Ultimaker 2+ Connect | Unboxing, Setup, & First Print

Introduction to the Ultimaker 2+ Connect

The Ultimaker 2+ Connect emerges as the latest addition to the esteemed Ultimaker lineup, promising to enhance the 3D printing experience with its blend of user-friendly features and professional-grade capabilities. Right from the unboxing, it is clear that the product is designed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that users have everything they need to get started.

What's in the Box

Unpacking the Ultimaker 2+ Connect, users will find a comprehensive kit that includes not only the printer but also a range of accessories intended to facilitate a smooth setup and printing process. Among these items are a spool of filament, power cord, and an accessory box that houses various essentials like a build plate, calibration card, screwdrivers, lubricants, a glue stick, grease, a power supply, and an ethernet cable, underlining Ultimaker's commitment to providing a complete solution right out of the box.

Setting Up the Printer

The setup process highlights the Ultimaker 2+ Connect's user-centric design. Removing the printer from its packaging and preparing it for its first use involves simple steps such as cutting zip ties to release the print head and updating the firmware using a flash drive—a process made effortless with clear instructions. The printer’s interface, facilitated by a 2.4-inch color touchscreen, ensures accessibility for users of all levels, guiding them through each step from installation to the actual print job.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The Ultimaker 2+ Connect is a single extrusion FDM printer boasting a respectable build volume and is characterized by its reliability and ease of access to the remote 3D printing capabilities Ultimaker is known for. Its construction and design considerations indicate a device that is not only aimed at providing precision and quality in print outputs but also at ensuring longevity and consistent performance, even for users new to the Ultimaker ecosystem.

Special Features: The Air Manager

The inclusion of the Air Manager accessory underscores the Ultimaker 2+ Connect's appeal to those seeking both quality and safety in 3D printing tasks. This component not only captures ultrafine particles to maintain a clean working environment but also serves a dual function by helping to regulate internal air temperature, thus contributing to more consistent and reliable print outcomes. The Air Manager, with its simple installation process and intelligent design, acts as a testament to Ultimaker's innovative approach to enhancing the 3D printing experience.

Conclusion

The Ultimaker 2+ Connect stands as a testament to Ultimaker's ongoing commitment to improving the 3D printing landscape, offering a mix of performance, ease of use, and safety features. It presents a reliable first step into 3D printing for newcomers, while still offering the depth of features and precision required by professional users. The printer's thoughtful design, coupled with a comprehensive setup kit and the innovative Air Manager, positions it as a compelling option for anyone looking to explore the possibilities of 3D printing with confidence and convenience.