In the year 2020, Bambu Lab made its mark in the world of additive manufacturing by venturing into the realm of crowdfunding. A Kickstarter campaign that raised an impressive $7 million propelled Bambu Lab into the spotlight, making it the new player everyone was talking about. The company’s integration of artificial intelligence into its machines to enhance the user experience further solidified its position as an innovative force in the industry.
Recently, 3Dnatives had the opportunity to examine one of Bambu Lab’s latest machines, the Bambu Lab P1S 3D printer. With its array of interesting features and competitive price, the P1S caught the attention of many. But that’s not all – readers had the chance to win a Bambu Lab P1S by simply registering for free. The exclusive prize draw was open until October 16, giving participants a shot at taking home this remarkable machine.
When delving into the company itself, it becomes evident that Bambu Lab’s current product range consists of four 3D printers: the X1 Carbon, X1, P1P, and P1S. Founded by a team of engineers who previously worked at DJI, the renowned drone manufacturer, Bambu Lab prides itself on being a group of passionate engineers dissatisfied with the existing consumer 3D printing solutions. Their mission? To create printers that are straightforward, dependable, and affordable for personal use.
The P1S Combo, which was subjected to testing, offers the complete package at an affordable cost of under $1,000. It includes the 3D printer itself and the Automatic Material System (AMS) for multi-material printing. Positioned as the mid-range offering between the X1 series and the P1P, the P1S demonstrates meticulous design from the get-go.
The packaging of the printer prioritizes optimal protection during transportation. Carefully packed and shielded, sensitive components such as the LCD screen, glass panels, print head, and AMS are safeguarded against potential damage. Upon unboxing the printer, the AMS and accessory box can be integrated into the printer’s closed enclosure.
The accessory box reveals an assortment of items, including two 250-gram spools of PLA, one 250-gram spool of PLA media, a spare hotend, two nozzle wiping blocks, two filament cutters, two allen keys, a needle for unclogging the nozzles, a magnetic steel printing plate with PEI coating, and a blade.
Constructed of plastic panels and glass, the P1S boasts a Core XY motion system that utilizes carbon fiber tubing for the X axis and steel rods for the Y axis. The Z axis is equipped with three steel rods and three worm screws, and all three axes are controlled by NEMA 17 motors. Alongside the proprietary print head, these components promise exceptional precision, reliability, and print speed.
An added advantage of the P1S is its flexible magnetic steel print plate with a PEI coating, which can be interchanged with other buildplates featuring different coatings to accommodate various materials. With a welded steel chassis and a print volume of 256 cubic mm, the P1S aligns with the other models in Bambu Lab’s range.
Acting as the mid-range model, the P1S bridges the gap between the P1P and the X1 series in many aspects. It boasts a fully enclosed print enclosure with plastic side and rear panels, along with a glass cover and front door. Although it incorporates several upgrades compared to the P1P, such as an auxiliary cooling fan, chamber temperature controller, and activated carbon air filter, it lacks the color touchscreen found in the X1 series.
While the P1S offers numerous advantages, those seeking advanced AI functions, a micro LIDAR sensor, and a higher resolution camera will need to explore the X1 series.
Overall, the Bambu Lab P1S 3D printer provides impressive features, meticulous design, and a competitive price, making it a worthwhile investment for those interested in personal 3D printing.
Blog Post: Simplifying the Installation Process of the Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer
Getting started with a 3D printer can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. However, Bambu Lab has managed to simplify the installation process for their P1S 3D printer, making it accessible to users of all levels of experience. In this blog post, we will explore the steps involved in setting up the P1S and how Bambu Lab has made it easier for users to get started.
The P1S 3D printer comes almost completely pre-assembled, which significantly reduces the time and effort required for set up. The assembly instructions provided are clear and accompanied by detailed illustrations, making the task much easier for beginners. This thoughtful approach by Bambu Lab ensures that users can quickly and easily get their printer up and running.
One of the standout features of the P1S is the AMS multi-material system, which simplifies filament changes and enables multicolor printing. The “P1S Combo” bundle we received included the P1S 3D printer itself, as well as the AMS system. To unpack the bundle with AMS, the multi-material system and its plastic transport attachment must be unscrewed and released from the P1S enclosure. Then, the AMS is connected to the printer via a cable and PTFE tube. The system can be placed on or beside the printer.
During the installation process, it is important to remove the screws holding the printing plate in place during transport. Additionally, users have the option to install the reel stand at the rear of the machine using two screws, a step that is particularly useful when utilizing the AMS. These small but significant details demonstrate the thoughtfulness behind the design of the P1S and its accessories.
The next step in the installation process is to plug in and install the LCD screen. Bambu Lab also recommends downloading their Bambu Handy mobile app, available on both Android and iOS, to create a Bambu Lab account. This step allows users to associate their printer with their account and connect it to Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi connectivity is crucial for benefiting from cloud connectivity as the printer does not have an RJ45 port.
Once connected to Wi-Fi, users are encouraged to follow the automated calibration steps. It is important to keep the protective foam under the tray until this stage is complete. This calibration process ensures optimal printing results.
Bambu Lab provides helpful resources to guide users through the unpacking and commissioning process. Their website offers paper guides and detailed videos that provide comprehensive information for beginners. These resources empower users to confidently set up their P1S 3D printer.
A key component of the 3D printing experience is the slicer software. Bambu Lab’s proprietary Bambu Studio software is derived from the renowned PrusaSlicer, making it a powerful tool. Bambu Studio combines the cutting engine of PrusaSlicer with a redesigned, intuitive user interface. This makes it an ideal choice for beginners, while also offering advanced features for experienced users.
Bambu Studio incorporates both basic and advanced functions, making it a versatile slicer. It offers features such as auto-orientation, multi-tray cutting, text addition, assembly view, and various information to guide users and avoid potential problems. The slicer is compatible with multiple file formats, including STL, OBJ, 3MF, STEP, and more, making it convenient for users to work with different models.
Cloud integration is a valuable feature of the Bambu Lab ecosystem. Users can manage their prints remotely, monitor the process, and synchronize materials inserted into the AMS with the slicer via the cloud. The Bambu Handy application and Bambu Studio slicer software provide the control and monitoring interface for this feature. Connecting the printer to the cloud is highly recommended, as the built-in screen of the P1S offers only basic functionality.
It is encouraging to see that Bambu Lab is actively working on the development of its software. The slicer software is regularly updated, offering users access to the latest features and patches. Bambu Lab also shares certain aspects of its code, allowing independent developers to create their own slicer derived from Bambu Studio. This collaborative effort ensures that users have access to a slicer with advanced features and continuous improvements.
In conclusion, setting up a 3D printer can be a daunting task for beginners, but Bambu Lab has taken significant steps to simplify the installation process for their P1S 3D printer. The clear assembly instructions, accompanied by detailed illustrations, make the task much easier. The inclusion of the AMS multi-material system enhances the printing capabilities of the P1S. The Bambu Studio slicer software offers a user-friendly interface for beginners, while still providing advanced features for experienced users. The integration of cloud connectivity allows for remote print management and monitoring. Bambu Lab’s commitment to continuous software development ensures that users have access to the latest features and improvements. With these thoughtful features and user-friendly design, the Bambu Lab P1S is a great choice for beginners and experienced makers alike.
Introducing the Bambu Handy mobile app: A Revolution in 3D Printing
When it comes to 3D printing, Bambu Lab has always been at the forefront of innovation. Their printers have impressed professionals and hobbyists alike with their cutting-edge features and quality results. However, even the most advanced technologies can have their fair share of shortcomings.
One of the major issues with Bambu Lab’s cloud connectivity is its vulnerability to bugs. Users have reported instances of unsolicited printing, which has resulted in material damage. This problem has caused frustration among users and raised concerns about the security of their data.
Speaking of data, Bambu Lab’s cloud service collects a large amount of user information, including 3D models, images, and statistics. What exactly happens to this data is still unclear, especially for users who work with sensitive information protected by professional secrecy or intellectual property rights. As a result, many users have resorted to using the printer only on a local network or through the micro SD port to ensure the safety of their work.
To address these issues, Bambu Lab drew inspiration from tech giants like Google. They have started collecting and processing user usage data, with the aim of developing advanced functionalities and tools powered by artificial intelligence. This move could potentially revolutionize the 3D printing experience and open up new possibilities for users.
In addition to this, Bambu Lab has implemented “input shaping” technology in their printer firmware. This technology, popularized by the Voron DIY printer design team using Klipper firmware, uses a printhead-mounted accelerometer to measure the printer’s resonant frequency and actively compensates for resonancy. This means that issues like ghosting or ringing are significantly reduced, resulting in better print quality.
And speaking of print quality, the Bambu Lab P1S lives up to its reputation. Right from the first prints, users are greeted with highly satisfactory results. The printer combines speed and precision to achieve tolerances as low as 0.1 mm. The prints are crisp, detailed, and of excellent quality, making it an ideal choice for professionals who require top-notch results.
One of the standout features of the P1S is its extensive material compatibility. Users can print with a wide range of filaments, including PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, and TPU. This versatility makes it a suitable option for various applications. However, it is important to note that printing speed, which is one of Bambu Lab’s strong points, can sometimes compromise the strength of the printed objects. To ensure optimum mechanical properties, users are advised to reduce speed and acceleration.
For those looking for even more convenience, Bambu Lab offers the “P1S Combo” bundle, which includes the AMS (Automatic Material Selection) feature. This feature simplifies the printing process and enables multi-material printing. With the AMS hub, users can connect a second AMS to the P1S, allowing for up to 16 different filaments to be stored and printed. However, it is worth mentioning that flexible materials like TPU are not compatible with the AMS due to the risk of jamming. Users can still print with these materials by installing the spools at the rear of the machine and using the provided spool holder.
In terms of usability, the Bambu Lab P1S offers a seamless experience. The printer comes with a flexible, PEI-coated magnetic steel plate, which allows for easy removal of prints. The manufacturer offers different types of trays with various surfaces to cater to different material requirements and aesthetic preferences. However, during our testing, the tray detection function did not work as expected, and a print could be initiated without a tray present.
Despite these minor issues, the overall experience with the Bambu Lab P1S is truly exceptional. From the moment you unpack the printer, it is evident that every detail has been carefully thought out, from its design to its protective packaging for transport. The Bambu Studio software enhances the user experience with its intuitive interface, suitable for beginners, while also offering advanced features for more experienced users. And even when the occasional bug occurs, it does not significantly hinder the printing process.
To sum it up, the Bambu Lab P1S represents the brand’s commitment to innovation, quality, and user experience. With the Bambu Handy mobile app, the company has bridged the gap between the simplistic integrated interface and the expectations of users. The printer’s impressive performance, combined with its advanced features and convenient functionalities, makes it a standout choice in the world of 3D printing. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a beginner, the Bambu Lab P1S will undoubtedly revolutionize your printing experience.
Today, I want to chat about a fantastic 3D printer called the Bambu Lab P1S. This printer offers a range of impressive features at an affordable price, making it a top choice for 3D printing enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the P1S is its printing speed. This printer boasts a fast printing speed, allowing users to print their projects quickly and efficiently. However, it’s important to note that the printing speed of the P1S depends on the cooling provided by its fans. Although these fans do an excellent job of keeping the printer cool, they tend to generate relatively high levels of noise. So, if you’re someone who prefers a quieter printing experience, you might want to consider this factor before purchasing.
When it comes to materials compatibility, the P1S doesn’t disappoint. This printer is compatible with a wide range of materials, giving users the freedom to explore various options for their 3D printing projects. Whether you’re working with PLA, ABS, or any other compatible material, the P1S can handle it.
One of the standout features of the P1S is the AMS (Automatic Material Supply) system. This system reduces the number of filament change operations required, saving users valuable time and effort. This is a real added value for anyone using the P1S and enhances the overall printing experience.
In terms of pricing, the Bambu Lab P1S offers excellent value for money. The printer alone is priced at €700, and the “combo” package, which includes the AMS, is priced at €950. Additionally, Bambu Lab offers an upgrade kit from the P1P to the P1S for €150. These competitive prices, combined with the printer’s solid performance and well-designed features, make the P1S an attractive option for 3D printing enthusiasts on a budget.
Of course, no product is perfect, and the P1S does have a few minor drawbacks. Some users have reported issues with the built-in screen, finding it to be less intuitive than they would like. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the cooling fans do generate noticeable noise during use. However, the advantages of the P1S far outweigh these minor disadvantages.
It’s worth mentioning that the Bambu Lab brand has established a growing reputation for itself in the realm of additive manufacturing. The P1S is a testament to their commitment to continuous innovation, and it showcases the brand’s dedication to providing users with high-quality 3D printers.
To learn more about the Bambu Lab P1S, as well as their other printers and products, I encourage you to visit their website. You can find more information [here](insert link to their website). Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, the Bambu Lab P1S is definitely worth considering for all your 3D printing needs.
