Introduction to Bambu Studio and Bambu Handy

Bambu Studio

Bambu Studio is a software program that can be installed on computers running Windows, MacOS, and Linux. With Bambu Studio, you can process 3D models (usually in .stl or .step format) and prepare them for printing on the A1 by slicing them.

What is slicing?

As the name suggests, slicing refers to the process of taking a 3D model and cutting it into multiple horizontal slices which the printer can replicate. An .stl file is turned into a .gcode file that contains all the movements required by the printer to complete a model.

Think about slicing as the process of “translating” the 3D model language into the language that the printer understands, called gcode.

Bambu Studio has extensive adjustment options which allow you to control exactly how the print is completed. These options determine exactly what gcode is placed in the sliced file which is sent to the printer.

Since these options can be overwhelming, all of the most fundamental adjustments may be accomplished by choosing a few preset options:

1. Select the printer you wish to print the model on, and the right nozzle size (0.4mm comes as default).

2. Select the build plate type to match the filament you wish to print.

3. Select the filament type and color.

4. Select the layer height. A lower layer height will give you more detail, but will increase print time.

More advanced features grant you the options to scale a model, cut a larger model into smaller pieces, paint the model into different colors for multi-color 3D printing, and more. We will dive into the more advanced settings later in this course.

In Bambu Studio, you can also use MakerWorld, which is Bambu Lab’s 3D model website from which you can access a plethora of free 3D models to print. Once you find the right model, simply import it and send it to the printer.

Besides remote starting a print, you can also use Bambu Studio to remote control the printer and keep an eye on the print process with the Live View feature.

Bambu Handy

Bambu Handy is a mobile application compatible with iOS and Android that provides remote control over the printer’s features. You can control each axis of the printer, check on your printer’s camera to confirm everything is working as expected, and adjust basic settings like print speed or temperature.

But the Bambu Handy app can do more than that. As you might expect, you can access MakerWorld, where you can start a print right from the app without needing to do manual slicing using Bambu Studio, significantly lowering the difficulty of using the printer. In a few simple taps, your printer can start printing your model.

Besides the 3D printing features, you also have access to your Bambu Lab Account details to open Customer Support tickets if you need assistance, and to access the Bambu Lab Wiki if you wish to learn more about 3D printing.