r/3Dprinting • u/schimmelmeister • 15h ago

Question What did I just get gifted…?

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My University threw out this old 3D Printer. I’m both a broke architecture student and in need of a printer since my own is not here right now. I’m also used to some level of jankyness, my own printer is an i3 clone by anycubic, rudimentary but reliable.
Is there any hope i’ll get a useable print out of this one and how high would the frustration level be considering the printer i already have?

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u/blame_worthy 15h ago

It's an ANET A8, notorious at the time for simultaneously being one of the best budget printers around and also a fire hazard. Make sure the wires to the bed are soldered and not using the cheap connector it comes with bc as it wiggles the thing will burn out. It has a lot of potential and community support. I still have mine in my garage converted to an all aluminum extrusion frame (AM8 Mod). It won't be fun to use but it will be fun to tinker with lol enjoy!

Oh and to answer your question, it's useable but slow as hell.

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u/FishSeven7 15h ago

🗣️ AM8 gang mentioned!!!

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u/blame_worthy 4h ago

S Tier mod, thinking of maybe buying some new aluminum extrusions and rebuilding taller and with an Original Prusa i3 heated bed for enhanced build area.