Monoprice Select Select Mini V2: Your comprehensive guide to getting started with desktop 3D printing
The Monprice Select Mini V2 is more than another entry-level 3D printer. It’s a cult classic – a compact powerhouse that democratizes prototyping into amateurs, educators and designers. Although industrial giants deploy multi-laser SLM systems for aviation alloys, Mini V2 proves that innovation is thriving at the grassroots level. Let’s dive into what makes this printer unique and how it can leverage its potential.
Unboxing and first impressions
Out of the box, the mini V2 is reassuring. Its all-metal frame (weight 6.5 pounds) and pre-assembled design average setup is very simple:
- Includes components: Printer, power supply, build board clip, filament sample (PLA), USB cable and microSD card.
- assembly: Connect the build board, plug in the power supply, and then insert the microSD card. Total time: <10 minutes.
- Key indicators: 120 x 120 x 120 mm building volume, heated bed (maximum 60°C) and surprisingly quiet operation (<50 dB).
First printing: drill
- Fitted bed: Manually level using the paper method (designated to gently rub under the nozzle). Recheck monthly.
- Filament loading: Heat the nozzle to 200°C (PLA), feed the wire through the extruder, and clear until smooth flow.
- Model selection: From the included "cat.gcode" On the microSD card. Avoid complicated designs.
- Print settings:
- Nozzle: 195–210°C (PLA)
- Bed: 50–60°C
- Layer height: 0.1-0.2 mm details, speed is 0.3 mm.
Test printing should be completed within about 1.5 hours. If the layer is not adhesion, re-upgrade or adjust the Z offset.
Calibration and optimization
PID adjustment: Reduce temperature fluctuations through the G code command (M303) to maintain consistent squeeze.
Flow rate: Calibrate electronic steps to repair/over-arrange. Measured filaments of 100mm compared to actual output.
Surface preparation: Apply glue sticks or blue painter’s tape for PLA adhesion; skip PETG (using textured PEI table instead).
Solve FAQs
| question | Solution |
|---|---|
| First layer of peeling | Increase the bed temperature, the first floor is slow (20 mm/s), clean the bed with IPA. |
| string | Lower nozzle temperature (5–10°C), retractable (45 mm/s). |
| Clog nozzle | Heat to 210°C, push the wire manually or use acupuncture needle. |
| Layer movement | Tighten the belt tension to ensure that the motor does not overheat. |
Upgrade and mod to consider
- Basic: Glass bed ($10), for warpless printing.
- Comfortable: Silicone bed is installed for thermal stability.
- Safety: Install the MOSFET board to prevent the wire from overheating.
- For prompts: Raspberry Pi + Octoprint unlocks wireless printing and time periods.
Conclusion: The portal for production
The Monprice Select Mini V2 is good at using it as a nonsense-free starter printer. It is reliable, compact, and teaches core 3D printing principles – from manual bed adjustment to slicer setup. However, if your project requires Industrial grade metalmachines cannot compete with SLM (selective laser melting) technology.
This is where professionals are hub. The company likes it Greatthe leader of rapid prototypes, fill the gaps. With state-of-the-art SLM printers and CNC machining, they convert CAD designs into high-strength, complex metal parts (titanium, aluminum, aluminum, aluminum) that are impossible for desktop FDM. Whether you need a functional aerospace prototype or a medical-grade implant, Greatlight offers precision, post-treatment (heat treatment, polishing) and scalable production, supported with strict ISO quality control.
From mini V2 hobby printing to mission-critical metal components, each tool has its place. Start small, dream big, and when complexity requires experts to execute, know that partners like Greatlight can lift your vision beyond plastic.
FAQ
Q1: Does mini V2 require welding for repair?
Answer: Very rarely. The components of the motherboard are socketed, but deeper repairs may require soldering.
Q2: Can it print ABS or PETG?
Answer: PETG and bed temperature are very effective. The ABS is in trouble due to its smaller build volume and insufficient shell, risking bending.
Q3: Does PLA require a heating bed?
A: Optional but recommended. It prevents distortion on larger prints.
Question 4: How to reduce noise?
A: Isolate the printer vibration with a quieter 24V alternative (such as Noctua) or use a foam pad.
Q5: Which slicer is the most effective?
A: Kura or Pluslak. use "MONPRICE MINI" Contour, minimum adjustment of temperature/speed.
Q6: Replace metal parts of the extruder?
Answer: Highly recommended! Upgrade to all-metal extruder gear ($15) to avoid filament grinding.
Question 7: When do you call a professional?
A: When the project requires:
- Heat-resistant metal (stainless steel, titanium).
- Complex geometric shapes with ±0.05mm tolerance.
- After surgery (anodized, powder coating).
Whether you are making toys on the Mini V2 or making toys on Jet Turbine Blades via Greatlight, every innovation starts with a single layer. Built fearlessly.
