ReplicatorG

ReplicatorG is designed to help users in issuing commands to their RepRap or CNC machines. The program supports most common 3D printers and new firmware can be uploaded via a built-in function.

ReplicatorG features a very nice interface, which really helps first-timers. Intuitive and large buttons decorate the upper part of the main window and allow for basic operations to be made, without having to access the bulkier menus.

The software features a very useful preview panel that not only informs users of how the output file will look like, but also allows them to apply complex effects, like “Move”, “Rotate”, “Scale” and “Mirror”.

This feature is great both for making last minute improvements to the product, but also for fine-tuning certain issues that might become evident only in a 3D environment.

These things being said, the real punch of the application comes when accessing the menus. Although the utility requires a Python interpreter in order to build and assemble GCode lines, one can, nonetheless, write new scripts or edit existing ones.

This is great for testing new commands. However, it is not always a simple task, and users can get some inspiration from the scripts already available.

If this all sounds very complicated, less tech-savvy users will find the example STL files very intuitive. Indeed, just moving or rotating the example skull or snake gives a real feel of the power of the application.

Summing up, this is a great utility for people who embody at least these two characteristics: a good knowledge of GCode and possession of a 3D printer.

Others might find the example 3D files interesting to play around with, but, then again, that is missing the whole point of the utility.