Introducing Cura 2.6
We've received a lot of helpful feedback from Cura 2.6 beta testers - thanks to everyone who tested the new Cura and told us what you thought.
Based on the feedback you provided, we have now created the full Cura 2.6 release, which offers a wide range of features designed to help you have the best 3D printing experience.
Here are some of the improved features:
●Local version folder: Cura 2.6 has a local version folder, which means that the new version will not automatically overwrite any configuration files or settings of the old version - instead, it creates a new local folder. If you are still using the old version of Cura, you will not lose any configuration files.
●Better and stronger adhesion support contours: We have added additional support settings, allowing you to create new support profiles for better PVA/PLA adhesion. You will find that support interface settings (such as density and speed) have been separated into support roof and support floor.
●Automatic model arrangement: The new Cura makes it easy to place multiple models (or duplicate the same model), making object arrangement simpler. If you don't have enough print space, or if the model is outside the print platform, you can easily adjust it by selecting "Arrange all models" from the settings table on the right, or if using MacOS, press Command + R. If you are using Windows or Linux, simply press Ctrl + R to find a better way to position your models.
●Support mesh: Other models can be loaded as support structures.
●Gradual infill: If you want to concentrate the infill near the top of the model (saving material and print time when printing the lower part of the model), simply use the gradual infill button in recommended mode. This will be especially easier when printing flexible materials.
●Print molds: You can now use 3D models to print molds of the body, allowing for easy casting with your chosen material.
●Small overhang towers: Cura 2.6 features a new support option that allows users to create towers to support tiny overhangs. This can better ensure the quality of the print.
●Cut meshes: You can now make any model dual-extrusion printable by applying a pattern to the second nozzle. All parts of the original model that fall within the model will be printed using the extruder selected for the pattern.
●Multi-extrusion support (other FDM printers): Cura 2.6 provides multi-extrusion support for custom third-party printers (and modified Ultimaker printers).
UI Features
●Extruder per model: If you want to select a specific extruder, the new Cura allows you to do so via the settings menu or by using the extruder button. The material color for each extruder is also shown for further ease of use.
●Custom toggle: Cura 2.6 features a more streamlined, user-friendly interface for switching between recommended and custom modes.
●Plugin installer: Installing plugins used to be a bit tricky. We have now added a plugin installer button in the options, where you can easily select and install plugins.
●Basic settings options: Saving and opening files is now much simpler, and Cura automatically detects whether it's a model, project, or gcode.
●Theme selector: If you have a custom Cura theme, you can easily apply it in preferences.
●Material compatibility information: Materials now have an information icon, and when you select it, you will go to a webpage listing the compatibility of different materials.
●Time estimation per feature: If you hover your mouse over the print time estimate (bottom right), you will see how the print time is divided into different print features, such as walls and infill.
●New Ultimaker 3 profile names: Ultimaker 3 owners will notice that print profile names have been updated for a better user experience.
●Camera zoom inversion: You can now invert the mouse direction to improve the user experience.
●Olsson block upgrade: Ultimaker 2 users can now specify whether they have an Olsson block installed on their printer.
●OctoPrint plugin: Cura 2.6 allows users to send print jobs directly to OctoPrint.
Ultimaker 3 Firmware Upgrade - What to expect from version 3.7?
We constantly update our products to improve your 3D printing experience.
Our latest firmware upgrade (3.7) features new PrintCore cleaning options, improved material changes, not to mention other exciting new features.
See below for more information.
Version 3.7 Highlights
•Restart printing: Do you usually start printing directly from Cura via WiFi? The new firmware version allows you to reprint the same file again via the 3D printer itself (no need to open Cura again). This significantly speeds up your workflow, especially if this print failed due to material run-out or adhesion issues, etc. You just need to end the print, then go to the print menu and select the option to print the last file again. Please note that if you start printing a different project or turn off the printer, the saved print record will be deleted.
•PrintCore cleaning: If you go to System > Maintenance, you will find a new option called PrintCore cleaning. This great new feature will help you perform hot and cold pulls, a process you occasionally need to perform for nozzle cleaning. The new menu provides you with the correct operating procedure, avoiding some common errors you might encounter during cleaning. We have also created a new page to help you with this.
•Improved material change: We have sped up the material change process, so you don't have to waste time waiting for the printer to be ready. Now, whenever you select "Change material," the old material will be completely removed from inside the PrintCore. We have also added a timeout auto-stop function, allowing you to leave the printer while it performs this operation, and when you return, the machine will be ready to print.
Major Updates
Here are the important features of our latest firmware upgrade:
•Better infill: We have resolved the issue where the printer could not infill correctly after a print was aborted.
•"Clean printer" message no longer appears when print bed is heating: The new firmware no longer prompts the user to clean the printer after canceling a print before the actual print job begins (while the print bed is still heating up).•Firmware notifications: Users will be notified whenever new firmware is available, and after each firmware update, you will be informed of the version you just installed.
•Print stops: Previously, the printer would occasionally stop automatically during printing, and we have now resolved this issue.
Minor Changes
We have also made some minor adjustments and bug fixes to improve your 3D printing experience:
•Added API for PrintCore message statistics: The API function allows you to easily view PrintCore statistics. Previously, you could only view them through the printer's information menu. The API documentation for the printer itself can be found here: http://printer-ip-address/docs/api/
•Faster startup: Ultimaker 3 printers now start up in approximately 30 seconds.
•Japan certification: Japan certification has now been added to the certification menu.
•Automatic bed leveling speed increase: The speed of automatic bed leveling has been slightly increased.
•Material list alphabetical order: The material selection list now lists all materials in alphabetical order.
•PrintCore functionality restriction: The new firmware prevents you from using PrintCore functions when no PrintCore is inserted.
•XY calibration fix: Some users experienced issues where XY calibration could not resume after pausing, which we have now corrected.
•Wi-Fi connection: We have resolved some issues related to Wi-Fi connections, and users can now connect to hidden Wi-Fi.
•Non-Latin characters: Previously, non-Latin characters (such as diacritics) in file names or gcode would cause printer problems, which has now been fixed.