Snapmaker Artisan Quick Start Guide
Before You Start
1.1 Disclaimer
Ensure that anyone using this product understands the contents of the Quick Start Guide. Failure to observe this guide may lead to personal injury, inferior results, or damage to Snapmaker products. Snapmaker disclaims liability for personal injury, inferior results, or product damage arising from improper operations or failure to follow instructions. Users must comply with applicable laws, regulations, and safety guidelines for assembly, handling, storage, use, maintenance, and disposal. Snapmaker is not responsible for consequences resulting from improper methods, failure to follow instructions, or infringement of third-party intellectual property rights. Snapmaker tests its filaments and materials for safety; using third-party filaments or materials absolves Snapmaker of responsibility for adverse effects. This guide is for reference; Snapmaker does not warrant absolute accuracy or completeness and reserves the right to modify it without notice. The latest version is available at the Support Center: https://support.snapmaker.com/.
1.2 Intended Use
Snapmaker modular 3D printers are intended for use as outlined in this guide. Users are responsible for qualifying and validating applications, especially for regulated areas like medical devices and aeronautics. For more information, visit snapmaker.com.
1.3 Safety Information
1.3.1 General Safety Information
- Follow local laws and regulations.
- Follow guide instructions for safe use and maintenance.
- Do not expose the machine to rain or wet conditions.
- Always operate indoors on a solid horizontal table or workbench.
- Minors require adult supervision.
- Ensure bystanders understand safety notes and keep them away during operation.
- Stay alert and pay attention to the surrounding environment.
- Do not use when tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
- Do not reach inside or touch moving parts while the product is operating.
- Do not leave the product unattended while powered on.
- Always unplug the power cable before maintenance or modifications.
[Warning] Turn off the machine immediately if you smell burning, see interior damage, the machine stops unexpectedly, or unusual lights, sparks, or sounds occur.
1.3.2 Laser Safety Information
- The 10W Laser Module is a Class 4 laser product. With the Enclosure, the overall classification is Class 1.
- Users should have sufficient knowledge of laser radiation properties, hazard classes, health implications, and safety measures.
- The 10W Laser Module must be used with the Enclosure. The Enclosure prevents laser leakage, filters radiation, and pauses jobs if the door is opened.
- Use an air purifier if materials release hazardous fumes when laser engraved or cut.
- Do not look directly at or touch the laser aperture or expose yourself to the laser beam.
- Ensure no reflective material is in the work area.
- Ensure no flammable or explosive material is in the work area.
- The 10W Laser Module must not be used with the 3D printing platform or the CNC carving and cutting platform (except for 4-axis machining with the Rotary Module attached to the CNC platform), as this may cause damage, fire, or other risks.
1.3.3 CNC Safety Information
- Users of the CNC Module should be at least 18 years old and have relevant experience.
- Use the CNC Module with the Enclosure.
- All users and bystanders must wear CNC safety goggles during operation.
- Securely clamp the material before a CNC process.
- Never attempt to hold the workpiece with your hands during a CNC process.
- [Warning] If the bit or workpiece jams, turn off the machine immediately, wait for moving parts to stop, unplug the cable, and then free the material.
- Do not touch the bit or collet right after use to avoid burn injuries.
- Use air purifying devices or work in a well-ventilated environment and wear a mask when carving/cutting materials that may release toxic substances.
1.3.4 Enclosure Safety Information
- Separate the machine and Enclosure before moving them.
- Do not scrape, bend, or break acrylic panels, profiles, or the door handle, as this compromises protection and can cause injury.
- Do not place the Integrated Controller inside the Enclosure during operation.
- Do not place objects weighing more than 7 kg on top of the Enclosure.
- Do not put objects or body parts into the exhaust fan when it is operating.
- Keep cables away from exhaust fan blades.
1.3.5 Precautions and Emergency Measures
Laser Engraving and Cutting
Eye Injury from Laser
If eyes are exposed to laser beams: 1. Block the beam with a thick, opaque object. 2. Shut down the laser engraver. 3. Seek medical examination if injury is suspected. 4. Call for emergency help if injury is apparent.
Skin Injury from Laser
For skin burns: 1. Call for emergency medical care for major burns. 2. Remove clothing/jewelry near the burn, but do not move stuck material. 3. Hold the burn under cool running water or use cool compresses. 4. Use painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. 5. Bandage loosely with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage.
Exposure to Gases or Fumes
Gases and fumes can irritate airways. If irritation occurs: 1. Move the casualty to fresh air. 2. Call for medical help. 3. Perform CPR if unresponsive or not breathing normally. For eye irritation (redness, watering): 1. Rinse eyes with room temperature water for 10-20 minutes. 2. Transfer to a hospital for examination.
Fire
If a fire occurs: 1. For small fires, use an extinguisher after cutting electrical power. 2. For large fires, call for help and evacuate immediately. 3. Do not use elevators. 4. Close doors to contain fire and smoke. 5. After evacuation, call for medical attention.
CNC Carving and Cutting
Injury from Sharp Objects
For injuries from sharp objects: 1. Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth until bleeding stops; seek medical help if bleeding persists or tissues are severely injured. 2. Use sterilized tweezers to remove dirt/debris; seek medical help for deep penetration. 3. Rinse the wound gently. 4. Apply antiseptic cream. 5. Bandage the wound. Injuries to vulnerable parts require immediate medical treatment.
Inhalation of Dirt and Sawdust
Dust and sawdust can irritate the respiratory system. Use air-purifying devices and wear masks. If irritation occurs, move to fresh air and seek medical help.
Inhalation of Scorched Smell
Scorched smell can irritate the respiratory system. Use air-purifying devices or work in a well-ventilated environment. If irritation occurs, move to fresh air and seek medical help.
1.4 Safety Labels on Your Snapmaker
Label | Warning | Location |
---|---|---|
Sharp object warning | Take care to avoid injury from sharp objects (e.g., CNC bits). | On the 200W CNC Module |
Laser radiation warning | Laser radiation is emitted from this aperture. Do not touch the aperture, and avoid eye and skin exposure to direct or scattered radiation. | On the 10W Laser Module |
Class 4 laser product | Class 4 laser product. Avoid eye and skin exposure to direct or scattered radiation. | On the 10W Laser Module |
Class 1 laser product | Class 1 laser product. Avoid eye and skin exposure to direct or scattered radiation when the interlocks are defeated. | On the Enclosure Door |
Weight limit warning | Do not place objects that weigh more than 7 kg on this surface. | On the top panel of the Enclosure |
* The photographs in this guide take the safety label required in the EU region as an example. The same label on different locations may vary in color or texture.
1.5 Specifications
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Enclosure Minimum Footprint | W x D x H: 1035 mm x 1690 mm x 705 mm Material: Profile: Aluminum alloy, Panel: Acrylic sheet |
Laser Engraving & Cutting Work Area | X x Y: 400 mm x 400 mm |
Laser Type | 450 nm–460 nm Semiconductor |
Power | 10 W |
Laser Classification (within Enclosure) | Class 1 |
Max. Engraving Speed | 100 mm/s |
Max. Cutting Depth (Paulownia) | 8 mm |
Operating Temp. | 0°C–35°C |
Laser Spot Dimensions | 0.05 mm x 0.2 mm |
Supported Materials for Engraving | Basswood, Paulownia, Pinewood, Plywood, Beech, Walnut, Bamboo, MDF, Painted Metal, Tinplate, Stainless Steel, Anodized Aluminum, Dark Glass, Slate, Ceramics, Jade, Marble, Shale, Leather, Fabric, Canvas, Corrugated Paper, Cardboard, Plastic, Dark Acrylic (Blue excluded) |
Supported Materials for Cutting | Basswood, Paulownia, Pinewood, Plywood, Beech, Walnut, Bamboo, MDF, Leather, Fabric, Canvas, Corrugated Paper, Cardboard, Plastic, Dark Acrylic (Blue excluded) |
Bluetooth (10W Laser Module) | Protocol: BT 2.1 + EDR/3.0, Frequency Range: 2402 MHz–2480 MHz, Transmitter Power (EIRP): < 11.35 dBm (USA & Canada), < 9.23 dBm (EU) |
CNC Carving & Cutting Work Area | X x Y: 400 mm x 400 mm |
Snapmaker Luban Supported OS | Windows, macOS, Linux |
Power (CNC) | 200 W |
Max. Spindle Speed | 18,000 RPM |
Max. Work Speed | Beech: 50 mm/s, Acrylic: 33 mm/s |
Max. Stepdown | Beech: 2 mm, Acrylic: 1 mm |
Shank Diameter | 0.5 mm–6.35 mm |
Supported File Formats | 3D Printing: .stl, .obj Laser Engraving and Cutting: .stl, .svg, .png, .jpg, .jpeg, .bmp, .dxf CNC Carving and Cutting: .stl, .svg, .png, .jpg, .jpeg, .bmp, .dxf |
Generated File Formats | 3D Printing: .gcode Laser Engraving and Cutting: .nc CNC Carving and Cutting: .cnc |
Supported Materials (CNC) | Hardwood (Beech, Walnut), Softwood, HDF, MDF, Plywood, Jade, Carbon Fiber, Acrylic, Epoxy Tooling Board, PCB |
* The specifications above are subject to change.
1.6 Parts List
The package includes: Quick Start Guide, Profile Connector (6), Short Beam (1), Short Beam (with profile connectors) (1), Short Beam (with screw holes) (2), Long Beam (2), Long Beam (with tube holder) (2), Middle Column (2), Middle Beam (1), Side Panel (2), Side Panel (with tube holder cutout) (2), Door Panel (1), Top Panel (2), Back Panel (1), Column-1 (with hinge) (1), Sealing Plug (8), Column-2 (with hall switch) (1), Column-3 (with Enclosure converter) (1), Column-4 (1), CNC Carving and Cutting Platform (1), Laser Engraving and Cutting Platform (1), Filament Tube Clip (2), 10W Laser Module (1), 200W CNC Module (1), ER11 Collet & ER11 Nut (1), Basswood Sheet (1), HDF Sheet (1), Calibration Target (1), Cord Collecting Strip (1), Filament Tube (2), Hose Connector (1), Exhaust Fan (1), Hose (1), CNC Safety Goggles (1), Cable Passthrough Fixture (1), Base Fixture (upper) (2), Base Fixture (lower) (2), Star Knob (4), Arched Fixture (4), Fixture Accessory (4), Hose Clamp (1), Straight Groove V-bit (double-flute) (1), Flat End Mill (single-flute) (1), Flat End Mill (double-flute) (1), 14mm Open-end Wrench (1), 17mm Open-end Wrench (1), M4 x 12 Flat Head Screw (5), M5 x 12 Screw (20), M4 x 20 Screw (7), M5 x 16 Low Head Cap Screw (12), M5 x 30 Screw (20), M4 Wing Nut (5), M6 x 16 Screw (8), L Bracket (1), M4 x 12 Low Head Cap Screw (2), M4 x 35 Screw (5), Laser Lens Protector (1), Enclosure Cable (1), Sealing Strip (wide) (1), Sealing Strip (narrow) (1), M4 x 60 Screw (4), Cotton Swab (5).
* The appearance of certain parts may change with product iterations.
1.7 Assembly Instructions
1.7.1 Video Tutorial
Please visit the Snapmaker YouTube channel (@Snapmaker) for video tutorials. Assemble in the order: Machine > Enclosure > 3D Printer/Laser Engraver and Cutter/CNC Carver and Cutter.
1.7.2 Tips & Notes
- At least two people are required to assemble and lift the machine and Enclosure.
- Collect and sort cables promptly to avoid tripping hazards.
- Do not place objects near the left or right side of the base plate to avoid interfering with Linear Module movement.
- Do not plug or unplug cables when the machine is powered on.
- [Caution] Do not press the steel strip. If it comes out, flatten it by hand from one end to the other.
- To install multiple screws: Pre-tighten outermost screws, then remaining screws, then tighten all.
- To install screws with the hex key: Use the long handle for initial screwing, then the short handle for tightening.
1.8 Used Symbols
- [Warning]: Failure to observe this instruction may lead to damage to the product or personal injury.
- [Caution]: Details you should pay attention to when using the printer.
- [Tip]: Provides convenient operations or extra choices.
1.9 About This Guide
This Quick Start Guide provides concise instructions and graphics for first-time operation of Laser engraving and cutting, CNC carving and cutting, and Enclosure settings. For other workflows and more information, refer to the online User Manual in Snapmaker Wiki (https://wiki.snapmaker.com).
Enclosure Settings
2.1 Enable/Disable Door Detection
The Enclosure's column-2 features a hall switch to detect door status. You can enable or disable Door Detection via Settings > Enclosure during 3D printing or CNC processes. During laser processes, Door Detection is enabled by default and cannot be disabled. When enabled, the machine stops or ends calibration if the door is opened. Close the door and tap to resume or restart calibration.
[Tip] If you need to open the door frequently during 3D printing or CNC processes without pausing, disable Door Detection before starting the job. Always wear CNC safety goggles before opening the door during a CNC process, regardless of Door Detection status.
2.2 Turn On/Off LED Strips and the Exhaust Fan
Access Control > Enclosure to turn LED strips and the exhaust fan on or off. You can also adjust settings during a 3D printing, laser, or CNC process. Recommended settings for different scenarios:
Scenario | LED | Fan |
---|---|---|
3D Printing (PLA, TPU, PVA) | [On] | [On] |
3D Printing (ABS, PETG, ASA, etc.) | [On] | [Off] |
Laser Engraving and Cutting | [On] | [On] |
CNC Carving and Cutting | [On] | [Off] |
[Tip] For filaments like ABS that emit odors/fumes, turning on the exhaust fan might affect printing temperature. Consider turning the fan on after printing. For health and environmental protection, use Snapmaker Air Purifier or other air purifying devices during such 3D printing processes.
Laser Engraving and Cutting
3.1 Preparations
3.1.1 Set Up the Machine
- Turn on the power switch on the back of the Integrated Controller. [Tip] To restart, wait at least 5 seconds after power-off.
- Follow the on-screen instructions for initial setup: read Terms and Conditions, choose language, name the machine, and connect to Wi-Fi. This wizard appears only on the first startup. Settings can be changed later via Settings > Wi-Fi, Language, or About Machine.
3.1.2 Calibrate the 10W Laser Module
For first-time laser use, the Touchscreen guides you through Thickness Measurement Calibration and Camera Calibration. This wizard appears only on the first use of the laser module; recalibration is available via Calibration on the Home Screen.
Thickness Measurement Calibration
This system uses triangulation with a red laser emitter and a camera to calculate material thickness. Calibration adjusts system parameters for accuracy. It uses a laser calibration plate to determine platform height and calibrate system parameters. [Caution] The red laser emitter is a Class 2 laser product; do not look directly into its aperture when emitting. [Tip] Redo Thickness Measurement Calibration after reassembling the module or machine.
Camera Calibration
The laser module has a wide-angle HD camera for capturing the work area image. Calibration adjusts the captured image scale for proper display. It involves engraving a square on paper and capturing its image. [Tip] Redo Camera Calibration after reassembling the module or machine.
3.1.3 Fasten the Material
Place the basswood sheet on the platform, use four fixtures locked with screws to secure its position. Alternatively, place fixtures on corners for materials less than 8 mm thick. Ensure fixtures do not overlap the engraving/cutting area and do not collide with machine parts. For easier handling, detach the platform, fasten the material, and reinstall the platform.
[Tip] You are now ready to engrave and cut.
3.2 Getting Started
3.2.1 Install Snapmaker Luban
- Download and install Snapmaker Luban software from the Snapmaker official website.
- Launch Luban, select language, machine model, and module type. Save settings. (Change later via Settings > Preferences).
- Ensure your computer and machine are on the same Wi-Fi network. Connect Luban: a. In Luban, go to Workspace. b. In the Connection panel, click Wi-Fi. c. Click the connect icon, select your machine, and click Connect. d. Tap Yes on the Touchscreen to allow connection. [Tip] You can also manually connect by entering the machine's IP address (found in Settings > About Machine).
3.2.2 Generate the G-code File
- In Luban Workspace, click Back to Home page, then Laser > 3-axis to enter the Laser G-code Generator.
- Follow the Beginner's Guide for basic operations; Luban will load a test model and generate G-code. (Access via Help > Beginner's Guide if needed). You can also import your files and configure parameters.
- Click Camera Capture > Add Background > Normal Mode > Start. The machine captures an image of the work area to use as a background. Click Confirm. [Tip] If the image is distorted, click Calibrate and follow instructions.
- With the captured image as background, select all objects (Ctrl+A), drag them to the desired area, then click Generate G-code and Preview. For detailed G-code generation, refer to the online User Manual at wiki.snapmaker.com.
3.2.3 Start Your First Job
- In Luban, click Export > Load G-code to Workspace.
- In the Preview window, click Start Job > Start. Select Automatic Thickness Measurement and click Start. [Caution] Ensure the Enclosure is correctly assembled and powered on, and the door is closed. [Warning] Press the emergency stop button on the Integrated Controller for emergencies. Rotate clockwise to release.
- [Tip] Automatic Thickness Measurement is recommended. Other modes include Input Material Thickness and Start From Work Origin. Refer to the User Manual for details.
- If material thickness exceeds 50 mm, is transparent, glossy, red/black, or hollow, thickness measurement may fail.
- After the job completes, open the Enclosure and remove the finished work.
[Tip] Alternative positioning methods include Work Origin. Job transfer can be via USB cable, USB flash drive, or Wi-Fi. Refer to the online User Manual for more details.
Share your finished work in the Snapmaker Facebook group and forum.
3.3 Maintenance
Clean the Laser Lens Protector
- Why: Dust and grease decrease laser capability. Cleaning recovers performance.
- When: At least once every week.
- How: 1. Prepare a cotton swab and ethyl alcohol (purity > 75%, 99% recommended). 2. Power off the machine and detach the 10W Laser Module. 3. Moisten a swab with alcohol, wipe the lens protector from center outwards clockwise until clean. Use a new swab if needed. Replace if damaged. Refer to the online User Manual for detailed instructions.
CNC Carving and Cutting
4.1 Preparations
4.1.1 Set Up the Machine
- Turn on the power switch on the back of the Integrated Controller. [Tip] To restart, wait at least 5 seconds after power-off.
- Follow the on-screen instructions for initial setup: read Terms and Conditions, choose language, name the machine, and connect to Wi-Fi. This wizard appears only on the first startup. Settings can be changed later via Settings > Wi-Fi, Language, or About Machine.
- Follow on-screen instructions to familiarize yourself with basic operations before starting a CNC job.
4.1.2 Fasten the Material
- Detach the CNC carving and cutting platform, place the HDF sheet on its center, assemble the clamp set, and tighten star knobs to fasten the material. Ensure the clamp set does not impede the CNC bit's movement or collide with machine parts. All three slots can be used for fastening.
- Check screw positions to ensure they do not over-screw and penetrate the platform.
- Attach the platform back to the support platform.
4.1.3 Attach the CNC Bit
CNC Bit Introduction
Flat End Mills (single-flute for plastics, double-flute for general use) are for drilling, slotting, and flat surfaces. Straight Groove V-bits are for precision machining like relief carving.
How to Attach the CNC Bit
- Obliquely insert the ER11 collet into the ER11 nut until it snaps. (The provided collet is for 3.175 mm CNC bits).
- [Caution] Wear CNC Safety Goggles. Insert the CNC bit (e.g., double-flute flat end mill for the test model) into the ER11 collet until its end bottoms against the collet shell. Handle bits with caution.
- Twist the entire unit onto the spindle shank as tight as possible, then fully tighten the ER11 nut using the open-end wrenches.
[Tip] You are now ready to carve and cut.
4.2 Getting Started
4.2.1 Install Snapmaker Luban
- Download and install Snapmaker Luban software from the Snapmaker official website.
- Launch Luban, select language, machine model, and module type. Save settings. (Change later via Settings > Preferences).
- Ensure your computer and machine are on the same Wi-Fi network. Connect Luban: a. In Luban, go to Workspace. b. In the Connection panel, click Wi-Fi. c. Click the connect icon, select your machine, and click Connect. d. Tap Yes on the Touchscreen to allow connection. [Tip] You can also manually connect by entering the machine's IP address (found in Settings > About Machine).
4.2.2 Generate the G-code File
- In Luban Workspace, click Back to Home page, then CNC > 3-axis to enter the CNC G-code Generator.
- Follow the Beginner's Guide for basic operations; Luban will load a test model and generate G-code. (Access via Help > Beginner's Guide if needed). You can also import your files and configure parameters.
- Click Export > Load G-code to Workspace, then click Send to Device on the G-code Files panel to send the G-code file to your machine via Wi-Fi. [Tip] You can also send via USB flash drive or start directly on Luban. Refer to the online User Manual for details.
4.2.3 Set the Work Origin and Start Carving
How It Works: Work Origin
The work origin determines where carving takes place, corresponding to the (0, 0) coordinate origin in the software.
- After sending the G-code file, tap Start > Files > Local, select the file, and tap Next.
- Move the CNC bit to the desired work origin for X and Y axes (e.g., center of the image). Move the bit closer to the material surface for observation.
- Tap Z+ to lift the bit above the clamp set, then tap Run Boundary to check X/Y origin. If the boundary goes outside the material or collides with machine parts, reset the X/Y origin and rerun the boundary. [Warning] If the bit hits machine parts, press the emergency stop button. Rotate clockwise to release. Change the bit if damaged. [Tip] Lower the bit to run the boundary again for more precision, ensuring it's above the material.
- Place a calibration card or A4 paper between the bit and material. Set the Z-axis origin by tapping Z- or Z+ to adjust height. Proper setting is achieved when slight resistance is felt pulling the card out, and it wrinkles when pushed forward.
- In Basic Mode, the machine uses the current CNC module location as the work origin. Confirm X, Y, and Z origins, then tap Start to begin carving. [Caution] Place the Integrated Controller within reach for emergencies. Press the emergency stop button if needed. [Tip] It is not recommended to turn on the Enclosure exhaust fan during CNC processes to prevent dust buildup. Refer to Enclosure Settings for disabling the fan. You can change settings during machining by tapping the settings icon.
4.2.4 Clean the Finished Work and the Machine
- Remove the clamp set from the platform.
- Clean the finished work and machine with a dust collector. Clean the CNC Module's dust screen and machine surface after each job. Failure to clean after 150 hours may cause motor dysfunction. Do not rinse the module with water or wipe with alcohol.
- Remove the finished work with diagonal pliers.
4.3 Maintenance
4.3.1 Secure the Nut
- Why: The nut on the CNC platform may fall off with prolonged use or improper operation.
- How: 1. Wear protective gloves and equipment. 2. Use tweezers and a brush to clear sawdust from the nut. 3. Mix AB glue (1:1 ratio). 4. Apply mixed glue to the nut's screw threads. 5. Place the nut back into the platform hole, press, and wait at least 24 hours for curing.
4.3.2 Clean the Dust Screen
- Why: Failure to clean the dust screen can cause motor failure due to blockage.
- When: After every three CNC jobs.
- How: 1. Prepare a cotton swab (or tissues) and water. 2. Power off the machine and detach the 200W CNC Module. 3. Moisten a swab with water and clean the dust screen inside the air inlet until no dust or water remains. Use a new swab if needed.
Share your finished work in the Snapmaker Facebook group and forum.
Resources
Learn more about usage, maintenance, and troubleshooting in Snapmaker Wiki: https://wiki.snapmaker.com.
For support: https://support.snapmaker.com/.
For sales inquiries: sales@snapmaker.com.
For product purchases: https://shop.snapmaker.com/.
Share with other Snapmaker users in our forum: https://forum.snapmaker.com/.