attaching the Power Supply

10a. Locate the power supply and cable.

Attach the cable to the power supply.

10b. Ensure that the power switch on

the MakerBot Replicator 2X is set to the
OFF position.

10c. Insert the power supply connector into

the power input port on the back of the
MakerBot Replicator 2X. Ensure that the
flat side of the connector faces down.

NOTE: If at any time you need to unplug the

MakerBot Replicator 2X, pull on the connector
itself to release it from the power input port.
Power Supply

11 Powering On the MakerBot Replicator 2X

11a. Plug the AC power cord into an

electrical outlet.

11b. Set the power switch to the

ON position.

11c. The MakerBot Replicator 2X will display

welcome text on the LCD panel. This is the
beginning of the startup script that will
guide you through initial calibration and
your first 3D print.

NOTE: The socket-outlet shall be installed near

the equipment and shall be easily accessible.

B Setting up your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer 19

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 C

Startup Process:
Leveling,
Loading,
Testing

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 After you power on the MakerBot® Replicator® 2X
Experimental 3D Printer, the LCD panel will light
up and display text. This is the beginning of the
Startup Script. The Startup Script will guide you
through leveling the build plate, loading MakerBot
ABS Filament, and creating your first 3D print.

the LCD keypad

• Four Arrow buttons surround a central M
button. Use the arrows to navigate through
the LCD menus and the M button to
make selections.
• The left arrow often allows you to go
back or cancel an action.
• A solid red M means the MakerBot
Replicator 2X is working.
• A blinking red M means the MakerBot
Replicator 2X is waiting for user input.

NOTE: If you don’t see the Startup Script, use the up and down arrow buttons to scroll through the top
level menu on the LCD panel and use the M button to select Utilities. Scroll to Run Startup Script and
select it. You can use these menus to return to the Startup Script at any time. You can view videos of the
startup process on the MakerBot Replicator 2X video page at makerbot.com/support/replicator2x/videos.
If you have any problems or questions, refer to the troubleshooting chapter of this manual or contact
MakerBot Support by emailing [email protected].

C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing 21

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 LEVELING THE BUILD PLATE

After the initial welcome message, the Startup Script will display the following:

! Why Leveling Is Important

• If the build plate is too far from the extruder nozzles, or if one part of the plate is farther
away from the nozzles than another part, your 3D prints might not stick to the build plate.
• If the build plate is too close to the extruder nozzles, the build plate can block the MakerBot
Filament from extruding from the nozzles. This can also scratch the build plate and tear
the Kapton tape.
• Leveling your build plate often will help ensure that objects adhere well to the plate.

How to Level the Build Plate

To level the build plate, you must adjust the three knobs under the build platform.
These three knobs lower and raise the build plate.

• Tightening the knobs [turning them to the right] moves the build plate away from the
extruder nozzles.
• Loosening the knobs [turning them to the left] moves the build plate closer to the
extruder nozzles.
• The distance between the extruder nozzles and the build plate should be about the
thickness of the MakerBot Support card included with your MakerBot Replicator 2X.

NOTE: To view a video of the build plate leveling process, go to the MakerBot Replicator 2X video page at
makerbot.com/support/replicator2x/videos.

22 C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing

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 LEVELING THE BUILD PLATE continued

1 Make Some Room Between the Build Plate and the Nozzle

When directed by the LCD screen, tighten

each of the three knobs underneath the
build platform approximately four turns.
To do this, you will need to raise the build
platform. Grasp the black plastic arms at
the sides of the build platform and gently
push the platform up towards the extruder.

Support
Card

Leveling
Knobs

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 LEVELING THE BUILD PLATE continued

2 Adjust the Knobs as Directed

The script will prompt you to adjust the

knobs individually. As you adjust each knob,
make sure the MakerBot Support card just
slides between the nozzles and build plate.
You should feel some friction on the support
card but still be able to easily pass the card
between the plate and the extruder nozzles
without tearing or damaging the card.

3 Adjust Each Knob Again

The script will prompt you to adjust each

knob again. This allows for fine tuning.
This time, the Support card should slide
between the build plate and nozzles with
more friction.

4 Confirm your Adjustment

After the second set of adjustments, the

nozzles will move to the center of the build
plate. Confirm that the MakerBot Support
card slides between the nozzles and plate
with a moderate amount of friction.

NOTE: If you have problems with this process or if you need to level your build plate again, you can use
the up and down arrows to scroll through the top-level menu on the LCD panel and use the M button to
select Utilities. Scroll to Level Build Plate and select it. You can use these menus to return to the leveling
script at any time.

24 C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing

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 Loading MakerBot filament

When you have completed the initial leveling tasks, the LCD menu will display the following
text: “Aaah, that feels much better. Let’s go on and load some plastic!” Before 3D printing,
you must load the MakerBot ABS Filament into the extruder. The extruder will heat the
MakerBot ABS Filament and use the melted material to build things.

What You Will Do

• Remove the enclosure lid.

• Remove the ends of both
Filament
filament guide tubes from the Guide Tubes
holes in the top of the extruders.
• Feed the free ends of the
MakerBot ABS Filament from
the spools into the ends of the
filament guide tubes where
they attach to the back of the
MakerBot Replicator 2X.
• Push the MakerBot ABS
Filament all the way through the
Extruders
filament guide tubes.
• Insert the free ends of the
MakerBot ABS Filament into the
holes in the tops of the extruders.
• Wait for the MakerBot ABS
Filament to heat and extrude
from both extruders.
• Return the filament guide tubes
to the holes in the tops of
the extruders.
• Return the enclosure lid to the
top of the MakerBot Replicator 2X.

Filament
Spools

C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing 25

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 Loading MakerBot filament continued

1 Remove the Enclosure Lid

Lift the enclosure lid from the top of the MakerBot Replicator 2X and set it aside.

2 Detach the Filament Guide Tubes

Locate where the filament guide tubes

attach to the extruders. You must remove
each filament guide tube from its hole Filament
in the top of the extruder. To remove the
tubes, gently pull them out of the extruders.

3 Feed the Filament Through the Filament Guide Tube

Free the ends of the MakerBot ABS Filament from the filament spools. With a pair of
scissors, cut a clean edge on each filament end. Feed the ends of the MakerBot ABS
Filament into the ends of the guide tubes where they attach to the back of the MakerBot
Replicator 2X.

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 Loading MakerBot filament continued

3 Feed the Filament Through the Filament Guide Tube | Continued

Ensure that you feed the filament from the

spool on the right side of the MakerBot
Replicator 2X into the filament guide tube
on the right side, and that you feed the
filament from the spool on the left into the
filament guide tube on the left. Feed the
filament through the guide tubes until it
emerges from the other end of each tube.

NOTE: To avoid filament jams, ensure that the

MakerBot ABS Filament feeds from the bottoms
of the spools toward the tops of the spools.
Ensure that the filament mounted on the right
spool holder [when viewed from the back]
unspools clockwise and that the filament mounted
on the left spool unspools counterclockwise.

Press the M

4 Press the M to Begin Heating the Extruders

After you feed the ends of MakerBot ABS

Filament all the way through the guide
tubes, press the M button on the LCD menu.
The MakerBot Replicator 2X will start to
heat the extruders.

WARNING: Do not touch the extruders while they

are heating — they heat to 230° C.

C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing 27

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 LOADiNg mAKErBOT ABS FiLAmENT CONTINUED

5 Press the M to continue

After the extruders reach 230° C, the LCD

panel will prompt you to load the MakerBot
ABS Filament into the right extruder. Click
through the message until your MakerBot
Replicator 2X asks you to press the M when
you see plastic extruding.

6 Push the Filament into the Right Extruder

Take the end of the MakerBot ABS Filament

emerging from the tube closest to the right
extruder and firmly push it into the hole in
the top of the right extruder. Ensure that the
filament goes into the center of the opening
and doesn’t get caught at the edge of
the opening.

Maintain pressure on the filament and

continue pushing it into the opening.

After about five seconds, you should begin

to feel the motor pulling in the filament.
Maintain pressure for another five seconds
and then let go.

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 Loading MakerBot ABS filament continued

7 Stop Extrusion

Watch the right extruder nozzle. After a

few moments, you should see a thin string
of the MakerBot ABS Filament that you
loaded come out of the nozzle. Press the
M button to stop extrusion.

NOTE: Don’t be surprised if the filament that

initially comes out of the nozzle is not the color you
expected. There’s probably some filament inside
the extruder left over from our testing process at the
MakerBot factory. Wait until you see the color that
you loaded come out of the nozzle before you press
the M button.

8 Press the M to Continue

After the MakerBot ABS Filament is loaded into the right extruder, the LCD panel will
prompt you to load filament into the left extruder. Click through the message until your
MakerBot Replicator 2X asks you to press the M when you see plastic extruding.

9 Push the Filament into the Left Extruder

Take the end of the MakerBot ABS Filament

closest to the extruder and firmly push
it into the hole in the top of the extruder.
Ensure that the filament goes into the
center of the opening and doesn’t get caught
at the edge of the opening.

Maintain pressure on the filament and continue

pushing it into the opening. After about five
seconds, you should begin to feel the motor
pulling in the filament. Maintain pressure for
another five seconds and then let go.

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 Loading MakerBot ABS filament continued

10 Stop Extrusion

Watch the left extruder nozzle. After a few

moments, you should see a thin string of
the MakerBot ABS Filament that you loaded
come out of the nozzle. Press the M button
to stop extrusion.

11 Return the Filament Guide Tubes

Push the guide tubes back into the openings

on the tops of the extruders.

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 Loading MakerBot ABS filament continued

12 Remove the Extruded Plastic

Wait a few minutes for the extruded ABS

plastic to cool, then pull it away from the
nozzles. You can discard this extra plastic.

Don’t touch the nozzles; they may still be hot.

Don’t leave plastic clinging to the extruder

nozzles. This can cause newly extruded
plastic to stick to the nozzles instead of the
build platform.

NOTE: If you have problems or need to load

MakerBot Filament again, you can use the up and
down arrows to scroll through the top-level menu
on the LCD panel and use the M button to select
Utilities. Scroll to Change Filament and select it.
Then select Load Right or Load Left. You can use
these menus to return to the load scripts at any time.

Unloading MakerBot ABS Filament

If you need to unload the MakerBot ABS

Filament, the LCD menu will walk you through
the process. To run the script for unloading
the filament from either extruder, go to the
LCD panel and select Utilities > Filament
Options > Unload.

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 MAKING a TEST Object from the SD Card

1 Locate the SD Card

The MakerBot Replicator 2X package SD Card

includes an SD card pre-loaded with files
for making test objects. The SD card is
located in the SD port directly behind
the LCD panel. Make sure the SD card is
pushed all the way into the SD port.

2 Select a Test Object from the SD Card

After you have successfully leveled the build platform and loaded the MakerBot ABS Filament
into the extruders, the LCD panel will ask you: “How’d it go? Ready to make something?” Select
“Yes” and the LCD panel will display: “Awesome! We’ll go to the SD card menu and you can
select a model!”

2a. Use the up and down arrow buttons to navigate through the list of files on the SD card.

2b. To select a file, press M.

2c. The MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer will begin to 3D print your object.
You can use the LCD panel to monitor the temperature of the extruders and build plate and
the status and progress of your object.

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 MAKING a TEST Object from the SD Card continued

Test Objects Available on the SD Card

Chain Links Comb Mr Jaws

File Name: Chain Links File Name: Comb File Name: Mr Jaws
Make Time: 12 Minutes Make Time: 14 Minutes Make Time: 18 minutes
Design By: Sal Design By: repraprook Design By: Mahoney
Thingiverse: 28405 Thingiverse: 1140 Thingiverse: 14702

Nut and Bolt Set Stretchy Bracelet Cupcake

File Name: Nut and Bolt File Name: Stretchlet File Name: Cupcake
Make Time: 27 minutes Make Time: 16 minutes Make Time: 52 minutes
Design By: aubenc Design By: Emmett Design By: Will Langford
Thingiverse: 9095 Thingiverse: 13505 Thingiverse: 16824

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 MAKING a TEST Object from the SD Card continued

Projects Available on the SD Card | Continued

Pet Monster Valentine Makerbot Pendant Traffic Cone

File Name: Heartless Dragon File Name: pendant File Name: Traffic Cone
Make Time: 40 minutes Make Time: 8 minutes Make Time: 42 minutes
Design By: andreas, tbuser Design By: Todd Design By: CocoNut
Thingiverse: 29088 Thingiverse: 25556 Thingiverse: 21773

* * *

* Dual extrusion print

How to add files to the SD card

1. Insert the SD card into an SD card reader on or attached to your computer.

2. Open a .stl, .obj or .thing file in MakerWare, as detailed in the following chapter.

3. Click the Make button and select your desired print settings.

4. Ensure that the “Export to a File” radio button at the top of the Make dialog is selected.

5. Click Export! and save the resulting .x3g file to the SD card.

34 C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing

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 NOTES

C Startup PROCESS: leveling, loading, testing 35

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 D

Making an Object with

MakerBot MakerWare

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 How to make an object using a computer and
MakerBot® MakerWare™.

D MAkING AN OBJECT WITH MAkERBOT MAkERWARE 37

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 Using MakerWare

MakerBot MakerWare is software that prepares 3D models for 3D printing and sends them
to your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer.

1 Download and Install MakerWare

1a. Go to the computer you plan to connect to your MakerBot Replicator 2X and open
a browser session.

1b. Enter the URL makerbot.com/makerware and download the correct MakerWare installer
for your operating system.

1c. Open the installer and follow the

directions to install the software.

1d. Use the supplied USB cable to

connect your MakerBot Replicator 2X
to your computer.

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 USiNg mAKErwArE CONTINUED

2 Download an Object From Thingiverse

Thingiverse is a website where MakerBot users and others can share design files.

2a. Open a browser session and go

to thingiverse.com. Use the search
field at the upper right to search for
“Minimalist NYC buildings.” Your search
results should include “Minimalist NYC
buildings by JonMonaghan.” Click on
the link.

2b. At the right of the page you will see

a button that says “Download This
Thing!” Click this button to open the
Downloads window.

2c. For this example we chose the

Flatiron Building and the Woolworth
Building. In the downloads window,
find “FlatIron.stl” and “Woolworth.stl”
and click the file names to save them
to your computer.

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 Using MAKERBOT MAKERWARE continued

3 Open MakerWare

[1] Camera Home: Resets MakerWare to [6] Scale: Click the Scale button or hit the
the default view of the object. S key to go into Scale mode. In this mode,
click and drag with your mouse to enlarge
[2] +/-: Zoom in and out. You can also use the or shrink your object. Use the arrow at the
scroll wheel on your mouse to zoom in and out. side of the selected Scale button to open the
Change Dimensions submenu and scale by
[3] Look: Click the Look button or hit the L a percentage or to a specific measurement.
key to go into Look mode. In this mode, click
and drag with your mouse to rotate the plate [7] OBJECT: Click to open the Object
and the object. Use the arrow at the side of Information submenu.
the selected Look button to open the Change
View submenu for Top, Side and Front views. TIP: The Object Information submenu allows you
to choose which extruder will print each item on

[4] Move: Click the Move button or hit the your build plate. For more information on dual
extrusion, go to makerbot.com/support/
M key to go into Move mode. In this mode,
makerware/documentation/dual.
click and drag with your mouse to move an
object around the plate. Use the arrow at the
side of the selected Move button to open [8] Add: Click this button to add an object
the Change Position submenu and move an to your build plate. You can add as many
objects as you can fit on the plate.
object by a specified distance and direction.

[5] Turn: Click the Turn button or hit the [9] Make It: Click this button to open
the Make dialog, where you can specify
T key to go into Turn mode. In this mode,
print resolution and other printing options
click and drag with your mouse to rotate
the object. Use the arrow at the side of the and send your object to your MakerBot
selected Turn button to open the Change Replicator 2X for 3D printing.
Rotation submenu and rotate an object by
a specified angle and direction. [10] Save: Allows you to save the current
plate as a file for later use.

[11] HELP: Opens a guide to MakerWare’s

basic functions.

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 Using MAKERBOT MAKERWARE continued

3 Open MakerBot MakerWare | Continued

[12] SETTINGS: Opens a menu that allows [13] STATUS: Displays the status of your
you to assign a display color to each extruder. connection to your MakerBot Replicator 2X.

1 2 3 4 8 9 10 11 12

7 6 5 13
NUT AND BOLT
Design By: aubenc
Thingiverse: 9095

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 Using MAKERBOT MAKERWARE continued

4 Open the .stl files in MakerBot MakerWare

4a. Click on the Add button. Navigate

to the location of the file FlatIron.stl
and select it. The file will open at the
center of the build plate.

4b. Select the Move button and click

and drag the Flatiron Building to the left.

4c. Click on the Add button again.

Navigate to the location of the file
Woolworth.stl and select it. Now you
should see both the Flatiron Building
and the Woolworth Building models
in your virtual build space.

4d. With both models open, you

can manipulate them separately or
together. Select one of the models,
then click the Turn button or use the
T key and rotate it.

TIP: You can also duplicate objects

by using the Add button. Instead, select
the object and use Ctrl/Command+C
to copy and Ctrl/Command+V to paste.

Minimalist NYC buildings

Design By: JonMonaghan
Thingiverse: 12762

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4 Open the .stl files in MakerBot MakerWare | Continued

4e. Click on the Flatiron Building to

select it. Hold down the shift key and
click on the Woolworth Building. Then
release the shift key. Both models
should be selected.

4f. Select the Scale button. Click

and drag to change the size of both
models together.

5 Save and make your file

5a. Select the Save button. The save

dialog allows you to save your plate
as an STL or a .thing file. STLs can
be opened by a wide range of
programs, but .thing files allow you
to continue to edit the components
of a plate separately.

Specify a name and location for the

file. For example, you could name the
file flatiron_woolworth.thing.

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5 Save and Make Your File | Continued

5b. Select the Make It button. The Make dialog will appear, with the following options:

[1] Make With: Select The Replicator 2X if it is not already selected.

[2] MATERIAL: Choose the type of plastic filament you’re printing with.

[3] Quality: Specify the quality of your build. Smaller layer heights result in more detailed
models and longer build times.

[4] Raft: Select this to have your object built on a raft. Rafts provide a foundation for supports
and help your object stick to the build plate if the build plate is not level.

[5] Supports: Select this to have

your object include easily removable
support structures for overhanging
parts of the object.

[6] Advanced Options: Click here

to open up a menu with more options.
For information on how to use these
options, go to makerbot.com/support/
makerware/documentation/advanced.

[7] extruder: Choose which of

your two extruders will print the object. TIP: If you plan to print from an SD card instead of
Choose between Right and Left. directly from MakerWare, select “Export to a File” at
the top of the Make dialog instead of “Make it Now.”
[8] Cancel: Click here to cancel If your MakerBot Replicator 2X is not connected to your
this process. computer, “Export to File” will be selected automatically.

[9] Make It!: Send the file to the

MakerBot Replicator 2X for building.

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5 Save and Make Your File | Continued

5c. Accept the default settings and click the Make It! button. MakerWare will slice your model
and send it to your MakerBot Replicator 2X for 3D printing.

TIP: You can cancel a slice or print by clicking the X at the corner of the slicing progress bar or the cancel
button in the Status submenu.

Updating MakerBot MakerWare

We’re always working to make MakerWare better. Update your copy of MakerWare to
the latest version to ensure that you always have access to the newest features.

A pop-up will appear in MakerWare when a new version is available for download.
To download a new version of MakerWare, go to makerbot.com/makerware and follow
the installation instructions from Chapter D.

USING REPLICATOR G

You can also use the open source ReplicatorG software to view and manipulate
files from thingiverse.com and to send files to your MakerBot Replicator 2X.

To download the ReplicatorG software, go to replicat.org/download.

To configure the ReplicatorG software to work with your MakerBot Replicator 2X,
go to makerbot.com/support/replicatorg/documentation/usage.

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 E

Troubleshooting,
Diagnostics, and
Maintenance

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 This chapter describes basic troubleshooting and
maintenance tasks. For details on more advanced
troubleshooting and maintenance tasks, go to
makerbot.com/support.

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 TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM SOLUTION

Can’t load MakerBot  un the Unload script to heat your extruder and set the
R
Filament into extruder lever arm to the open position. The extruder lever arm
the extruder(s) is open when it points out towards the side of the MakerBot
Replicator 2X and closed when it points in towards the other
extruder. Make a fresh cut at the end of the filament. It is
important that the filament have no bends in it.

Insert the filament into the hole at the top of the extruder.
Keep pushing it in until you start to see plastic come out of the
nozzle. You may have to push hard.

If plastic never emerges from the nozzle, remove the filament.

If there is now a bend at the end, it is possible that the filament
has slipped under the extruder bearing instead of going
straight down into the heater. Use the Extruder Disassembly
instructions later in this chapter to remove the fan and heatsink.
Then try to load the filament again, watching to make sure the
filament goes straight down through the extruder.

When the filament is loaded, set the extruder lever arm to the
closed position.

First layer of object Your build plate may be so close to the extruder that it is
is very thin, and then preventing plastic from coming out of the nozzle.
extrusion stops
Tighten each knob on the bottom of the build plate by a quarter
turn to move the platform farther from the extruder nozzle.

If you continue to have problems, you can run the leveling script
from the LCD menu at Utilities > Level Build Plate.

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 TROUBLESHOOTING CONTINUED

PROBLEM SOLUTION

Extruder makes a clicking This may mean your extruder is blocked. Try unloading
noise when loading and reloading your MakerBot Filament. If you have trouble
MakerBot Filament reloading, you may have a piece of filament stuck in the
extruder. Use the Extruder Disassembly instructions later
in this chapter to remove it.

Can’t remove MakerBot This may mean that a portion of the filament has expanded
Filament from extruder inside the extruder. With the extruder heated and the extruder
when unloading lever in the open position, push a short length of filament
through to clear the blockage. Then try pulling the filament
free again. The extruder lever arm is open when it points out
towards the side of the MakerBot Replicator 2X and closed
when it points in towards the other extruder.

Object is stuck to Wait for the build plate to cool down. Objects will detach
build plate more easily when both the plastic and the plate are cool.

If the object is still stuck, take a metal craft spatula and

carefully work the blade under the edge of the object. When
the blade is most of the way under the object, twist the handle
slightly. The object should come free.

Object won’t stick to Re-level your build plate by going to Utilities > Level Build Plate.
build plate Inconsistent plate height will lead to inconsistent adhesion.
If any one part of your object does not adhere well to the
plate, the whole object might peel off the plate.

Ensure that the plate is clean. Bubbles, scratches, dust, and oil
from your hands can prevent objects from sticking to the Kapton
tape. Wipe down the build plate with a clean, lint-free cloth.

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 TROUBLESHOOTING CONTINUED

PROBLEM SOLUTION

Object won’t stick to If you continue to have adhesion problems, loosen each of the
build plate (Continued) plate-leveling knobs about a quarter of a turn to bring the plate
slightly closer to the nozzles. You can also try raising the heated
build temperature by five degrees. You can change build plate
temperature in the Advanced Options section in the Make
dialog in MakerWare.

NOTE: For more detailed troubleshooting information, see the MakerBot Replicator 2X Troubleshooting
page at makerbot.com/support/replicator2x/troubleshooting. For video walkthroughs of troubleshooting
issues, see the MakerBot Replicator 2X video page at makerbot.com/support/replicator2x/videos.

Extruder Disassembly
Occasionally you may need to take an extruder apart for troubleshooting purposes. This
is a simple process that will require no tools other than the 2.5mm hex wrench you received
with your MakerBot Replicator 2X.

1. Unload the MakerBot Filament

from the extruder. To run the script
for unloading filament, go to the LCD
panel and select Utilities > Filament
Options > Unload.

2. Switch off the power on the

MakerBot Replicator 2X and unplug
the power supply. Pull on the
connector to release it from the
power input port.

3. Unscrew the two bolts at the lower corners of the fan guard using your 2.5mm hex
wrench. As one piece, remove the fan guard, the fan, the heat sink, and the spacers.
Keep these pieces assembled and move them out of the way.

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4. Set the extruder lever arm to the open position. The extruder lever arm is open when it points
out towards the side of the MakerBot Replicator 2X and closed when it points in towards the
other extruder.

5. Unplug the motor wire harness

from the top of the extruder motor
and slide the motor assembly out
of the extruder.

6. The extruder is now broken down

into its main assemblies. To remove
any filament stuck in the thermal
barrier tube, run the Unload script
to heat the extruder and use a pair
of pliers to pull the filament free.

DIAGNOSTICS LCD PANEL | TOP-LEVEL MENU

LCD: The Top-Level Menus

Build from SD Displays the list of models on the SD card. Select one to start a 3D print.

Preheat Allows you to preheat the extruder.

Utilities Tools that allow you to configure and maintain your MakerBot
Replicator 2X.

Info and Settings Optional settings and information about the MakerBot Replicator 2X.

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 DIAGNOSTICS LCD PANEL | UTILITIES MENU

Utilities

Displays the current temperature of the extruder and

Monitor Mode
build plate. When printing an object, displays the
percent completed.

Scripts that walk you through tasks associated with

Change Filament
the MakerBot Filament. Load Right and Load Left walk
you through the process of loading MakerBot Filament
and Unload Right and Unload Left walk you through
unloading it.

Script that walks you through the process of leveling

Level Build Plate
the build plate.

Moves the build plate and the extruder to the default

Home Axes “home” positions.

Allows you to control the movements of the extruder

Jog Mode and platform via the LCD panel.

Script that walks you through the initial tasks to configure

Run Startup Script the MakerBot Replicator 2X for your first 3D print.

Engages the stepper motors. You cannot manually

Enable Steppers
move the build platform or the extruder when the
stepper motors are engaged. This option appears only
when the stepper motors are disengaged.

Disengages the stepper motors. You can manually

Disable Steppers
move the build platform or the extruder only when the
stepper motors are disengaged. This option appears
only when the stepper motors are engaged.

Blinks the LED lights on the MakerBot Replicator 2X

Blink LEDs at about 4 blinks per second. When the LED lights are
blinking, this option is replaced by Stop Blinking.

Allows you to set the correct alignment for the two

Calibrate Nozzles extruder nozzles.

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 DIAGNOSTICS LCD PANEL | INFO AND SETTINGS MENU

INFO AND SETTINGS

Displays the estimated total hours and minutes of

Bot Statistics
building in the lifetime of your MakerBot Replicator 2X
and the duration in hours and minutes of the last build.

Optional settings and information.

General Settings

Sound: Turns the MakerBot Replicator 2X’s indicator sounds

on and off.

LED Color: Allows you to turn off the LED lights or select a
color. Choices are Blue, Green, Pink, Orange, Purple and White.

Accelerate: Allows you to turn acceleration on and off.

Acceleration allows your MakerBot Replicator 2X to operate
more smoothly, and is turned on by default. Note that with
acceleration turned off, you should not use printing speeds
faster than 45 mm/s.

Heat hold: Specifies a time period for your heated build

plate and extruders to continue heating when a 3D print
is canceled.

Help Text: Specifies whether you want verbose help text

[On] or abbreviated help text [Off].

Heat LEDs: Changes LED colors when the MakerBot

Replicator 2X is heating. When this option is set to On,
the LED color will change from blue to red during the
heating process and return to the default color when
the heating process is complete.

Tool Count: Specifies whether your MakerBot has one

extruder or two. The MakerBot Replicator 2X has two extruders.

HEATED PLATE: Specifies whether your MakerBot has

a heated build plate. The MakerBot Replicator 2X has a
heated build plate.

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 DIAGNOSTICS LCD PANEL | INFO AND SETTINGS MENU

INFO AND SETTINGS

Allows you to change the preheat temperature settings

Preheat Settings
for the extruders and build plate. Use the up and down
arrows to select a temperature and press the M button to
save your setting. The preheat settings also set load and
unload temperatures.

Displays the version number of the firmware.

Version Number

Returns all the settings on the MakerBot Replicator 2X

Restore Defaults to factory settings. This will not affect firmware updates.
When you select this option, a new menu appears.
Choose Yes or No.

MAINTENANCE

Updating Your Firmware

Keeping your firmware up to date will ensure that your MakerBot Replicator 2X always
operates at its best. When MakerWare tells you that there’s a new firmware release,
click the MakerBots menu and select Upload Firmware.

Applying Kapton Tape

Over time, the Kapton tape on your build plate will be scratched and torn and you will need to
replace it with one of the die-cut Kapton sheets that came in the MakerBot Replicator 2X package.

1. Peel off the old Kapton tape and discard it.

2. Take out a new sheet of Kapton tape. On one of the short sides of the sheet, peel back the
plastic backing approximately 1/4 inch from the edge, so that 1/4 inch of the sticky side of the
Kapton tape is exposed.

3. Lay the exposed strip of Kapton tape along one of the short sides of the build plate.
Use your finger to apply pressure and adhere the Kapton tape to the build plate.

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 MAINTENANCE CONTINUED

Applying Kapton Tape | Continued

4. Peel off the plastic backing bit by bit, smoothing the newly exposed Kapton tape as you
go. Use the tape applicator from the MakerBot Replicator 2X package to remove bubbles.
If you don’t have the tape applicator, use a credit card to remove bubbles.

5. Continue smoothing the tape down bit by bit until you have covered the entire plate.
If there are still bubbles under the Kapton tape, lift the edge of the tape that is nearest
to the bubbles and use the tape applicator to smooth the tape from the center out.

6. When the Kapton tape is applied as smoothly as possible, trim the edges of the sheet or fold
them over the sides of the build plate.

Lubricating the Threaded Rod and the X-Axis Idler Pulley

After approximately 50 hours of build time, you should lubricate the threaded rod on your
Z-axis and the X-axis idler pulley. To lubricate the threaded rod and the idler pulley:

1. Find the tube of PTFE-based grease from

the MakerBot Replicator 2X package.

2. Grasp both sides of the build platform

and push it gently to the bottom of the
MakerBot Replicator 2X.

3. Use a clean, lint-free rag [or your finger]

to spread the PTFE-based grease onto the
top section of the threaded rod.

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 MAINTENANCE Continued

Lubricating the Threaded Rod and the X-Axis Idler Pulley

4. Make sure you get the grease inside the threads themselves.

5. Grasp both sides of the build platform and move it to the top of the MakerBot Replicator 2X.

6. Use a clean, lint-free rag [or your finger] to spread the PTFE-based grease onto the bottom
section of the threaded rod. Make sure you get the grease inside the threads themselves.

7. Locate the X-axis idler pulley. If you are facing the front of the MakerBot Replicator 2X,
the idler pulley is at the top left side. The idler pulley is one of the pulleys that allow the rubber
belt to move the extruder from left to right, or along the X-axis. The pulley at the other side of
the gantry is called the timing pulley and does not require lubrication.

8. Squeeze a small amount of the PTFE-

based grease directly onto the exposed
area of the dowel inside the idler pulley
and manually move the pulley back and
forth to spread the grease.

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 glossary of terms

ABS: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is a FAN GUARDS: The grills that protect the
widely used thermoplastic, and the primary extruder fans and protect the user from
material used for making things on the the fans.
MakerBot Replicator 2X.
FILAMENT GUIDE TUBES: The plastic
BUILD PLATFORM: The support for the tubes that guide the MakerBot Filament
heated build plate. The build platform from the filament spools to the extruders.
includes knobs for manual leveling.
GANTRY: The metal rods that allow the
DRIVE GEAR: The gear that pushes the MakerBot Replicator 2X’s extruders to
MakerBot Filament into the heated part of move on the X and Y axes.
the extruder.
GCODE: The computer language used
DUAL EXTRUSION: A process in which two to describe the toolpath your MakerBot
extruders loaded with two different colors Replicator 2X will use to 3D print an object.
or kinds of plastic work together to 3D print GCode is converted to .x3g before being
an object. sent to your machine.

ENCLOSURE LID: The clear acrylic hood HEAT SINKS: The components that
that helps keep warm air inside the dissipate heat from the cartridge heaters.
MakerBot Replicator 2X. The enclosure They look like aluminum plates with fins.
lid is shipped separately.
HEATED BUILD PLATE: The heated surface
EXTRUDER: The assembly that draws on which the MakerBot Replicator 2X builds
the filament from the spool, malts it, and an object.
pushes it through a nozzle onto the heated
KAPTON TAPE: A heat-resistant film
build plate. Your MakerBot Replicator 2X
that adheres well to ABS plastic at high
has two extruders.
temperatures. Use it to cover the heated
EXTRUDER FANS: The fans that keep the build plate so that objects will stick to the
MakerBot Replicator 2X extruder motors plate during the build.
cool and disperse heat from the heat sinks.
LCD CONTROL PANEL: The liquid-crystal
EXTRUDER LEVER ARMS: The levers on display at the front lower right corner of
the MakerBot Replicator 2X’s extruders. the MakerBot Replicator 2X. This control
These move the bearing inside the extruder panel provides status information about
away from the drive gear, allowing for easier the MakerBot Replicator 2X and includes
loading and unloading of filament. control menus and diagnostics.

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 glossary of terms continued

MAKERBOT FILAMENT: 1.75mm diameter SD CARD: Secure Digital memory card that
plastic welding rod. This is the feedstock can store digital data and be read by the
for your MakerBot Replicator 2X. MakerBot MakerBot Replicator 2X. The SD card used
Filament comes in ABS, PLA and PVA plastics. with your Replicator 2X must be formatted
The Replicator 2X is optimized for ABS. FAT16 with a maximum capacity of 2 GB.

MAKERWARE: Free software created by SPACERS: The plastic pieces that keep the
MakerBot that allows you to load, rotate, extruder fans and heat sinks secure and in place.
scale and move 3D models and send them
SPOOL HOLDERS: The plastic pieces that
to the MakerBot Replicator 2X to be
attach to the back of the MakerBot Replicator
3D printed.
2X and hold the spools of MakerBot Filament.
MOTOR ASSEMBLY: The stepper motor The spool holder ensures that the MakerBot
and the drive block that push filament into Filament is fed evenly to the extruders.
the extruder. Each extruder contains
.THING: A file format used by MakerWare
a motor assembly.
that allows you to print multiple 3D models
MOTOR WIRES: The bundle of electrical on the same build plate.
wires that provide power to the motors.
THINGIVERSE: A website for uploading and
NOZZLES: The openings on the ends of downloading 3D model files for use with the
the extruders from which heated MakerBot MakerBot Replicator 2X.
Filament emerges to be spread onto the
THREADED ROD: The long metal rod behind
build plate.
the build platform that is threaded along its
PLA: Polylactic acid is a renewable entire length. This rod allows the build platform
bioplastic, and one of the materials from to move up and down along the Z-axis.
which MakerBot Filament is made.
.STL: A widely used file format for 3D models.
PVA: Polyvinyl alcohol is a water-soluble
USB CABLE: A cable that allows the
plastic that is sometimes used for
MakerBot Replicator 2X to communicate
dissolvable support structures.
with a computer using the USB interface
POWER SUPPLY: The A/C power supply on the computer.
for the MakerBot Replicator 2X. It includes a
.X3G: A compact format for describing the
block and two plugs.
toolpath your MakerBot Replicator 2X will
REPLICATORG: Free, open source software use to 3D print an object.
that allows you to manipulate and edit .stl
files and GCode files and send them to the
MakerBot Replicator 2X.

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 CONTACT US

SUPPORT makerbot.com/support

Our website has extensive documentation and troubleshooting

information about your MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D
Printer. It’s a great resource when you want to try to solve issues
quickly on your own.

[email protected]

If you ever need help resolving an issue with your MakerBot

Replicator 2X, send an email to the address above to open a
ticket with the MakerBot Support Team. To help us understand
your problem from the start, it is very helpful to include pictures
or a video as attachments on your email.

SALES [email protected]

To learn about other MakerBot products, including MakerBot

Filament, please email the address above, or call our Sales Team
at 1-347-334-6800.

FEEDBACK [email protected]

For general questions, or to tell us what’s on your mind, send an

email to the address above. We love to hear from you, and using
this email address helps keep our Sales and Support lines free
for customers in need.

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 Terms of Service

Please read these Terms of Service (“Terms”) carefully before using this Website or ordering from
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1. Returning Purchased Items. MakerBot accepts returns for any unaffected item within 14
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attributes than those listed, or may actually carry a different price than that stated on this Website.
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