The availability of low-cost table top or 3D printers is here! In unheard of time, Micro 3D the latest entry as a low-cost consumer printer has been obtained funding on Kickstarter.
Small enough to sit on a table, top the Micro 3D can make objects as tall almost five inches high. The carefully thought out motor uses less energy than those powering other consumer printers. If you want to learn more about this printer or to order one, here’s the Kickstarter link:
The Micro 3D is one of a number of low-cost 3D printers costing under $500. Others include:
QU-BD’s One Up for $199
Makible‘s A6 LT for $200 and A6 HT for $300
PrintrBot Simple, a kit to build a printer$349
Pirate 3D’s Buccaneer at $597. The company is saying that they will ship on June 1.
3D printers are increasingly available. Home Depot has begun selling Makerbot printers in some stores. It’s only a matter of time before Best Buy, Wal-Mart, and Target will be selling them, too.
If you want to learn and or make some money using a 3D printer, at these prices, you can buy the technology at far less than early users of personal computers could. We bought our first computer, an Osborne with a 5 inch screen for $1895.
As these personal printers become more sophisticated, they will be to use more materials for making things – food ingredients, wood, metal – all kinds of materials. Already large printers are using other materials.
I believe this form of printing will change crafts, medicine, virtually every kind of product and industry in one way or another – just as personal computer and smart phones have changed our lives. This is one of many ways to create a sustainable livelihood for yourself.
To explore this or another or another way of working for yourself that bests suits your personality and your community, contact me directly for a consulting appointment. mailto:paul@elmstreeteconomy.com. Paul offers coaching through Google Helpouts and as a SBDC consultant.
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Comments on the substance of the blogs are welcome. If you have other questions, please contact me directly for a consulting appointment.
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